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Te Toru Here Pipiri | August Monthly Pānui
Kua kitea te kainga a te ahi i ngā turi o te tangata
The scorching effect of fire on the knees of man is seen
Tēnā rā koutou katoa,
This whakataukī reminds us of the gatherings at this time of year where people have come together to hold wānanga & enjoy pō whakangahau, all warmed by a blazing fire. This month that warmth has come not from the flames, but from the many kaupapa celebrating our people and the outstanding mahi being achieved.
It has been a full month for Ngā Aho Whakaari. We attended NZIFF twice, once for Ngā Whanaunga Session Two and again for Toitū Visual Sovereignty. We also joined the advanced screening of Chief of War. A major highlight was our first ever Aho Shorts Development Lab, which was a great success. We were also proud to co-host the prestigious Matua Hemana Waaka at Rangiata Sky for a hui on our reo Māori sports commentary programme, which is still in progress.
We are now days away from starting our membership renewal process. You will receive an email this Wednesday 20th August with your renewal link. All renewals completed before 11.59pm on 31 August will go in the draw to win one of two $300 Toi Matarau gift vouchers. For any pātai, please email sonara@ngaahowhakaari.org.
Ka nui i kōnei,
Ngā manaakitanga, nā
Sonara Southcombe-Wallace
Executive Coordinator & Membership Manager
Harata Taurima-Thomas
Social Media & Comms Coordinator
Kay Ellmers
Te Tumu Whakarae | Executive Director
Mātakitaki Mai Ināianei:
Huiki Haere
It’s whānau vs whānau in a new fluent reality series featuring well-known rangatahi Māori siblings being thrown into some very uncomfortable situations – from medieval battles to street sleeping; from community kitchens to sweat lodges, sheep shearing and animal whispering. Produced by Mahi Tahi Media. Now showing on MĀORI+
Indigenous Self-determination - Web series
Filmed in Boorloo (Perth), Australia on the Traditional Country of the Wadjuk Noongar People, four Indigenous students tell their stories of succeeding at university while maintaining their cultural identity in westernised systems. Produced by Ngā Aho Whakaari Member Sophie Karangaroa.
Watch Indigenous Self-determination Here
The Bones of our Past
(M) A documentary about Takahanga Marae in Kaikōura. Rangi Soloman (Kāti Kuri) said he wanted to “build the future of our people on the bones of our past”. Last year was its 30th anniversary. Produced by Ngā Aho Whakaari member Cilla Harnett. Now showing on MĀORI+
Watch The Bones of our Past Here
Dead Ahead
A high-powered Māori lawyer (Miriama Smith) accidentally unleashes her chaotic tūpuna (ancestors), forcing the living and the dead to navigate their shared legacy. Produced by Hi Mama Productions. Now showing on TVNZ+
Chief of War
A thrilling, unprecedented telling of the unification of the Hawaiian Islands from an indigenous perspective. A Hawaiian war chief joins a bloody campaign to unite the warring islands in order to save them from the threat of colonisation.
Now showing on Apple TV
Lament and Hope
A community film project that explores the the concept of reconciliation between Taranaki Iwi and St Mary’s church; built by the first colonial settlers of The New Zealand Company. The film is being screened at the church now and is open to the public to view for free. The film will be released in long form at a later date but is a community first presentation for the Taranaki community. Made by Ngā Aho Whakaari Member Katie Wolfe.
For further details, click here:
Mātakitaki Mai Ā Kō Ake Nei
Mana Moana Mana Tangata
A gripping feature length documentary chronicling Mãori in a defiant struggle against systemic racism and colonial injustice to reclaim their fishing rights. Through resilience and legal strategy, they secured their place in the industry, marking a landmark victory for Indigenous sovereignty. Produced and Directed by Toby Mills. Premiering on Whakaata Māori on Monday 18th August 8.30pm.
Watch Mana Moana Mana Tangata Promo Here
Pukunati
A raw, real, reo-rich observational documentary series tracks the life-changing journey of two Māori struggling with obesity and medical inequity as they undergo drastic weight-loss surgery in a foreign country. Produced by Te Noni Ltd. Premiering on Whakaata Māori on Monday 1 September 2025 at 7.30 pm.
If you’d like your piece to be featured, please email the details to comms@ngaahowhakaari.org
Join us for a one-day, hands-on first aid course designed specifically for those working in the screen and media sector. Learn essential skills for keeping yourself and others safe on set, with training tailored to the realities of our industry. This course has been heavily discounted from $180 to just $20, and is available exclusively to Ngā Aho Whakaari Members.
When: Thursday 9 October, 9am – 6pm
Where: Fickling Convention Centre – Lynfield Room, 546 Mount Albert Road, Three Kings, Auckland
$20 per person
Lunch provided
Spots are limited, so book early to secure your place.
Register for the First Aid Course Here
Day One Shorts 2026
Day One Shorts 2026 seeks diverse emerging directors without prior NZ On Air, Te Māngai Pāho or NZ Film Commission production funding. Directors must be either 18–29* or apply under the 30+ sub-category.
We will also be funding at least 2 films with 50% Te Reo Māori.
Deadline: 15 Sep 2025, midday (no later).
Enquiries: email proposals@dofilm.co.nz
Or, go to https://dofilm.co.nz/shorts/
DEGANZ Selects with Lesli Linka Glatter
Don't miss this DEGANZ Selects event with top Hollywood Director and DGA President, Lesli Linka Glatter! In a discussion moderated by local director Rob Sarkies, Lesli will delve into how she forged her career as a woman director in Hollywood. From Twin Peaks to Mad Men, and most recently Zero Day starring Robert De Niro, Lesli has a directing career second to none, working on many of the best US TV dramas to have graced our screens.
When: Mon 25 August 6-7:30pm
Where: GridAKL / John Lysaght Building (101 Pakenham Street West, Auckland CBD 1010)
Tickets are free for DEGANZ members, or non-members just $15!
Funding Opportunities:
TMP, NZOA, NZFC
Kia hiwa rā - there are lots of funding application deadlines in the next month. Make sure you're aware of the various dates & guidelines relevant to your applications. Kia kaha, good luck to you all.
Te Māngai Pāho:
News & Current Affairs Closes Wed 27 Aug 2025, 5PM
Reo Māori Content Co-Fund Closes Thu 11 Sep 2025, 5PM
Iti Pounamu Closes Thu 18 Sep 2025, 5PM
Irirangi Te Motu - NZ On Air
Round Rua Closes Thu 11 September, 2025 4PM
Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga - NZ Film Commission
15 Sept for consideration at the Nov Board meeting.
NZFC Production & Post Production Guidelines Here
The South Pacific Pictures
'Big Pitch' Is Now Open!
Entries are now open for five-minute pitches for projects of any format and genre.
The South Pacific Pictures' 'Big Pitch' Competition will be held during the 30th Spada Conference, which runs from Thursday 20 to Friday 21 November 2025 at The Pullman Hotel, Auckland.
ENTRIES CLOSE 5:00 PM MONDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2025
Aho Shorts Development Lab Success!
The inaugural Aho Shorts Development Lab brought together emerging Māori storytellers for three days of creative development and whanaungatanga. With guidance from some of Aotearoa’s leading screen creatives, each project took exciting steps forward.
Ka nui te mihi ki ngā pouako Ainsley Gardiner, Angela Cudd, Anna Duckworth, Johanna Smith, Mia Henry-Tierney, Miki Magasiva, Miriama McDowell, Morgan Leigh-Stewart, Sandra Kailahi, Shuchi Kothari, Tainui Tukiwaho, Tearepa Kahi. Kāore i ārikarika ngā mihi ki a koutou katoa
Big thanks to the NZ Film Commission for their support.
New Zealand International Film Festival 2025
We made the most of NZIFF this month with two special outings. At Ngā Whanaunga Session Two, we celebrated Puti, written and directed by Aroha Awarau, and its place as a finalist as NZ's best short film. Puti emerged from our Aho Shorts programme. Later in the festival, Toitū Visual Sovereignty, directed by Chelsea Winstanley, revealed the struggle for Māori artistic sovereignty within the structures of Aotearoa New Zealand’s cultural institutions. Both films were a proud moment for Māori creatives and audiences alike.
Our ticket giveaways brought others along for the ride, with congratulations going to Ngā Whanaunga Session Two winner Luke Orbell and Toitū Visual Sovereignty winner Jeanine Clarkin.
Chief of War Advanced Screening
We had the privilege of attending an advanced screening of Chief of War at Newmarket Cinema and it was an unforgettable experience. Set in 18th-century Hawai‘i, the series brings to life the gripping story of diplomacy, leadership, and resistance in the face of colonial forces. The cinematography was stunning, the performances powerful, and the storytelling rich with cultural depth. Chief of War is now streaming on Apple TV.
Faded premieres in Australia
This Saturday, Māori-Pacific filmmaker Aroha Awarau’s latest short film Faded will premiere at the Worldwide Smartphone Film Festival in Australia. Shot, edited, and produced entirely on an iPhone in under two hours while sitting on the steps of Hollywood’s Dolby Theatre, Faded offers a raw, two-minute look at homelessness and social decay in the heart of the film industry.
The film is Aroha’s fourth release in eight months, with all four screening internationally — including Puti, which was a finalist for Best NZ Short Film at this year’s Whānau Mārama: NZ International Film Festival.
MIFF Accelerator Lab
Nurturing tomorrow’s top screen directors on the journey towards their first long-form works, the selective-entry MIFF Accelerator Lab provides up to 20 short film directors four-days of workshops, screenings, seminars and networking events on the business
and creative aspects of the film industry with leading local and international screen practitioners.
Pictured left to right are Ray Edwards, Aroha Awarau, Ira Hetaraka and Tui Ruwhiu, Executive Director of DEGANZ.
Membership Renewal Process Roll Out
Your Ngā Aho Whakaari membership will be due for renewal by 31st August 2025. Official comms will be sent via email on Wednesday 20th with your renewal link.
Renewing keeps you connected with our hapori and lets you continue enjoying membership benefits. Complete your renewal by 11.59pm, 31st August to go in the draw to win one of two $300 Toi Matarau gift vouchers. Winners will be announced by 5th September.
All information collected will be anonymised to protect your motuhaketanga.
Reo Māori Sports Commentary
Partnership with Rangiata Sky
We co-hosted sports commentary legend Matua Hemana Waaka at the Rangiata Sky building to kick off an exciting new collaboration. This initiative will create a professional development pathway for reo Māori commentators, starting later this year. Kua rangatira tēnei ara hou i a koe e Koro. Keep an eye on our socials for updates.
He Manuhiri Tūārangi;
a Welcome Visit from Te Mātāwai
We had the pleasure of welcoming Cece Wallace, Nate Brabender & Hawaikirangi Harris, who represented our valued funding partners, Te Mātāwai. E mihi ana ki a koutou i tae ā-kanohi mai ki a mātou i te rā nei. Nō mātou te hōnore.
Proud to be Supported by Te Mātāwai – Kia ūkaipō anō te reo!
Screen Industry Per Diems Update
IRD recently updated an expenditure determination applying to people working in the screen production industry.
Where you are required to work away from the town where you normally live and you incur expenses relating to your work and you receive per diems, the determination will apply to you. The determination deems the lesser of $100 or the amount of the per diems to be expenditure incurred in receiving the per diems (the deemed deduction).
Want to share your events, initiatives, or announcements with us?
We'd love to feature them in future pānui! Drop us a line at
Kua kitea te kainga a te ahi i ngā turi o te tangata
The scorching effect of fire on the knees of man is seen
Tēnā rā koutou katoa,
This whakataukī reminds us of the gatherings at this time of year where people have come together to hold wānanga & enjoy pō whakangahau, all warmed by a blazing fire. This month that warmth has come not from the flames, but from the many kaupapa celebrating our people and the outstanding mahi being achieved.
It has been a full month for Ngā Aho Whakaari. We attended NZIFF twice, once for Ngā Whanaunga Session Two and again for Toitū Visual Sovereignty. We also joined the advanced screening of Chief of War. A major highlight was our first ever Aho Shorts Development Lab, which was a great success. We were also proud to co-host the prestigious Matua Hemana Waaka at Rangiata Sky for a hui on our reo Māori sports commentary programme, which is still in progress.
We are now days away from starting our membership renewal process. You will receive an email this Wednesday 20th August with your renewal link. All renewals completed before 11.59pm on 31 August will go in the draw to win one of two $300 Toi Matarau gift vouchers. For any pātai, please email sonara@ngaahowhakaari.org.
Ka nui i kōnei,
Ngā manaakitanga, nā
Sonara Southcombe-Wallace
Executive Coordinator & Membership Manager
Harata Taurima-Thomas
Social Media & Comms Coordinator
Kay Ellmers
Te Tumu Whakarae | Executive Director
Mātakitaki Mai Ināianei:
Huiki Haere
It’s whānau vs whānau in a new fluent reality series featuring well-known rangatahi Māori siblings being thrown into some very uncomfortable situations – from medieval battles to street sleeping; from community kitchens to sweat lodges, sheep shearing and animal whispering. Produced by Mahi Tahi Media. Now showing on MĀORI+
Indigenous Self-determination - Web series
Filmed in Boorloo (Perth), Australia on the Traditional Country of the Wadjuk Noongar People, four Indigenous students tell their stories of succeeding at university while maintaining their cultural identity in westernised systems. Produced by Ngā Aho Whakaari Member Sophie Karangaroa.
Watch Indigenous Self-determination Here
The Bones of our Past
(M) A documentary about Takahanga Marae in Kaikōura. Rangi Soloman (Kāti Kuri) said he wanted to “build the future of our people on the bones of our past”. Last year was its 30th anniversary. Produced by Ngā Aho Whakaari member Cilla Harnett. Now showing on MĀORI+
Watch The Bones of our Past Here
Dead Ahead
A high-powered Māori lawyer (Miriama Smith) accidentally unleashes her chaotic tūpuna (ancestors), forcing the living and the dead to navigate their shared legacy. Produced by Hi Mama Productions. Now showing on TVNZ+
Chief of War
A thrilling, unprecedented telling of the unification of the Hawaiian Islands from an indigenous perspective. A Hawaiian war chief joins a bloody campaign to unite the warring islands in order to save them from the threat of colonisation.
Now showing on Apple TV
Lament and Hope
A community film project that explores the the concept of reconciliation between Taranaki Iwi and St Mary’s church; built by the first colonial settlers of The New Zealand Company. The film is being screened at the church now and is open to the public to view for free. The film will be released in long form at a later date but is a community first presentation for the Taranaki community. Made by Ngā Aho Whakaari Member Katie Wolfe.
For further details, click here:
Mātakitaki Mai Ā Kō Ake Nei
Mana Moana Mana Tangata
A gripping feature length documentary chronicling Mãori in a defiant struggle against systemic racism and colonial injustice to reclaim their fishing rights. Through resilience and legal strategy, they secured their place in the industry, marking a landmark victory for Indigenous sovereignty. Produced and Directed by Toby Mills. Premiering on Whakaata Māori on Monday 18th August 8.30pm.
Watch Mana Moana Mana Tangata Promo Here
Pukunati
A raw, real, reo-rich observational documentary series tracks the life-changing journey of two Māori struggling with obesity and medical inequity as they undergo drastic weight-loss surgery in a foreign country. Produced by Te Noni Ltd. Premiering on Whakaata Māori on Monday 1 September 2025 at 7.30 pm.
If you’d like your piece to be featured, please email the details to comms@ngaahowhakaari.org
Join us for a one-day, hands-on first aid course designed specifically for those working in the screen and media sector. Learn essential skills for keeping yourself and others safe on set, with training tailored to the realities of our industry. This course has been heavily discounted from $180 to just $20, and is available exclusively to Ngā Aho Whakaari Members.
When: Thursday 9 October, 9am – 6pm
Where: Fickling Convention Centre – Lynfield Room, 546 Mount Albert Road, Three Kings, Auckland
$20 per person
Lunch provided
Spots are limited, so book early to secure your place.
Register for the First Aid Course Here
Day One Shorts 2026
Day One Shorts 2026 seeks diverse emerging directors without prior NZ On Air, Te Māngai Pāho or NZ Film Commission production funding. Directors must be either 18–29* or apply under the 30+ sub-category.
We will also be funding at least 2 films with 50% Te Reo Māori.
Deadline: 15 Sep 2025, midday (no later).
Enquiries: email proposals@dofilm.co.nz
Or, go to https://dofilm.co.nz/shorts/
DEGANZ Selects with Lesli Linka Glatter
Don't miss this DEGANZ Selects event with top Hollywood Director and DGA President, Lesli Linka Glatter! In a discussion moderated by local director Rob Sarkies, Lesli will delve into how she forged her career as a woman director in Hollywood. From Twin Peaks to Mad Men, and most recently Zero Day starring Robert De Niro, Lesli has a directing career second to none, working on many of the best US TV dramas to have graced our screens.
When: Mon 25 August 6-7:30pm
Where: GridAKL / John Lysaght Building (101 Pakenham Street West, Auckland CBD 1010)
Tickets are free for DEGANZ members, or non-members just $15!
Funding Opportunities:
TMP, NZOA, NZFC
Kia hiwa rā - there are lots of funding application deadlines in the next month. Make sure you're aware of the various dates & guidelines relevant to your applications. Kia kaha, good luck to you all.
Te Māngai Pāho:
News & Current Affairs Closes Wed 27 Aug 2025, 5PM
Reo Māori Content Co-Fund Closes Thu 11 Sep 2025, 5PM
Iti Pounamu Closes Thu 18 Sep 2025, 5PM
Irirangi Te Motu - NZ On Air
Round Rua Closes Thu 11 September, 2025 4PM
Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga - NZ Film Commission
15 Sept for consideration at the Nov Board meeting.
NZFC Production & Post Production Guidelines Here
The South Pacific Pictures
'Big Pitch' Is Now Open!
Entries are now open for five-minute pitches for projects of any format and genre.
The South Pacific Pictures' 'Big Pitch' Competition will be held during the 30th Spada Conference, which runs from Thursday 20 to Friday 21 November 2025 at The Pullman Hotel, Auckland.
ENTRIES CLOSE 5:00 PM MONDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2025
Aho Shorts Development Lab Success!
The inaugural Aho Shorts Development Lab brought together emerging Māori storytellers for three days of creative development and whanaungatanga. With guidance from some of Aotearoa’s leading screen creatives, each project took exciting steps forward.
Ka nui te mihi ki ngā pouako Ainsley Gardiner, Angela Cudd, Anna Duckworth, Johanna Smith, Mia Henry-Tierney, Miki Magasiva, Miriama McDowell, Morgan Leigh-Stewart, Sandra Kailahi, Shuchi Kothari, Tainui Tukiwaho, Tearepa Kahi. Kāore i ārikarika ngā mihi ki a koutou katoa
Big thanks to the NZ Film Commission for their support.
New Zealand International Film Festival 2025
We made the most of NZIFF this month with two special outings. At Ngā Whanaunga Session Two, we celebrated Puti, written and directed by Aroha Awarau, and its place as a finalist as NZ's best short film. Puti emerged from our Aho Shorts programme. Later in the festival, Toitū Visual Sovereignty, directed by Chelsea Winstanley, revealed the struggle for Māori artistic sovereignty within the structures of Aotearoa New Zealand’s cultural institutions. Both films were a proud moment for Māori creatives and audiences alike.
Our ticket giveaways brought others along for the ride, with congratulations going to Ngā Whanaunga Session Two winner Luke Orbell and Toitū Visual Sovereignty winner Jeanine Clarkin.
Chief of War Advanced Screening
We had the privilege of attending an advanced screening of Chief of War at Newmarket Cinema and it was an unforgettable experience. Set in 18th-century Hawai‘i, the series brings to life the gripping story of diplomacy, leadership, and resistance in the face of colonial forces. The cinematography was stunning, the performances powerful, and the storytelling rich with cultural depth. Chief of War is now streaming on Apple TV.
Faded premieres in Australia
This Saturday, Māori-Pacific filmmaker Aroha Awarau’s latest short film Faded will premiere at the Worldwide Smartphone Film Festival in Australia. Shot, edited, and produced entirely on an iPhone in under two hours while sitting on the steps of Hollywood’s Dolby Theatre, Faded offers a raw, two-minute look at homelessness and social decay in the heart of the film industry.
The film is Aroha’s fourth release in eight months, with all four screening internationally — including Puti, which was a finalist for Best NZ Short Film at this year’s Whānau Mārama: NZ International Film Festival.
MIFF Accelerator Lab
Nurturing tomorrow’s top screen directors on the journey towards their first long-form works, the selective-entry MIFF Accelerator Lab provides up to 20 short film directors four-days of workshops, screenings, seminars and networking events on the business
and creative aspects of the film industry with leading local and international screen practitioners.
Pictured left to right are Ray Edwards, Aroha Awarau, Ira Hetaraka and Tui Ruwhiu, Executive Director of DEGANZ.
Membership Renewal Process Roll Out
Your Ngā Aho Whakaari membership will be due for renewal by 31st August 2025. Official comms will be sent via email on Wednesday 20th with your renewal link.
Renewing keeps you connected with our hapori and lets you continue enjoying membership benefits. Complete your renewal by 11.59pm, 31st August to go in the draw to win one of two $300 Toi Matarau gift vouchers. Winners will be announced by 5th September.
All information collected will be anonymised to protect your motuhaketanga.
Reo Māori Sports Commentary
Partnership with Rangiata Sky
We co-hosted sports commentary legend Matua Hemana Waaka at the Rangiata Sky building to kick off an exciting new collaboration. This initiative will create a professional development pathway for reo Māori commentators, starting later this year. Kua rangatira tēnei ara hou i a koe e Koro. Keep an eye on our socials for updates.
He Manuhiri Tūārangi;
a Welcome Visit from Te Mātāwai
We had the pleasure of welcoming Cece Wallace, Nate Brabender & Hawaikirangi Harris, who represented our valued funding partners, Te Mātāwai. E mihi ana ki a koutou i tae ā-kanohi mai ki a mātou i te rā nei. Nō mātou te hōnore.
Proud to be Supported by Te Mātāwai – Kia ūkaipō anō te reo!
Screen Industry Per Diems Update
IRD recently updated an expenditure determination applying to people working in the screen production industry.
Where you are required to work away from the town where you normally live and you incur expenses relating to your work and you receive per diems, the determination will apply to you. The determination deems the lesser of $100 or the amount of the per diems to be expenditure incurred in receiving the per diems (the deemed deduction).
Want to share your events, initiatives, or announcements with us?
We'd love to feature them in future pānui! Drop us a line at