Singer and song writer Anika Moa kicks off an extensive tour of New Zealand's smaller centres on Thursday. RACHEL PINDER of NZPA caught up with her.

The days are getting longer and Anika Moa is celebrating with the Aroha Tour 2009 that will take her from as far south as Rakiura/Stewart Island to as far north as Kaitaia, including one very special just-announced show at Auckland's Monte Cristo Room on December 2.

Wellington, Oct 20 NZPA - The Hurricanes have been shorn of seven potential choices after the provincial rugby transfers list was released.

Intense competition for places at the franchise has seen a number of players shift for more Super rugby playing time.

Aroha Tour 2009, October 29 to December 5