Will.i.am checks out NZ during flying visit

Hip-hop star will.i.am is looking forward to making new memories during a whirlwind trip.

The 38-year-old American singer, songwriter and producer who rose to fame as part of the Black Eyed Peas, was brought to New Zealand for a private show last night.

And the star, real name William Adams, was given a surprise presentation during his visit - a framed disc commemorating his first solo album #willpower reaching platinum status here, the first country in the world for it to do so.

A music single or album qualifies for a platinum certification if it exceeds 15,000 copies shipped to retailers.

Will.i.am said he was looking forward to exploring New Zealand.

"After tonight's party I'm looking forward to chalking up some new memories, so when I get back I can have something good to tell the folks back in America."

He said he hoped to secure some tour dates later in the year in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, "and put on a proper show in this country".

The singer last played in Auckland at the Big Day Out with the Black Eyed Peas in 2001.

Having just appeared on The Voice in Australia, will.i.am jumped across the Tasman to attend Hallensteins' Ultimate After Party at Studio on K Rd where he performed songs from his album at the private show.

Released last month, the album features hit track Scream and Shout with Britney Spears which reached No 1 in New Zealand last year.

The show was part of a promotion, where customers who bought suits went in a draw to win tickets to the event. Other acts included Titanium and Dane Rumble.