Hikoikoi

Hikoikoi are a New Zealand reggae-dub group with psychedelic rock influences. The line-up is Paul Wickham, Michael Duffy and Ben Wood. Their sound combines melodic vocals, dub-style rhythms and deep roots bass, and their lyrics focus on peace, unity and justice, often drawing on New Zealand experience.

Career and recordings

The group’s debut album reaches number four on the New Zealand independent charts and receives a nomination for best breakthrough band at the New Zealand Music Awards. Hikoikoi is a Maori term meaning “walk the walk”, and the name reflects the band’s emphasis on solidarity and conscious messages in the music.

Live performances

Hikoikoi play festivals across New Zealand and Australia, including The Dreaming, described as Australia’s largest world music festival, as well as Melbourne Shine On festival and the Byron Bay Reggae Festival. They also share stages with The Original Wailers and Groundation. Their live shows are known for high energy and impact, and the band receives the description “New Zealand’s Hardest Working Band” after its Australian tour.