He began his music career at Western Springs College with a group of friends in forming the Low Down Dirty Blues Band, which went on to change their name to Supergroove.
Two other ex-members, Tim Stewart (trumpet) and Ben Sciascia (guitar) formed a new band in late 2005 called Svelte.
Apart from its well known beach, Oakura's main attraction is Butlers Reef - a bar and music venue that has showcased many well known New Zealand and international acts, including Dave Dobbyn, Trinity Roots, Gin Wigmore, Katchafire, Supergroove and Jimmy Barnes.