From rock classic ‘Dominion Road’ to country hit ‘Sailing to the Other Side’, the Land of the Long White Cloud has inspired countless hits over the years. In a move that captured the hearts (and radio stations) of Kiwis across the country, Radio New Zealand put together an interactive musical map that spotlights more than 50 tunes written about iconic destinations across the country. The result is an ultimate Kiwi soundtrack that inspires, informs and above all, captures the country’s unique sense of place.
Dominion Road by The Muttonbirds
A heartfelt ode to Auckland, Dominion Road celebrates the city’s legendary thoroughfare, which is famous for its ethnic eateries. It was penned in 1992 by Don McGlashan and even features a music video shot on location.
Sailing to the Other Side by The Warratahs
For locals and travellers alike, the ferry crossing between NZ’s North and South Islands via stunning Marlborough Sounds is a rite of passage. This country classic immortalises the experience with lines like “I’m cruisin’ on The Interislander, takin’ my time, I’m feeling fine” and “I’m on my way, I’m going home, to see my friends and my family, yeah I’m gettin’ away, and I just wanna say they’re the ones that mean most to me.”
Parihaka by Tim Finn
As a former member of legendary Kiwi band Split Enz, Tim Finn knows a thing or two about belting out a patriotic hit. He did just this with Parihaka, a poignant song that honours the legacy of Te Whiti, a Māori spiritual leader who fronted the non-violent resistance movement against colonial troops in the late 19th century.
Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauatamateapokaiwhenuakitanatahu by Peter Cape
This mouthful of a title has earned its stripes as a beloved folk song written about the country’s longest place name. It won Kiwis over in the 1960s and is the perfect song to throw on as you approach the laid-back hill town near Porangahau in Hawke’s Bay. In English, the name translates to “The place where Tamatea, the man with the big knees, who slid, climbed and swallowed mountains, known as ‘land eater’, played his flute to his loved one.”
Te Aro by Nadia Reid
Nadia Reid has emerged as New Zealand’s sweetheart of indie folk, with this emotional love song about Wellington’s most bohemian neighbourhood shooting her to fame. Listen for lines about Te Aro’s colourful street art, trendy cafes and fantastic craft beer.
I’ve Been Everywhere, Man by John Grenell
Another swinging sixties favourite, this hit was reimagined with a Kiwi twist by country star, John Grenell. Whether you’re heading to Hokitika, Whangaroa, Rimutaka, Papanui, Woodville, Hamilton, Whitecliffs or any other Kiwi destination, this song is guaranteed to get you in a road tripping state of mind.
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