Global pop star Robbie Williams has confirmed he will perform in Christchurch for the first time in 25 years, headlining a major concert at the city’s new One New Zealand Stadium on Saturday 28 November.

The announcement is part of his BRITPOP World Tour, which will see the British entertainer perform across Australia and New Zealand, including a one night show at Eden Park before travelling south to Christchurch.

Williams said, “Australia and New Zealand have always had a very special place in my heart. Ever since my first solo tours, you have welcomed me with open arms and made me feel at home. I’m beyond excited to be coming back this November for the BRITPOP World Tour. Can’t wait to see you all there!”

The Christchurch concert will mark a major milestone for the city, with Williams becoming the first international artist to perform at the new stadium, signalling its arrival as a destination for large scale global acts.

His return follows a long absence from the city, with fans expected to travel from across the South Island to attend what promoters are describing as one of the biggest live shows Christchurch has hosted in decades.

Williams last toured Australia and New Zealand with his XXV Tour, performing a string of sold out shows featuring hits including Angels, Feel, Better Man and Let Me Entertain You.

The BRITPOP Tour also supports his latest album, a project inspired by the 1990s British music scene and featuring collaborations with artists including Chris Martin and Gary Barlow.

“I set out to create the album that I wanted to write and release after I left Take That in 1995. It was the peak of Britpop and a golden age for British Music. I’ve worked with some of my heroes on this album; it’s raw, there are more guitars and it’s an album that’s even more upbeat and anthemic than usual. There’s some ‘Brit’ in there and there’s certainly some ‘pop’ too – I’m immensely proud of this as a body of work and I’m excited for fans to hear this album”, Williams said.

Widely regarded as one of the most successful pop artists of his generation, Williams has sold more than 90 million albums worldwide and holds the record for the most BRIT Awards, with 18.

Tickets for the Christchurch show go on sale on Thursday 26 March at 1pm local time, with presales beginning earlier that week.

The event is open to all ages, with organisers recommending the show for those aged 16 and over.