Red Hot Chili Pepper surfing in Northland

Tori Armstrong didn't know who the customer was when she delivered an Archibald Motors rental car to Kaitaia airport earlier this week, but when she saw him she didn't hesitate.

Tori made herself known to Red Hot Chili Peppers vocalist Anthony Kiedis, who, to her delight, was happy to be snapped for posterity. Others weren't so lucky.

Keidis arrived in Kaitaia with his partner and children aboard a private jet to spend a few days relaxing (and surfing) at Ahipara, where the family stayed. He was eventually recognised by some fans while enjoying breakfast at Ahipara's cafe Gumdiggers' Cafe, which has also hosted the likes of Johnny Depp and Kiwi singer Jackie Clarke. Several autograph/photo requests were politely declined, but he reportedly enjoyed the scrambled eggs, salmon and avocado.

Tori had no such problems: "He wanted to be very low key but was a real gentleman," she said, and he had been happy to pose with her.