Lovers from Soweto are on their way to Whanganui

Zulu Love is a group of musicians based in Soweto, Johannesburg and they are on their way to the Royal Wanganui Opera House.

Composer and director Nkosinathi Malinga with bandmates Siyabonga Hlatswayo, Jabulani Mola, Solomon Monaledi and Mxolisi Mkwanazi are taking an autumn tour of New Zealand.

They have been delighting South Island audiences and have now embarked on the North Island leg of the tour including an impromptu performance on Wellington's Cable car.

Zulu Love has sung at the opening ceremony of the London Olympics and the FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

They have also starred in global touring productions of major South African musicals such as Stimela the Musical and Spirit and Bones.

"In South Africa, music and dance go together, it is in our blood," says Malinga.

"No matter what we are doing we will sing and dance.

"We dance when we are busy at home, when we work and even at funerals.

"Music heals our souls, when we are sad music revives our spirits.

"All in all, music is food for life".

The band members come from different musical backgrounds, from gospel to Rhythm and Blues and traditional music styles such as Iscathamiya (an a capella singing style without musical accompaniment).

Their music is a fusion of these different styles, all with the flavour of Africa.

"We hope to take the audience to South Africa with our show and put a smile on their faces," says Malinga.

"If you feel sad, you'll be happy; if you are happy, you'll be happier.

"Zulu Love is there to heal your wounded soul".

Zulu Love: South African Harmonies. Royal Wanganui Opera House. Sunday May 27 at 7.30pm. Adult $35, Senior $32, School student $20. Book online or at RWOH.