WATCH: Six60 surprise Kiwis leaving NZ with emotional farewells at AKL Airport

Kiwi music legends Six60 are reminding Kiwis, “Don’t forget your roots” as they head overseas from Auckland airport.

The band gave departing travellers a proper send-off this week, with sweet personalised PA farewell messages and even a cheeky acoustic performance they’ll never forget.

As part of Auckland Airport’s 60th birthday celebrations, the usual ‘bing bong’ chimes to signal an announcement were swapped for Six60’s ‘Don’t Forget Your Roots’ opening chords - you know it, please don't make me type it out!!

Band members Matiu Walters, Chris Mac and Ji Fraser followed by giving heartfelt messages to travellers heading off on their OEs, studying abroad, or just an overseas adventure.

One lucky traveller, Zane Mahon, and his family were surprised by a special acoustic live performance in the middle of the airport, before saying their goodbyes.

“Leaving Auckland for Sydney to study was already emotional, but having SIX60 show up and sing for us made it really special,” he said. “Definitely a moment I’ll never forget.”

Auckland Airport’s Chief Customer Officer, Scott Tasker, said the idea to surprise travellers was all about celebrating the emotional moments that happen every single day.

“We wanted to highlight the special goodbyes that happen here, reminding New Zealanders – just like Six60’s song – that no matter where your journey takes you, home is never far away, and your roots are always with you.”

Frontman Matiu Walters agreed, saying the airport is a natural fit for their message.

“So many Kiwis’ international adventures start here, including ours as a band. Every time we head off on tour, this is where it all begins and ends. It felt like the perfect spot to remind people to stay connected to where they come from.”

Six60’s PA messages will be played for international departures for the next month, so if you’ve got travel booked in - keep your ears open to hear some more special messages.

It’s not the only spot in Auckland that the band have taken over recently. Last week, the band lit up the CBD, performing one of their latest tracks, ‘Endlessly’, from the top of the Sky Tower.

After a successful release of their latest album ‘Right Here, Right Now’, the fellas have a big year ahead. 

Just one exciting moment to come includes taking Jim Beam Homegrown festival back to its roots in the Mighty Waikato.

Plus, Six60 will be joining Synthony to headline the first-ever live concert, ‘Once In A Lifetime’ at Christchurch’s brand spanking new One New Zealand stadium.

It’s full steam ahead for the rest of 2026, and we can’t bloody wait for ALL of it!