A flood relief concert is being pulled together tomorrow to support rural Wairarapa.
After Napier’s Art Deco Weekend was cancelled, jazz singer Larisa Kellet – who performs as Lady Larisa – offered her velvety voice to Wairarapa.
“I arrived at Tina [Nixon]’s place on Wednesday in a state of shock,” Kellet said.
“My car was starting to fail from being filled with water, and my stage clothes were wet.
“I had four shows booked in Napier this weekend, but on Wednesday the Art Deco Trust announced they had to pull it.
“Tina and I put our heads together and decided to do something for Wairarapa.”
The Hawke’s Bay-born singer – whose international tours have included opening for Michael Buble in 2020 – had arrived back in New Zealand in January after performing in Los Angeles.
Kellet said she wanted to help where she could.
“It’s nice doing something good, despite the hardship. I couldn’t help Hawke’s Bay, that damage is army-level.
“To be able to come to Wairarapa and be given shelter, it’s the least I can do to help.”
Nixon contacted Le Gra winery about hosting a flood relief concert and co-owner Nicky Greary agreed, saying it was time to have fun and help the community.
“When we got the ring from Tina asking to do this, it was a no-brainer,” she said.
“I was in tears watching what was happening in Tinui and Whakataki. I have lots and lots of friends who live in Tinui.
“We’ve had flooding here in the past. Watching your livelihood being impacted is so hard.”
Also performing will be Warratahs vocalist and songwriter Barry Saunders, known for his distinctive voice and repertoire.
The concert’s entry fee – along with proceeds from wine and platter purchases – will be donated to the Rural Support Trust. There will also be a raffle of items donated to the winery for fundraising purposes.
Sunday, February 19, 12pm–5pm at Le Gra Winery, Loopline Rd, Opaki.
