Opera in the Garden 2025 was a blazing success!

And we mean blazing, the sun came out for a balmy autumn day, and it felt like full summer! 700 people poured into Tahamoana Farm in Waipu Cove for an afternoon of stupendous music, and local food vendors that were as exciting as the programme! (honestly those chocolate strawberries were to die for!).

Deborah Wai Kapohe sang her extraordinary repertoire, with the choir and solo, and often self accompanied on her unique guitar, receiving a standing ovation at the end of the concert.

The Chorus of 45 singers, sang magnificently, with solos or ensemble peices from Emma Blood Mouat, Theresa Wells, Shaan Kloet, Christian Dally, Franco Meyer, Maria Satterfield, Kaiser Jacoby, LJ Volschenk, Bronwyn Kennaway, Debbie Graham and Gayle Wellington. Ten Opera North teen singers sang two amazing numbers, and Te Korihi o te Tuī childrens choir performed a captivating Annie Medley.

Emma Couper conducted the chours with elegance and joy, joined by Delwyn Rusk on piano and Maria Satterfield as second conductor. Guest pianist was Juan Kim.