Air New Zealand Revives 90s Classic with Marlon Williams’ Rendition

Air New Zealand has launched a new advertising campaign that pays tribute to its iconic 1996 advertisement, featuring a re-recording of the beloved song Pōkarekare Ana. Renowned musician Marlon Williams takes over from Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, who originally performed the piece in the campaign titled Birds.

The updated advertisement, directed by award-winning filmmaker Tom Gould, showcases the warmth and spirit of New Zealanders. Williams announced his participation in the project on social media, expressing enthusiasm about recording the traditional Kiwi love song alongside friends from the musical group Tītahi Ki Tua.

“Recording this absolute monster of a waiata with Tītahi Ki Tua and me buddies Tom and Paddy for the new Air New Zealand ad was a total joy,” Williams stated, reflecting on the meaningful experience. As this year’s recipient of the prestigious APRA Silver Scroll Award, Williams adds a notable touch to the campaign.

Celebrating Cultural Heritage

Williams, whose recent album Te Whare Tīwekaweka received critical acclaim, shared that he grew up listening to Dame Kiri’s rendition of the song. He remarked, “It has stayed with me ever since.” His involvement in the project invokes a sense of cultural responsibility and pride.

“I’ve spent countless hours flying on all sorts of different airlines in all sorts of places, and I can genuinely say that getting on an Air New Zealand flight after a long tour is to be half-way home already,” he said. Williams emphasized that Pōkarekare Ana has always been his favorite waiata from New Zealand, highlighting the importance of celebrating the nation’s musical traditions.

Air New Zealand’s campaign aims to express the airline’s integral role in the country’s life. Jeremy O’Brien, the airline’s chief customer and digital officer, described the advertisement as a “heartfelt” representation of their mission. “This campaign brings to life what Air New Zealand is all about. Every day, our people play a part in connecting friends, whānau, businesses, and communities,” he stated.

A Legacy of Trust and Connection

As Air New Zealand approaches its 85th anniversary, the company recognizes the generations of Kiwis who have trusted them as their national carrier. O’Brien noted the responsibility they hold and the importance of telling their story authentically.

Williams’ fans are eager to know if he plans to release Pōkarekare Ana as a standalone single. Many have shared their emotional responses to the collaboration, with comments such as it being “epic” and “brought a tear to my eye” on his social media pages.

“Our purpose is to lift Aotearoa and its people, and that purpose is carried out by our own people, who bring skill, care, and mana to their work. This campaign is a celebration of that spirit,” O’Brien concluded.

With this new advertisement, Air New Zealand not only pays homage to its past but also reinforces its commitment to New Zealand’s cultural heritage and sense of community.