The applause hasn’t stopped for Tenor: My Name Is Pati with the New Zealand documentary passing $1 million at the local box office over the weekend and cementing its place among the country’s most successful local documentary features.
The milestone caps a strong theatrical run, with the film connecting well beyond traditional documentary audiences to draw packed houses, repeat viewings and steady support across the country. After one of the strongest opening weeks for a New Zealand film in 2026, it has continued to build momentum through a well-executed campaign, word of mouth and community backing.
Directed and produced by Rebecca Tansley, Tenor: My Name Is Pati internationally acclaimed Samoan tenor Pene Pati and his brother Amitai – recognisable from Sol3 Mio – tracing their journey from Samoa and South Auckland to some of the world’s most prestigious opera stages.
Audiences across Aotearoa have turned out in force, particularly within Pasifika communities – a reminder of the power of a homegrown story to bring people together.
Rialto Distribution CEO Kelly Rogers says the film’s success reflects a deep connection with audiences: “This is a film that people are not only watching but carrying with them and sharing with others. Reaching the $1 million mark is an incredible achievement, and it speaks to the power of Pene and Amitai’s story, and the pride audiences feel seeing it on screen.”
New Zealand Film Commission Chief Executive, Annie Murray comments: “Tenor: My Name is Pati reaching $1 million at the New Zealand box office is something to celebrate. For a documentary to achieve this level of success is a clear sign the film has resonated with audiences. Alongside the success of Tinā, it shows the continued connection audiences have with stories grounded in Pasifika values. This momentum matters and reinforces the value of championing bold, authentic storytelling.”
Tenor: My Name Is Pati joins 2025’s Prime Minister ($1.22M), 2009’s The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls ($1.81M), 2016’s Poi E: The Story of Our Song (1.19) and 2016’s Richie McCaw: Chasing Great (1.82M) as the top five grossing local documentary features.
Rialto Distribution also released 2025’s Not Only Fred Dagg ($502K), further reflecting the appetite for homegrown stories, with upcoming titles including the ANZAC release of Tearepa Kahi’s Sgt. Haane and the sports comedy Shearing the Love and New Zealand produced and shot Moss & Freud – executive produced by Kate Moss.
Tenor: My Name is Pati is produced by Minerva Productions with the support of the New Zealand Film Commission Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga, in association with Mercury Studios and in co-production with ZDF for ARTE. It is produced by Tansley, along with co-producer Catherine Madigan and Executive Producer Taualeo’o Stephen Stehlin.
More than just a local box office success, Tenor: My Name Is Pati continues to connect with audiences and draw new viewers weeks into its run. Tenor: My Name Is Pati is playing in cinemas nationwide.
