Top NZ musicians record Rainbow Warrior commemorative song

Top New Zealand musicians are recognising the 20th anniversary of the Rainbow Warrior bombing by recording a new version of the song Anchor Me.

The former Greenpeace vessel was bombed by French secret service agents in Auckland in 1985, killing one on board.

Greenpeace campaigner Steve Abel said in a statement the song, originally recorded by The Muttonbirds, will be released on July 4 with proceeds going to Greenpeace.

The recording will feature vocals from Goldenhorse's Kirsten Morelle, Che Fu, Anika Moa, Pluto's Milan Borich, Adeaze, Hinewehi Mohi and Nesian Mystik's David Atai, and Donald McNulty.

Anchor Me's composer Don McGlashan said when Greenpeace asked to use the song he was glad to help.

"Our country's response to the bombing was brave and steadfast - and it succeeded on many levels.

"We still lead the world's resistance to nuclear weapons, and that's something to be very proud of."

Anchor Me will be available to radios on June 6, and a video for the song was in production and would be available from June 20.

- NZPA