Hip hop star Jay Z is to join U2 for the band’s tour of Australia and New Zealand later this year.

One of the most successful artists of all time, Jay Z last played in Australia in 2006 and has never played in New Zealand.

U2 and Jay Z will be playing in Auckland on November 25 at Mt Smart Stadium.

Marketing manager Patrick Smith says it’s taken the last four months to secure the show.

He says at least two planes will be needed to bring the equipment to New Zealand.

From there he says around 250 people and 120 trucks will have the task of arranging the set, a 50m-high, four-legged stage with rotating bridges and a giant video system.

Following the show in Auckland, the band will travel to Australia for shows in Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Perth.

The band has visited New Zealand five times before. The last in 2006.

A special deal will see some tickets start at $40. However, most people will pay $100 for general admission tickets.

Following the show in Auckland, the band will travel to Australia for shows in Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Perth.

Tickets are on sale from September 3.