ration the Queen’s veges
Co-written by Tainui Tukiwaho & Te Wehi Ratana
Performed by Ngahiriwa Rauhina
DETAILS
Date: Wednesday 10 September - Saturday 13 September 2025
Time: 7:30 PM
Where: Circa Theatre (Circa Two), 1 Taranaki St
Duration: 50 minutes
Audience care: Contains course language
Presented by Te Pou Theatre, in partnership with Circa Theatre.
This uplifting one-man play is inspired by true events and shares the remarkable experience of Te Wehi Ratana’s time in Rimutaka Prison. Part courtroom drama, part prison diary, part absurdist kōrero, people can expect a playful and provocative theatrical experience that questions what we hold to be true. 'Family Guy' meets Māori Theatre, is it genius or ridiculous? You'll need to see it to decide…
“He’s charming, funny, serious when he needs to be, and he tells the complex story with clarity and honesty.” - Lexie Matheson, Theatreview
Creative team
Performer: Ngahiriwa Rauhina (he/him) - Ngāti Whakaue, Tūhourangi Ngāti, Wahiao, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāti Raukawa
Stage Manager & Off Stage Voice Actor: Roy Iro (he/him) - Rarotonga, Aitutaki, Manahiki, Rakahanga, Tongareva
Co-writer & Director: Tainui Tukiwaho (he/him) - Tūhoe, Te Arawa Whakatōhea, Tūwharetoa, Kai Tahu
Co-writer: Te Wehi Ratana (he/him) - Ngāti Raukawa, Te Arawa
Sound Designer: Connor Magatogia (he/tim) - Cook Island & Niuean
Set & Costume Designer & Props: Nicole Marsh (she/her) - Ngati Kahungunu, Rangitane, Guangzhou China
AV Support: Bekky Boyce (they/them)
Lighting/AV Designer & Production Manager: Jane Hakaraia (she/her) - Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga
Operator: Marshall Rankin
Ngahiriwa was raised in the baths of Whakarewarewa under the gaze of Tarawera Maunga, with his Te Arawa heritage instilling a natural connection to the performing arts. For over two decades, he has been an actor, honing his craft and working alongside some of Aotearoa’s most influential storytellers—those who have paved the way for him to follow. Inspired by their guidance, Ngahiriwa is now expanding his creative journey into directing, writing, producing, and more, seeking to create space for others in the industry. As a performing artist and passionate advocate for Te Ao Māori, Ngahiriwa embodies his cultural roots in every aspect of his work. Above all, he is a devoted father and partner, grateful for the life and opportunities he has been given.