Hayley's Realm

Hayley at the Classical Brits!

2009-05-15T15:55:00.000-07:00

Hayley's River of Dreams was nominated for Best Album of the year at this year's Classical Brit Awards. She appeared in a beautiful and elegant silver evening dress and wowed the crowd. Other guests included Britain's Got Talent contestant Faryl Smith, Katherine Jenkins, Jonathan Ansell and All Angels.

Visit http://hwi.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=Media&action=display&thread=4624&page=15 for more photos and reports!

Hayley's New Zealand Tour - NOW POSTPONED

2009-03-18T22:55:00.000-07:00

Hayley has initially been scheduled to tour New Zealand between May 1st - May 16th. Please note this has now been reschedules for August/September. These dates are yet to be confirmed, so please check www.hayleywestenra.com for more information on this tour.

Hayley's Realm will Resume Soon

2009-01-31T16:52:00.000-08:00

I have been away from NZ for quite some time, and was unable to work on HR. There have also been some administration problems which I, along with others, have been managing. The site will resume shortly. At the meantime, please visit the following sites for Hayley details:

www.hayleywestenra.com

www.hayley-westenra-international.com

http://hwi.proboards20.com/index.cgi (forum)

Thank you for your patience.

Hayley Westenra on TV3: 'I refuse to dress like a tart'

2008-11-20T01:12:00.001-08:00

Kiwi soprano Hayley Westenra has taken a stand against the music industry, saying she 'refuses to dress like a tart' to sell records.

The 21-year-old singer claims she has been in a battle with her record company over her wholesome image.

"Oh there's definitely the pressure," says Hayley's mother Jill. "You've only just got to see the artists that are in the media all the time and why they're in the media and you can see it works."

Unlike other young performers who have happily morphed from starlet to sexpot, Westenra has staunchly refused.

"Occasionally, I have had to stand my ground on image issues," she says. "I am not a tarty person and I don't wear those clothes when I am out, so I don't wear them to perform or for interviews either."

"Hayley's had that pressure since she was 18, and now that she's 21 they think well, surely now," says Jill. "But she's not prepared to compromise her standards."

Her record label Universal says talks about her image have always been age appropriate.

But the man who discovered the Christchurch-born star says an image revamp would do her career no favours.

"I think viva la difference," says Hayley's Former Agent Gray Bartlett. "Because in Hayley's case she is a certain type of personality. She's got a wonderful idea of her market and she's doing exactly the right thing."

And that proved true in her hometown today.

"I think she looks good, she's very clean, she's not too Americanised," says Lizzy Ryan. "I think it's a good picture for our country."

"It's good she's not conforming to other peoples ideals - you saw what happened to Britney," says Jon Skurr.

The starlet's stand already winning her new fans.

3 News

Don't miss the video which features Jill: http://www.3news.co.nz/Video/Entertainme....ault.aspx#video

Hayley Westenra fights attempts to turn her into a 'tart'

2008-11-20T01:02:00.000-08:00

From The Telegraph

When Hayley Westenra sang in front of the Queen last night at the Festival of Remembrance, at the Royal Albert Hall, she looked characteristically demure.

The soprano tells Mandrake that she has, however, been involved in a battle with her record company after it allegedly tried to pressure her into dressing like a "tart".

She says: "Occasionally, I have had to stand my ground on image issues. I am not a tarty person and I don't wear those clothes when I am out, so I don't wear them to perform or for interview either.

"It's funny because there are always people at record companies who push you to change yourself. They don't care about your longevity as an artist."

Hayley, who has just returned from Iraq, where she was singing for British Forces in Basra, signed with Universal when she was 15 and her album Pure sold more than two million copies. The company, whose artists include Kylie Minogue, says it's "not sure which people Hayley is referring to", but admits that it has discussed her appearance.

"We are very committed to her as an artist and her long-term career," says its spokesman. "Over the years there may have been discussions over her image, but we have always been open and honest about our views and never suggested anything inappropriate for her age."

Universal confirms that it wants to change her style. "Now she's turned 21 we have encouraged Hayley to think freely about how she presents herself and to be on-message with singers and artists of her own generation," says the spokesman.

Hayley adds: "When I was younger, I just wanted to fit in and I was so health conscious, and at one point a bit too skinny. In the last year I have realised that it's not the key to living and being happy."

Singing poppy sellers: Hayley Westenra and Jonathan Ansell

2008-11-06T15:34:00.001-08:00

Multi-million selling classical artists, Hayley Westenra and Jonathan Ansell, took to the streets to sell poppies at 1pm, Friday 31st October at Waterloo Station (opposite Platform 16) – singing as they sold.

On hearing reports of a lack of poppy sellers this year, singers Hayley Westenra and Jonathan Ansell volunteered to support The Royal British Legion by selling poppies themselves at Waterloo Station. Anyone lucky enough to buy a poppy from the stars was able to hear two of the most remarkable voices of our time. Alongside Hayley and Jonathan was Poppy Man – the symbolic representation of the help The Royal British Legion gives to serving and ex-Service people and their families.

The Royal British Legion is looking to recruit a ‘new generation’ of 10,000 Poppy Appeal collectors between now and November 11th in a bid to meet an ambitious £32 million fundraising target.

Miss Westenra is fresh off the plane from Basra, where she launched the Legion’s 2008 Poppy Appeal, raising morale by singing to the troops. Having been deeply affected by her experience in Basra, Hayley feels strongly about continuing her work with the Legion back in London.

"When I was in Basra I spoke to a lad, just 19 years old, who had been driving a tank on the front line. When I look at photographs of soldiers marching home from war in 1918 and the faces of the men and women around me in Basra, what strikes me is how young they all are – and that the Legion has been there for all of them. Wars may change, but the need for a charity to deal with the human cost of conflict remains very much the same."

Jonathan Ansell, who will be performing a duet with Hayley at the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall on 8th November, wants to encourage the younger generation to get involved:

“People think of poppy selling as a job for the older generation, but there’s no reason why young people can’t be involved as well. The cause is as relevant to us today as it ever has been.”

Both Hayley and Jonathan feel that it is extremely important to remind people going about their everyday lives to think of the 4,500 British Armed Forces personnel in Iraq and nearly 8,000 others in Afghanistan - and are pleased to have the opportunity to do this through their gift of singing.

Between them, the tenor and soprano have sold over 10 million albums and sell out some of the world's biggest concert halls, so the commuters at Waterloo Station received an extraordinary treat.

The Poppy Appeal takes place in the two-week period running up to Remembrance Sunday on 9th November and Armistice Day on 11th November, when the nation pauses for a Two Minute Silence to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice during their service for their country.

From The Royal British Legion

Westenra gets bulletproof vest in Iraq

2008-10-28T04:49:00.000-07:00

Kiwi songbird Hayley Westenra donned a bulletproof vest during a visit to Iraq to perform in a bid to help raise moral among British troops.

Westenra's father, Gerald, told The Press the young singer would arrive back in London this morning after a whirlwind trip to Basra, in southern Iraq.

Westenra was invited to perform for British troops by an army brigadier who heard her sing at a charity concert at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

"She had a gap of a few days between her tour shows so she decided to go for it."

Her father said the trip was a "big deal" for the Christchurch singer.

"I spoke to her the night before she left and she was excited but slightly nervous. As parents we were naturally a bit worried because she was flying into a war zone and there is always a risk."

Westenra was issued with a bullet-proof vest for the visit, he said.

Her recent album Pure went to No. 1 on the British charts.

Reference: http://www.stuff.co.nz/4738150a1860.html

River of Dreams - Out Now!

2008-10-28T04:42:00.000-07:00

Hayley's Best Of album, River of Dreams is out now in the UK, which includes a collection of Hayley's best songs so far, and three new recordings. Click on the widget on the right to listen to the tracks!

Hayley Returns to Ghana

2008-09-24T01:51:00.000-07:00

From hayleywestenra.com, as part of her ongoing support for UNICEF, Hayley is back in Ghana visiting child daycares, education systems and women who have benefited from her "Bikes for Ghana" campaign. She is also helping to raise awareness for a new campaign "Playpumps" which educates children in providing clean, safe drinking water. To find out more about Unicef and Hayley's role as ambassador visit http://www.youtube.com/user/UNICEFNZ.

Hayley with the children of Ghana

Hayley with reporter

Thanks to Roger from HWI for supplying the photos; from whom, with special

thanks from Dave in Ghana, and Liz in New Zealand from UNICEF.

"River of Dreams" Press Kit Released!

2008-09-18T00:50:00.000-07:00

Hayley's new and upcoming album, River of Dreams is to be released on October 27th, and not November 3rd as previously advertised. At the meantime, hayleywestenra.com have released the press to River of Dreams. It includes promotional videos, clips, new photos and more! Here's a sneak peak:

Check it out: http://www.hayleywestenra.com/riverofdreams/

Hayley selected as a NZ Air Force Patron!

2008-09-07T18:17:00.000-07:00

Great news from hayleywestenra.com:

"Hayley is honoured to have been asked to act as patron for the Royal New Zealand Air Force. Hayley will join Diana Lady Issac and Air Marshal Sir Richard Bolt who have also pledged their ongoing support. To learn more about the airforce visit http://www.airforce.mil.nz/default.htm"

!!!CONGRATULATIONS HAYLEY!!!

This honorable role has certainly touched our hearts, so well done Hayley!

Hayley nominated for Best Classical Performer!

2008-09-07T18:14:00.001-07:00

From hayleywestenra.com, we receive the fantastic news of Hayley being selected as best classical performer at the 2008 Variety Club Showbiz awards. The awards, to be held on 16th November, honour the best of UK talent.

!!!CONGRATULATIONS HAYLEY!!!

We wish Hayley the best of luck, and congratulate her on this honorable achievement.

Hayley's Realm will Resume Shortly

2008-08-24T23:32:00.000-07:00

I would like to apologize to all of those who visit this site regularly, looking for updates on Hayley. I have been insanely busy this year with my art and university. I promise to bring you updates on Hayley (including all of the ones I've already missed) in the next few weeks. Thank you for your patience.

If you ever need any updated on Hayley, there is no better place to visit than www.hayley-westenra-international.com aka HWI. They are the best at updates on Hayley with the most reliable sources.

Hayley's Realm will resume soon!

Sukayna

Hayley sings on July 4th!

2008-07-06T03:36:00.000-07:00

Hayley had the privilege of singing on July 4th in Washington DC, for the biggest American celebration. She sang Shenandoah from her album Treasure at Capital Fourth. She wore her stunning red dress from the Classical Brits launch, and sang with a choir and full orchestra. You can view the video on YouTube by clicking the following link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gacsQJt8Au0

Hayley sings Shenandoah in front of thousands on July 4th in Washington DC

"Hayley's Pace" from Oxford Mail!

2008-07-06T03:31:00.000-07:00

Hayley's pace

By Katherine MacAlister

Hayley Westenra is getting over her jetlag when we catch up, having just returned from an intensive month-long tour of Japan before jetting off to the States to sing to 300,000 people in Washington, and returning to Henley in time for her performance tomorrow.

"Is that how many people it is?" she asks completely unperturbed.

"I thrive on the crowds and the energy they give off. But then I've always been as comfortable as a performer and a singer, they go hand-in-hand to me. Maybe it's because I started performing at such a young age."

Having recorded her first album aged 12, Hayley has music in her blood, her grandmother also being a singer and her grandfather a pianist. But no one was prepared for Hayley's instant worldwide success once her album Pure hit the shops in 2003.

The soprano has now achieved sales of well over three million albums around the world, and sung with Jose Carreras, Bryn Terfel and Andrea Bocelli to guests including The Queen and President Bush at venues such as Wembley Arena and the Royal Albert Hall.

But right now all she wants to do is "chill out at home and eat Vegimite on toast on the sofa because I feel like a zombie.

"I haven't even got the energy to text my friends. But other times I'll get home and phone all my friends and go out."

Which takes us neatly on to shopping and all the frocks she needs to buy: "My favourite dress at the moment came from a shop in Houston, Texas, where Beyonce goes and it's just stunning.

"But the problem is that while you want to wear the same thing over and over again, you can't. So yes I do enjoy the dressing up as long as it reflects my personality."

So does she get time to shop? "Sometimes I have a stylist to go and choose me some things and hunt them down or otherwise I'll be in a random city and just come across a store that I love," she says.

And yet this world of red carpets, royalty and designer gear is a million miles away from her charity work in Africa.

As the youngest UNICEF Ambassador in the world, Hayley has worked in Ghana and is returning there in September to raise awareness for playpumps to bring clean water to villages.

And she finds moving between these two worlds "quite difficult, because one week you're staying in a posh hotel and the next you're in Ghana, walking around the slums, which is pretty traumatic and draining.

"Coming back afterwards is hard and also scarily easy because you want to tell everyone about the project but it's amazing how quickly you slip back into your old life," she explains.

"So you just have to do what you can and I'm not going to help much by giving up my singing career. Singing is how I can help and raise awareness."

In terms of maturity Hayley is 20 going on 60. But this New Zealand prodigy always had her head firmly screwed on.

"Sure I have had my moments of wanting to go out and forget my responsibilities. But aged 16 it was harder because I was much more keen to be social and not miss out on any parties.

"Now that I'm 20 I've realised I can have fun while I'm working. So I have a great time while I'm on tour and it doesn't really feel like work. I just have to mix the two.

"And while my parents used to accompany me everywhere, now they don't come to keep an eye on me, but to catch up. It was an easy transition because my parents just realised they weren't needed as much."

Hayley also puts much of her success down to her management team allowing her to "develop as a performer and be the creative driving force rather than clipping my wings. They believe in me and don't want to just replace me with a new voice."

Ask her legions of fans and they'd agree that replacing Hayley would be nigh on impossible. But before her star gets any brighter, you can spot her at the Henley Festival tomorrow night. "I'm really excited about that," Hayley adds. "Because I've never appeared there before so let's hope the sun is shining and everyone will be in good spirits." Box office 01491 843404 www.henley-festival.co.uk

9:52am Friday 4th July 2008

Hayley on Tour: UK Autumn Tour 2008

2008-06-27T04:04:00.000-07:00

Following the release of River of Dreams, Hayley will begin a full tour in the UK. Don't miss this amazing chance of seeing Hayley in concert, and meeting her afterwards! Here is the full schedule:

Sun 19 Oct Aberdeen Music Hall

Mon 20 Oct Dunfermline Carnegie Hall

Wed 22 Oct Durham Gala Theatre

Wed 29 Oct Barrow Forum Theatre

Thurs 30 Oct Newcastle City Hall

Sun 2 Nov Lichfield Garrick Theatre

Mon 3 Nov Liverpool Philharmonic Hall

Wed 5 Nov Northampton Derngate

Wed 12 Nov Llandudno North Wales Theatre

Thurs 13 Nov Birmingham Town Hall

Mon 17 Nov Manchester Bridgewater Hall

Wed 19 Nov Cardiff St David's Hall

Thurs 20 Nov Bournemouth Hall

Tues 25 Nov Southend Cliffs Pavillion

Wed 26 Nov Cheltenham Town Hall

Fri 28 Nov Leamington Royal Spa Pavillion

Sun 30 Nov Swansea Grand Theatre

Please check your local theater of full information on tickets and bookings. You can also check www.hayleywestenra.com and click 'Events' for more information.

Hayley voted number 3 in "Most Trusted New Zealander" chart!

2008-06-27T03:59:00.000-07:00

Hayley has been voted number three in the annual New Zealand Readers Digest 'Most Trusted Entertainer' listings. She made it to number 22 in the listings for most trusted New Zealander.

OUR 10 MOST TRUSTED ENTERTAINERS
1. Peter Jackson (14)
2. Dame Malvina Major (19)
3. Hayley Westenra (23)
4. Neil Finn (25)
5. Tim Finn (27)
6. Dame Kate Harcourt (37)
7. Dame Kiri Te Kanawa (38)
8. Sir Howard Morrison (40)
9. Keisha Castle-Hughes (53)
10. Russell Crowe (63)

Full listings and report: http://www.readersdigest.co.nz/global/AU/images/au/2008-NZ-trust.pdf

!!!CONGRATULATIONS, HAYLEY!!!

Hayley's new compilation album: "River of Dreams"

2008-06-27T03:51:00.000-07:00

From hayleywestenra.com:

Hayley is pleased to announce her Greatest Hits album, River Of Dreams, will be released on 3rd November. This will be accompanied by a full UK tour as well. Please see the events page for full tour listings.

It is available to pre-order on the following sites:

HMV.com - £8.99

Amazon.co.uk - £11.99

Play.com - £12.99

Make it a winner by pre-ordering now!

Updates will be back soon!

2008-06-27T03:45:00.000-07:00

Hello eager Hayley fans,

I apologize for not keeping entirely up-to-date with this blog, but I have been very busy with exams, and will get to update all Hayley news very soon. At the meantime, please visit www.hayley-westenra-international for updates.

Thanks for your patience!

Sukayna

HAYLEY'S NEW JAPANESE ALBUM!

2008-05-20T01:43:00.000-07:00

!!!BREAKING NEWS!!!

I have to apologize for being a little late on this news, but information Hayley's new album, special for a Japan release, has been released!

The title of this new album is:

Hayley sings Japanese Songs

As we are not yet sure of the new album's release, we still have the track listings, and the album cover. Check it out:

1 Amazing Grace Duet With Minako Honda.
2 Hanamizuki
3 Yuki No Hana
4 Shiroi Irowa Koibitono Iro (English)
5 I Am A Thousand Winds
6 Blooming Flower
7 Nada Sousou
8 Tsubasa Wo Kudasai
9 Sotsugyo Shasin
10 Time Goes Around
11 I Believe
12 Shiroi Irowa Koibitono Iro (Japanese)

Release date: Out now!

Check back soon for details!

For more information, visit: http://www.universal-music.co.jp/classics/hayley_westenra/discography.html

Hayley on "Ready Steady Cook"!

2008-05-20T01:33:00.001-07:00

Hayley and Jonothan Ansell recently appeared on the British cooking show, Ready Steady Cook! They are promoting their new duet, from Romeo and Juliet, which they performed at the Classical Brit Awards. Thanks to Dave from HWI, here are the videos in three parts. I won't spoil it for you!

Ready Steady Cook - Part 1 of 3 (9 minutes+, 500 kbps, 34MB)

Ready Steady Cook - Part 2 of 3 (9 minutes+, 500 kbps, 32MB)

Ready Steady Cook - Part 3 of 3 (10 minutes, 500 kbps, 36MB)

Hayley sampling delicious and competitive dishes!

Hayley at the Classical Brits!

2008-05-20T01:07:00.000-07:00

Hayley's album Treasure was nominated for Best Album of the year. Unfortunately, Hayley did not win the title, but a huge congratulations to Blake, who received this honorary award! Hayley attended this glamorous evening with fellow tenor, Jonathan Ansell, and they performed their duet Un Giorno per Noi together. Other stars who attended the Classical Brits included New Zealand's newest singing senstation, Will Martin, Sarah Brightman, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Andrea Bocelli, Nicola Benedetti, to name a few. Thanks to Dave from HWI, you can watch this magnificent performance by choosing from these three links:

Un Giorno Per Noi version 2 standard quality (.wmv 19MB)

Un Giorno Per Noi version 2 high quality (.wmv 82 MB) Some people may find this plays better than the XVID version below.

Un Giorno Per Noi version 2 high quality (.XVID 83 MB)

Thanks to everyone from HWI, who attended the Classical Brits and contributed these lovely photos and videos from this event!

Hayley and Jonothan perform, and Hayley arrives at the red carpet, meeting her fans.

Hayley at the Classical Brit Awards Launch!

2008-04-12T02:04:00.000-07:00

Hayley, along with New Zealand singing sensation Will Martin, attended the Classical Brit Awards Launch on April 8th. She was also surprised with a birthday cake for her 21st birthday, along with a performance by Blake.

Her newest album Treasure has been nominated under the catagory of Best Album of the Year. Voting has been available to international members of the public for the first time, and closed last night. The Classical Brit Awards will be on May 8th. Click below for the photos! And click on photos to enlarge.

Hayley grabs her nomination trophy. Hayley with Will Martin.

More photos: http://www.facebook.com/photo_search.php?oid=5501937026&view=all

HAPPY 21ST BIRTHDAY, HAYLEY!

2008-04-12T00:59:00.000-07:00

Hayley turned 21 on April 10. For the past two-and-a-year decade, she has become one of the most amazing artists of our time, and touched the lives of thousands through her music.

Hayley, I wish you all the success for the new and exciting year. I know you will produce more and more surprises as the years go on!

!Happy Birthday, Hayley!

Classiacal Brits Awards: Last Days for Voting!

2008-04-10T03:17:00.000-07:00

This year, the voting for the annual Classical Brit Awards are now available to the international wide vote. This means you can help make Hayley a winner! Hayley current album Treasure has been nominated under the catagory of Best Album of the Year. Vote now to make it a winner!

Hayley's album Pure was also nominated for this catagory. However, that was when the votes were elligable to UK residents only.

There are only a few more days left to vote for Hayley to win Album Of The Year at this year's Classical Brit Awards. Please visit http://www.classicalbrits.co.uk/voting and cast your vote for Hayley's album Treasure! You can enter your vote as many times you like, so get your mouse clicking!

UPDATE: A message from Hayley:

" Hey everyone!!
There are only 4 more days left to vote for my album 'Treasure' to win 'Album Of The Year' at this year's Classical Brit Awards! Please could you visit and tell all your friends, relatives, colleagues, neighbours, pets (you get the idea!) to visit http://www.classicalbrits.co.uk/voting and vote for 'Hayley Westenra' -'Treasure' !! Your support would be very much appreciated!

Thanks so much!! Speak soon...

Hayleyxxx "

Music of the Spheres: Mike Oldfield Features Hayley in New Album

2008-03-13T02:06:00.000-07:00

Hayley sings a new song, On My Heart in Mike Oldfield's new album, Music of the Spheres. It is set to be released on March 17 and can also be bought from ITunes. Hayley also attended a special concert and performed this song live, which can be viewed here: Mike Oldfield - Music of the Spheres Guggenheim Bilbao

Promotional videos for the album are also available on YouTube, following the link below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LcbqRbhPoiU

More information on the album can be read and dicussed on HWI's forum, here:

http://hwi.proboards20.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=Otheralbums&thread=1181206756&page=7

"Treasure" Nominated for Classical Brit Award!

2008-03-07T01:30:00.000-08:00

Some great news from hayleywestenra.com gives us the nominations for the 2008 Classical Brit awards, and Hayley's latest album Treasure has been nominated as the album of the year!

"Hayley's album Treasure has been nominated for Best Album at this years Classical Brit awards to be held in May. This category is voted for by the public so please go to the web address below and follow the links to vote for Hayley: http://www.classicalbrits.co.uk/"

So vote for Hayley now, and make her a winner!

!!!GOOD LUCK HAYLEY!!!

Hayley in Concert: UK Appearances and Schedule

2008-02-26T00:29:00.000-08:00

As Hayley has just ended her New Zealand tour, she flew back to the UK yesterday to attend these new events for the new year. Here are her concert schedule, as well as information on the venues and events from hayleywestenra.com:

March

Mar - 29: Croydon Fairfields Hall (Concert) Click Here

April

Apr - 05: Buxton Opera House (Concert) Click Here
Apr - 26: Millenium Forum, Derry (Concert)
Apr - 27: Belfast Waterfront Hall (Concert) Click Here

May

May - 02: Jersey Opera House, Charity concert (Concert) Click Here
May - 03: Jersey Opera House, charity concert (Concert) Click Here

June

June - 27: Abberglasney Gardens, Wales (Concert) Click Here

July

July - 12: Henley Festival (Concert) Click Here
July - 13: Orwell Park (Concert) Click Here
July - 26: Broadlands (Concert) Click Here

From hayleywestenra.com

In Tune with Nature: Aucland Report and Photos!

2008-02-25T23:40:00.000-08:00

I had the absolute previlage of being able to attend the Villa Maria concert in Auckland as the last In Tune with Nature concert for the tour. I also had the honor of meeting Dave and Hayley (for the second time). Here is my report and photos:

"There were THOUSANDS!!! Probably five times more than the people who attended all the other concerts. Even Dave was surprised by the number who turned up. It was unbelievable. The whole time, I was thinking 'how on earth are they going to do signings with this many people??

We had a very distant view, and I can tell you now that despite the beautiful atmosphere, I really, really prefer indoor concerts. I think audiences have a fair distant between them and the performer, because a theater can only be so big. This place was massive, so I couldn't see Hayley's facial expressions or anything. Which was a real shame. But I look forward to more of her concerts later!

Then we had the interval, and then it was Fiona's turn. She was bear-foot! Boy is she FAN-TAS-TIC!!! Her pieces were beautiful, and she was so sweet as well. One of the most talented people I have seen on stage performing.

Then music (violin) started playing, and they announced to welcome Hayley. The music kept playing and Hayley walked onto stage not in her purple outfit, but the red dress she has worn to many events, including the NZ Music Awards. She sang Let Me Lie, which was one of my favorites for the eveing.

Then she sang Shanendoah, then Summerfly, which was fantastic. She had a great time perfoming that! Then May It Be which gave me goosebumps. I think she performed that so much nicer that the on on her album!! Then she sang Sonny on the keyboard (my mom's favorite song) and then she sang Who Painted the Moon Black, and thanked her NZ fans especially, saying she would not have gotten this far if it wasn't for us, which was followed by a huge applause. It got darker, and so did my photos, which was a shame. It was just too far away to get good shots, but I took them anyway. Then it was followed by Both Sides Now, and then Scarborough Fair, which she duetted with Dave. Then she did In Trutina, Sancta Lucia, Prayer, and then Hine e Hine with Dave. Then they sang Welcome Home, and she sang Down to the River to Pray as the encore songs.

By the thought, I had walked closer to the stage, and it was great to see her in a better view. But I kept listening to her, and walked over to the tent and was the first in line with my sister. HUNDREDS followed afterwards, and you wouldn't believe the long lone. She might still be there now!!

So, I waited in line, and then Fiona came along, so I had her sign Hayley's book, and I took a photo with her. Such a lovely woman, she was. And I adored her to bits. I can't wait to see more of here later, I really can't!

Hayley and Dave took very long to come, and we were getting a little impatient, because it had started to drizzle a little, but it was good timing. Hayley and Dave walked through, and Hayley looked over at me - and recognized me at once! Not that me and my headscarf are that hard to remember, mind you , but not only that, she knew my name, and thanked me for the bracelet, loved the gifts to bits.

That was by far the best part of the night. And then my sister got her autograph, and we got photos, and I also said hi to Dave and thanked him for a wonderful night."

Fiona Pears on violin

Hayley and Dave singing Hine e Hine

Hayley performs on stage

Hayley and Dave sing Welcome Home

Agent backs Hayley

2008-02-25T23:36:00.000-08:00

By Carolyne Meng-Yee

24 February 2008 - New Zealand Herald

Hayley Westenra has been criticised by opera icon Dame Kiri Te Kanawa.

The man who discovered popera princess Hayley Westenra has hit back at Dame Kiri Te Kanawa's "holier than thou'' swipe at his star. The opera singer yesterday refused to share the stage with Westenra at last night's postponed Starlight Symphony concert in the Auckland Domain and then described her a "fake singer''.

But Gray Bartlett, who put Westenra on the musical map rubbished the criticism, pointing to the millions of CDs Westenra had sold.

"I can tell you now... Kiri and Pavarotti and those international singers, if it wasn't for their compilation CDs they'd be lucky to sell in the hundreds. Now that's the truth,'' he said.

Westenra's father didn't want to be drawn into the spat, but said the two singers' styles were "like apples and oranges'' and it was wrong to compare them.

Bartlett, however, was more to the point. Asked if Dame Kiri was suffering from "a bit of the old green-eyed monster'', he said: "I think it's a bit of that, plus I think it's this whole opera thing... and that holier than thou attitude. It [opera] still retains a snob factor.''

Bartlett believed Dame Kiri's comments were the result of professional jealousy and she felt threatened.

His advice to her was: "She looks great, she's done well, just get a life.''

Kiwi Stars Sing from the Same Song Sheet

2008-02-25T23:27:00.000-08:00

By Kelly ANDREW

22 February 2008 - Dominion Post

Dave Dobbyn and Hayley Westenra seem an unlikely double act. But it works.

Dave Dobbyn and Hayley Westenra are a perfect but surprising match. The two singers are both clean- living, successful solo performers with a strong following from middle New Zealand.

One is a balding middle-aged veteran who has written some of the best-loved ballads in Kiwi music history -- think Loyal, Be Mine Tonight, Whaling, Slice of Heaven and Devil You Know -- and the other is a fresh-faced 20-year- old who became an international star at 16 and has sold millions of her classical, Celtic and pop albums worldwide.

Westenra and Dobbyn have teamed up and they are touring New Zealand together for their In Tune with Nature winery concerts. They perform at Wairarapa vineyard Alana Estate tomorrow.

Chatting by phone from Auckland they finish each other's sentences and gush excitedly about how much they enjoy singing and performing together. There is, as Westenra points out, laughing, "Too much love."

Westenra and Dobbyn first shared a stage at London's Shepherd's Bush Empire last August. The concert -- Hayley's Kiwi Ceilidh -- was held when anticipation was building for the Rugby World Cup and London was awash with optimistic New Zealanders. Westenra invited Dobbyn, whom she describes as a Kiwi icon, to come over and perform at the gig.

"We just clicked from the first rehearsal. To many people it was a strange pairing but it worked," says Westenra. Their voices and personalities harmonised well.

"We're from completely opposite ends of the spectrum. That's why it works so well -- we don't interfere with each other's vocals," she says. "I had a ball," Dobbyn chips in. "We had a real rapport and when we sang together there was something that happened that made us both feel really good about it. There was some magic there. We thought, better do that again some time."

For In Tune with Nature they are touring with their own backing bands. Dobbyn plays first for about an hour before Westenra joins him on stage at the end of his set, then she sings for an hour and Dobbyn returns for some duets.

They are likely to include Dobbyn's Welcome Home and Oughta Be in Love, and some tunes by the Finn brothers. The programme also features New Zealand violinist Fiona Pears.

Westenra says she doesn't think she's ever been so excited about a tour. "I've never done a vineyard tour before. In fact, I've done one concert in my career that's been held in a vineyard, so I can't wait.

"I've also been away from New Zealand too long. I can't wait to see the whole country and meet all the people and just get back into that Kiwi swing of things. We know how to relax."

She has been in New Zealand since before Christmas and has been throwing herself into adventurous pursuits, including windsurfing for the first time, mountainbiking and jet skiing.

"I spent New Year's (Eve) with some friends up north and the rest of the time I've just spent in Christchurch, and Christchurch has had the best summer. I was quite keen to become a Kiwi chick again. I thought, 'Right, I've been in London for too long and I want to take advantage of what New Zealand has to offer.' "

She has avoided being mobbed by fans in her home town. "My science teacher from my high school recognised me when I was out windsurfing, but I avoid the malls if I'm feeling a bit shy, but getting outdoors is quite nice. When I was out mountainbiking we didn't really come across anyone else. It was just me and my family."

Both Westenra and Dobbyn are bound for Britain after the tour. Westenra has a gig there next Thursday and Dobbyn is working on his new album in London from March. "I dare say Hayley and I will meet up at some point over there, hopefully in a restaurant with a jolly good heating system."

They say they're learning from each other as performers. "I'm the one that's learning more. I don't think he's learning from me," says Westenra politely.

But Dobbyn has become an ardent admirer. "I've just learnt that you can sing one note and make it sound like five. There's something of purity in Hayley's voice that I think is fantastic.

"She's got such an incredible gift of an instrument. The fact that she's into writing some songs herself as well, it bodes well for the future for Hayley.

"There's always something new to learn when you're performing. I love it when performers know the connection between the performers and the audience is bigger than all of us. If you recognise that, you can come up with things that are quite amazing."

* Hayley Westenra and Dave Dobbyn, In Tune with Nature, Alana Estate Vineyard, Wairarapa, tomorrow. Dave Dobbyn has a sold-out show next Wednesday at the Pacific Blue Festival Club in Wellington and performs as a guest with Lucid 3 at the same venue on Tuesday.

In Tune with Nature: Waipara Photos and Vidoes!

2008-02-19T00:45:00.000-08:00

Thanks again to Ross and Belinda, who are on this magnificent tour. They send us more photos and reports from the second concert of the Hayley Westenra and Dave Dobbyn In Tune with Nature tour. Here is Ross's report:

"Dave started again and he mostly did the same songs as last night although he did do some different ones as well. Hayley joined him for the last 2 songs which were the same ones last night. While they were singing a World War 2 Mustang fighter came over the concert and waggled it's wings at us which was cool. The rest of the concert (Fiona and Hayley) was a repeat of last night. I better correct one song I mentioned last night. Hayley sung Mummers Dance and not Lovers Heart (silly me for getting this one wrong). While Hayley was playing Sonny the crowd was so silent you could hear a pin drop. In fact throughout the concert everyone was quiet during the songs. Later when we talked to an English guy he thought us Kiwis were too reserved and we should have been dancing so you cannot please everyone. They got a standing ovation at the end and when they did the Welcome Home encore everyone got on their feet and moved closer to the stage and sang along with them which was great. The concert had sold out on the day so there was a big crowd there (about 3000) and a lot of people stayed for the signings. Well only one more concert to go. I will keep uploading photos as I find time and I also managed to video Hayleys part of the concert so I can always treasure the Let Me Lie and Sonny songs. There were also a lot of cameras at the concert so maybe there could be a DVD of the concert coming ( I hope so)."

Here are the photos:

Hayley and Dave sing together

Hayley sings at the second night of the tour

Hayley and Fiona, the violinist

Here are some videos from this night's performance:

May it be

Welcome Home

Hayley & Dave: Down to the river

Thanks Ross, for letting me using his wonderful photos. We await the third night's concert in Blenheim!

For more information on this concert, visit HWI: http://hwi.proboards20.com/index.cgi?board=Concert&action=display&thread=1193765974

In Tune with Nature: Arrowtown Photos!

2008-02-19T00:24:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Ross and Belinda from HWI, they bring us the reports and photos from the first concert of the Dave Dobbyn and Hayley Westenra In Tune with Nature tour. Here is what Ross said:

"Dave did the first set with his well known songs like When I Needed You Most, Otherwise Fine, Loyal, Lay Down. Then Hayley came onto the stage to join Dave and they sung Beside You and Shouldn't You Ought To Be In Love and Welcome Home. Hayley wore a long black dress with floral designs on it. After the interval Fiona Pears and her band did a few songs. She wore a purple knee length dress with black shin length boots. She did Firefly, Martin and Mary which she congratulated those who clapped in the song (including me), Tangoissimo, and Sabre Dance. Then the big moment arrived when Hayley came onto the stage in a purple top over a black top with black leggings.THEN HAYLEY BLEW ME AWAY when she started singing Let Me Lie which I never thought I would hear live and is my favourite song.Then she did Shenandoah, Summerfly. She mentioned that she had been up the gondola and went on the luge. She then sung May It Be, Both Sides Now. Then you know when there is a keyboard around Hayley is bound to sing Sonny which she did and we loved it.Then it was Who Painted The Moon Black, Scarborough Fair which Dave joined in. Then Hayley sang Lovers Heart (Marvin Gaye) and the Hansel and Gretel song Prayer. After that it was Santa Lucia and Intrutina and then Dave joined in with Hine e Hine for the last song.
For the encore they did Down To the River (off the DVD) which everyone clapped to and the last song was Welcome Home with everyone on their feet clapping away. So it was a great concert which you could tell the most people were there to see Hayley and everyone listened to the songs with no one talking during the songs."

Furthermore, Ross and Belinda postes these wonderful photos from the concert:

Hayley and Dave duet

Hayley and Dave (on left guitar)

Fiona Pears on violin

Hayley and Fiona

Hayley performs Sonny on keyboard

For more information, visit HWI: http://hwi.proboards20.com/index.cgi?board=Concert&action=display&thread=1193766051&page=9

Matakana Lakeside Charity Concert: Photos!

2008-02-15T00:58:00.000-08:00

Hayley, Elizabeth Marvelly and Shaun Dixon held a charity concert in Matakana's Lakeside theater. This event was an outdoor concert, which held hundreds of eager fans to see New Zealand's greatest talent. Elizabeth Marvelly was kind enough to send in some photos of the event, where Will Martin also appeared to watch this well anticipated show.

Here are the photos! Click to enlarge:

Hayley and Elizabeth Marvelly

Hayley, Will Martin, and Elizabeth Marvelly

Hayley, Shaun Dixon, and Elizabeth Marvelly

Thanks to Elizabeth Marvelly for the photos.

NZ Herald: True Harmony Across the Ages

2008-02-02T15:44:00.000-08:00

They are two of our best-known voices but one's been rocking pubs since he was a boy and the other is only just allowed into them. So why are Hayley and Dave touring together? They talk to Rebecca Barry.

Dave Dobbyn pulls up outside the studio in a big black Holden with tinted windows, wanders in with his electric guitar and immediately rolls a ciggy. Hayley Westenra isn't far behind, in sky-high heels, toting a big bag of clothes and with no mum in sight. They walk straight into a room of people - photographer, designer, hair-stylist, makeup artist, managers - and the room erupts with chatter and laughter as the unlikely tour companions do the rounds.

Dave and Hayley's In Tune With Nature national winery tour is the second time the pair will have shared a stage since a show in London last year.

Before they head off though, TimeOut wants to take them out of their comfort zones, give them a taste of life on the other side of the musical spectrum by doing a Freaky Friday number for the cover shoot.

For Hayley, that means rocking it up with her tour-mate's guitar.

For Dave it means channelling his inner opera star. While Hayley discusses hair tongs and eyeshadow and selects the best top (she's brought four, including a tight leopard-print singlet and a T-shirt that reads, "I'm with the band"), Dave mucks around on harmonica and plays a little ragtime on the studio piano, nips out for countless ciggies and chats about his favourite folk musicians. Then he pulls on the tux and turns into quite the so-and-so.

Feeling a little apprehensive about letting her hair down - and whipping it sideways, a la Juliette Lewis - Hayley puts on a CD to get in the mood. Not Led Zep or Gunners but a mellow pop band in the Coldplay vein. Dave doesn't look convinced. But what the soundtrack lacks in bluster, she makes up for with some fierce moves. Even with a hairdryer blowing in her face and a haughty man in a penguin suit looking on, she is quite the trooper.

Whose idea was this tour?

Dave Dobbyn: Hers [pointing]. Hayley did this gig in London called 'Hayley's Kiwi Ceilie', which is an Irish word not unlike 'hootenanny'. I'd never come across it before and I'm Irish. I couldn't resist, it sounded like great fun.

Hayley Westenra: I thought I'd ask you because you're a New Zealand legend. And it's just worked so well musically, which was surprising to a lot of people. They wouldn't usually put us together. We've adjusted it with a few more of my own songs rather than the national anthems.

Dave: Plus that gig was people swanning around the Shepherd's Bush Empire. This lends itself to having wine and picnics and lounging about a bit more and consequently, I think our performances will be more relaxed ... I was really nervous in the rehearsal over there.

Hayley: [Looks surprised.] Were you?

Dave: Yeah, I felt like I was going to an audition.

Hayley: Well when I started singing one of your songs I was like, "I wonder what he thinks of my vocals".

So you didn't boss each other around?

Dave: No, there was no diva behaviour on my part or Hayley's. That was refreshing.

But Hayley's a Christchurch girl and you're from Auckland.

Dave: I've got a great deal of affection for Christchurch. I've played with a lot of people who came out of Christchurch. I've played there 30 years on and off and built up quite a relationship with the people ... I'm really giving Christchurch a great big kiss on the lips.

Hayley: I guess I'd better return the favour. Auckland - love it. Love the Jafas.

Dave: I'm a great believer that the most exciting thing in music tends to happen provincially. People let their hair down a little, there's great local food, great wine, all those things. There's something wonderfully civilised about that these days. We've come a long way from your Velluto Rosso and your Cold Duck. It's almost like a holiday eh?

Hayley: Yeah, I can't wait. I've never done a vineyard tour before.Dave: Oh, you'll enjoy it. Except from 5.30 on, that's when Uncle Joe's had a bit too much wine and he starts to get rude.

Hayley: Okay, I'll get out by then.

Dave: No, I'm kidding.

That's when you'll get away with stealing food from people's hampers.

Dave: Or we could do an Oprah and grab a few punters, bring them up on stage and humiliate them with magic tricks.

How do you plan to travel?

Dave: We'll find the best food we can. The best restaurants and the best cafes, the best places for breakfast, coffee.

Hayley: A bit of sight-seeing as well? I was hoping to go white-water rafting in Queenstown but that might be a bit unprofessional.

Dave: Sky-diving in Christchurch? I'd be up for para-ponting.

Hayley: How do you do that?

Dave: It's just jumping off a mountain with a parachute. I've done it twice in Queenstown.

Hayley: You're full of surprises, Dave.

Dave: Or we could just sample olive oil.

How well do you know each other now?

Dave: Well, I know that Hayley is blessed with a wonderful instrument and she's at the height of her powers. The first time I heard her sing I discovered that purity, I got what everyone gets. She's on a roll and I enjoy that so much. There's something about being middle-aged and appreciating people having that success. It's great fun to mix it up a little. I'm usually on my own or with a rock 'n' roll band. This doesn't have the nervous tension that playing with an orchestra does but there's a middle road to interact with harmonies and stuff.

Hayley: When I first had the opportunity it was such an honour. Then I just started working with you as a fellow musician rather than an admirer of "Dave the big star". I've been singing classical since I was little so it's really nice to have the chance to introduce another element.

Surely you have some dirt on each other.

Dave: Not yet.

Hayley: I'll be out with the camera after a few glasses of wine.

Dave: The old truth serum starts spilling out. I don't think we're in any danger of any of that, there's too much music to be had.

You both seem pretty relaxed about the set list.

Hayley: We're trying to keep it under wraps because we haven't done any rehearsals yet. We don't know if the songs are going to work out.

Dave: We will be singing a really old song, Oughta Be in Love from the Footrot Flats soundtrack. It was the song we first rehearsed in London. Hayley hit this note and then started surfing on it and I thought, this is great, it's like bluegrass. She knows exactly what to sing.

Hayley, were you even alive when Dave wrote that song?

Hayley: Well, I was born in 1987 ...

Dave: I think I wrote it in '85, 86.

When did you first hear it?

Dave: In the womb, darling!

Hayley: Yeah, some of your music I'm still kind of digging up if you know what I mean.

Dave: I am too!

Hayley: I grabbed some of your albums when I went to the UK for the first time. I wanted to stock up on New Zealand music. When I'm in London I'm such a Kiwi girl.

Dave: Yeah, you carry that homesickness around with you in a sack, it's always on your back.

Where were you career-wise when you were Hayley's age?

Dave: Are you 20?

[Seems shocked]Hayley: My 21st is in April but unfortunately I'll be in London so I won't have my family with me.

Dave: Will they send you the key to the door?

Hayley: Sorry?

Dave: Do they do that anymore? You get the key to the door when you're 21.

Hayley: I never understood what the key meant. My dad doesn't trust me with keys. He's like, you keep losing the house-keys every time you go out. What do you do with them? I'm like, I don't know.

Dave: I got a banana cake with one candle on it for my 21st. That was a very long time ago, of course. Anyway, when I was 20 I was in Th'Dudes and we were touring relentlessly around New Zealand. Back then it was hard to get a song on the radio.

Hayley: It's the same for me. My songs are not particularly radio-friendly.

Dave: I know what we could do. I could write a song for you and you could have a huge hit and attach it to a movie like Titanic and we'll both retire. Three minutes, no problem. I'll have it by this afternoon.

Hayley: Sweet, okay, sorted.

LOWDOWN

What: In Tune With Nature national winery tour
Who: Dave Dobbyn and Hayley Westenra

Tour dates:

Millbrook Resort, Queenstown, February 16
Mudhouse Winery and Cafe, Waipara, February 17
Montana Brancott Estate, Blenheim, February 19
Black Barn Vineyards, Havelock North, February 21
Alana Estate, Martinborough, February 23
Villa Maria Estate, Auckland, February 24

Also: Hayley Westenra sings at the Lakeside Charity Concert at the National Saddle Centre, Matakana on Saturday February 9 with tenor Shaun Dixon and Elizabeth Marvelly accompanied by the Manukau City Symphony Orchestra. Tickets and info: http://www.matakanacoast.com/

Source: New Zealand Herald

First NZ Inspired: Hayley Named Young Achiever Winner!

2008-02-01T21:46:00.000-08:00

Hayley Westenra, 20, has been named the winner of the Global Kiwis Young Achiever Award.
The award was established to recognise a young Kiwi under the age of 35, at the start of their career, who has made remarkable achievements in their field of endeavour in the UK achieving recognition on at least a national scale if not on a European or global scale.
NZ Society incoming president Helen Campbell said Westenra's name was synonymous with New Zealand and she is recognised as one of the most exciting young voices globally.
"Hayley has participated in significant New Zealand sporting and cultural events here in the UK and on the international stage and we are delighted to have such a worthy young achiever of this new award."
Both awards will be presented at the annual New Zealand Society's Waitangi Day Dinner at the Drapers' Hall in London on February 8.

!!!CONGRATULATIONS HAYLEY!!!

From hayleywestenra.com

New Zealand Tour: In Tune with Nature

2008-01-03T22:18:00.000-08:00

Hayley and New Zealand singer Dave Dobbyn will be touring New Zealand in a special vineyard concert around the country. It is an outdoor concert, providing a safe family environment and tickets priced at a very affordable cost. Tickets cost $65 and are on sale now from http://www.ticketek.co.nz/

For more information, join in the chat at HWI's Forum: http://hwi.proboards20.com/index.cgi?board=Concert

Full tour dates are as followed:

February: In Tune with Nature (Guest appearance with Dave Dobbyn)

Feb - 16: Millbrook Estate, Queenstown

Feb - 17: Mud House Winery, Waipara

Feb - 19: Brancott Estate, Blenheim

Feb - 21: Black Barn Vineyards

Feb - 22: Villa Maria Estate, Auckland

Feb - 23: Alana Estate, Martinborough

A concert not to be missed!

For more information, visit Hayley's official site, http://www.hayleywestenra.com/

Hayley's Store: Updated!

2008-01-03T22:13:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, everyone! Particularly you, Hayley. You've had an amazing one, and here's another one ahead of you!
Hayley's store has just been updated with her new autobiography, t-shirts, bags and much more!

Click here to visit and shop from these fantastic items, ideal for any Hayley fan! http://www.hayleystore.com/

Merry Christmas to all of my blog Supporters!

2007-12-22T17:35:00.000-08:00

A very warm and Merry Christmas to everyone who has made this blog possible. Thanks to all the devotes Hayley fans who have visited my blog constantly, and most importantly, to HWI, thank you so much for your kindness, support and help. Roger and Stephanie, for all the news, and no everyone else on this wonderful site, I could not have done this without you.

My special Season't Greetings to Hayley and her family also, who brighten up our world through their wonderful music and magic. They are truly a Treasure.

Merry Christmas!

Sukayna

Christmas Message from Hayley!

2007-12-22T17:10:00.000-08:00

Hayley has sent hayleywestenra.com her latest blog and Christmas greeting with some photos.

" Hello hello,

Thought I'd send you a short message before the end of the year is up and you all go away on holiday, myself included! I head back home to New Zealand tomorrow for a good month off which will give me plenty of time to catch up with the family and friends...oh, and top up my tan too! (apologies to those living in the northern hemisphere) I can't wait...it's been a busy year!

At this very minute I'm in the recording studio demoing a song I've recently composed, then I'm off back to my flat to pack my bags, make some calls and do my best to get the flat looking spic and span before I leave. The last few months have been pretty crazy, but good fun. My 3 week tour of Japan was a definite highlight for me and I'm looking forward to going back next year for some more concerts. Returning to the UK after a 2 month stint away was also wonderful (no comment on the weather!) as was returning to Dublin for a sold-out Christmas Concert with the the RTE Concert Orchestra on the 4th of December. I released my autobiography -another exciting accomplishment- and recorded some duets with a couple of great male singers for future release. A few days ago I was in Bath, England for a concert with The Silver Ring Choir as well as some other wonderful guest choirs. This was my last show for the year and what a lovely way to finish...a New Zealand carol with the starring choir. Then, a catch-up with a number of my dedicated supporters -Thanks so much for the cards and pressies! I will definitely be sharing the chocolate!!

Looking ahead to next year, first on the agenda is an overdue tour of New Zealand! It will be an honour to tour with the fantastic Dave Dobbyn. Our musical styles are a bit contrasting, but that is where the magic happens! See you there... Wishing you all a very merry Christmas and festive season!! And while I'm at it...a happy New Year too!

Hayleyxxx "

Here are some photographs from Hayley's visit to Japan:

Sampling some delicious Japanese food, and On tour in Japan with my two wonderful musicians Makoto and Yukiko

Treasure No. 1 for 2007!!!

2007-12-22T17:00:00.000-08:00

Kiwi singer finds treasure with album
Dec 18, 2007 6:58 AM

Ever the favourite, Christchurch singer Hayley Westenra has managed yet another feat.
The 20-year-old is set to have 2007's biggest selling album, with Treasure.
She appears to have beaten British popera star Paul Potts and rock band Linkin Park for the crown.

Rihanna's Umbrella is set to be the biggest selling single in New Zealand this year, spending 24 weeks on the top 40 chart.

Black Eyed Peas singer Fergie is in second place with Big Girls Don't Cry.

Christchurch band Atlas are the top Kiwis, at sixth place with their breakout hit Crawl.

OpShop's Maybe - which has been the most-played song on radio this year - is at 11th spot.

!!!CONGRATULATIONS HAYLEY!!!

Hayley's Blog!

2007-11-10T15:22:00.001-08:00

Hayley has just added a new blog to hayleywestenra.com about her new album Prayer and touring Japan! Take a look!

"Konichiwa!
After a couple of hectic weeks back home in Christchurch (holiday, what holiday?) during which I launched my autobiography (just in New Zealand for now, UK is releasing in a month), I have just arrived in Japan. It's a country I always enjoy touring, with such friendly and appreciative audiences (and great food too). I have worked here a lot over the last few years and the Samon promoter team (Hiro, Michi, Shin and their boss, whom we have nicknamed "the Don") are almost like friends and Hiro, at Universal Music here, always has great new ideas for releases, the latest an album tying up the loose ends of the TV and film themes I have recorded, with a few other unreleased songs, entitled "Prayer ".
This tour takes me out to many regions of Japan, not just Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya (the only three cities I have visited on tours in the past, except for a guest appearance in Kochi) which is unusual for an international artist, but it gives me the chance to meet the people that have been kind enough to buy my CDs but usually would only get to see a live performance on a TV show.

Fukuoka Symphony Hall - photo 1

Photo 2

My first show was in Fukuoka in the beautiful Symphony Hall, and here are some photos from my sound check. I am lucky enough to be working with a wonderful Japanese violinist, Yukiko and pianist, Makato. I am here for three weeks, with a big Tourism NZ launch at the very end, then back to the UK to do some shows as well as check up on my new flat (plus maybe buy some furniture for it as I think beds, tables and seating are always a nice touch).
For those of you downunder, We are just confirming a NZ tour for February and then hopefully a record will be recorded in March...yikes, that's not far off, is it?!

Matane (see you soon)!
Hayley x"

From hayleywestenra.com

Hayley's Autobiography "In Her Own Voice" - Out Now!

2007-11-10T15:11:00.000-08:00

Hayley's new autobiography In Her Own Voice is out now and available in shops and online.

Synopsis:

"Singing sensation Hayley Westenra reveals what it's like to be the honorary mascot for the world-beating All Blacks rugby team, as well as one of the youngest ever ambassadors of UNICEF, and how a teenage busker from Christchurch ended up performing for the Queen, Prince Charles, President George W Bush and Tony Blair - all at the same time. Hayley reveals the highs and lows of her personal journey."

Click here for discussions on the book: http://hwi.proboards20.com/index.cgi?board=News&action=display&thread=1183914152&page=1

Click here to order it from Amazon.co.uk

Hayley's New Japenese Album "Prayer" - Out Now!

2007-11-10T15:02:00.000-08:00

Hayley's new album "Prayer" is now available in Japan. It contains songs from films, West Side Story and duets with other artists. Click "Prayer" for more information.

Tracklisting:

Prayer - Blessed Pure Voice

1. Prayer
2. The Last Rose of Summer
3. Listen to the wind
4. May It Be
5. Wiegenlied
6. Jekyll
7. Here Beside Me
8. Bridal Ballad
9. Flood
10. Jekyll
11. Tonight
12. There's a sparkle in your eyes
13. You are water
14. Summer Rain

Click here for more information, scans and discussion on the new album!
http://hwi.proboards20.com/index.cgi?board=Otheralbums&action=display&thread=1189923560&page=1

Hayley's Realm reaches 2000 views!!!!

2007-11-01T02:49:00.000-07:00

I constantly appreciate the support I am getting and am flattered at the responses I have gotten for running this blog.

Thank you so much, and and I continualy appreciate the support and kind feedback.

Sukayna

Hayley sings at Passchendaele Memorial Service

2007-10-12T01:47:00.000-07:00

Hayley sang Abide with Me at the Passchendaele Memorial service. Here is a short exert and clip from TV3.

"The Prime Minister Helen Clark attended two services today in Belgium and paid tribute to the endurance and sacrifice of New Zealand soldiers in the grim World War One battles of Passchendaele.

The first 35-minute service was at 9.30am at the New Zealand memorial at Graven-stafel and was attended by up to 150 people.

The second - a joint service with Australia at the sprawling Tyne Cot Cemetery - was about an hour long and attended by up to 300.

At both services wreaths were laid, the ode to fallen read in both Maori and English, the national anthem sung, and the Last Post and Reveille bugled.

New Zealander Hayley Westenra sang the hymn Abide With Me at the Tyne Cot Cemetery service. at the Tyne Cot Cemetery service."

From TV3

Treasure Special Edition released in New Zealand on October 16!

2007-10-06T17:51:00.000-07:00

Treasure Special Edition will be released in New Zealand on October the 16th. This edition will include 19 tracks, with 7 new tracks including E Pari Ra and National Anthem God Defend New Zealand. It will be ina special O-Card packaging, and can be pre-ordered now. Follow the link: http://www.gpstore.co.nz/Music/1548794.html

Tracklistings:

1. Let Me Lie
2. Scarborough Fair
3. Shenandoah
4. Summer Fly
5. Whispering Hope
6. Danny Boy
7. Summer Rain
8. Last Rose Of Summer (duet with Méav)
9. One Fine Day
10. Sonny
11. The Water Is Wide
12. Melancholy Interlude
13. Abide With Me
14. Le Notte De Silenzio featuring Humphrey Berney
15. E Pari Ra
16. Bist Du Bei Mir
17. The Heart Worships
18. Santa Lucia
19. God Defend New Zealand

UNICEF: Hayley's New Project is PlayPumps

2007-08-29T20:47:00.000-07:00

Hayley's PlayPumps

Hayley is helping UNICEF tackle Guinea Worm in Ghana by ensuring children have access to safe water.

Hayley Westenra in Ghana with a young boy who is infected with Guinea Worm Disease. © UNICEF/Ghana/Jill Westenra

In April 2005, UNICEF NZ Ambassador Hayley Westenra visited Ghana, where she was deeply affected by the plight of children affected by Guinea Worm, a parasite that comes from drinking contaminated water. Now, with your support, she wants to help eradicate Guinea Worm by installing PlayPumps into 30 schools.

Click here for more info.

Interview with Hayley's Parents and 3NEWS Report

2007-08-24T20:54:00.000-07:00

As you can imagine, Hayley parents, Jill and Gerald are not happy with the French's decision to stop live national anthem performances at the Rugby World Cup. Here are two videos of the interview about his report:

3 News Report:

http://www.tv3.co.nz/VideoBrowseAll/NationalVideo/tabid/309/articleID/33225/Default.aspx?articleID=33225#video

3 News Interview with Jill and Gerald:

http://www.tv3.co.nz/VideoBrowseAll/NationalVideo/tabid/309/articleID/33223/Default.aspx#video

(Photo from TV3 website)

UPDATE!! Interview with Hayley!

http://www.tv3.co.nz/VideoBrowseAll/EntertainmentVideo/tabid/312/articleID/33275/Default.aspx#video

Westenra family disappointed at anthem decision

2007-08-24T20:52:00.000-07:00

*********BREAKING NEWS************

Teenage diva Hayley Westenra will not be singing the national anthem before the All Blacks play in the Rugby World Cup because the French hosts want to use pre-recorded music.
The All Blacks have never lost a game Westenra opened by singing the anthem, TV3 reported. Her father Gerald Westenra said he was very disappointed and the All Blacks' management had been fighting the decision for some time.
"I think it gives them an advantage to be honest. The whole atmosphere of the anthem singing, the haka, is a huge build up before the game. I know it fires the All Blacks up."
He believed the French were trying to reduce the "fire in the belly" of the All Blacks.
-NZPA

Source: http://nz.news.yahoo.com/070824/3/1faa.html

Hayley's Realm Reaches 1500 views!!

2007-08-22T00:39:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all of you for your continuous support, especially from HWI. I know I have been very busy and unable to update my blog in the past couple of weeks, but I will get back to it next week when my holidays begin!

Hayley, I hope that West Side Story and your new book does very well, which I know it will!! We are here to support you.

Sukayna

Hayley's Kiwi Ceili!

2007-08-16T22:39:00.000-07:00

A mighty send off for the All Blacks and Hayley Westenra to the Rugby World Cup in true Kiwi style. Join Hayley Westenra, Dave Dobbyn, Fiona Pears and their live band who will be performing legendary Kiwi anthems (not just their own)

Friday 31st August 2007
From 7.45pm until 11 pm
at Shepherds Bush Empire
Shepherds Bush Green

From hayleywestenra.com

Hayley also wrote in a blog entry to give her fans an update on what she's up to! She mentions her Ceili at the end.

Greetings from the UK

8 August 2007

Yay! The sun has finally shown its face! Maybe, just maybe, we'll get a summer after all…here's hoping. For those of you not aware, over the last few weeks the UK has been dealing with lightening, thunder, hail storms and torrential downpours resulting in devastating flooding across the country. I've been one of the lucky ones. Thankfully, the water that accumulated on my balcony during the major deluge didn't quite manage to overflow into my flat…although it was pretty close to doing just that. Many others weren't quite so lucky and my heart goes out to them.

Since I've been back in the UK I've been keeping busy with concerts across the country, as well as making it over to Dublin to perform with the RTE Concert Orchestra. Performing with such talented musicians was a real honour. Just over a week ago I performed at Classic FM's Woburn Live concert singing some of the West Side Story hits for the first time in public. I was joined on stage by the wonderful Italian tenor Vittorio Grigolo and together we sang the parts of Maria and Tony. For those of you that didn't make it (as well as those of you that did and liked what you heard!), a West Side Story recording celebrating it's 50th Anniversay will be released on the 13th August featuring Vittorio and myself …so get your copy! It's the best musical ever written in my opinion and you won't be able to stop yourself from singing along to all the hits such as I Feel Pretty, Tonight, One Hand, One Heart, Maria…I could go on and on!

So, what else have I been up to? Well, over the weekend I had two concerts at Shrewsbury Abbey (my third visit) which was a fun trip as I got to spend a day sightseeing around the beautiful town. I did get lost and spent most of my afternoon trying to find my way back in time for my soundcheck for the second show, but if you know me well, that is to be expected!

I also had a show at the Eisteddfod Festival in Llangollen, Wales last month which I'm thrilled to tell you was sold out with 4000 people in attendance. For my final number, Hine E Hine, I was joined by the New Zealand Youth Choir which included many of my friends from back home -some of them I hadn't seen for at least 3 or 4 years (!) so it was a special moment. The Welsh were very warm and welcoming as usual.

Before I forget, I have to tell you about one other performance…for none other than His Holiness the Dalai Lama! He had come over to Derry, Northern Ireland to support his friend's 'Children In Crossfire' charity. It was a moving event.

Better sign off before I bore you, but just one more thing! On the 31st August (this month!) I will be holding a concert –actually, more like a gathering! -at the Shephard's Bush Empire in London called 'Hayley's Kiwi Ceili' to give the All Black's a fabulous send off for the Rugby World Cup. Dave Dobbyn, a kiwi legend, is going to be joining me up on stage to sing some of New Zealand's favourite songs as well as us both performing some of our own hits. For those of you in or around London, you gotta come! Right, better be on my way.

Lots of love to you all…

Hayleyxxx

Hayley in 75th Anniversary of NZ Woman's Weekly

2007-08-13T20:51:00.000-07:00

Here are the scans of the latest Special Edition of the New Zealand Woman's Weekly magazine, for the 75th anniversary. The issure focuses on 75 most loved Kiwi women; Hayley is at # 30! Click to enlarge!

Hayley's Realm: More Updates Coming Soon!

2007-08-11T02:04:00.000-07:00

Hello all, and thank you for your continuous support. If you visit my blog regularly, you will have noticed that I haven't put a Hayley update in for long, even though she had done so much in the past week!! This is because, as you might know, I am currently studying at university, and we are at assignment peaks!! So more will come soon, I promise! I haven't abondened this site!

Thank you for all your support!

Sukayna

Hayley and Vittorio on SKY News

2007-08-02T03:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Stephany from HWI for this; Hayley and Vittorio, once again, were interviewed on Sky News, promoting their lastest work, West Side Story. Click HERE to watch the interview online!

Hayley and Vittorio on Five News

2007-07-30T20:53:00.000-07:00

Hayley and Vitorrio were featured on Five News where they spoke about their upcoming album, West Side Story. Hayley talked about her background with West Side Story, while Vitorrio spoke about his prior involvment with the production. Hayley was once again dressed in her green I Feel Pretty dress and necklace! They also breifly performed Tonight. Click HERE to download the video!

A CHILD STAR IS REBORN

2007-07-27T01:44:00.000-07:00

BY JENNY JOHNSTON

**BY ARRANGEMENT**

27 July 2007Daily Mail

Hayley Westenra has the voice of an angel and -- unlike her rival, Charlotte Church -- she behaved like one, too. Until now...

Most of us think we're doing pretty well in life if we reach the age of 20 with a few A-levels and a Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award. But then most of us aren't Hayley Westenra. The New Zealand singer -- or 'teen singing sensation' as she has been dubbed for most of her career -- always did operate on another level entirely.

By 17, she had sold two million records. At 19, she was named one of the ten Most Outstanding People in the World. While Charlotte Church -- her most obvious British contemporary -- was busy bingedrinking and working her way though a series of evermore disastrous boyfriends, Hayley had been appointed the youngest ever goodwill ambassador for the United Nations. On one particularly spectacular day she performed for President Bush, the Queen, Tony Blair and Condoleezza Rice, no less.

Now all of this adds up to an awesomely impressive CV, but it has come at a price. At the grand old age of 20, Hayley can conclude that the one thing she 'forgot' to do was to be a normal teenager. And it's only now that the gaps in her development are becoming obvious. 'It's quite odd,' she agrees, her perfect little face a picture of bewilderment. 'I'm an unusual case. In some ways I've been everywhere and done everything, but in other ways I've led a pretty sheltered life. 'People are always saying to me -- "you're so mature!". Well, yes, I am. I can stand up and sing for the most important people in the world. I can jet off round the world. But at the same time I haven't experienced a lot of things that most teenagers have.

'I don't know if I'd say I've been stunted -- I hope not -- but my parents always travelled with me. I wasn't out partying like other teenagers when they get that little bit of freedom. I haven't learned through my mistakes the way most people do. 'I suppose I'm not as streetwise as some people my age would be. I can be with other young people and think, "I feel like a child here". I'm not complaining. I wouldn't change how it has been for the world, but there are times when I'm shocked by how much I've yet to experience.' She means that she hasn't yet had a serious boyfriend, which is vaguely troubling because, like any young woman, she's in a hurry to know what that grand passion feels like.

Perhaps she's actually in more of a hurry than most. After all, she has spent most of her life singing about such things. 'It's ironic, isn't it?' she agrees. 'In the last three years I've been more and more interested in the lyrics of songs. Before, I was oblivious to what they were actually about. I was just enjoying the sound of my own voice. It sounds empty, but there are only so many songs you can identify with when you are 14, 15, 16. They are all about love and passion and big issues that no young person can possibly have experienced.

'Now, I'm starting to say: "Ah, that's what that song is about".' But there is still some way to go. She admits that she has never actually been in love. She says it quietly, and seems suddenly about 12 years old. 'I've maybe been to the "in lust" stage but I don't think I've been in love. But, yes, I would like to be. I want to see what all the fuss is about. 'I'm like any teenager in that regard, I think. I'd like to have someone. Eventually I'd like to settle down and have children -- not yet, but some day. It won't be easy though.'

Hayley Westenra isn't the sort of young star given to angst and melodrama, still less to bleat to Heat magazine about how she can't get a boyfriend, but somehow this makes her dilemma seem all the more real. 'Where do you meet people when you are me?' she asks, in all seriousness. 'In this business, even relationships that have a history are difficult to keep going. I've no hope. 'I might go on a date, but even if it goes well, it's hardly likely to lead to anything. What can you say? "That was nice. Now I'm off to the States for four months." It's not really going to happen.' Then there are those dates where your companion is just that little bit too interested in the fact that you've been for tea at the White House.

'I've had my fair share of those,' she nods. 'It's awful when you get that nagging voice in your head going "is he with me because he wants to be with me, or because of who I am?" 'I don't know how you get round that, but I hope that I'm a good enough judge of character to be able to suss them out.' Still she says all this without rancour, admirably accepting of the fact that you can't have a globetrotting career without making some sacrifices. Besides, she is making a determined effort to 'catch up' with her more normal friends.

Today, she is beside herself with excitement because she has just bought her first home and is waiting to exchange contracts. Since she was 16 she has been based in London, but now she is putting down roots -- a milestone in any young person's life. Standing on her own two feet -- in both professional and personal terms -- has meant an awful lot to her, but she is candid about how hard it has been. 'I suppose I'm only going through what everyone does, but I've done it in an odd way. I kind of left home at 14 when I came to London, but I didn't really cut the apron strings because one of my parents was always travelling with me.

'But two years ago I made the first real move to living independently when I was on my own for the first time. I remember the day my dad drove off to the airport, to head home to New Zealand. 'I'd been so adamant that it was time to stand on my own two feet, and so sure that I could do it. But when I watched him go I got this big lump in my throat and I thought "is this what I really want?". It was more difficult than I'd imagined.

'I had to do all that normal leaving home stuff -- like working out how to get a bank account, how to get the gas and electric sorted out, how to cook for myself -- but at the same time I was working, maybe away on tour for months at a time, or recording. '

It's been a bit odd, but I have been determined to do it all. I could just stay in hotel rooms and have people sort out my life for me -- but I don't think that would be particularly healthy. Would it?' Ah, the perils of the near child prodigy.

Hayley was 14 and busking with her sister in her native Christchurch when her big break came along. Before you could say 'Aled Jones' she had been signed up by a record company, trailed across the world, thrust into the limelight and hailed as the next Charlotte Church. She was even advised by the legendary Sir George Martin, one-time guru to the Beatles.

The biggest surprise is that the only casualty from her phenomenal rise has been her love life. It would have been quite understandable if the pressures of her existence -- not to mention the £3million that came with her first record deal -- had unhinged her somewhat. She is famously grounded, though. To date, there has been no great rebellion, no unsuitable love-interest, no tabloid scandal. She says her life is more odd than dysfunctional.

'One day I can be on stage in front of thousands, or doing the red carpet thing with all those photographers snapping away. The next I will be struggling down to the launderette with my washing. Or hopping on the Tube to do some shopping.' The launderette? The Tube? Where is her entourage? Her flunkies?

'Oh I don't have anyone like that. Someone asked me the other day if I had someone to pack up all my bags for me when I'm touring. I said no, my manager might give me a hand, but mostly it's just me. 'I suppose I could pay people to look after me, but I've kind of been brought up to think I should do these things myself. 'I don't even have a cleaner for my flat. I really should be able to look after myself, and that would seem like an indulgence.'

And Hayley doesn't do indulgence. She once spent £80 on a pair of Miss Sixty jeans and wore them every day for a year -- 'to get my money's worth'. Yesterday, her accountant came round to 'go through the credit card bills'. One imagines he was pleasantly surprised. She struggles to think of an extravagant purchase and can only think of the dresses she wears on stage -- 'some can cost a thousand pounds,' she says, aghast -- and her flat.

'My mum and dad were horrified when they heard what it cost. Back home you could get a huge house with a big garden for that, but I've told them that London is very different and that, anyway, it's a good investment.' At least she has the good grace to poke fun at her own sensible nature. We talk about her new album -- a collection of songs from West Side Story -- and I joke about it being more raunchy than what has gone before (hardly a feat, given that her previous recordings include Abide With Me). 'I wouldn't say raunchy exactly, but maybe a little more that way than what has gone before,' she laughs. 'It's more gritty, certainly, and it really was fun and much less serious than some of the stuff I've done.' So too with her own life.

She has always had a reputation of being very 'safe', perhaps even stuffy. Things have changed, albeit marginally. 'Before my friends were always giving me grief about taking everything too seriously. I've never been a party animal and there have been times where they've gone, "oh come on, let your hair down a bit". 'So I do now. I'm a bit more relaxed. I will have a drink, but I will get quite stern if people want me to go beyond that. I don't see that you need lots of alcohol to enjoy yourself. I'm quite old-fashioned like that.'

So she doesn't do Amy Winehousestyle-drunk then? She giggles. 'No, but I don't need a lot. One glass of Champagne and I'm quite merry. I'm a cheap date.' There is a steely side to Hayley, however, that suggests she knows exactly where she is going and how to get there. That means having a huge say in her career, as much as in what curtains grace her windows. 'Trying to take control of my own career has been a big part of my life over the past few years. I was so young when I started that everything was decided for me.

'But I've really pushed myself to get involved in all aspects of the business. There are times when I feel a bit overwhelmed, but you have to stand on your own two feet sometimes.' Had her parents insisted on retaining a huge say in her career, it seems they might have had one epic struggle on their hands. 'I have to say that I'm very grateful about how my parents handled the whole thing. 'They saw it was time to step back, and they did. It didn't get to the stage where they had to be forced out. I can see why that happens, but it would have been terrible.'

She jokes about being completely unstarry -- the most outrageous dressing-room demand she has ever made has been to request mineral water that is tepid, rather than icecold, but it's clear that she is capable of throwing a grown-up strop. 'It's good to be a diva sometimes,' she smiles. 'There have been moments when I've put my foot down over some song or arrangement. You have to, to make people realise that you truly are in charge of your own life.' West Side Story (Universal Music Classics And Jazz) is out on August 13.

Hayley and Vittorio Grigolo will perform songs from the album at Woburn Abbey tomorrow. For tickets, call 0845 225 6020.

BBC Breakfast - Interview with Hayley & Vittorio Grigolo about West Side Story

2007-07-25T22:27:00.001-07:00

Hayley and Vittorio where featured on BBC's Breakfasts show, promoting West Side Story. Hayley wore her green dress and necklace, from her video I Feel Pretty. She spoke about how she came to find West Side Story, and the song I Feel Pretty. Thanks to Dave from HWI, here is the full interview!! Click to watch here at HWI.

Hayley Westenra…wow! From Fine Music Magazine

2007-07-24T22:23:00.000-07:00

From busking on the streets of Christchurch, New Zealand, Hayley Westenra has soared to release her third album, after her first went 12 times platinum in NZ, platinum in Australia and gold in Hong Kong. Van-Anh Nguyen talks to the 19-year-old singing sensation about her journey so far.

Performing for President Bush last week. In Sydney today. In Los Angeles tomorrow for a one month tour with Irish singing group, Celtic Woman. Hayley Westenra seems unfazed by her frantic line-up of appearances. At 19, she has sold over three million albums, is the youngest ambassador for UNICEF and has collaborated with the likes of Andrea Bocelli, Jose Carreras and Bryn Terfel.

Pure and Odyssey, her first two albums, were collections of classical, folk and traditional songs. ‘I’m in the genre of what is classified as “classical cross-over”.’ Some criticise this and similar genres like popera as being ‘impure’, but to Hayley this ‘new’ genre is essential to ‘spread the music’.

In Sydney promoting her third album, Celtic Treasure, Hayley talks about how it was inspired. ‘My grandmother used to sit me on her knee and sing songs like “Danny Boy” from as early as I can remember. She was a great singer and my “pop” would play his piano accordion to accompany her. I love exploring different ways of interpreting beautiful old songs, but new music has to be written, new songs created, otherwise we are robbing the future of a past. That is why I’ve included…songs that I have written with people I’ve met on my travels around the world.’

In Year 1 Hayley’s music teacher spotted her perfect pitch. While still in primary school she starred in major musical productions – Annie, La Bohème, The Sound of Music – though like other girls she was into after-school clubs, ballet and sports. It wasn’t until she began busking that things really took off. ‘My first experience was busking with a group of mates because we didn’t have enough lunch money. I noticed that I would get quite a crowd when I was singing but when I started to play the violin, they drifted off.’ She chuckles.

From 'Fine Music Magazine'

West Side Story Release Date pushed to 13 August

2007-07-20T00:51:00.000-07:00

West Side Story - 50th Anniversary recording

One of the most lauded musicals ever written, West Side Story is loosely based on Romeo and Juliet. It is one of the few musicals that never age, and is still as relevant and well-loved today as it ever was. In this 50th anniversary year of the musical, UCJ has assembled some of the biggest classical crossover stars to record a brand new glitzy version of the musical.

This is one of the only major recordings of this masterpiece to have been made since the 1984 version with Leonard Bernstein himself conducting, and has been made with the authorisation of the Bernstein foundation in New York. The cast in the seminal 1984 recording included Kiri Te Kanawa and Jose Carreras.

In this version the part of Maria is passed over to fellow Kiwi Hayley Westenra who pairs up with Italian tenor Vittorio Grigolo. Other stars include Connie Fisher and Melanie Marshall (currently playing the lead in Porgy and Bess). With a bright young cast (the singers’ ages on this new UCJ recording also more closely resemble the youth of both Romeo and Juliet and Maria and Tony) and timeless tunes, this is set to become the recording of choice for the 21st Century West Side Story lover.

West Side Story is released digitally on 30th July and on CD on 13th August.

2007-07-18T03:13:00.000-07:00

Hayley to sing at children's conference

Seamus McKinney 17 July 2007

One of the world's leading classical singers, Hayley Westenra, arrives in Derry tomorrow to join the Dalai Lama in celebrating the Children in Crossfire charity's 10th anniversary.

The New Zealander agreed to visit to sing for Nobel peace laureate the Dalai Lama at a conference at the city's Millennium Forum.

The Dalai Lama is due in the city this morning and will deliver the keynote address at the conference tomorrow.

Adopting the theme 'A promise for the future', the conference will be addressed by children's rights campaigners from around the globe.

Recognised as the outstanding singer of her generation, Hayley Westenra (20) came to prominence at the age of 16 when she released a Maori love song, Pokarekare Ana.

Since then she has performed for world leaders, often singing with opera's leading men including Andrea Bocelli, Jose Carreras and Bryn Terfel.

Her debut album, Pure, sold faster than any other classical album in history.

Ms Westenra told The Irish News she was looking forward to her first visit to Derry, although she has visited Ireland many times.

"My great-grandmother is Irish - from Co Cork - and I also have relatives on my father's side of the family from Monaghan," she said.

A common name in Co Monaghan, the Westenra family were once part of the county's Anglo-Irish ruling classes.

A popular hotel in the centre of Monaghan town - the Westenra Arms - still bears the family name.

The youngest ever Unicef goodwill ambassador, Ms Westenra said she was approached by photographer Lawrence Doherty of The Studio about the possibility of singing before the Dalai Lama when he came to the Children in Crossfire conference and readily agreed.

She hopes to sing Derry's own anthem, Danny Boy for the Dalai Lama as well as her hit Pokarekare Ana and In Trutina.

Children in Crossfire founder Richard Moore said the two-day conference sought to put children's issues at the forefront of people's minds through the words of the Dalai Lama and other speakers.

"This is a great event for this city and Ireland and we hope children all over the world will benefit from it," he said.

Hayley in Sunday News Newspaper

2007-07-16T20:57:00.000-07:00

Angel's Quite Solo Flight

During this weekend, an interview with Hayley - from April when she was here in New Zealand - was published in New Zealan's Sunday News paper. Hayley talks about Treasure, her social life, travelling and family. Click the images below to enlarge and read!

Hayley and Unicef: AIDS and Children in Ghana

2007-07-16T01:06:00.000-07:00

Hayley has been the youngest UNICEF ambassador for the past three years. She has recently created a commercial add to donate to UNICEF, helping kids who suffer from the AIDS epidemic.

Here are two adds from the UNICEF's website. One of them is to be aired in New Zealand.

Hayley in Perthshire.uk

2007-07-13T20:37:00.000-07:00

A ‘Truly’ Scottish night for charity
Jul 13 2007
Alison Anderson

A STELLAR line-up including top young classical singer Hayley Westenra is set to attract music-lovers to picturesque Dunkeld on September 1 for a charity fund-raiser for the Anthony Nolan Trust in Scotland.
Organisers of ‘A Truly Scottish Evening’ open-air concert — to be held in the grounds of the Hilton Dunkeld House — aim to raise a staggering £58,000 for the charity which provides lifesaving donors for leukaemia patients in need of a bone marrow transplant.
John McLaughlin, manager of Hilton Dunkeld House, and concert promoter George Walker are looking forward to bringing together the crème de la crème of Scottish entertainment for the open-air live concert by Dunkeld Cathedral.
One of the highlights of the weekend will see mass pipes and drums along with Celtic dancers taking to the stage joined by aerobatic displays and the top-class musicians of The Scottish Fiddle Orchestra.
Headlining the concert is world-renowned classical singer Hayley Westenra accompanied by the Aberdeen Sinfonietta.

Hayley has performed for the rich and famous, including The Queen, President Bush, Tony Blair and Prince Charles.
“The event will be very much family orientated,” said John McLaughlin, manager of the Hilton Dunkeld House.
“We will be encouraging people to bring along picnics and enjoy an early evening of food and socialising and then sit back in a beautiful setting for some superb music and entertainment.”
Tickets for A Truly Scottish Evening are £21.45, available from the box offices at Perth Theatre and Perth Concert Hall, telephone 0845 612 6320, online at www.horsecross.co.uk.
The Antony Nolan Trust will also benefit from A Truly Scottish 10k adventure race from Hilton Dunkeld House on Sunday, September 2, when there will also be a family fun day and sponsored walk.
The hotel is offering a VIP hospitality package which includes a champagne dinner, premier position seats for the concert and exclusive after-show party.

Perthshire.uk

Hayley at 'Fashion Is Art' Launch - Carbon

2007-07-13T00:19:00.000-07:00

Hayley attended a fashion show launch at Carbon on 11 July 2007. This was a charity launch, which her dress has probably gone to auction for charity.

"...Pearl Lowe hosts VIP event launching exhibition of avant-garde fashion, created to support Capital 95.8's charity Help a London Child. Sophie Anderton, Hayley Westenra and Daisy Lowe are among those modelling the 20 outfits styled by Rebekah Roy; designers involved include Giles Deacon, Matthew Williamson, Hussein Chalayan, Gharani Strok, Eley Kishimoto, Preen, Belle and Bunty, and Hamish Morrow. Entertainment starts at 8pm; the auction, led by Nick Bonham, takes place at 9.30pm. ..."

From: http://360fashion.typepad.com/rebekah_roy/

Click photo to enlarge!

2007-07-10T16:13:00.000-07:00

!!!Hayley's Realm reaches 1000 views!!!

Thanks for all the support and encouragement from all Hayley fans and espeically HWI, I am enjoying running this blog in support of Hayley more than ever!

Keep up the good support, and thanks once again for viewing my blog!

-Sukayna

Hayley in West Side Story: New Photos, Videos and more!

2007-07-09T15:38:00.000-07:00

The West Side Story 50th Anniversary Special has now launched their new website. This can be viewed here: http://www.westsidestory2007.com/. It contains videos, photos and audio samples of the album.

There is also a behind-the-scenes interview with Hayley, which will be available soon. ___________________________________________________________________________________________

THIS YEAR THE GREAT AMERICAN MUSICAL, WEST SIDE STORY CELEBRATES ITS 50TH BIRTHDAY.

To celebrate this momentous occasion two of the brightest stars of the classical crossover world have come together to produce an incredible new recording. With Vittorio Grigolo as Tony and Hayley Westenra as Maria, you have the glorious combination of great chemistry and beautiful music. Two young people from different backgrounds who share a passion for bringing classical music to the people, and what better way to do this than by recording one of the best loved musicals of all time West Side Story. Joining Hayley and Vittorio is Connie Fisher, star of the West End, and Will Martin the new cross over sensation as Riff.

Written by Arthur Laurents (Book), Leonard Bernstein (Music) and Stephen Sondheim (Lyrics) the story explores the hostility between two rival gangs of different backgrounds and is loosely based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The Innocent young protagonist Tony, who belongs to an established local gang, the Jets, falls in love with Maria, the sister of the leader of the rival gang, the Sharks.

West Side Story has everything you could wish for, drama, passion, tragedy, and redemption. The songs are familiar and fun, and it’s a musical that it still as powerful today as it was 50 years ago. To keep up to date with all the latest news on West Side Story sign-up to the official mailing list by clicking here.

WIN A TRIP TO NEW YORK CITY

New York, The Big Apple…... New York will always be associated with a lot of things, great shopping, amazing food, fantastic landmarks; But to us it will always be where West Side Story is set, and what a setting. No other city could of done this amazing musical justice. To celebrate the release of a brand new recording of West Side Story, Universal Music and Virgin Atlantic Airways are offering you the chance to win a trip to NYC for two.Flights and three nights accommodation at a central three star hotel, based on two sharing, with breakfast are on offer, for your chance to win click here!

All entrants must be 18 years and over

Closing date is: 17th August

Terms and conditions apply.

West Side Story will be released on the 30 July 2007.

Hayley's new biography! In Her Own Voice

2007-07-08T18:12:00.000-07:00

Excting News!

Hayley has co-written a new biography Hayley Westenra: In Her Own Voice. This book will be in hardcover and on the shelves 25 October 2007, so be sure to look out for it. At the meantime, you can pre-order it from Amazon.co.uk, WHSmith and Amazon France . Here is the synopsis of the book from Amazon:

"Hayley's first performance as 'Little Star' in a Christmas play was perfectly pitched, beautifully sung and enthusiastically received. She was six years old. Now, at the tender age of twenty, she is the fastest-selling debut classical artist ever. Her string of musical accolades is astonishing and her audiences range from royalty to premiers. This is her story, from her first performance, through later roles in major productions such as "Annie", "La Boheme" and "The Sound of Music", her decision at the age of eleven to busk for her lunch money, and the subsequent record deals, money, charity work and classical super stardom."

Lovely front cover photo from the New Zealand Woman's Weekly photoshoot from 2005.

Hayley's Big Hit

2007-07-07T17:43:00.000-07:00

Hayley's a big hit
Jul 6 2007
by Chester Chronicle

HAYLEY Westenra's concert at the Llangollen International Eisteddfod on July 13 is the first of this year's evening concerts to sell out.

No fewer than 4,000 tickets have been sold for the young New Zealander's concert, organisers will erect a giant screen outside the main pavilion allowing a further 1,000 people to see the event.

Tickets for the big screen enclosure are priced at just £5 and also give free admission to the @Six Concert with Celtic music exponents Yn Y Fan which starts at 6pm.

Though there are still some tickets available, brisk sales are also being reported for both the opening gala performance with Joan Baez on July 10 and the closing gala performance with José Carreras on July 15.

Carreras is to perform with the Orchestra of the Welsh National Opera, the pianist Lorenzo Bavaj, the Andean ensemble Los Calchakis and the Serendipity Choir.

Following the success of the @Six concerts last year there are even more world music concerts now confirmed this year including Les Charbonnier de L'Enfer from Quebec on Tuesday, The Pine Leaf Boys from Louisiana on Wednesday and Reggae band Lion Train on Thursday.

The performances start on the S4C stage at 6pm daily. For tickets or further information call 01978 862001 or 08701 211251 or visit http://www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk/

Hayley in West Side Story: Order Postcards!

2007-07-07T17:28:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Stephany from HWI for this. From Play.com, the West Side Story CD features exclusive postcards. A great collector's item for any West Side Story fan, and a special item for the 50th anniversary special!

Also, the different cover for, apparently the UK version limited edtition, from HMV.co.uk.

The Daily Post New Zealand: Celtic Woman: A New Journey

2007-07-06T04:48:00.000-07:00

Celtic Woman - A New Journey

30 June 2007

The Daily Post (New Zealand)

Reviewed by Kelly Makiha

What do you get if you cross the Spice Girls, a touch of class, a glass of Guinness and a Kiwi?

The new line-up of Celtic Women, featuring our very own Hayley Westenra.

And all that can be said is "wow''.

It's probably not most people's cup of tea but there is no denying these sheilas can sing perfectly.

A New Journey is an amazing album and big ups must go to their vocal coach/producer who managed to get the most out of each singer on every song. They are not your traditional girl band - the tummy exposing tops and hot pants have been swapped for elegant frocks and the music is hardly sexy.

Westenra blends beautifully with her new European pals - Lisa, Maev, Orla, Chloe and fiddle player Mairead. Sound exotic don't they?

Our Hayley has loved performing with them so much, she has agreed to hop along on their North American tour. Westenra is going through a bit of a Celtic buzz at the moment with the release of her third solo album, Celtic Treasure.

Grab a copy of A New Journey and you'll enjoy some traditional Irish songs as well as some new works. The singing is outstanding and the orchestra is mind blowing.

Hayley and the Celtic Woman

Best of the Royal Variety Performance Shows

2007-07-06T04:29:00.000-07:00

In 2003, Hayley performed Porakarakara Ana and Amazing Grace at the Royal variety show in front of the Queen of England. It was a huge career move for a fourteen-year-old. Here, from ITV3, is Hayley looking back at her amazing experience of this magnificent performance.

Click here to watch the video: Hayley on Best of Royal Variety Performance

Hayley in Porthcawl - 28th June 2007

2007-06-29T03:15:00.000-07:00

Hayley held a concert on June 28th. Thanks to Mark from HWI, here is a report and a couple of photos!

The curtains opened with the stage already lit and there stood Fiona to one side, Ian Tilley sat at the piano and the guitarist (sorry I didnt quite get his name it was ...... Marks I think). Within 30 seconds, Hayley walked on to stage with one of her black dresses on - sorry no photo of that one. I should say, that the theatre appeared very strict on photography and from where I was sitting, with my small camera, I only managed one sneeky shot (well photo anyway) Hayley started with Ava Maria, followed by Scarborough Fair and The Waters Wide. Fiona then performed the 2 numbers that she did at Telford with Hayley coming back to sing 3 more songs, saving the songs from Treasure until the second half. Fiona opened the second half with 3 numbers, again those that she performed in Telford. With Ian at the piano and the fantastic accoustics of this venue, her performance was truly fantastic and the audience were really enjoying it. Hayley then came back on Stage to slow the pace right down and (not in the right order) performed Danny Boy, May It Be, In Truitina, Pokarekare Ana, Let Me Lie, Shenandoah, Santa Lucia, One Fine Day and Summer Fly. The audience started to clap to Summer Fly, it was the best that I had heard Hayley perform it. During the performance, Hayley kept treading on a squeeky floorboard on stage and had to keep moving - this became quite a joke throughout and the audience were very vocal. On quite a few occasions the audience were calling out to her on stage about the rugby etc. Hayley dealt with it really well and appeared to be absolutely loving the interaction. Thats something that I've not seen before. The audience were also very knowledgable about Hayley and her songs - I was quite surprised She was so warmly received that she must have commented 2 or 3 times on what a fantastic audience you've been - "I've really enjoyed myself tonight"The first encore was Amazing Grace after which, Fiona and the others left the stage but Hayley was enjoying herself so much, she said "shall I sing one more " to which a huge YES was shouted from the crowd. "What shall I sing then ?" she says - various songs were called out and in the end someone shouted Sonny . " I think we can manage that can't we" Hayley says to Ian. I could'nt believe it It was a performance to remember , totally unreheased and I'm not ashamed to say that my eyes were "watering" while she sang. (keep tuned in)

Here is the only pic I sneaked in of Hayley on Stage just making sure Ian is ready to play Sonny. Oh and yes, she had changed into her Green (Welsh) dress for the second half.

Click Images to enlarge.

Source: http://hwi.proboards20.com/index.cgi?board=Concert&action=display&thread=1179077620&page=3

UPDATE!
Video of Hayley singing Sonny!

Click here: http://s103.photobucket.com/albums/m135/markell_05/?action=view&current=CIMG0750.flv

Stars sign up for Woburn show

2007-06-28T17:54:00.000-07:00

Stars sign up for Woburn show
PA Entertainment

Van Morrison and Curtis Stigers are taking part in an outdoor music festival at Woburn Abbey this summer.
The line-up for the three-day event also features Hayley Westenra, Julian Lloyd-Webber and The Ronnie Scott Big Band.
Organisers hope Woburn Live - being held on the evenings of July 27, 28 and 29 - will become an annual fixture.
As well as live music, a broadcast partnership with radio station Classic FM and rising new broadcast star The Jazz means that a highlights package will be broadcast nationwide.
The Friday show kicks off with Grammy winner Van Morrison performing hits spanning his four decade career. Other artists will also perform.
Classic FM Live will present an evening of music, with the 75-piece English National Orchestra at its heart, on the Saturday, when Hayley Westenra will also perform a set.
The Ronnie Scott Band will treat the crowd to an evening of jazz on the Sunday.
Many more special guests for all three nights will be announced shortly.

Tickets are available via 0845 225 6020 or online at http://www.woburnlive.com/.

Fri 22 Jun

Source: http://musicnews.virginmedia.com/news/?news_id=19577

Hayley in the West Side Story

2007-06-23T22:01:00.000-07:00

Album Description

This year the Great American Musical West Side Story celebrates its 50th Birthday. To commemorate this UCJ has recorded a West Side Story for the 21st Century, casting the roles of Tony and Maria in its 50th anniversary is no mean feat. The artists need to be passionate, young and most of all incredibly talented in order to do this much loved musical, the justice it deserves. So who do you get to perform this honour? The two biggest and youngest stars of classical cross-over in the world, with Vittorio Grigolo as Tony and Hayley Westenra as Maria, you have nothing short of great chemistry and beautiful music. Joining Hayley and Vittorio is Connie Fisher, star of the West End and Will Martin, the new cross-over sensation as Riff.

Track Lisings

1. Prologue - Orchestra
2. Jet Song - Will Martin and Jets
3. Somethings Coming - Vittorio Grigolo
4. Blues - Orchestra
5. Promenade - Orchestra
6. Mambo - Orchestra
7. Cha Cha - Orchestra
8. Jump - Orchestra
9. Maria - Vittorio Grigolo
10. Balcony Scene (Tonight) - Vittorio Grigolo and Hayley Westenra
11. America - Melanie Marshall and Girls
12. Cool - Will Martin and Jets
13. One Hand, One Heart - Vittorio Grigolo and Hayley Westenra
14. Tonight (ensemble) - Vittorio Grigolo, Hayley Westenra, Will Martin,
15. I Feel Pretty - Hayley Westenra
16. Somewhere - Connie Fisher
17. Gee, Officer Krupke - Jets
18. A Boy Like That - Hayley Westenra and Melanie Marshall
19. I Have A Love - Hayley Westenra and Melanie Marshall
20. Finale - Vittorio Grigolo and Hayley Westenra

From Amazon UK

For more information, visit http://www.hayleywestenra.com/

UPDATE!! West Side Story Photoshoot! Click to enlarge!

Hayley Westenra as Maria and Vittorio Grigolo as Tony in West Side Story 50th Anniversary Special Edition

Video: Click here to listen to Hayley performing "I Feel Pretty"

2007-06-22T00:10:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Stephany, my legend, from HWI, she brings this Celebraty Q&A, from http://www.issuebits.com/celebrityanswers/ca_hayleywestenra.htm

Celebrity answers with Hayley Westenra

June 1, 2007

Hayley is the fastest selling debut classical artist to date, selling 3 million records before the age of 20.

Who is Hayley Westenra?

A fun-loving, but focused kiwi chick that sings around the world for a living and loves every minute of it!

What's the meaning of life?

I think our main goal in life should be to work out what we can offer the world to make it a better place. I feel so blessed to be able to give people pleasure through my singing and this definitely gives my life meaning and purpose. I'm also into the idea that we should be enjoying life too and focusing on the simple things that make us happy. We need to get back to basics.

What's your funniest joke?

I wish I had one, but I don't! I do enjoy pulling people's legs though...the old "Sorry, I can't do the show tonight" is always a winner. Everyone finds that one hilarious.

What question would you most like AQA to answer for you?

The question on nearly every girl's lips: "Will I find the man of my dreams to settle down with and raise a family, living happily ever after?" I know. Very original.

What's the best bargain you ever bought?

I've just come back from the States with a suitcase full of bargains! Unfortunately the excess baggage charge probably cancelled out any savings, but hey, I had fun in the process! I found some great summer dresses at around $30 each (£17).

Did you dream last night? What was it about?

I did dream last night. I remember waking and struggling to separate fact from fiction. I blame it on the cheese I ate before bed. Apparently cheese is well-known for giving you strange dreams. You have been warned.

What has working as UNICEF's youngest ever ambassador taught you?

My field trip to Ghana was a big eye-opener for me. It reminded me not to take my wonderful life for granted. I felt a huge amount of guilt during that trip as you can imagine, but also felt very motivated to do all that I could to help the people there. I have since been working on raising money to provide Ghanaian girls with bicycles to help them get to school.

When you were young, you busked with your sister in Christchurch. Do you remember those days fondly?

I do. My busking days were the real beginning of my singing career. I will always be grateful for that experience. I really grew as a performer and also enjoyed the time with my wonderful sister -we were a great team. She has a beautiful voice and I'm sure you'll be hearing more from her in the future!

Was it more nerve wracking performing in front of the Queen or the crowd at the FA cup final?

Well, for the FA cup final I was singing in Welsh for the first time and had been given 24hrs to learn the short, but still very difficult Welsh National Anthem. I was shaking in my boots! Generally though, I find sporting matches not at all nerve racking and just ride on the energy and excitement of the crowd. I can't wait to sing for the All Blacks at all the Rugby World Cup matches.

If you could sing a duet with anyone alive, who would it be and what would you sing?

The Three Tenors -Schubert's Ave Maria. How amazing would that be?

You sold 3 million records before you were 20, what more do you wish to achieve in music?

I want to continue developing as a vocalist, gaining more control over more voice and more flexibility. I also want to continue developing in songwriting and arranging. I want to explore many styles of music and continue working with inspiring musicians from all across the globe.

Is it true you can sing beyond the range of human hearing?

Yes, although it´s something I don't really have control over - it comes and it goes. Apparently I may have what is known as 'whistle tone'.

Hayley Pays Tribute to Crash Victim

2007-06-20T15:04:00.000-07:00

Hundreds pay tribute to helicopter crash victims

The Evening Telegraph - Peterborough TodayBy Tara Dundon
Published Date: 20 June 2007

Famous personalities from the world of football joined grieving family members to pay tribute to Phillip Carter and his son Andrew who died in a helicopter tragedy. The hallowed walls of Peterborough Cathedral reverberated to the famous operatic voice of Hayley Westenra singing Ave Maria as almost 700 people gathered at the memorial to businessman Phillip Carter (44) and his 17-year-old son Andrew.

Mr Carter and his son died when a helicopter bringing them home to Thornhaugh, near Peterborough, after they had watched their beloved Chelsea play Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League semi-final at Anfield, crashed into woodland.

A spokesperson on behalf of the Carter family said before the service: "Today is about celebrating the lives of two amazing men whom we all loved so much."It is a chance to share stories and remember how special Andrew and Phillip were.

"Famous sporting figures, including Chelsea FC's chief executive Peter Kenyon, joined in a moving service in which memories were shared, with people from all walks of life. They included Andrew's friends from Stamford School who paid tribute to their much-missed classmate. His friend Adam Humphreys played guitar as he sang a tribute song he had written for Andrew.

In an incredibly moving and personal tribute, Mrs Judith Carter who is bearing the burden of losing both her husband and her son, stood to read a passage written by Robert Louis Stevenson.The Dean of Peterborough The Very Rev Charles Taylor led the service while Canon Thomas Christie, the priest at Wansford, gave a reading.

The service's combination of loss mingled with the joy of two remarkable lives was captured in the beauty and purity of Miss Westenra's remarkable voice as she sang Ave Maria. Peterborough Cathedral Choir also sang an anthem and a song of hope, and the service included tributes from David Carter, from Carter & Carter Group PLC, and Jane Kearsey, on behalf of the Carter family.After the service, former Northern Ireland manager and English assistant manager Lawrie McMenemy said it was "totally impressive".

Mr McMenemy said: "I met Phil in a lift in Japan one day and had lunch with him and Andrew."Phil would let Andrew listen to the football talk for a while before he would tell him to get on with his studying.

"Mr McMenemy said that he took to Mr Carter straight away because of his "passion for life" and "great sense of humour".He added: "Andrew was a young man emulating his father's footsteps."The Stamford group were fabulous, they weren't reading from a script, they were reading from their hearts."A ceremony like this certainly brings home your priorities.

"The memorial service was also attended by Mr McMenemy's son Chris who once played for Southampton Football Club.Everyone at the ceremony was invited to make a donation to the Andrew and Phillip Carter Memorial Fund, which will support charitable causes which were close to the pair's hearts.The spokesman added: "We have established The Andrew and Phillip Carter Memorial Fund as a tribute to the two men.

"Andrew and Phillip were both involved in charitable projects and believed in actively helping others to fulfil their potential."In their memory, the fund will contribute towards causes that were close to their hearts, ensuring the continuation of their legacies.

"Peterborough businessman, and Mr Carter's close friend, Jon Waller (42) and experienced pilot Stephen Holdich (49) also perished in the crash on May 2.A memorial fund dedicated to the memory of Mr Waller has already raised more than £5,000 for charity.

2007-06-19T23:07:00.000-07:00

Hundreds hear Hayley

From: Shropshire Star

Monday, 18th June 2007, 12:18 GMT

Classical singing sensation Hayley Westenra took to the stage in Telford for a sell-out performance at a church.

She wowed a crowd of more than 400 when she made a return visit to St George’s Church, St Georges, accompanied by fellow New Zealander, violinist Fiona Pears.

But despite praise for the singer’s performance, she was criticised for the length of the concert.

Phil Collins, who had travelled from Cannock, said Miss Westenra’s performance had been “beautiful”, but he had been disappointed she sang only a few songs.

“She was held up by the weather, but you can’t help that,” he said. “Her singing was lovely. It’s a beautiful church, the acoustics were gorgeous.

“She sang three songs and disappeared off stage and left the violinist to do a couple then came back and did two or three more, then had an intermission for goodness knows how long.

“The impression I got was that the violinist was practising, there was no question she was a talented violinist, but that was not who we went to see.

“She sang no more than 10 songs and at £20 a ticket, we were just a bit disappointed. I didn’t feel cheated but I just didn’t think it was great.”

Mr Collins’s wife, Teresa, added: “It was absolutely brilliant, but we were a bit disappointed that she didn’t actually sing that much.

“What she sang was very, very good, but she could have sung more.”

Hayley, I'm sure you put on a fabulous performance no matter what. People can be a little hard to please...

Sukayna

2007-06-19T15:38:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Stephany from HWI, here is a brief mention of Hayley's teachers from The Times Educational:

My best teacher: Hayley Westenra

Anstead, Mark 18 May 2007

Classical/pop singer Hayley Westenra reminisces about not one, but two of her favorite teachers. Mrs. Butler and Mr. Haberfield had taught together for more than 20 years, and created a cozy "family" feel in the classroom.

Hayley at Telford (St.Georges)

2007-06-18T16:41:00.000-07:00

On 16th June, Hayley, accompanired by her violinist, Fiona Pears, held a concert at Telford. Here are the reports: http://hwi.proboards20.com/index.cgi?board=Concert&action=display&thread=1165107851&page=9

Here are some photos, click to enlarge.

For more, visit: http://hwi.proboards20.com/index.cgi?board=Concert&action=display&thread=1165107851&page=9

Here is Mark's report from HWI!

Hi everyoneThanks again to Grant and to Martin for your reports. Grant has already covered the content of the concert and major highlights and so, like Martin, I will fill in (a little further) around the edges.

Having seen Hayley perform at Telford last December, I was really looking forward to this concert. My personal view is that Hayley is at her most relaxed at this type of venue, where there is an intimate feel and everything is very informal. Therefore, this time, my wife Karen & youngest daughter Sophie wanted to come with me. I can assure you that we were not disappointed.

We arrived around 5.15pm, having eaten a cooked lunch before we set out ( bringing sandwiches for in the car after the performance – I,m never very hungry just before a concert). It was good to meet Thomas again and to meet his twin sister, Simone, for the first time. Thomas was much relieved to see me as I had his tickets ! I made my way to the Church porch to find Grant, Theresa, Martin and of course Tim, who I also met for the first time. After exchanging pleasantries, Tim gave me something that he had brought with him from the States (more about that later). Steve & Stuart arrived shortly afterwards to complete our group.

Once inside the church and deciding where we were going to sit, we eventually settled on the very front row, just a few feet from where Hayley was performing. Being on the front row, I was feeling just a little pleased with myself and was just starting to relax (the waiting over) when the vicar took to the stage with the usual safety notices – but that was not all – and what followed will perhaps go down as one of my most ever embarrassing moments !! A church full of expectant people, which I had to walk through the middle of, following the vicars announcement that my car alarm was going off. Somehow, for that moment, sitting on the front row didn't seem such a good idea !! Thanks for asking Stephany, yes the car was fine.

However, I can assure you, it was well worth the embarrassment, as we were treated to a fantastic performance. During the interval, some of us went off in search of toilets ( I told you I would fill in some of the details) which were in the community centre building next door, quite a trek through the churchyard is it happens ! Just as we arrived, who should we bump into but Hayley herself, followed closely by the vicar, who had obviously taken on the duty of escort ! “Hey Guys” she called out as we past each-other, much to the delight of some of the audience who were with us who I heard comment “ you don't expect to meet the star of the show in the toilets do you”.

After a fabulous second half and a stunning performance of Abide With Me, we waited for Hayley to reappear for the signing session as described by Grant. Sophie & I had a couple of things for Hayley to sign and thought we would wait until the non “HWI members” had finished. We stood to the side of where Hayley was signing which was close to an open door, as it was quite chilly, I put my arm around Sophie to keep her warm. Grant spotted us and aimed his camera for a photo. Suddenly, Hayley realised we were there and called “hello”. Despite not being in the official queue, Hayley beckoned us over and insisted on signing what we wanted signing. I explained that Sophie had been to a number of her concerts in the past but had not yet had her photo taken with her. We'll take care of that in a minute says Hayley. The results of which you will see when Steve posts his photos later.

After the photo, I had a few minutes to chat with Hayley, amongst other things, I asked her if she thought she would ever come back to perform at St Mary's Church, Banbury (my home town) as Steve Abbott had once mentioned that this was one of Hayley's favourite venues.In all, this concert for me rates amongst the top few Hayley performances that I have been too.

Hayley's Upcoming Events

2007-06-18T16:16:00.000-07:00

Hayleywestenra.com updated the 'Events' page on her official website. Look out for Hayley coming to your place! Here is where she will be in the coming months:

June
Jun - 28: Grand Pavillion, Porthcawl (Concert) Click Here 01656 786996
Jun - 29: Grassington Festival (Concert)

July
Jul - 09: Chichester Festival , England (Concert)
Jul - 13: International Music Concert Eisteddfod, Llangollen Click Here
Jul - 22: Gawsworth Hall

August
Aug - 03: Shrewsbury Abbey (Concert) Click Here 01743 232723
Aug - 04: Shrewsbury Abbey (Concert) Click Here 01743 232723
Aug - 14: Isle of Man, Villa Marina with National Symphony Orchestra (Concert)
Aug - 17: Berverly Minster (Concert)
Aug - 25: Hurtwood Polo Club with RPO Orchestra (Concert)
Aug - 31: Shepard's Bush Empire (Concert)

September
Sep - 01: Dunkeld with Aberdeen Sinfonietta (Concert)
Sep - 06: Breda House with Glenn Miller Orchestra (Concert)

February 2007 BBC Radio Interview

2007-06-18T16:07:00.000-07:00

A little late, I know, but here is a BBC interview from earlier this year.

"Hayley Westenra popped into BBC Hereford and Worcester to have a Pie and a Pint with Tony Fisher and to talk about the influences for her album Treasure."

Click here to listen:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/herefordandworcester/realmedia/radio/hayley_westenra.ram
You will need Real Player to listen.

2007-06-18T01:13:00.000-07:00

Young Hayley's already become an old hand

From: The Daily Mail (London, England) Date: June 8, 2007

The speed of Hayley Westenra's rise has been remarkable. The singer from Christchurch, New Zealand, signed her first major record deal at the age of just 15 and became an overnight sensation, releasing an album that sold 900,000 copies in Britain alone. 'I remember driving past the Albert Hall when I first came to London and thinking, Wow, it'd be amazing to perform there,' says Hayley, speaking on the phone from London, which is her primary base nowadays. 'And I think that, within a couple of weeks, I actually was performing there. It's stunning.'

Now just turned 20, Hayley is still topping pop and classical charts around the world and has sold more than three million albums. She sings anything from classical to popular to folk and her arrestingly pure, effortless vocals have won her a legion of fans.

Her schedule is particularly crammed at the moment. She recently released a new album, Treasure, and is touring to promote it (she plays the National Concert Hall in Dublin with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra next week). But on top of this, she has been touring America as a guest artist with the group Celtic Woman. That tour included a St Patrick's Day performance in front of George Bush at the White House. 'It was a huge honour,' she says.

'It was the second time I'd performed for President so I'd already been through that surreal feeling - it's very bizarre when you meet someone who you've seen so much of on the TV and in the papers. Unfortunately, he was rushed off afterwards - due to a terrorist threat - we found out later – because I was really hoping to have a word with him about global warming. But you know, next time...'

Entertaining world leaders has become almost routine for Hayley, who performed for Tony Blair at a ceremony in London last year. 'Afterwards, Tony Blair shouted out to me, Well sung! as he was walking by. Oh, little things like that give me such a thrill!'

The new album features an impressive range of music, from Puccini, Holst and Dowland to Shenandoah and the hymn Abide With Me, as well as the breezy folk of Summer Fly and a couple of Westenra originals. Also on the album is Danny Boy, a childhood favourite of Hayley's. She did some research when making album and was surprised by the song's origins: 'It first appeared in an Irish music book, people obviously assumed it was an Irish song. But I think it’s actually an American-English creation. The lyric was written by an English lawyer, and his sister sent over this beautiful melody from America, which matched the lyrics perfectly.

'So it's probably not Irish at all? 'It's true. I don't want to burst the bubble, but…’ she laughs. Although there’s nothing specifically Irish on the album, there is a strong Irish folk feel on many of the songs. Indeed, much of it was recorded in Dublin. And Hayley has Irish roots, which she has recently begun to explore. Her great grandmother was Irish, but her mother discovered this only about 10 years ago. It was a revelation Mrs Westenra took very seriously. 'Within a couple of years, my mum was looking at moving the whole family to Ireland. She fell in love with the country. But it didn't happen – - it was going to be very expensive to move, because the New Zealand dollar is not very strong.'

Hayley does not come from a musical family so her choice of career was unexpected. The breakthrough came at the age of six: 'It was a teacher who picked up that I could sing and she gave me a solo in the Christmas school play and encouraged me to take up the violin.' Her new interest was encouraged by her parents and, within a few years, she had the confidence to go out busking. 'I used to go out on the streets on the weekends and I relished the opportunity to perform in front of a new audience each time. I liked the challenge of trying to stop people in their tracks with my singing and building up a big crowd. It was a lot of fun.' She used the money she made to make a recording and this led to her first record contract , at the age of just 11.

The breakthrough came four years later. 'I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity at that age, because otherwise I would have been stuck in school doing my maths and my sciences.' But there were downsides to finding stardom so young. 'When I was younger, there were times when I'd be missing out on parties and school dances. Sometimes I'd find it tough. But, looking at the big picture, gosh, most of the time I was very, very happy.

It's a busy life but I enjoy working hard. Sometimes I'll go back to New Zealand and have a couple of weeks off. It rarely happens but even then, I'm getting itchy feet. I long to get back on stage - I really thrive on that adrenaline rush performing gives you.' Perhaps part of the problem with going back to New Zealand is that she’s too famous there too relax: 'When I'm at home, I feel like I'm living in a fishbowl, because I've been around since I was 14 and I've just released my fifth album there. People are probably sick of me!' Life is far easier in London, she says: 'I feel pretty anonymous. I'm not Britney Spears.'

The NCH concert next Wednesday will be Hayley's first headline performance in Ireland (she played support for Il Divo at the Point). One of the attractions of coming here is the smoking ban, because anything that could damage her voice is a worry so smoky bars are bad news. She's longing for the ban to be imposed in Britain. 'I can't wait. I went out in London last night and we were having coffee in a smoky bar and I couldn't really relax. A ban will help my social life a lot!'.

Hayley Westenra plays the National Concert Hall in Dublin next week.

SHENANDOAH: Probably the strongest performance on the album. A hauntingly sparse arrangement is the perfect backdrop for Hayley's pure, subtle vocals and unaffected phrasing. She lets the very familiar melody speak for itself. 9/10

ABIDE WITH ME: It takes courage to tackle such a familiar, powerful melody. Hayley opens with no accompaniment and slowly swells with a rich accompaniment. A perfect ending that will send a shiver up your spine. 9/10

Treasure, is out now. For more information, log on to http://www.hayleywestenra.com/

Hayley at National Concert Hall in Dublin

2007-06-17T14:01:00.001-07:00

On June 13th, Hayley held a concert in Dublin, Ireland. Thanks to George from HWI, here are some photos. I also found a live video of Hayley singing May It Be and Prayer. Enjoy!

Photos: Click to enlarge

Video of May It Be: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CrxANMoVF4Q

UPDATE!

Video to Prayer now on Youtube.

Video to Porakarakara Ana on Youtube.

Take a look!

Victoria Hall Concert: Photos!!

2007-06-12T15:44:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Grant from HWI, here are some photos from the event!

Click photos to enlarge!

Hayley at Victoria Halls, Stoke-on-Trent - 8th June

2007-06-12T15:37:00.000-07:00

Hayley was recently at the Victoria Halls concert to make money and charity for Hayley's Bikes for Ghana project for UNICEF. The photos and reports can be seen here at HWI: http://hwi.proboards20.com/index.cgi?board=Concert&action=display&thread=1171141091&page=3

Hayley in GekkanNZ Magazine

2007-06-08T00:44:00.000-07:00

Hayley is featured in this month's Japanese magazine, Gekkan NZ. If there are any Japanese viewers, please send me some translations!! Here are the scans:

UPDATE! TRANSLATIONS!

Thanks to Stephany from HWI, here are the translations!

GEKKAN NZ - JUNE 2007

The path she chose to follow

Treasure, Hayley Westenra’s latest album, has just been released.
Although she now considers London as her base, she still travels around the world and recently returned to New Zealand, her home country, for a temporary visit. Just in time for Anzac Day ! Despite her busy schedule, she takes the time to answer our questions and talks about her projects and passion for music.

Music & travels

Hayley Westenra discreetly arrives in the hotel’s lobby for the interview. She wears a very pretty outfit that she bought in New York, the city of fashion. She looks thin, fragile and gentle.
Although she is officially based in London, she visits lots of different countries. Before coming back to New Zealand, she went to Australia, Japan and the US. Even with such a hectic schedule, she manages to remain healthy. How does she do it ?

"I guess I just got used to this lifestyle. It requires a lot of traveling but I love working in different countries". As Hayley speaks, you can feel in the atmosphere her mental strength and determination. She speaks admirably and very brightly.

"Working in different countries is a very rich experience. I learn a lot when I’m away from my native country. Each time I go to a foreign country, my vision changes. Less stereotypes". Her latest album Treasure gathers various elements of world music along with Hayley’s own history and heritage. The influence of her grandparents and Celtic roots was very strong but she also included songs from her multiple travels.

"It’s good to have a mixture of old and new. I was keen to create new music to keep the cycle going. The tradition is important, but the music is also eternally developing".

Music & talent

Hayley is clearly different from all the other artists in New Zealand. She’s constantly praised for her vocal talent and has an impressive fanbase. She’s musically gifted and is a beautiful woman. On top of that, she remains herself…Hayley. The little girl who started recording at 13 years old is now a worldwide star and yet, she remains pretty much the same.

"Contrary to what some people may think, what I do is not always easy and pleasant. It can be difficult to see my friends and family. I travel a lot so I usually have to get up early and leave at midnight with the last plane of the day. I am always very busy but I wouldn’t want my life to change. I love what I do, music is my passion and I know how lucky I am to do what I love as a job".

Hayley is often called "The World’s One Pure Voice" or "The Voice of an Angel" but she never becomes bigheaded and works very hard to give her maximum. "I really want to perform at my best so I keep working on my voice".

Hayley & her fans

After the succes of her first album, the fans’ expectations were enormous. Hayley has a very close relationship with her audience and it’s something very important for her. "When I’m on stage, I feel their energy. They are very supportive and I’m so glad that they appreciate my music". As she talks, Hayley is widely smiling. Her determination and happiness are more palpable than ever !

Hayley on Classic FM Magazine

2007-06-08T00:35:00.000-07:00

Hayley is featured in this month's Classic FM magazine. Click here for more information: http://hwi.proboards20.com/index.cgi?board=Media&action=display&thread=1176222688&page=2

TONIGHT Talks Treasure

2007-06-07T16:22:00.000-07:00

Treasure - Hayley Westenra
Peaceful music to go with an angelic voice

June 6, 2007By Daryl Paranada
Decca

Rating: ****

On Treasure, Hayley Westenra celebrates her musical roots with a collection that includes classic arias like One Fine Day (Un del bi from Puccini's Madama Butterfly) and Irish folk tunes like Danny Boy.

With her pure and soaring soprano, Westenra navigates through songs like a skilled veteran. The rich orchestration in songs like Shenandoah provides a nice backdrop for her delicate voice. Westenra does misstep, however, midway through the disc, when songs blend in together. She breaks up the monotony with a beautiful acoustic piano version of the folk song, Sonny.

Westenra helped write four of the tunes on the disc. She shows promise in the pop-leaning Let Me Lie, which is perfect music for meditation with its ethnic flutes, but Summer Rain sounds like it was ripped straight from Enya's songbook.

In Abide With Me, the music fades and her gorgeous voice is the last instrument heard. At only 20, Treasure establishes Westenra as the next great classical songstress, in the vein of Sarah Brightman.

Source: http://www.tonight.co.za/index.php?fArticleId=3869801&fSectionId=432&fSetId=251

US Hayley Fans: Hayley Ringtones Now Available

2007-06-07T16:15:00.000-07:00

If you're living in the US and would love to have Hayley's voice on your phone, you can now do so by buying ringtones from songs from her previous album Odyssey. Click the links below from the song of your choice to download them:

'Both Sides Now' ringtone
'Prayer' ringtone

(May It Be is also available, but technical problems have been avoiding me from linking them to you)

From hayleywestenra.com

Hayley's Upcoming Events

2007-06-07T04:19:00.000-07:00

From hayleywestenra.com, here are Hayley's upcoming events for the next few month. Check out the official site or related links for more information, and of you're in the area, keep an eye and ear open for any news about Hayley coming to you!

June
Jun - 08: STOKE ON TRENT - VICTORIA HALL
Jun - 09: Fort Regent, Jersey with National Symphony Orchestra (Concert)
Jun - 13: RTÉ Concert Orchestra, Dublin, Ireland Click Here
Jun - 16: St. George's Church - Telford, England Click Here (Concert)
Jun - 28: Grand Pavillion, Porthcawl Click Here (Concert)

July
Jul - 09: Chichester Festival , England (Concert)
Jul - 13: International Music Concert Eisteddfod, Llangollen Click Here
Jul - 22: Gawsworth Hall

August
Aug - 14: Isle of Man, Villa Marina with National Symphony Orchestra (Concert)
Aug - 25: Hurtwood Polo Club with RPO Orchestra (Concert)

Hayley in The West Side Story: New Updates

2007-06-07T04:03:00.000-07:00

As mentioned earlier, Hayley will be part of a special recording of The West Side Story to commemorate its 50th Anniversary. New information from www.hayleywestenra.com and Woburn Live 2007 bring us news of the recording and event:

From hayleywestenra.com:

06 Jun 2007 - Hayley in new recording of West Side Story

To mark the 50th anniversary of one of the most lauded musicals ever written, West Side Story, a brand new recording has been made with Hayley taking the female lead role of Maria. Hayley is joined by Italian tenor Vittorio Grigolo in the role of Tony. Other stars on this recording include Connie Fisher, Melanie Marshall and a brilliant new singer, Will Martin.
‘West Side Story' the album is released 30th July
Two days before the album is released, on Saturday 28th July, Hayley and Vittorio will be giving a world exclusive performance, playing the parts of Tony and Maria singing selections from West Side Story at the ‘Woburn Live' event. For more information on this event click the link: www.woburnlive.com

From Woburn Live:

Saturday July 28th: Classic FM Live! With Hayley Westenra and Julian Lloyd Webber!

An evening of popular classics, film themes and favorites associated by 60-piece English National Orchestra.

Special guest stars Hayley Westenra, Julian Lloys Webber and Vittorio Grigolo.

Exclusive 50th Anniversary celebration "highlights" from West Side Story.

Hayley in BBC Radio Wales Studio

2007-06-06T20:58:00.000-07:00

On June 4th, Hayley attended a BBC Radio concert. She sang O Mio Babbino Caro, Shine, A Nun’s Chorus, and Time To Say Goodbye, and my personal favorite song from Treasure, Let Me Lie. She was acompanied by her violinist, Fiona Pears. Despite having an audience, this was more of a recording, than it was a concert. Visit HWI for more information on this evening. Thanks to everyone, especially Cait, and other from HWI for the photos and report. Click here to read, and see more photos! http://hwi.proboards20.com/index.cgi?board=Concert&action=display&thread=1171470974&page=6

Hayley's Realm Reaches 500 views!!

2007-06-05T16:31:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone for visitng my blog which I work very hard at trying to find every little bit about Hayley that I possibly can. Your support and encouragement is great. We have reaced over 500 views on this blog, and that is amazing!! Thank you so much for your continuous support, especially from HWI. This would not be possible without you guys.

And to Hayley, I hope this blog is making your sales higher, and making you more known around the globe!!

With support,

Sukayna

Hayley in a Japanese Boysenberry Commercial!!

2007-06-05T16:23:00.000-07:00

Hayley is featured in a Japanese commercial advertising New Zealand boysenberries! She sings Summer Rain from her new album Treasure, which seems to be a very clever way to promote herself! A cute commercial with beautiful New Zealand scenery and Hayley's pure voice. Take a look!!

http://www.bourbon.co.jp/cm/boysen1/index.html

http://www.bourbon.co.jp/cm/boysen2/index.html

http://www.bourbon.co.jp/cm/boysen4/index.html

Thanks to Dave from HWI for this!

Hayleywestenra.com Updated

2007-06-01T17:03:00.000-07:00

Please check out Hayley's official site www.hayleywestenra.com as it has been updated, where information about all her music has been put back up (it used to be about Treasure only). Also, have a look at the Event page to see Hayley's upcoming performances.

Sukayna

Hayley May Sell Most Albums for NZ Music Month

2007-05-31T02:45:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Stephany, my legend, from HWI for brining great news on Hayley all the time! This piece is on Hayley's success for New Zealand's Music Month.

Music Month fosters salesSimon MCCARTHY.

28 May 2007

This year's NZ Music Month is missing major names but organisers say this does not distract from the focus of heavily promoting Kiwi music.

In 2005, Fat Freddy's Drop dominated the music month with its debut album, Shihad returned to its original name and released Love is the New Hate and Pluto's Pipeline Under the Ocean was also a household name.

Last year, the music month did not repeat the success of major bands using the month to release work and this year the emphasis of the month has gone back on increasing music sales.

In 2005, a third of all albums sold during the month were by Kiwi artists.

New Zealand Music Commission general manager Cath Andersen said they decided to focus on music sales this year.

However, the increase on sales always depended heavily on what albums were released in the month.

"Though I wouldn't be surprised if Hayley Westenra alone sold 10 percent of the market, she is doing so well at the moment," Ms Andersen said.

The absence, for the second year in a row, of some of the bigger-named artists releasing albums in the music month was not necessarily a negative thing, she said.

"If some of the bigger guys move out of the month it will give some of the emerging artists more money, advertising and coverage.

"I quite like the idea that some of the people who wouldn't get any press receive some," she said.

The music month is also held in the same month that houses one of New Zealand's biggest acts -- the International Comedy Festival.

However, Ms Anderson said NZ Music Month had no plans to change dates for fear the two events clashed for publicity.

"We never thought that NZ Music Month would get so big ... it's cool that two things have done so well and increased in popularity in the same month." NZ Music Month receives $50,000 funding from the New Zealand Music Commission as well as Champions of Music for the campaign but it received a lot of support in New Zealand from a wide range of people and businesses, she said. Simon Romero -- music student How are you celebrating New Zealand Music Month? I'm playing a New Zealand song every Friday at our lunchtime concert.

Flyer in Treasure New Zealand Edition to Promote Rautakari Music Therapy

2007-05-28T21:26:00.000-07:00

As part of her involvment in Rautakari Music Therapy in New Zealand, Hayley wrote this flyer and signed it for all the New Zealand copies of Treasure. Please support Hayley and the Music Therapy group by visiting www.rmtc.co.nz

Hayley: New Zealand's Highest Entertainer

2007-05-28T19:11:00.000-07:00

Who Do You Trust Now, NZ? 2007 Winners and Losers
Tuesday, 29 May 2007, 11:49 am
Press Release: Reader's Digest EMBARGOED UNTIL 5.00 AM ON TUESDAY 29 MAY 2007
Media release 29 May 2007
Who Do You Trust Now, New Zealand?2007 Winners and Losers

Trust comes with age and respect, according to the results of the 2007 Reader’s Digest Most Trusted People poll with Sir Edmund Hillary at 87 years, our most trusted person for the third consecutive year, followed by children’s author, Margaret Mahy at 71 years in second place and scientist and Olympian, Peter Snell at 68 years in third place.

Eight of the top ten most trusted people have been recognised for their athletic or sporting achievements, with former One newsreader, Judy Bailey rocketing to ninth place from 18 in last year’s poll.
Opera singers Dame Kiri Te Kanawa and Dame Malvina Major, at 16 equal last year have taken a tumble this year, with Dame Kiri dropping to 32 following her legal spat with John Farnham and Dame Malvina now in 21st place.
Trade-Me founder Sam Morgan, now he has sold his company, is down nine places to 30 equal and sailor Grant Dalton is up eight places to 30 as campaigning for Team New Zealand gathers momentum.
We love our firefighters and ambulance officers but want our kids to be doctors and veterinarians when they grow up. For the fourth consecutive year firefighters are our most trusted profession but as for a career choice for our children, a new category for 2007, they drop to tenth.
It seems we prefer to be married by celebrants, ranked at eight, rather than by religious ministers at 26; woe betide our children should they enter these professions, as we ranked celebrants at 34 and religious ministers at 25.
Politicians may be our least-trusted profession bottoming at 40 on the list, but rose to 28 as a career option for our children, as did lawyers at 28 rising to sixth place and accountants at 22 rising to eighth place.
When it comes to charities, we are less likely to trust those with a political, ideological or religious agenda. We ranked the Cancer Society as our most trusted charity, with SPCA second, Royal NZ Foundation for the Blind at third, NZ Breast Cancer Foundation at fourth and Royal New Zealand Plunket Society, which this year celebrates its centenary, at fifth. Bottom was the National Organisation for the Reform of Marijuana Laws.
Our love affair with chocolate continues with Cadbury the top most trusted brand for the fourth consecutive year, followed by TipTop, Sanitarium, Fisher & Paykel and new entrant to the top five brands, Heinz Watties, edging out last year’s fifth top brand, Panadol, which dropped to sixth place.
ENDSThe Reader’s Digest Trust Survey is now in its seventh year. Independent market research company, the Leading Edge, conducted the online survey of a statistically representative sample of 512 adult New Zealanders between 8-13 March 2007.
View the article online at www.readersdigest.co.nz
Kiwis and Aussies How we measure up when it comes to trust?

* Sports rule. Our top ten most trusted people included eight sportspeople; in Australia sportspeople don’t feature until 15th place.

* Believe it! Third in the most trusted people in Australia is THE WIGGLES. In New Zealand our highest ranking entertainer is songbird, Hayley Westenra

* The Irwins. Last year Steve Urwin was ranked at 60. This year his daughter Bindi, aged eight years, is the sixth most trusted Australian with her Mum, Terri, at seventh.

* We still love royalty. Queen Elizabeth, a new entrant to the Kiwi poll comes in at 19th; in Australia she ranks 27th , down 11 from her 2006 placing.

* Chocolate. Cadbury is the most trusted brand both sides of the Tasman. In New Zealand Cadbury has been the most trusted brand for the last four years; in Australia for the last five years.

* Food lovers. Five of our top ten most trusted brands are food; while in Australia only three feature in the top ten.

* Professions. The order may change a little for the top seven most trusted professions but Kiwis and Aussies both love: ambulance officers; firefighters; nurses; pilots; pharmacists; doctors and veterinarians.

* We’re materialists. Both sides of the Tasman, we want our kids to be happy, but we also want them to be rich! We don’t trust lawyers and accountants, but we want out kids to enter these professions.

Source: http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/CU0705/S00304.htm

NZ Herald: Kiwis rate sport, Aussies rate Wiggles

2007-05-28T19:08:00.000-07:00

Kiwis rate sport, Aussies rate Wiggles
5:00AM Tuesday May 29, 2007

By Juliet Rowan

New Zealanders and Australians trust the same occupations, but different types of people.
New Zealand's 10 most trusted people include eight sportspeople. The first athlete on the Australian list is Olympic swimmer Grant Hackett, ranked 15th.
But Australians hold their entertainers in higher esteem. Children's stars the Wiggles are third on the Reader's Digest list of most trusted people.
New Zealand's highest-ranked entertainer was singer Hayley Westenra, 25th-equal with TV3 presenter John Campbell and The Warehouse founder Stephen Tindall.
Australia's top 10 also featured Bindi Irwin, 8-year-old daughter of Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, and Irwin's widow, Terri.

Click here for full story: http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10442357