Sir Cliff Richard Opens Up About His Deep Love for New Zealand: “It Feels Like a Second Home to Me.”
Auckland, New Zealand — As Sir Cliff Richard continues his journey across Oceania, the beloved music legend has once again spoken warmly about a place that has captured his heart for decades: New Zealand. The 85-year-old entertainer, whose career has taken him to nearly every corner of the world, says there is something uniquely comforting — almost spiritual — about returning to Aotearoa.
During his recent visit for performances in Auckland, Cliff shared candid reflections with fans and local media, describing New Zealand as one of the few places where he feels a sense of peace that mirrors home. “There’s a calmness here,” he said. “The landscapes, the people, the way of life — it all feels incredibly welcoming. Whenever I come back, I feel like I’m slipping into a familiar embrace.”
His affection for New Zealand dates back to his early tours, when he first discovered the warmth of Kiwi audiences and the country’s breathtaking scenery. Over the years, Cliff has returned many times — for concerts, holidays, and simple moments of rest — and each visit has deepened his connection to the nation. He often speaks of the hospitality he receives, describing New Zealanders as “genuine, kind, and wonderfully easy to talk to.”
Cliff also shared that he treasures the balance New Zealand offers: vibrant cities filled with friendly faces, paired with quiet natural spaces that allow him to reflect and recharge. “I love walking along the waterfronts, seeing the harbors, visiting the gardens,” he said. “There’s always beauty everywhere you turn. It gives you room to breathe.”
Fans in New Zealand have long reciprocated his affection. Concert tickets often sell out within hours, and his arrivals draw enthusiastic crowds at airports and theatres alike. Many longtime supporters say that Cliff’s sincerity, humility, and enduring dedication to his craft resonate deeply with New Zealand’s spirit. His concerts here feel less like formal performances and more like heartfelt reunions.
Cliff also praised the country’s music culture, noting how much he enjoys the enthusiasm of New Zealand crowds. “There’s an honesty in the way people react here,” he explained. “When they sing along, when they laugh, when they stand up — you feel the emotion. It’s not just a show; it’s a shared moment.”
In recent years, Cliff has chosen New Zealand not only for professional commitments but also as a place to relax. Friends close to him say that he relishes the slower pace, the open skies, and the sense of being far away from the pressures of the entertainment world — without feeling disconnected from the people who support him.
As his current tour continues, Cliff has made it clear that New Zealand remains one of the highlights of his travels. “Whenever I’m here,” he said with a smile, “I feel younger. I feel lighter. It reminds me why I love what I do.”
For New Zealand fans, the feeling is mutual. Every time Sir Cliff Richard returns, he brings not only his music but a warmth and familiarity that make his presence feel like a homecoming — a shared bond between an artist and a country that has welcomed him with open arms for more than half a century.