First Conchords show shrouded in secrecy

The first show of Flight of the Conchords' blockbusting New Zealand tour is shrouded in secrecy. Photo / Supplied

Flight of the Conchords have touched down at Hawke's Bay Opera House to rehearse their live stage show, behind closed doors.

The comedy duo, comprised of Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie, will open their first New Zealand performance since 2009 in Hastings tonight.

Security was tight at the venue and media were not given even a hint of what fans could expect.

"I haven't seen the show yet," event co-promoter Brent Eccles said. "People will have to wait and see."

Hawke's Bay was chosen as the first of 14 stops, because of its central location.

"The tour features a combination of theatres and arenas," Mr Eccles said. "Routing wise it makes sense for us to start at the Opera House in Hastings, and it's a beautiful theatre."

The fact Flight of the Conchords have spent a lot of time in the spotlight recently served to build excitement, Mr Eccles said.

"Obviously there is the TV series that made them famous, and the other things that came along such as a Grammy Award, Bret's Queen's Birthday Honour and thirdly Jemaine's appearance in Men in Black 3."

Opera House manager Roger Coleman had also noticed a "real buzz" surrounding the concert.

"I wouldn't be surprised if we got some people turning up here at weird times [today] to catch a glimpse of the Conchords, from some of the comments I have heard floating around," he said.

Having the tour premiere in Hawke's Bay was a huge opportunity and showed the Opera House was a major player.

"They really are a national icon and that is exciting not just for us at the Opera House, but the whole of Hawke's Bay."

Tickets to fill the 988-seat venue sold out within hours, leaving many fans disappointed.

The Conchords' tour hits Hamilton on Thursday night and Auckland on Saturday. For the full schedule, click here.

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