The band which eventually became the La De Da's was started by three young musicians from the rural Huapai district, near Auckland in the North Island of New Zealand. Friends Kevin Borich, Brett Neilson and Trevor Wilson were all from Rutherford High School in Te Atatū. The Mergers formed in late 1963 as a Shadows-style instrumental group and began playing local dances and school socials, but the Beatles' visit in June 1964, and the emergence of the Rolling Stones, crystallised the need for change of style and a lead singer. Trevor Wilson suggested a friend from nearby Mt Albert Grammar School, Phil Key, who joined as vocalist and rhythm guitarist.