Sharing smiles and spreading joy, one song at a time

Every week, the sound of violin and piano fills the corridors of Auckland City Hospital, thanks to two talented volunteers, Mariana and Mateo – known together as Duoaguacate, which means “two avocados” in Spanish.

The pair arrived from Colombia in early 2025 and have quickly become a much-loved part of our volunteer whānau, bringing joy and comfort to patients, visitors, and staff through the universal language of music.

“We played Colombian music in one of our sessions, and we felt like we were at home,” says Mariana. “People were so warm – it’s the same energy we know from Colombia.”

Their journey to New Zealand began several years ago, when Mariana read a book about the country’s history and Māori traditions. Captivated by the stories, she shared it with Mateo, and they were soon dreaming of making the move. That dream has become something truly special – connecting through music with those who benefit most.

Both trained musicians, Mariana and Mateo met at university in Colombia. Mariana has been playing violin since she was 12, and Mateo has been studying and performing piano for over 13 years. While at university, they discovered music therapy and fell in love with its power to lift spirits, ease stress, and create healing moments.

“We did a placement in a hospital as part of our degree,” says Mateo. “It was such a powerful experience that we continued volunteering even after our placement ended. That’s when we realised music therapy was our passion.”

When they arrived in New Zealand, Mariana and Mateo contacted Auckland City Hospital’s Volunteer Centre and were soon performing in wards across the hospital.

“Sometimes patients can’t clap or dance,” says Mariana, “but even a small reaction – a smile, a movement – tells us they feel something. Music can reach people when words can’t.”

One of their favourite memories is performing for a woman who had been in hospital for two months.

“She told us, ‘This is the first time I’ve felt good since being here.’ Moments like that stay with you.” says Mateo.

The pair has set up a suggestion box, where patients and staff can request tunes or leave kind messages. “People write beautiful notes, like, ‘Thank you for bringing happiness today,’” says Mariana. “It means so much.”

Mariana and Mateo dream of expanding their work into a full music therapy programme at the hospital, creating concert-style sessions where patients can gather and enjoy live music together. “It would make such a difference to their mental and physical health,” says Mariana.

Even as they continue learning and improving their English, they know music is the only language they really need. “We might not have all the words, but music speaks for us,” says Mateo. “ It connects everyone – patients, families, staff – no matter where you’re from.”

Volunteers like Mariana and Mateo make a difference every day. Learn how you can become a hospital volunteer in your chosen area here.