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

RNZB Presents the new children’s ballet: Te Pohū | The Bomb

This magical 40-minute ballet is the perfect introduction to the world of dance, offering children and their whānau an unforgettable live theatre experience, followed by an opportunity to ask questions about the performance.

When | Āhea

Sat 12 Sep 2026, 10.30am–3.15pm

Sun 13 Sep 2026, 10.30am–3.15pm

Where | Ki hea

Performances in Soundings Theatre, Level 2
Workshops in Rongomaraeroa, the marae, Level 4

Cost | Te utu

Performances are free
Workshops are $5.00

Age

From 3 to 10

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair access to both venues

  • Low-sensory relaxed session and NZSL performance available

The Bomb | Te Pohū is a joyful and uplifting story about courage, confidence, and celebrating what makes you unique.

It follows a young boy determined to perfect the ultimate bomb (or manu!) into the water. Guided by his Nan, a former champion, and learning to trust his own instincts, he discovers his own spectacular style and delivers a bold, breathtaking, acrobatic bomb that is sure to delight audiences of all ages.

Free for all whānau and communities to enjoy, The Bomb makes its debut at Soundings Theatre. No pre-booking is required. Seating is available on a first come, first served basis, so arrive early to secure your spot.

Performances

Saturday 12 September

  • 10.30am–11.10am | Performance #1 (English)

  • 12.00pm–12.40pm | Performance #2 (English)

  • 2.30pm–3.10pm | Relaxed Performance with NZSL interpretation

Sunday 13 September

  • 10.30am–11.10am | Performance #1 (English)

  • 12.00pm–12.40pm | Performance #2 (English)

  • 2.30pm–3.10pm | Performance #3 (Te Reo Māori)

Dance Workshops

These Royal New Zealand Ballet Dance Workshops provide a unique opportunity for children to learn ballet with RNZB Dance Educators. The 30 to 45-minute workshops offer a special insight into The Bomb and introduce ballet basics including foot and arm positions, pliés, balances, and jumps.

Suitable for children aged 3–10 years, regardless of previous dance experience.

Cost: $5 per child
Bookings: Book a workshop

For any questions, please email education@rnzb.org.nz.

Saturday 12 September

  • 10.15am–10.45am | Ages 3–4

  • 11.00am–11.30am | Ages 3–4

  • 11.45am–12.30pm | Ages 5–7

  • 12.45pm–1.30pm | Ages 5–7

Sunday 13 September

  • 10.15am–10.45am | Ages 3–4

  • 11.00am–11.30am | Ages 5–7

  • 11.45am–12.30pm | Ages 8–10

Creative Credits

  • Creative Direction: Lauren Byrne

  • Choreography: Josh Guillemot Rodgerson

  • Costume Design: Victoria Gridley

  • Composer: William Philipson

  • Set Design: Anne-Lisa Noordover

  • Narration: Ngareta-River Ingram and Te A Kruger-Taylor, Toi Whakaari: NZ Drama School students

  • Author: Sacha Cotter

  • Illustrator: Josh Morgan

  • Publisher: Huia NZ

Illustration: Original illustration by Josh Morgan; design by Aimée Sullivan

Photo by Stephen A'Court

Kei mahue ko ērā atu hui! Kia mau tonu ki ngā pānui i Te Papa

Don’t miss out on our other events! Stay in the loop with the Te Papa newsletter