Dame Kiri Te Kanawa has chosen Rotorua, among a handful of cities, to perform on a tour next year - in what could be a last opportunity to see one of the world's greatest opera singers live in concert.
Only four other New Zealand cities and five in Australia are included on the tour.
Dame Kiri's Rotorua recital will be at the Rotorua Civic Theatre at 8pm on May 6, accompanied by internationally acclaimed pianist Terence Dennis.
Dame Kiri said she had performed many times in Rotorua over the years and it had become one of her favourite cities.
"I always enjoy the experience and the hospitality for which Rotorua can be justly proud. I hope those who attend this recital will enjoy the musical experience. It's always a pleasure to share my music, and the songs I have selected to perform are all personal favourites."
Dame Kiri's vocal beauty, natural serenity and versatility have captivated audiences in leading concerts halls across the world, including New York's Metropolitan, the Vienna State, Sydney Opera House, La Scala, Covent Garden and the Chicago Lyric Opera.
One Sydney critic recently described the acclaimed soprano as having a "truly unique and beautiful instrument. It is a joy to see a gracious and dignified artist perform live."
The Rotorua recital is being staged by well-known local Rotorua arts enthusiasts and promoters Ian Edward and Grahame Hall, who are donating their time to organising the event.
Mr Edward said they were delighted that Dame Kiri had asked them to organise a concert in Rotorua and it would be a special opportunity for Rotorua people to pay tribute to her as she celebrates her 70th birthday.
"She wanted to perform for a small number of communities where she had received the most support during her illustrious career, so we're honoured that she's coming back to Rotorua. I imagine tickets will be in hot demand as special Christmas presents this year."
Mr Hall said that with the generous help of some local businesses and other supporters they had been able to keep ticket prices at a reasonable level so as many people as possible would be able to attend.
"However with only around 600 seats available in total people will need to purchase tickets quickly as we anticipate demand will be very strong from right across the central North Island. Any profits we're able to generate will go to the Rotorua Lakeside Concerts Charitable Trust," Mr Hall added.
Tickets are on sale from this Friday from Ticketmaster outlets or from the Rotorua Convention Centre. Ticket prices are $90 (premium) and $120 (superior).