Algerian refugee Ahmed Zaoui has thanked New Zealand musician Dave Dobbyn for allowing the pair to do a duet at the New Zealand Music Awards.

Dobbyn won the award for best songwriter for his hit, Welcome Home, which embraces the country having a diverse range of cultures.

Mr Zaoui, whom the SIS considers a security threat, was last night able to have his curfew extended by two hours after being asked to perform the song on stage.

Ahmed Zaoui says it was a special experience for him, and it was humbling that so many people reacted so warmly during their performance.