After ten years, the much-loved Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra (WIUO) will reassemble for a spectacular show at the newly restored Wellington Town Hall.
Founded a bit by accident in 2005 by friends Age Pryor (The Woolshed Sessions, Congress of Animals, Fly My Pretties) and Bret McKenzie (Flight of the Conchords, The Black Seeds), what began as a joyful experiment quickly evolved into one of New Zealand’s most celebrated live acts.
Over the next decade, the Orchestra captivated audiences, releasing four bestselling EPs and an album, collaborating with internationally renowned artists, and inspiring thousands to discover the joy of making music.
Following an extensive touring schedule that included New Zealand, Australia, the UK, the United States, China and Japan, the band put their ukes on ice to explore other instruments and new creative pursuits.
But the call of the ukulele was strong- when asked if they’d regroup for one special all-ages show to celebrate Wellington Town Hall’s triumphant reopening.
Audiences can expect everything they remember and love about the WIUO: soaring harmonies, dazzling musicianship, inventive arrangements, spontaneous comedy and plenty of audience participation. The performance will feature beloved classics, new material and, inevitably, a few trademark surprises.
The Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra also features Andy Morley-Hall, Bek Coogan, Carmel Russell, Daniel Yeabsley, Deanne Krieg, Francis Salole, Gemma Gracewood, Megan Salole, Nigel Collins, Samuel Auger and Stephen Jessup.
Presented by Venues Wellington’s Live in WLG, this special reunion celebrates not only the return of the Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra, but also the reopening of a venue long at the heart of the capital’s cultural life.
For one night only, Wellingtonians and visitors will once again have the chance to gather and celebrate together in one of the city’s most treasured communal spaces.
The Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra returns at 7:30 pm on Saturday, the 20th of March 2027, at the Wellington Town Hall.
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