They worked their way through a selection of each other's tracks, which had been rearranged for the tour - For A While which Runga wrote while in Stellar, In The Morning by Moa, and Clarity, a song which Smith wrote for Fly My Pretties.
They're all very respectful of each other's vocal powers, and know how to let their voices rise or fall back appropriately, in a way that suits each song.\
The second half kicked off with Moa's sweet 'stalker song' Dreams In My Head, and Runga's Evelyn, both of which were lovely, if a little unassuming.
It was new, almost-RnB style track Slipping Away, on which Smith took lead vocals, which had the crowd whooping and cheering. With it's classic pop structure and almost Christmassy feel it seems likely to be their next single.
That started a run of strong, emotional numbers, including Runga's This Old Heart ("about loving somebody in spite of everything"), Moa's ode to her father My Old Man, and Smith's goosebump inducing I Will Do.
They finished up with half a cover of The Bangles Eternal Flame (as a joke), and latest single Be Mine with it's classic country-esque rock vibe, before starting the encore with tongue in cheek, break-up song Alone, and finishing with a rare performance of Bathe In The River. Dedicated to Smith's newly born niece, it was a privilege to hear in such a lovely setting, and performed with such emotional integrity, with De Grut giving a nuanced performance on keys, and Runga and Moa channelling a southern gospel choir in their backing vocals.
It was a concert that proved their new songs are as good as their hits, and that a collaborative album from these three Kiwi songbirds is something to look forward to.
What: Anika, Boh & Hollie Acoustic Church Tour
Where: Holy Trinity Cathedral, Auckland
When: Friday, October 12
* What did you think of the show? Post your comments below.