Politicians across the political spectrum are in the firing line when comedian James Nokise brings his election-year show, One Night Rant, to Whakatāne this week.

Nokise will take to the stage at Stage Door Studios in Gateway tomorrow night (Thursday, October 15), with a fresh hour of political stand-up inspired by the twists, turns and occasional absurdities of New Zealand’s election season.

The Topp Prize-winning comedian is touring the country, from Kerikeri to Invercargill, using humour to examine the political landscape and the people shaping it.

With ministerial soundbites, policy reversals and chaotic campaigns providing plenty of material, Nokise promises a no-holds-barred take on politics, with no party or policy off limits.

“If you’ve long suspected Parliament might be a comedy of errors full of farcical characters, this show will bring receipts,” he said.

The live show offers audiences a chance to hear Nokise’s political commentary in a faster, sharper and less-edited format than his newspaper columns.

A comedian, playwright, columnist, podcaster and social commentator, Nokise is a familiar voice to audiences through his writing for The Guardian and The Spinoff, as well as his regular appearances on RNZ.

His accolades include the Topp Prize in 2024, the Fred Award for Best New Zealand Show at the 2019 New Zealand International Comedy Festival for God Damn Fancy Man, and Spirit of the Festival at the 2021 New Zealand Comedy Festival.

He also won Best Documentary at the 2025 New Zealand Radio Awards for The Last Voyage of the Rainbow Warrior and has performed internationally in Edinburgh, Perth and New York.

Although the show is billed for audiences aged 16 and over because of its language, organisers say its subject matter is an opportunity for younger people to engage with national politics and consider the importance of voting.

For audiences looking to laugh, vent and reflect on the state of the nation in the lead-up to the general election, One Night Rant offers a chance to do all three.

The Whakatāne performance is a one-night-only event, with limited numbers at the intimate Stage Door Studios venue.

James Nokise - One Night Rant

■ Where: Stage Door Studios, Whakatāne

■ When: Thursday, October 15, at 7pm (doors open 6.30pm)

■ Tickets: $30 from jamesnokise.com