U2 returning to New Zealand

Irish rock band U2 have confirmed they are returning to New Zealand.

The band will play a one-off gig at Auckland's Ericsson Stadium on St Patrick's Day, March 17.

"We're really looking forward to playing in New Zealand -- it's been ages since we were there," the band's drummer Larry Mullen said.

The New Zealand Herald broke the story last week that there was a strong possibility U2 would return to New Zealand after a 12 year absence.  The band last toured New Zealand in 1993 on the Zooropa tour.

This visit is part of U2's Vertigo tour which has played more than 100 sold-out shows in Europe and North America since it began in March, with tickets selling for up to $1300.

New Zealand publicist Bridget de Launay said prices had yet to be set for the Auckland show, but she believed they would be "accessible".

Guitarist The Edge will talk to Herald entertainment editor Russell Baillie for a special edition of Time Out next weekend.

- NZPA