Tērā te Auahi returns for extended summer season after sell-out debut

Following a sell out debut season, Te Arawa production Tērā te Auahi will return to the Sir Howard Morrison Centre in Rotorua for an extended summer season from 15 January to 14 February 2027, with performances every Thursday to Sunday. Created by Māori performing arts collective Te Whare Tapere o Te Arawa, the contemporary production blends theatre, music, movement and kapa haka to tell the story of the 1886 Tarawera eruption through the experiences of those who lived through it. The June premiere attracted 5,980 people across seven sold out performances, including three school matinees. The production received standing ovations and widespread critical acclaim. Returning for its longest ever season, Tērā te Auahi will feature 19 performances, giving audiences and summer weekend travellers more opportunities to experience the acclaimed production. Te Whare Tapere o Te Arawa Co Director, Sophie Williams, says the response to Tērā te Auahi affirms the purpose behind the production. "We are humbled that Tērā te Auahi has resonated with so many of our people, both here at home and across Aotearoa and beyond. This is exactly why we create work like this, for our people, by our people. "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." Drawing on the events surrounding the Tarawera eruption, the production immerses audiences in the experiences of those who lived through it, creating a powerful connection to one of New Zealand's defining historical moments, 140 years on. Tērā te Auahi offers an experience that can only be told in Rotorua, where the events unfolded, and where descendants continue to carry these stories today. For visitors planning a New Zealand summer holiday, the production offers the chance to experience Māori storytelling, culture and history at the city’s premier performing arts venue as part of a broader Rotorua experience that extends beyond the region’s well-known geothermal attractions. The production has also earned praise from audiences, reviewers and industry leaders. Internationally acclaimed actor Cliff Curtis described Tērā te Auahi as "as good as anything I've seen on stage in the world," while journalist and broadcaster Matai Rangi Smith wrote, "What ultimately sets this production apart is its authenticity...Tērā te Auahi possesses something many spend years trying to capture: a voice deeply connected to people, place, history and whakapapa." RotoruaNZ Head of Commercial, Sam Hulton, says the success of Tērā te Auahi 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 at the Sir Howard Morrison Centre, while continuing to support the growth of our city's creative sector." With 19 performances scheduled across the summer season, demand is expected to be strong, particularly during peak holiday and long weekend travel periods. Audiences are encouraged to book early to avoid missing out. 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 Event Details Tērā te Auahi – Summer Season 2027 Venue: Sir Howard Morrison Centre, Rotorua Dates: 15 January – 14 February 2027 Performance Schedule: Thursdays to Sundays Tickets: On sale now via Ticketmaster Early bird pricing: Available until 1 September 2026