She’s performed on the world’s greatest stages, sung for royalty, recorded more than 80 albums and won an unfathomable number of awards. And as she catches up with the Weekly for her 80th birthday, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa is as glamorous and resplendent as ever.
Kiri’s significant milestone has attracted both national and international attention. She is, however, just as at home in the outdoors as she is in front of audiences of thousands and marked the day with a very Kiwi pastime – fishing in the Bay of Islands with her husband Kevin and spending time with her five dogs.
“When you get to this age, occasionally you just want to relax and step away from everything,” the worldfamous soprano muses. “I suppose getting to 80 is quite important – and still being alive!”
Posing for the Weekly’s exclusive photoshoot, she has already had a morning of interviews. Her energy and zest for life are contagious. Always one to keep learning, always keen to keep moving, Kiri has no plans of slowing down soon.
“There’s just so much to look forward to,”
