Inspired by true events. A story about action, aroha & our Treaty.

In December 2023, the artivist group ‘Te Waka Hourua’ sparked public furore when they painted over the English Treaty of Waitangi Exhibition at Te Papa to read… “No. Her Majesty the Queen of England the alien. ration the Queens veges.” This creative redaction action provoked strong opinions across Aotearoa – some sang their praises, others called for blood.

This irreverent one-man play is an unreal retelling of these real happenings. It shares the remarkable experience of the abseiling activist Te Wehi Ratana during his 48 hours at Rimutaka Prison – asking us to question what is true and what is truth.

This is a story of how one action can inspire change in unlikely places. 'Family Guy' meets Māori Theatre, is it genius or ridiculous? You'll need to see it to decide…

“Ngahiriwa Rauhina… is a tour de force” – Theatreview

“ [The play] weaves humour into what can often be a deeply emotional conversation” – Art Murmers

Sponsored by Tohu Wines

Made with support from Te Pou Theatre and Creative New Zealand

Image credit - Julie Zhu

COMPANY:
Ngahiriwa Rauhina – Performer
Roy Iro (Rarotonga, Aitutaki, Manahiki, Rakahanga, Tongareva ) – Stage Manager & Off-Stage Voice Actor
Connor Magatogia (Cook Island & Niuean) – Sound Designer
Nicole Marsh (Ngati Kahungunu, Rangitane, Guangzhou China) – Set & Costume Designer & Props
Bekky Boyce – AV Support
Jane Hakaraia (Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga) – Lighting/AV Designer & Production Manager
Tainui Tukiwaho (Tūhoe, Te Arawa Whakatōhea, Tūwharetoa, Kai Tahu) – Co-Writer & Director
Te Wehi Ratana (Ngāti Raukawa & Te Arawa) – Co-Writer