It’s not every day that an award-winning, multi-genre musician performs for free in Le Quesnoy.
Troy Kingi (Te Arawa, Ngāpuhi, Te Whānau-ā-Apanui) is hailed as “our Northland treasure” by the New Zealand Music Commission.
With a magnetic stage presence to match his incredible voice, Kingi has been lighting up New Zealand’s festival circuit for the last decade.
For the last ten years, Kingi has released a new album annually – the catch being that each album has been written and recorded in a different genre.
2026 marked the conclusion of his vaunted “10 10 10” project, as the tenth of these eclectic albums was recorded at London’s Abbey Road Studios.
Kingi’s first trip to Europe made for a perfect opportunity to visit and perform in Le Quesnoy. With assistance from the Le Quesnoy Town Hall, the local running club SWORT, and Kingi’s incredibly generous team, more than 300 people witnessed a stripped-back version of the singer’s talents.
Dressed in bishop’s robes and proudly displaying his newly-acquired full-face moko, Kingi was a sight to behold.
After an initial solo set of songs in English and Te Reo Māori, Kingi called upon New Zealand-Samoan pianist Mark Vanilau to accompany him on stage. Mark’s daughter, Khonnah, would then complete the trio which held the crowd spellbound for over an hour.
This special event confirmed once again the local interest in all things New Zealand here in Le Quesnoy. Attendees did not just come – they stayed, watched and even sang along to a concert that many did not understand. This engagement means we are confident this will not be the last time a talented Kiwi artist will appear in Te Taone o Oki!
