Nelly welcomed to New Zealand with a powhiri, ahead of Auckland concert

Nelly has been welcomed to New Zealand with a haka powhiri.

Māori cultural group KaiHaka greeted the rapper on arrival ahead of his Auckland concert tonight. The Hot In Herre singer recorded the performance on his phone.

He also posed for photos with the group, sharing one on social media in which he can be seen doing a pukana.

"Wanna thank Auckland for an incredible welcoming..!! Can't wait for the show tomorrow.!! Chilling.!!!!" he wrote on Instagram.

KaiHaka provides mana whenua-led cultural experiences for international stars and dignitaries.

Traditional Māori weaving business Maru Creations also gifted the singer with a pākē.

"We enjoy making taonga (treasures) that are meaningful for the person. This piece acknowledges his family, ensuring that they always have his back," they wrote on social media.