Ask a professional: Tanea Heke’s picks for the festival

The Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts is more than a calendar highlight for Tanea Heke. As Tumuaki (Director) of Toi Whakaari, New Zealand’s leading drama school, she lives and breathes the arts, so the ANZFA is a thrilling occurrence “It’s a living, breathing celebration of stories, talent, and community,” she says. Tanea shares her top four picks from the 2026 festival programme.

Tanea’s journey with the festival began in the 1990s, when, as a Toi Whakaari student, she and her classmates attended the festival. This is where she first encountered Waiora. Originally commissioned in 1992, it has become a landmark piece of New Zealand theatre. 

“It was the first time I saw our stories told so unapologetically. Back then, it was an awakening. A moment of realising we could tell our own stories, and people would listen.” Tanea expects Wairoa to be as powerful as ever. “I hope today’s students feel that same visceral connection I did. Even now, the play’s themes of identity, belonging, and legacy are timeless.”

The late Douglas Wright is one of New Zealand’s most revered choreographers. He is renowned for brave, beautiful and innovative work and has featured in five previous festivals. This is another work that Tanea first experienced as a student. “Gloria changed the way I understood dance. It wasn’t ballet or something distant. It was mesmerising, immediate, and it shifted my worldview.” 

The restaging of Wright’s original is presented as part of a triple bill alongside new works by Raewyn Hill and Moss Paterson. “It’s a tribute to the original work, but it’ll have a freshness and a beauty to it that will grow the work exponentially.”

The visual arts programme includes two exhibitions celebrating the life and work of renowned sculptor, carver and artist, Fred Graham. Tanea’s admiration for Graham’s role in the contemporary Māori art movement is clear. “He and his contemporaries laid the groundwork for us to step into these spaces and tell our stories. His art isn’t just beautiful; it’s timeless, and it reflects the journey of Māori artists forging a path for those who follow.” 

She’s especially excited to see Graham’s exhibition at Pātaka Art + Museum. The legacy of Fred’s family and the gallery make it a special place to experience his work.

The final show on Tanea’s list is Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds. “Nick Cave’s always been in a different universe for me, but I discovered more about him through podcasts and interviews. I found him fascinating, not just for his music but for who he is. Now, I get his music in a new way.” 

The legendary Australian rock band will perform songs from their latest album ‘Wild God’ as well as back catalogue favourites. “I’d love to see him live. Though maybe from a seat at the back, away from the mosh pit!” Tanea laughs.