Waenga brings powerful theatre to the Hutt

Hutt City News

A theatre production exploring justice, identity and civic participation is set to visit both Upper Hutt and Wainuiomata this July, bringing contemporary Māori storytelling directly into community spaces.

Waenga, created by siblings Hariata and Tamati Moriarty and produced by Te Rākau in partnership with Hurō Productions, will be performed at Ōrongomai Marae in Upper Hutt on July 17 and Wainuiomata Marae on July 18 as part of a lower North Island tour.

The critically acclaimed play follows Connie, a young wahine Māori caught in the consequences of police “move-on” orders, as she confronts questions about freedom, fairness and her future. Through the experiences of its characters, Waenga asks audiences to consider their place within systems of power and what it means to be an active participant in civic life.

Director Jim Moriarty said the production encourages audiences to reflect on how they can influence change in their communities.

“In today’s volatile climate this play is a chance to ask, how do I make my own voice count? How do I make my vote count?” Moriarty said.

Waenga premiered at the Kia Mau Festival and has since been presented to hundreds of students across New Zealand. The latest version expands on the original production, incorporating additional music, action and discussion through Te Rākau’s Theatre Marae approach.

The production was developed with input from rangatahi, helping ensure the issues and experiences portrayed on stage feel relevant and authentic to young people.

Hariata and Tamati Moriarty said the play was created to give rangatahi Māori an opportunity to see themselves represented.

“The show Waenga was created so that rangatahi Māori could see their voices and their experiences told on the stage,” they said.

The cast includes Hariata Moriarty, Tamati Moriarty, Mycah Keall, Regan Taylor, Brooke Wharehinga, Matiu Rata, Rylee Herewini and Ryan Holtham, with music by Rameka Tamaki.

The decision to perform at marae reflects Te Rākau’s long-standing commitment to making theatre accessible and community-focused. The company describes Theatre Marae as a gathering where people can engage with stories, ideas and issues that affect everyday life.

Alongside its themes of systemic inequality, racism and hope, Waenga explores the challenges facing rangatahi Māori seeking change from both outside and within existing institutions.

The Hutt Valley performances form part of a wider tour visiting more than 17 venues across Wellington, Hawke’s Bay, Horowhenua, Taranaki, Whanganui and other lower North Island communities.

Tickets are available through Eventfinda. School booking enquiries can be made through Te Rākau at terakau@terakau.org.