Ed Sheeran's heartfelt confession: New Zealand, my second home!
The renowned British artist, Ed Sheeran, confessed his profound affection for New Zealand during his Auckland concert, marking the beginning of his 2026 Loop Tour. This intimate revelation showcases Sheeran's deep connection with the country, a bond that goes beyond his music.
Sheeran's performance at the Go Media Stadium captivated 40,000 fans, marking the first of two Auckland shows before he ventures south to Wellington and Christchurch. The singer expressed his love for New Zealand, a place he feels at home, and where he has spent significant time during his tours.
But here's where it gets personal: Sheeran's words, "I couldn't think of a better place in the world to spend a month of my life. I love it," reveal a special bond with the country. This tour marks his sixth visit, following his Mathematics Tour in 2023. And this time, the stage setup was extraordinary—a massive circular stage with the largest video screen ever constructed in New Zealand for a concert.
The three-hour concert featured a mix of Sheeran's old and new hits, opening with 'You Need Me, I Don't Need You' and the recent chart-topper 'Sapphire'. The set list included fan favorites like 'Castle On The Hill', 'The A Team', 'Galway Girl', and the timeless 'Photograph'.
During the show, Sheeran moved to the B-Stage for an acoustic set, showcasing his versatility as he performed 'Thinking Out Loud', 'Perfect', 'I See Fire', and a medley of his own songs. He concluded the night with the energetic 'Azizam' and 'Bad Habits', leaving the audience wanting more.
Sheeran's connection to New Zealand extends beyond his music. He has made memorable appearances, such as his 2014 cameo on Shortland Street and surprise performances at Auckland schools in 2023. These interactions have left a lasting impression on both Sheeran and his Kiwi fans.
And this is the part most people miss—Sheeran's love for New Zealand is not just about the crowds and the stage. It's the country's beauty, its people, and the memories he's made here that keep him coming back. But is it enough to call a place 'home'? What do you think? Share your thoughts on what makes a place feel like home in the comments below!
Sheeran's New Zealand leg of the tour continues with a show at Wellington's Sky Stadium on January 21, followed by two performances at Apollo Projects Stadium in Christchurch on January 24 and 25. Will these shows further solidify New Zealand's place in Sheeran's heart? Only time will tell.
