Paihia piano man visiting mates on NZ holiday

Viral piano player Craig Michael Gregory tickles the ivories on the Paihia waterfront.

A heavily-tattooed sparkie from East London became a social media sensation when a video of him playing Adele's Turning Tables on a public piano at the Paihia waterfront went viral.

Less than 48 hours after the clip had been uploaded to the Northern Advocate's Facebook page on Sunday evening it had reached more than 49,000 people, been liked 991 times and shared 187 times.

It also drew more than 110 comments about his skill as a pianist, the Paihia community's success in transforming what had been a car park into a well-used public space, while Mr Gregory's good looks also inspired many comments.

1. What brought you here from London?

I came to Paihia to visit friends for Christmas and New Year.

2. What music is playing on your stereo/computer at the moment?

I'm writing and producing tracks with a good friend at the moment so that's what I'm playing.

3. What's your favourite piece of music to play?

My favourite music to play is Corazon de Nio by Raul de Blasio.

4. Why did you start playing the piano?

I started playing when I was nine after my parents bought me a Casio keyboard. Then I studied music technology in school.

5. What's the best thing about Northland?

The best thing about Northland is definitely the community area in Paihia with the piano.

6. What's with the tattoos?

The tattoos are my story of my life. Every tattoo has a meaning and story to tell the grandchildren one day.

7. What's the one thing you can't live without each day?

I can't live without music. It's my life.

8. Tell us something most people don't know about you.

I love ballroom and Latin dancing. I've danced for a year now.

9. If someone made a movie about you, who would you pick for the lead role?

If I had to choose an actor to play me it would be Ryan Gosling. Apparently I look like him on my driving licence lol.

10. What is the most important advice you've been given?

The most important advice I've been given is from my parents. They said: "Son, you're a Gregory so follow your dreams and believe in yourself to achieve". I have that tattooed on my forearms. Love you mum and dad.