Internationally acclaimed artists Sons of Zion will perform at the Student Pulse Celebration at Kuirau Park in Rotorua this evening.

The free concert celebrates the Student Association of Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology changing its name to ‘Student Pulse' and will include performances from local artists Stella Maris, Kata and Toi Ohomai music students.

Student Pulse President Virgil Iraia says they are super excited with the new look and name of their organisation.

'Student Pulse is a culmination of many years of having an independent voice for students. With the merger of Waiariki and Bay of Plenty Polytech, past and present students as well as staff have spent a few years working towards this.”

The student association provides representation, advocacy and organises events on campus. It is run by the students for the students and assists in all aspects of student life, from entertainment and socialising, to academic support and welfare. They provide services and support to help students get the most out of campus life and succeed in their studies.

'We might have a new name, but we have a long history of supporting students. The student association will celebrate 30 years of incorporation in November this year. It's such a privilege to be the president at this time.”

'Getting Sons of Zion as our headline act is fantastic and K-Lee from Mai FM will MC the event. We invite the community to come along and be involved in our festivities. We are extremely thankful for the support from Rotorua Lakes Council and Mediaworks that has helped make this event happen.

'We want to give a big shout out to our sponsors – Firestation for graphics and branding, AVT for the audio equipment, Logitech for a NE Boom for the best snap uploaded to #studentpulse, and when you run low on power taking vids and snaps Rotorua Generator Hire will have a free mobile phone generator at the Mai FM tent.”

The event is free but a donation of one can of goods to the Salvation Army Food Drive will be encouraged.

Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology's Student Pulse Celebration featuring Sons of Zion hits Kuirau Park in Rotorua on Friday, March 3, from 4-7pm. For more information visit the event's Facebook page.