NEWS: Local Musicians Put On Free Gig For Christchurch

New Zealand musicians are joining together for a benefit gig Band Together Concert for Canterbury, to be held in North Hagley Park on October 23.

Prime Minister John Key, Mayor Bob Parker, Auckland promoter Paul Ellis and Opshop frontman Jason Kerrison announced the upcoming show at Canterbury University today while Key was visiting students to thank them for their clean up efforts in the wake of the earthquake.

"It's been overwhelming how many people have wanted to become involved in this project. Since I've been home I've really noticed how shook up people are by the earthquake. You don't realise how much when you're not here on the ground. I hope this concert will be a chance for the people of Christchurch to both let off some steam and know that the rest of the country is behind them 100% It will run from 12 noon to 10pm and will be televised live from 6pm-10pm,'' Kerrison told The Press.

The line-up for the free concert contains a strong Christchurch contingent including Anika Moa, Opshop, the Feelers, Dane Rumble and J Williams alongside other household names like Dave Dobbyn and the Exponents who are reforming. Their song Christchurch (In Cashel Street I Wait) is the theme song of the event.

Kerrison says that Christchurch group Shapeshifter had hoped to be part of the event but, because of a date clash, would not be involved. However, they are hoping to stage their own fundraising shows when they can.

If you would like to donate to the Christchurch earthquake relief efforts you can visit the Red Cross website.

- Sourced from Stuff.co.nz