In July 2025, The Rector’s Company production will be William Shakespeare’s Henry IV. This production will be set in 1860s New Zealand with a Māori king and elders. Hēnare’s son (Hal) has fallen in with a group of rogue whalers/robbers, and is a concern to his father. 

This history will cover the campaign of Hēnare Te Tuawha to prove himself a worthy king. The comedic adventures of his son Hal, with his roguish friends, as the prince becomes a worthy successor. 

The production will combine the formal style of kōrero with the formal court language of Shakespeare’s verse. There will be warfare, mau rākau and kapa haka as parts of this performance, which will showcase Māori Performing Arts. Including traditional musical instruments - taonga puoro.

Workshops in preparation for the rehearsal process will begin in Week 2 of Term 1, 2025. These will be advertised in school notices next term. The performances will be Week 1 Term 3.

Please contact Mr. Mills for more information at millsp@pnbhs.school.nz