Auckland Airport became an unexpected stage for music this week when New Zealand band SIX60 surprised travellers by turning the international departures hall into a live farewell. Instead of the usual PA announcements, passengers were greeted with personal messages and live performances, transforming the busy terminal into a deeply human and cultural space.

The moment was especially meaningful for the band. Like many musicians, SIX60 begin their international journeys at the airport, heading to festival fields and concert halls around the world. Frontman Matiu Walters said: “So many Kiwis’ international adventures start here at Auckland Airport, including our own as a band. Every time we leave for a tour, this is where it all starts and finishes. That’s why the country's gateway felt like a fitting place to share the message behind the song – a reminder for all of us to stay connected to where we come from, no matter where life takes us.”

The surprise performances centred on the band’s hit song Don’t Forget Your Roots, a message that resonates with travellers carrying their heritage and memories across borders. Walters and the band delivered live acoustic performances to departing passengers, including a memorable send-off for student Zane Mahon and his family. Mahon said: “It was a big moment for me leaving Auckland to head to Sydney for study, and it was a pretty emotional goodbye with my family. Having SIX60 show up and sing for us at the airport made it really special and is something I will never forget.”

The airport celebrations also included the unveiling of a 10-metre lyric art wall outside the international terminal. Painted by Tāmaki Makaurau artist Jonny Higher, the wall features the words of Don’t Forget Your Roots, offering a lasting parting message for the millions of travellers passing through Auckland this year. Higher said: “It’s an epic project to be a part of, and a fitting farewell to my fellow voyagers off on their adventures. I loved painting this and even hearing people passing by starting to sing the lyrics as they realised what it was.”

Auckland Airport Chief Customer Officer Scott Tasker added: “For 60 years Auckland Airport has grown alongside New Zealand, sending travellers off on once-in-a-lifetime adventures and sharing in countless goodbyes. We decided to team up with SIX60 to celebrate the special goodbyes that happen here every day, reminding New Zealanders, just like the band’s hit song, that no matter where their journeys take them, home is never far away, and their roots are always with them.”

The activation coincides with SIX60’s fifth studio album, Right Here Right Now, released on 13 February, and the band’s upcoming world tour, with tickets for their first One New Zealand Stadium show already sold out. Fans can also enter a draw at six60.co.nz to win two tickets to any concert on the tour, along with flights and accommodation valued at $10,000, courtesy of Auckland Airport.

From humble beginnings in a Dunedin student flat to becoming New Zealand’s highest-selling live band, SIX60 has sold out venues such as Eden Park, Western Springs, and Accor Stadium, and earned recognition as the country’s first-ever Chart Icon at the 2025 Aotearoa Music Awards. With Right Here Right Now, the band continues to evolve while staying true to their roots, connecting with fans both at home and internationally.

SIX60’s PA messages will continue in the departures area for the next month, offering travellers a musical reminder of home before they take off into the world.

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.