By Tim Saunders on
Some of New Zealand’s best known international stars have recorded a new song to raise money for children in need.
Anika Moa, and Opshop have joined together for a version of Dave Dobbyn's award winning song Beside You to raise money for the Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust, a charity that provides music therapy for special needs children of school age and younger in New Zealand.
“Everyone was there with the best of intent,” said Jason Kerrison, lead singer for Opshop. “It’s all about helping children with special needs, and knowing this helps you drive yourself and be there in the best capacity.”
The trust was established four years ago by Hinewehi Mohi, whose daughter Hineraukatauri has severe cerebral palsy, and has since gained support from stars such as Hayley Westenra and Neil Finn.
“When you see the effect that music has on kids going through the centre it’s pretty profound,” Kerrison told TVNZ.
The single will start getting airplay on New Zealand radio this week and will be available for sale from New Zealand retail giant The Warehouse and for download from December 8.
Moa and Opshop will also perform the song with Dobbyn when they take part in the annual summer Winery Tour which begins on February 6.
Copyright © 2008 Look to the Stars
