Tāke Kurī: The Dog Tax Rebellion brings to life a dramatic chapter of Te Tai Tokerau history, a story of resistance, law, power and the fight to uphold mana, with themes that continue to resonate in Aotearoa today.
Set in the Hokianga township of Rawene, the play explores the events surrounding the introduction of the Dog Tax, which many Māori believed unfairly targeted their communities. The dispute escalated into an armed standoff between Te Māhurehure hapū and government forces, involving soldiers, police, politicians, naval ships, cannons and dogs. Directed as an ensemble work, the production features four actors playing more than 20 characters, bringing to life Māori and Pākehā figures involved in the conflict, as well as canine commentators who provide a wry perspective on the events unfolding around them.
Actor
Actor
Writer/Director
Actor
Actor
Nā Geoff Gilson, Eve Gordon rātau ko Theo Gordon i tuhi.
Originally written by Geoff Gilson, Eve Gordon and Theo Gordon.
Nā Amber Curreen i whakahou.
Adapted from the original by Amber Curreen
PLEASE NOTE: As this show will be performed at two different venues, make sure to double check the date & venue you are purchasing a tīkiti for.
$30 Ngākau Hihiko (Early bird)
$35 Pakeke (Adult)
$30 Kaumātua (Senior)
$25 Tauira (Student – ID required)
$20 Rangatahi (Youth 13 – 18yrs )
$15 Tamaiti ( >12)
$10 Pay Waht You Can (Preview Show Only)
*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 ticketing@tepoutheatre.nz
Companions of wheelchair ticket holders may come for free.
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.
We encourage you to share the gift of theatre by passing your ticket onto someone else to enjoy if you have to stay home.
Ngā mihi to Sara Moana for the creation of our hero artwork for Kua Rewa Te Aihikirīmi!
