The acclaimed Te Arawa production Tērā te Auahi is set to return to the stage this summer, following a sold-out debut season that captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike.
Created by the Māori performing arts collective Te Whare Tapere o Te Arawa, the contemporary production will make its highly anticipated return to the Sir Howard Morrison Centre in Rotorua for an extended summer season, running from 15 January to 14 February 2027.
The show, which blends theatre, music, movement, and kapa haka, brings to life the story of the 1886 Tarawera eruption through the perspectives of those who lived through the cataclysmic event.
The June premiere was a resounding success, attracting nearly 6,000 attendees across seven sold-out performances, including three school matinees. The production was met with standing ovations and significant critical praise.
In a move to meet high demand, the upcoming season will be the production’s longest to date, featuring 19 performances scheduled from Thursday to Sunday each week.
Sophie Williams, Co-Director of Te Whare Tapere o Te Arawa, expressed humility at the overwhelming response to the show.
“We are humbled that Tērā te Auahi has resonated with so many of our people, both here at home and across Aotearoa and beyond,” Williams said. “This is exactly why we create work like this, for our people, by our people.”
Williams emphasized the deeper purpose of the production, noting its impact on the next generation.
“We want our stories to be seen, heard, and celebrated while showing our rangatahi that there are no limits to creativity, performance, or imagination. When they see themselves reflected on stage, they begin to realise that anything is possible.”
The production has drawn high-profile acclaim, with actor Cliff Curtis calling it “as good as anything I’ve seen on stage in the world.” Broadcaster Matai Rangi Smith lauded the work for its “authenticity” and its deep connection to “people, place, history, and whakapapa.”
For those visiting Rotorua, the season offers a chance to experience Māori storytelling at the city’s premier performing arts venue, adding a significant cultural layer to the region’s well-known geothermal landscape.
Sam Hulton, Head of Commercial at RotoruaNZ, noted that the success of the production highlights the “growing appetite for original Māori storytelling and locally produced work of international calibre.”
“The extended summer season provides an outstanding opportunity for both visitors and locals to experience this uniquely Rotorua story,” Hulton added.
With 19 performances planned, organizers anticipate strong demand during the summer holiday period. Early bird pricing is available until 1 September 2026, and tickets are currently on sale through.
Early bird pricing is available until 1 September 2026.
Tickets on sale now at Ticketmaster
For group bookings, travel agents and large reservations:
SHMCRequests@rotoruanz.com