Kiwi’s Big Hararei

Kiwi is taking flight these school holidays at Wellington’s Circa Theatre! His bags are packed, he’s got some worms and he’s saved you a seat for the journey.

Kiwi’s Big Hararei is about a little guy taking a big trip to Brisbane. Kiwi is travelling with Mum to visit Aunty Echidna (who isn’t really his Aunty, but is still his Aunty). Of all the things to do in Brisbane, Kiwi is most excited to go on a rollercoaster. The question is, will he be able to, or is he a heihei?

This is a new work for tamariki and their whānau from award-winning writers Catriona Tipene and Ryan Cundy. Their previous works for tamariki include Trees Bees and Me (2024) and Land of the Long Long Drive (2023), both of which have been recognised by Playmarket in their Plays for the Young competition.

Kiwi’s Big Hararei has been developed through the PAYPA mentoring programme with guidance from playwright Jamie McCaskill. Kiwi’s Big Hararei is a delicate exploration of when to fix something and when to let something new grow.

With songs crafted by the wonderful tūī Benny Tipene, Kiwi’s Big Hararei is sure to delight. GRIDLEY by Victoria has created a menagerie of natives from both sides of the ditch: from Kiwi to Koala! With set design and construction from James Searle and Brendan West beautified by the artistic eye of Loretta Knights, the designers of Kiwi's Big Hararei have had a ball bringing the land down under to life.

Head over to the Circa Theatre website to nab your seats to Kiwi’s Big Hararei. We look forward to flying with you!

Key Details:

Tuesday 23 September 2025 to Saturday 4 October 2025
Tues – Sat 10.00am and 11.30am
Meet the cast: Wednesday 24th September 11.30am and Wednesday 1st October 11.30am
Circa Two, Circa Theatre, 1 Taranaki Street, Te Aro, Wellington
$20 per person
$70 family pass (4 tickets)

Recommended for ages 3-8 years