The Journey! A reflection on who we are, where we began, the artists who have grown with us, and the stories that continue to unfold as Opera North evolves here in Te Tai Tokerau. With humble beginnings in Joan and Richard Kennaway’s Glenbervie garden in 1996, 2026 marks 30yrs of the chorus. Some of those original singers still grace our stage today! What began as the kernel of an idea, has evolved into an annual event that is now quite extraordinary. Special Guests for 2026 are Sarah Mileham and Alfred Fonoti Fuimaono - two of Aotearoa’s rising Opera superstars!
With delectable food (and coffee!) vendors to tempt you there are no velvet seats in sight, but the wide skies of the remarkable Tahamoana Farm in Waipu Cove invite you to enjoy a full sensory experience!
You'll need to pack picnic blankets or chairs, and sun-hats or umbrellas, event is BYO. (You can bring a velvet seat if you really like!)
GROUNDS OPEN AT 12 NOON to pick your perfect spot and set up!
Corporate Gazebo Sponsorship available (10 chairs under a gazebo with a bottle of plus tax claimable donation) - contact maria.k.satterfield@gmail.com for details.
Conductors: Sarah Whittles, Bronwyn Kennaway Ensembles: Emma Blood-Mouat Pianists: Juan Kim & Mirabella Uphof Orchestral Ensemble led by: Valeria Maw Rehearsal repetiteur & musical advisor: Roger McClean
