Teenage phenomenon and Royals hitmaker Lorde has been forced to cancel her scheduled tour of Australia after suffering a chest infection. The singer will return to New Zealand for "immediate rest and recuperation in order to regain complete health and continue touring for the rest of the year," according to a statement issued by Melbourne-based promoter Frontier Touring.

LordeLorde Performing At The BRITS

Following the announcement, Lord tweeted that she was suffering from a "really nasty chest infection" and was in "general ill health."

Lorde, real name Ella Yelich-O'Connor, was set to play eight dates in six Australian cities, starting at Melbourne's Festival Hall on April 24. 

"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," said Lorde in a statement. "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."

Ticketholders will be contacted about rescheduled dates as soon as possible, though the promoter added, ""If the new dates are not suitable.rest assured you will be able to secure a refund."

Lorde stormed the Billboard chart last year with 'Royals' - going onto win a Grammy award and a BRIT award. 

Lorde's postponed Australia tour dates:

April 24, 26 - Melbourne, Festival Hall

April 27 - Adelaide, AEC Theatre

April 29, Perth, Challenge Stadium

May 2, 3, Sydney, Hordern Pavilion

May 4 -  Newcastle, Entertainment Centre 

May 6 - Brisbane, Riverstage

Watch Lorde arriving for the 'You Oughta Know' concert: