Join us at The Hannah on 6 December for the Wellington Theatre Awards, Ngā Whakarākei O Whātaitai 2026, celebrating excellence in theatre.
We are excited to announce our new creative team for 2026: Co-hosts Maeve O'Connell and Raureti Ormond, and Creative Director, Parekawa Finlay.
For more information, please go to News page.
Photography Credit: Renati Waaka
Nominations for the Community and Backstage Awards for 2026 are now closed.
Judging for the 2027 Wellington Theatre Awards is open from 14 November 2026 to 14 November 2027. Invite judges to your show by filling out the form here:

The 2026 Awards are proudly supported by:

Wellington Theatre Awards 1994

Bruce Phillips

Michelle Amas

Grant Tilly, Ray Henwood
New New Zealand Play of the Year
Nga Tangata Toa by Hone Kouka, Taki Rua/Depot Theatre
BATS Theatre Production of the Year
City of Hands
Circa Theatre Production of the Year
Angels in America
Downstage Theatre Production of the Year
Lovelock's Dream Run
Taki Rua/Depot Theatre Production of the Year
Nga Tangata Toa
Most Original Production of the Year
City of Hands directed by Stephen Bain - BATS Theatre
Most Promising Male Newcomer
Bradley Carroll - Lovelock's Dream Run
Most Promising Female Newcomer
Hera Dunleavy - Beautiful Thing, Circa Theatre
Costume Designer of the Year
Dorita Hannah - Nga Tangata Toa, Taki Rua/Depot Theatre
Lighting Designer of the Year
Phil Blackburn - Angels in America, Circa Theatre
Set Designer of the Year
Andrew Moyes - Angels in America, Circa Theatre
Male Actor in a Supporting Role
Brian Sergent - I Hate Hamlet, Circa Theatre
Female Actor in a Supporting Role
Adele Chapman - Nora
Female Actor of the Year
Denise O'Connell - The Sisters Rosenwig, Circa Theatre
Male Actor of the Year
Grant Tilly - Angels in America
Significant Contribution to Theatre
Circa Theatre Council
Director of the Year
Susan Wilson - Angels in America
Production of the Year
Angels in America - Circa Theatre
