Free museum entry for New Zealanders and people living in New Zealand

New Zealand Symphony Orchestra: Stories Alive! The Tortoise and the Hare

A lively musical retelling of The Tortoise and the Hare with a quintet of New Zealand Symphony Orchestra musicians. Sing, move and watch the story unfold through music and illustration!

When | Āhea

Fri 17 Apr 2026, 10.30–11.30am

Fri 17 Apr 2026, 12.30–1.30pm

Sat 18 Apr 2026, 10.30–11.30am

Sat 18 Apr 2026, 12.30–1.30pm

Where | Ki hea

Rongomaraeroa, the marae, Level 4

Cost | Te utu

0–2s: Free

Child: $2

Adult: $5

Age

Young audiences aged 4–7
Children must be accompanied by an adult

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible
This relaxed, family-friendly performance is designed especially for young children. Audience participation is encouraged, and movement and noise are welcome. Suitable for ages 4–7 and their whānau.

The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO) brings Aesop’s classic fable The Tortoise and the Hare to life in this playful interactive concert for young audiences aged 4-7. 

Led by Chris Lam Sam and a quintet of NZSO musicians, the story unfolds through live music, narration, and new illustrations by Stephen Templer. 

In this concert you will: 

  • Hear live music from NZSO musicians 

  • Help tell the story through singing and movement 

  • Watch the story unfold through illustrations 

  • Meet the musicians after the concert 

Presented in collaboration with Te Papa and made possible through funding from the Freemasons Lankhuyzen/Whetu-Kairangi Masonic Trust. 

Courtesy of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, 2025

NZSO Paddington Bear, 2024. Photo by Jo Moore. Te Papa

NZSO at Te Papa, 2023. Photo by Jo Moore. Te Papa

Courtesy of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, 2025

Courtesy of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, 2025