Te Wehi: I’m Home Tour

Liam Te Wehi (Te Whānau-ā-Apanui, Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Whātua, Te Whakatōhea), or Te Wehi because “Liam doesn’t sound as cool”, is the epitome of today’s open access to fame. Not that he was seeking it… A humble man, he thought he’d spend his days fencing. Singing covers on TikTok, he soon posted his own songs that went viral for their blend of reggae, soul, and country music. He’s now touring his chart-topping debut album I’m Home.

Friday night’s sold-out concert is during yet another weather warning for Wellington, but this doesn’t dampen the spirits of the sea of cowboy hats in attendance. I assumed the audience had been through the merch, but they’d all arrived wearing their own – Te Wehi’s fans out in full force. The iciness is thawed by Tāmaki Makaurau’s endearing The Western Guide, warming us up with American country music against a campfire backdrop. The crowd are lively, creating a welcoming yet electric atmosphere that is a joy to be amidst. 

Te Wehi and his band break into original track Mr Officer, and the live sound for this genre is on: mammoth reverb on the drums, a screaming audience that reaches the Gods, immediately up, seats forgotten. I’ve always preferred original music at shows rather than covers, but Te Wehi embedding crowd favourites into his setlist feels like an honest reflection of his journey here. In true Māori tikanga, he is here to serve the collective, not himself. He tips his hat with dedications, like to mothers with Mama Don’t Cry from I’m Home and later to Whakatāne legends Kora with Burning. 

With barely a breath in between songs, Te Wehi and band keep the crowd bopping. The lights and visuals are constant, amplifying the experience silhouetting the six, but I did enjoy the subtler moments allowing poignancy to settle. Most of the harmonies are prerecorded, so I’m pleased when the band harmonise with Te Wehi for a later number. Comprising a guitarist, bassist, drummer, and two keys players, the band are flawless, with two wireless guitarists up front allowing for across-the-stage play. A highlight is the guitarist shredding upstage, haloed by a ring of smoke. 

A quick encore is received well, concluding Te Wehi’s 90-minute high-vibe show.