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Makenna Krum / October 6, 2025

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Welcome home! Opening date, first acts for Waikato Regional Theatre revealed

Save the date: New Zealand’s newest world-class entertainment venue, the Waikato Regional Theatre, will officially open its doors on Monday, January 19.

And one of New Zealand’s best singer-songwriters will be taking part in a first week of events that promises to be a memorable chapter in Hamilton’s history.

The series of opening events comprise three nights of community opening celebrations titled To The Stars/Ki ngā Whetū – which is described as being “built through the hands, voices and imaginations of the Waikato community”.

This will be followed by theatre operators Live Nation’s official launch event on the evening of January 23 – further details on which will be revealed within the next few weeks.

The opening week will close out the following night with one of Aotearoa’s most beloved and awarded artists, Sir Dave Dobbyn, who will bring his Selected Songs Tour to the Waikato.

With more than 45 years as a recording artist, Dobbyn has helped shaped the sound of Kiwi music and his set promises a journey through one of the nation’s most storied song-writing legacies.

Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2022, Dobbyn declared it “business as usual” – and continues to perform. Recognised with a Knighthood in 2021 for his services to music, he remains one of New Zealand’s most revered cultural figures.

To The Stars/ Ki ngā Whetū will bring together whānau, neighbours, schools, kapa haka groups, choirs, musicians, dancers, and makers of every kind in “a shared act of creation”.

Commissioned by the Waikato Regional Property Trust to mark the opening and celebrate the creativity of the Waikato, it will be created and directed by Jeremy Mayall and all performers, crew and creative teams either live or whakapapa to the Waikato.

“Audiences will be invited on a family adventure through performance and storytelling that speaks of discovery, joy, power, loss, and love. At every moment, the community’s participation is visible on stage, behind the scenes, and in the spirit of the new theatre itself.

This world premiere is not only the official opening of the Waikato Regional Theatre, but is described as “a living testament to what happens when a community gathers to dream, build, and perform together, reaching for the stars that connect us all”.

Venue Manager, Michael Gilling, said this morning’s announcement was a momentous occasion.

“As this world-class venue continues to take shape, we are excited to welcome the amazing artists and shows that will take the stage in January.

“We can’t wait to get fans through the doors to experience the magic for themselves.”

Gilling’s views were echoed by Ross Hargood, chairman of the Waikato Regional Property Trust.

“We are thrilled to see a strong opening programme, showcasing the best of the Waikato’s creativity alongside international and domestic stars.

“After many years of work, investment and perseverance, the community should be proud of themselves for getting to this point. Roll on opening night.”

More information on To The Stars/Ki ngā Whetū and the other opening events will be available on waikatoregionaltheatre.co.nz.

Waikato Regional Theatre will be opening in January 2026.