Music icon Hollie Smith joins Wintec as mentor

Acclaimed New Zealand singer songwriter Hollie Smith is now Musician in Residence at Wintec. Photo / Supplied

Internationally acclaimed New Zealand singer/songwriter Hollie Smith, described as "the reigning queen of Aotearoa soul", has joined Wintec's School of Media Arts to mentor and teach music students.

Hollie announced the appointment on Twitter soon after receiving her Wintec access card, saying she had started a new job as Musician in Residence.

"I hope that taking what I've learnt and sharing that with students is going to be gratifying for all of us," says Hollie.

This is the first time Wintec has welcomed a 'Musician in Residence' and David Sidwell, team manager of Wintec's music department says this is an outstanding opportunity for both students and staff to work alongside and be mentored by a New Zealand music legend.

David says Wintec music staff are looking forward to working alongside Hollie who is no stranger to Wintec, having presented at Wintec's Spark International Festival of Music, Media, Arts and Design in 2017.

"The fact she has achieved number one hits brings credibility to her role, reaffirming the teaching and learning that already happens within the teaching programme here at Wintec."

Hollie Smith has performed with numerous bands including Trinity Roots, Fat Freddy's Drop and Detroit dance legend Recloose. Hollie is perhaps best known for her single Bathe in The River that topped the NZ singles charts.