By Mary Afemata of Local Democracy Reporting
Local Fijian band The LeftOvas won a spot to open for Kiwi band SIX60 after taking out the Moana Music Open Mic Competition over the weekend.
The competition received 95 entries, with 12 acts shortlisted to perform live at the event.
“We were just happy to be given a stage to perform on,” says Teki Koroituicakau, guitarist and vocalist for R&B band The LeftOvas.
“It was such a good crowd, an amazing atmosphere – we are just so grateful.”
The first-of-its-kind live music event showcased fresh talent as part of Moana Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand’s ocean festival.
Delivered by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited on behalf of Auckland Council, the weekend’s event aims to showcase musical talent against the backdrop of Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour.
It featured 12 musical acts – from solo artists to bands – performing R&B, pop, jazz, alt-country, and acoustic sets on the waterfront stage at Te Wāhi, Hobson Wharf in Auckland.
Drawing on their Fijian roots, the five-piece band closed the night with a unique rendition of Boyz II Men’s “”The Color of Love”,” getting the crowd swaying.
The LeftOvas won $1000 and will open for SIX60 at the upcoming Moana Auckland headline show, part of the Grassroots City Edition Tour, at Base Spaces, Jellicoe Harbour, on 1 March.
Head of Major Events at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Michelle Hooper says it is incredibly exciting to see the talent on show in Tāmaki Makaurau.
“It’s even more special to be doing so alongside the beautiful Waitematā, highlighting the vibrancy of our downtown waterfront.
“As part of Moana Auckland, Moana Music provides a fantastic platform for emerging musicians to be noticed and celebrated.”
SIX60 bass player Chris Mac hosted the evening, with his bandmates in the audience — giving competitors a rare chance to perform in front of some of New Zealand’s top musicians.
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited was approached for comment on how much funding goes to the festival. The organisation said it would provide the funding figure after the festival, as per its policy.
Upcoming Moana Auckland Events
-Moana Auckland Sustainability Expo | 22-23 February
-Z Manu World Champs | 15 February – 1 March
-SIX60 at Base Spaces, Jellicoe Harbour | 1 March
-PIC Harbour Classic | 28 February – 1 March
-Moana Auckland Long Lunch | 6 March
-Auckland Boat Show | 6-9 March
Visit aucklandnz.com/moana for more information.
