A magical journey into the night…

Sound, music, movement and nature will come together as Ngā Manu Nature Reserve hosts Hīkoi Marupō – Walking As One, a multimedia performance. A magical night journey by torchlight, through ancient forest where the audience encounters music, story and dance.

A tūi crested teller of tales invites audience to enter the stillness of native forest at night.  Haunting music draws us into a dreamlike world where mysterious birds appear then vanish into the trees above and below.  A siren songstress calls us, and the ancient Manu of times past walk again.

Directed by Sara Brodie, this 50-minute performance will be held at various locations in the reserve, with the audience moving from one location to the next.

Along with Brodie, the event brings together a collection of Aotearoa’s finest performers:

• The velvet voice of AJA Ropata welcomes us with a Mihi Whakatau written by Ben Ngaia.
• Our ears are filled by music composed by multi-instrumentalist Riki Gooch (Trinity Roots) and taonga pūoro artist Alistair Fraser, who combines forces with baroque vocalist, Pepe Becker.
• Suspended from above is celebrated dancer and aerialist Chloe Loftus.
• Offering his storytelling magic is award winning actor, poet and playwright, Apriana Taylor.
• This is woven together with the visions of accomplished director and choreographer Sara Brodie and design team, experts in their craft, Elizabeth Whiting, Allan McShane, and Nils Melchert.

Dates:

28th April – 2nd May (3rd May rain day). 

There are 2 performances a night at: 6.30pm and 7.45pm of 55 minutes duration over the forest loop track. 

Tickets:

Family (2 x Adults/3 x Children) – $75.00, Adult – $25.00, Child – $16, Concession & Friends of Nga Manu -$20.

We advise audience to bring a torch, to dress warmly and wear enclosed shoes.

This special event has been crafted thoughtfully and designed for all ages and abilities. The paths throughout are wheelchair and buggy accessible.

The event can also operate in Level 2 conditions, allowing people to maintain social distancing, yet to walk as one connecting to the natural world.

Important Rain Notice:
If there is heavy rain forecast we will notify you by midday on the date of the performance you have booked to confirm if the show will be going ahead.

Please keep Monday May 3rd free in the case that we need to move your date. In the meantime please send prayers to the weather gods.

We are grateful for the support of Ātiawa ki Whakarongotai, Kristie Parata, Ngā Manu Nature Reserve, Food Folk group at Olde Beach Bakery and Longbeach Tavern and Creative New Zealand.  Their support and generosity have made our dreams a reality.