Lorde has delayed a number of Australia concerts due to poor health.

The New Zealand singer was due to visit the country for eight shows from April 24, but a chest infection and "general ill health" has put paid to that.

In a statement, she said: "It breaks my heart to have to postpone these shows as the band and I absolutely love playing to Australian crowds, and it was not a decision we made lightly. I know I need to focus on getting better in order to perform at my best. We'll be with you as soon as we can, Aussies."

Speaking later on Twitter, Lorde suggested that a punishing schedule has taken its toll on her. She said:

"In case you missed the announcement earlier, I have had to postpone my Australian shows because of a nasty chest infection and general ill health. I am so so gutted to have to do this but my parents and my team stepped in telling me I needed a break after being non-stop since the Grammys in January. We will 100% be back for this tour (most likely in November) so don't worry about that. I just need time to get back to full Gollum girl fitness before I go out playing shows again.

"I'm truly sorry if I let you down or if you feel inconvenienced by this and I hope you can understand."

Promoter Frontier Touring said that Lorde will be going home to New Zealand for "immediate rest and recuperation in order to regain complete health and continue touring for the rest of the year".

Watch Lorde perform live below: