Kia Mau

Kia Mau is an arts festival that showcases innovative Indigenous performances. Held every two years, the festival lights up Wellington's winter. See contemporary performances by leading Tāngata Whenua , Tāngata Moana, and global Indigenous artists. The two-week festival includes dance, theatre, music, and visual art. Audiences can expect to be challenged and thrilled by new work from Aotearoa and beyond.

Kia Mau was first held in 2015, founded by two leading Aotearoa creatives. Hone Kouka (Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Raukawa, Kai Tahu) is the Artistic Director and Chief Executive. Mīria George (Ngāti Kearoa, Ngāti Tuara, Ngāti Awa, Ngāti Kūki ‘Āirani) is the Executive Director.

Hone and Mīria describe themselves as innovators. They push boundaries, redefine forms, and forge new paths. They say the festival is not just a platform for presentations, it’s a hub for kōrero and whanaungatanga . The festival has a strong influence on many artists and plays an important role in shaping New Zealand’s contemporary arts scene. “Kia Mau has continued to thrive because of the imagination and commitment of our artists. And of us to them,” says Mīria.

In te reo Māori, ‘kia mau’ is a call to hold fast. It’s about holding onto what matters. Kia Mau festival celebrates the new while connecting to the past. The programme reflects this approach. There is a curated selection of established art industry figures alongside emerging talents. "We bring together local, national, and international artists in Te Whanganui a Tara. We find the intersection where our stories intertwine, creating an experience that is uniquely ‘local’ yet unparalleled in Pōneke throughout the year.”

Supporting Tāngata Whenua, Tāngata Moana, and Indigenous artists is at the heart of the festival. Throughout the creation, development, and staging of their works, artists are encouraged to grow their skills and confidence. “With every festival, we strive to create a welcoming space for everyone to be seen, felt, and heard,” says Hone.