Immerse yourself in the heart of Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa with UPU, an award-winning, electrifying theatrical experience that brings the words of Māori and Pacific poets vividly to the stage.
Following its world premiere in Tāmaki Makaurau in 2020, UPU has gone on an incredible acclaimed national and international touring journey, with seasons across Aotearoa, Mexico, Canada and Australia, including a sold-out Australian premiere at the Sydney Opera House. Now, UPU returns home for one night only as the closing performance of Kōanga Festival 2026.
Meaning “word” in many Pacific languages, UPU weaves together the voices of 23 poets, from emerging writers to celebrated literary figures. Through powerful storytelling and extraordinary live performance, their words explore identity, history, resilience, humour and the realities facing Tangata Moana today.
For this special homecoming performance at Te Pou, UPU is brought to life by Maiava Nathaniel Lees, Jarod Rawiri, Nicola Kāwana, Mia Blake, Shadon Meredith and Ana Corbett.
Enhanced by evocative lighting, projections and a rich soundscape, UPU is an intimate, moving and unforgettable celebration of our ocean and our people.
Featuring works by: Tusiata Avia, Ben Brown, Brandy Nālani McDougall, Craig Santos Perez, Sia Figiel, Briar Grace-Smith, Daren Kamali, Karlo Mila, Grace Mera Molisa, Noʻu Revilla, Celestine Kulagoe, John Pule, Tafea Polamalu, Leilani Tamu, Apirana Taylor, Teresia Teaiwa, Hone Tuwhare, Selina Tusitala Marsh, Kathy Jetñil-Kijiner, Konai Helu Thaman, Albert Leomala, Maualaivao Albert Wendt and Lyz Soto.
Actor
Actor
Actor
Director, Co-Creator
Stage Manager
Tech Operator/LX & AV Supervisor
Soundscape Design & Original Composition
Costume Design
Movement & Choreography
Actor
Actor
Actor, Producer
Curator, Co-Creator
Production Manager, Sound Operator
LX & AV Designer
Set Design
Artist & Cultural Design Elements (Mamanu Design)
$75 Tīkiti Tautoko (This unsubsidised ticket price supports Te Pou Theatre)
$40 Pakeke (Adult)
$38 Kaumātua & Hapori (Senior & Community Services Card)
$38 Tauira (Student ticket) / Rōpū (6+)
*Proof of claim is required, please have your ID card ready to present when attending the event.
For Tīkiti Tūru Wīra, select ‘Wheelchair Access’ section when booking online, then select a ticket price from the list presented.
If you need assistance with your booking please contact us at booking@tepoutheatre.nz or via phone on (09) 213 0496 during the hours of 9am – 1pm.
NB: Transfers for tickets will not be permitted
When you arrive at Corban Estate, follow the signs that lead to our whare.
CycleThere is a scenic cycle way that leads to Corban Estate Arts Centre. Lock your bike up in the bike stand available on site.
Bus & trainBus and train links arrive at Henderson Transport Centre, which is within walking distance to our whare. Check the public transport route in your area to plan your trip.
ParkingFollow parking directions as you enter into Corban Estate Arts Centre.
The Te Kōpua foyer, bar, kauta and pae tīkiti will be open 1 hour before show time. 
Our Bar serves a full range of beverages (non alcoholic and alcoholic) and snacks.
Our Kauta will be open for tasty bites before the show including steamed hāngī buns from The Hāngī Master, a vegetarian platter and a selection from ‘I Love Pies’.
🎟️ Our Pae Tīkiti (Box Office) will be open for ticket sales and pick ups.
Note: We no longer accept cash payments but welcome all major cards and paywave.
Wheelchair and walker accessibility
Our whare is accessible to wheelchairs and walkers.
To ensure you have the best visiting experience, contact us at ticketing@tepoutheatre.nz about your access needs so we can anticipate your visit.
Please note, your walker will need to be stored away during the performance so that it’s not a trip hazard to other patrons. An usher will return your walker to you whenever you need it.
Service animals
Service animals are welcome at our whare. If you’re bringing a service animal to an event, contact us at ticketing@tepoutheatre.nz before your visit so we can anticipate your arrival.
Blind & Low vision patrons
For this show we are providing pre-show notes in accessible formats for blind and low vision patrons.
We encourage you to share the gift of theatre by passing your ticket onto someone else to enjoy if you have to stay home.
This show contains adult themes, coarse language, racial slurs & content that may be offensive to some.
