Join us for an extraordinary evening of opera, waiata, poetry and prose as we open Kōanga Festival 2026.
Presented in partnership with New Zealand Opera, this special event celebrates the richness and beauty of te reo Māori through an exquisite programme of music and spoken word. Featuring a mixture of kaiwaiata, poets and performers, this one-night-only gathering honours te reo Māori in its many forms.
Our full line-up will be revealed soon. The evening will conclude with kai and bubbles as we come together to mark the beginning of Kōanga Festival 2026.
Me whakanui ka tika to tātou ahurei, kia hari, kia ngahau ai te noho! – Let’s celebrate our festival with joy and entertainment!
Host
Ringatohu | Director
Designer
Musician
Host
Musical Direction
Musician
Stage Manager
$75 Tīkiti Tautoko (This unsubsidised ticket price supports Te Pou Theatre)
$40 Pakeke (Standard Adult Ticket)
*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.
