Subgenre Sampler

Show: All FilmsRental Rental DVD Rental Blu-Ray Rental VHSSales Sales DVD Sales Blu-Ray Sales VHS

Gloriavale (2022): Dir. Fergus Grady, Noel Smyth; A moving exposé of human exploitation in our own backyard, which continues within the infamous Gloriavale Christian Community on the West Coast of…
Mister Organ (2022): Dir. David Farrier; A real–life game of cat–and–mouse ensues when Kiwi journalist and film–maker David Farrier ("Tickled") tries to hold an…
Whetu Marama – Bright Star (2022): Dir. Toby Mills, Aideen O’Sullivan; The inspiring story of Sir Hekenukumai Ngaiwi Puhipi, aka Hek Busby, the Maori navigator and waka builder who was a key figure in reviving…
James & Isey (James and Isey) (2021): Dir. Florian Habicht; Kiwi director Florian Habicht's deeply moving tribute to Northland life and aroha in the form of a documentary portrait of Isey and her son James,…
Girl on the Bridge, The (2020): Dir. Leanne Pooley; A brave and heart–wrenching documentary breaking the silence around New Zealand's mental health crisis, from the perspective of suicide…
Six60: Till The Lights Go Out (2020): Dir. Julia Parnell; Documentary tracking the extraordinary local success of Kiwi band Six60, who started off as students living in 660 Castle Street in Dunedin, and went…
Camino Skies (2019): Dir. Fergus Grady, Noel Smyth; A Kiwi take on the inspirational experience of six pilgrims who embark on the historic 800 kilometre Spanish pilgrimage known as the Camino de…
Capital in the Twenty-First Century (2019): Dir. Justin Pemberton; NZ filmmaker Justin Pemberton astutely adapts the bestselling book of the same name by French economist Thomas Piketty, which tells the story of 400…
Dan Carter - A Perfect 10 (2019): Dir. Luke Mellows; An intimate portrait of iconic All Black Dan Carter that traces his journey from rural New Zealand to international rugby superstar.
For My Father's Kingdom (2019): Dir. Vea Mafileo, Jeremiah Tauamiti; Director Vea Mafile'o crafts this deeply personal documentary portrait of her father, a Tongan patriarch whose dedication to pouring large amounts of…
Herbs - Songs of Freedom (2019): Dir. Tearepa Kahi; Passionate celebration of the iconic NZ band Herbs, from the director of POI E. More a social movement than a band, and at one time boasting up to 23…
Hillary: Ocean to Sky (2019): Dir. Michael Dillon; Director Mike Dillon revisits his original footage of Sir Edmund Hillary's extraordinary 1977 adventure boating up the entire Ganges river, which…
Soldiers Without Guns (2019): Dir. Will Watson; A quite remarkable tale of a team of coalition soldiers who, in 1997, landed into the heat of a 10–year civil war on the Pacific Island of…
The Chills: The Triumph & Tragedy of Martin Phillipps (2019): Dir. Julia Parnell; An absolutely unflinching portrait of the genius New Zealand songwriter Martin Phillipps whose band The Chills exemplified the "Dunedin Sound" with…
Angie (2018): Dir. Costa Botes; Documentary exploring the legacy of sexual abuse in New Zealand's Centerpoint commune, through the eyes of articulate survivor Angie Meiklejohn and…
Celia (2018): Dir. Amanda Millar; Inspiring documentary written, directed and produced by former TV current affairs journalist Amanda Millar, which follows the career of Celia…
Heart Dances, The (2018): Dir. Rebecca Tansley; The director of CROSSING RACHMANINOFF returns backstage for what is this time a behind–the–scenes account of the unique artistic…
In the Zone (2018): Dir. Robyn Paterson; Documentary about American Terrance Wallace who pioneered a scheme to strategically re–zone the families of disadvantaged Maori and Pasifika…
Old Dog (2018): Dir. Sally Rowe; Retired New Zealand farmer and dog whisperer Paul Sorenson is the focus of this documentary exploring his unconventional and intuitive dog training…
She Shears (2018): Dir. Jack Nicol; A documentary about the minority of women who belong to NZ's shearing industry, following 4 female shearers who are preparing for Golden Shears, the…
The Pacific: In the Wake of Captain Cook with Sam Neill (2018): Feat. Sam Neill; 250 years after Captain James Cook began his epic exploration of the Pacific, Sam Neill journeys in the wake, uncovering stories that resonate from…
They Shall Not Grow Old (2018): Dir. Peter Jackson; Ground–breaking documentary that employs state–of–the–art technology to transform audio and moving image archive footage to…
Born Racer: The Scott Dixon Story (2017): Dir. Bryn Evans; Portrait of 5–time Indy Car world champion, New Zealander Scott "Iceman" Dixon. Provides a unique glimpse into the world of motor sport with…
Kobi (2017): Dir. Andrea Bosshard, Shane Loader; A loving portrait of Swiss goldsmith Kobi Bosshard, widely regarded as the grandfather of contemporary NZ jewellery, made by his daughter, filmmaker…
McLaren (2017): Dir. Roger Donaldson; After THE WORLD'S FASTEST INDIAN, director Roger Donaldson tributes another Kiwi hero of motorsport, Bruce McLaren, for this elegant documentary…
My Year With Helen (2017): Dir. Gaylene Preston; With unique access to high–ranking candidate Helen Clark, filmmaker Gaylene Preston casts a wry eye on proceedings as the United Nations turns…
No Ordinary Sheila (2017): Dir. Hugh MacDonald; The immensely inspiring life–story of one Sheila Natusch, nonagenarian natural historian, mountain climber, intrepid cyclist and publisher of…
Pecking Order (2017): Dir. Slavko Martinov; Members of the Christchurch Poultry, Bantam and Pigeon Club prepare for the NZ National Championships in this hilarious, heartwarming slice of Kiwi…
Spookers (2017): Dir. Florian Habicht; A delightfully surprising documentary feature about an Auckland "scream park" called Spookers that provides brave hordes of paying customers with the…
Yellow is Forbidden (2017): Dir. Pietra Brettkelly; Simply stunning fashion documentary from New Zealand director Pietra Brettkelly that swirls around the beguiling personality of Guo Pei, a dynamic…
Free Man, The (2016): Dir. Toa Fraser; Kiwi filmmaker Toa Fraser examines the life of world–champion freestyle skier Jossi Wells, who travels and trains with a troupe of…
heART of the matter, The (2016): Dir. Luit Bieringa; A valuable historical documentary tracing the remarkable shifts in educational philosophy in New Zealand during the post WWII years, in which…
Le Ride (2016): Dir. Phil Keoghan
Feat. Phil Keoghan; Bike enthusiast and television personality Phil Keoghan attempts to recreate and ride the famously tough–as–hell route of the original…
Poi E: The Story of Our Song (2016): Dir. Tearepa Kahi; An aptly feel–good documentary account of the unlikely pop hit that boldly mashed up "Kapa Haka" song tradition and Te Reo Maori lyrics with…
Richie McCaw: Chasing Great (2016): Dir. Justin Pemberton, Michelle Walshe; Intimate documentary follows Richie’s final 365 days leading the All Blacks as the most capped rugby player of all time attempting to…
Tickled (2016): Dir. David Farrier, Dylan Reeve; Utterly engrossing documentary from Kiwi journo David Farrier, who stumbles into the bizarre world of "competitive tickling" that leads him on an…
Why Am I?: The Science of Us (2016): An internationally lauded four part series that details the findings of a 40–year study by the Otago School of Medicine that follows every baby…
25 April (2015): Dir. Leanne Pooley; An animated take on the tragic 1915 Gallipoli Campaign of WW1 told through the perspective of six New Zealanders who were involved. The voice cast…
A Flickering Truth (2015): Dir. Pietra Brettkelly; In documenting one man’s precarious quest to restore thousands of hours of film heritage in the post–Taliban Kabul, New Zealand filmmaker…
Act of Kindness (2015): Dir. Costa Botes, Sven Pannell; Charting the ripple effects of real compassion, this inspiring true story follows a spirited young New Zealander’s search for the Rwandan samaritan…
Crossing Rachmaninoff (2015): Dir. Rebecca Tansley; Absorbing documentary follows aspiring piano soloist Flavio Villani as he prepares Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 2 for his first orchestral…
Day That Changed My Life, The (2015): Dir. Christopher Dudman; Documentary on the February 2011 earthquake in Christchurch which weaves together extensive interviews to provide a sensitive and personal account of…
Ever the Land (2015): Dir. Sarah Grohnert; Documentary exploring the sublime bond between people and their land through a landmark architectural undertaking by one of New Zealand’s most…
Grand Designs New Zealand (TV Series) (2015-2017): New Zealand iteration of the immensely popular British design show has Wellington architect Chris Moller taking us behind the scenes of some…
Ground We Won, The (2015): Dir. Christopher Pryor; A revealing portrait of contemporary manhood as observed through the rites and rituals of a rural New Zealand rugby club made up of…
Keeping Up With the Kaimanawas (TV Series) (2015): Horsey reality TV show following Northland's Wilson sisters as they tame and train New Zealand's indigenous horses, the endangered Kaimanuwas of the…
Why ANZAC with Sam Neill (Tides of Blood) (2015): Feat. Sam Neill; Sam Neill examines the enduring myths of the Anzac legend, sharing his family's war stories and uncovering forgotten truths. From the Gallipoli…
Aunty & the Star People (Aunty and the Star People) (2014): Dir. Gerard Smyth; The extraordinary story of an unassuming elderly women from Berhampore, Wellington who leads a double life as the famous "Jean Aunty", founder of a…
Erebus: Operation Overdue (2014): Dir. Peter Burger; The tragic yet compelling story of Air New Zealand's doomed DC–10 which crashed into Antarctica's Mount Erebus in 1979.
Hip Hop-eration (2014): An utterly delightful character–driven documentary that tells the humorous, heartfelt and life–affirming story of an elderly Waiheke…
Intrepid New Zealand (2014): Ambitious follow–up to Kevin Biggar and Jamie Fitzgerald's FIRST CROSSINGS (2012) finds the pair tackling a new set of legendary journeys…
Nancy Wake: Gestapo's Most Wanted (2014): The heroics of Wellington–born Nancy Wake, aka 'The White Mouse', are given a pulpy treatment in this doco–drama celebrating the famed…
Nigel Latta (TV Series) (2014): Clinical psychologist Nigel Latta goes in–depth on some of the most urgent problems facing New Zealand society today in this confronting…
Our Big Blue Backyard (TV Series) (Wild South: Our Big Blue Backyard) (2014): From Northland to Stewart Island, this 6 part series explores the colourful and varied fauna within New Zealand's unique marine environments.
Pirates of the Airwaves (2014): A docudrama on the story of Radio Hauraki, which rocked the state–monopolised airwaves in the sixties as a pirate radio station aboard a ship…
Songs from the Inside (2014): Filmed on location inside two prisons in Auckland. This ten part "reality" series offers inmates an opportunity to write, arrange and record original…
Topp Country (TV Series) (2014): Lynda and Jools Topp hit the road for this food flavoured tiki tour of New Zealand.
Antarctica - A Year on Ice (2013): Dir. Anthony Powell; A superb, multi–faceted insider's chronicle of life on the Earth's formidable southern pole that masterfully captures both the environmental…
Beyond the Edge (2013): Dir. Leanne Pooley
Feat. Chad Moffitt, Sonam Sherpa; Thrilling, definitive docu–drama on Sir Edmund Hillary's historic 1953 scaling of Everest with sherpa Tenzing Norgay.
Gardening With Soul (2013): Dir. Jess Feast; Heart–swelling documentary on Sister Loyola Galvin, a 90–year–old stalwart of Island Bay's Home of Compassion who offers pearls of…
Giselle (2013): Dir. Toa Fraser; While the Met Opera and National Theatre have established international brands and reputations to lead them, Toa Fraser’s GISELLE has something…
Golden Hour, The (2013): Superb 'Sunday Theatre' docu–drama relives the inspirational story behind New Zealand's greatest–ever day at the Olympics, in which…
Hot Air (2013): Dir. Abi King-Jones, Alister Barry; Is it possible for a small democratic nation to address the greatest political challenge of the age? That is the question posed by this timely…
New Zealand From Above (2013): A stunning, high–definition aerial history of New Zealand taking in the country's many and varied landscapes and iconic locations.
Skeptics - Sheen of Gold (2013): Dir. Simon Ogston; Essential documentary on the legacy of the Skeptics, an innovative and controversial Kiwi post–punk band best known for their notorious…
Wild About New Zealand (TV Series) (2013): This stunning Wild South venture, clearly inspired by the BBC's Natural History unit, follows adventurer Gus Roxburgh into the heart of New Zealand's…
First Crossings (TV Series) (2012): This rugged adventure series literally retraces the steps of New Zealand's pioneer explorers in the intrepid, no–holds–barred style of…
How Far is Heaven (2012): Dir. Christopher Pryor, Miriam Smith; A genuine triumph. Directors Christopher Pryor and Miriam Smith deftly compare the lives of the Sisters of Compassion (only three resident at the…
Intersexion (2012): Dir. Grant Lahood; New Zealand's first 'out' intersex person, Mani Bruce Mitchell, reaches out to other intersexuals around the world in this a frank exploration of the…
Kea: Mountain Parrot (2012): Wild South documentary takes a closer look at New Zealand's notorious native mountain bird, famous for its mischievous behaviour, but less known as a…
Last Ocean, The (2012): Dir. Peter Young; Sobering environmental documentary on the depletion of marine life in the Antarctic's Ross Sea, which factors as part of an international movement to…
Politically Incorrect Guide to Grown Ups, The (2012): Psychologist Nigel Latta's third installment in his popular 'politically incorrect' series turns the spotlight on the adults and the complexities of…
Shihad: Beautiful Machine (2012): Dir. Sam Peacocke; A dignified and highly satisfying chronicle of the iconic Kiwi rockers, brimming with revealing anecdotes about the band's fight with fame, the…
West of Memphis (2012): Dir. Amy Berg; Documentarian Amy Berg, with crucial the backing of Peter Jackson, investigates the crime, arrest, and long legal campaign to free the ‘West…
Billy T - Te Movie (2011): Dir. Ian Mune
Feat. Billy T. James; Infectious, long overdue documentary celebration of comedy legend Billy T James' career in TV, sketch, and film, and his enduring influence on Kiwi…
Blakey (2011): The legacy of sailing legend and environmental crusader Peter Blake is celebrated in this quality commemorative TVNZ production.
Daytime Tiger (2011): Dir. Costa Botes; In 1999, NZ writer Michael Morrissey was diagnosed with manic depression, or bi–polar disorder (Morrissey prefers the older term). He has…
Disappear in Light (2011): A distilled portrait of Wellington playwright and performer Jo Randerson, whose work towards the staging of her play "Good Night, The End" provides…
Food Truck, The (TV Series) (2011): Outgoing Auckland chef Michael Van de Elzen takes on New Zealand's fast–food favourites in this enterprising local series aimed at…
Get Fresh with Al Brown (2011): Down–to–earth chef Al Brown continues to plod around the country, this time sourcing the best fresh produce and ingredients to whip up…
Global Radar (TV Series) (2011): Te Radar seeks out environmental do–gooders both here and abroad in these further 'sustainable adventures' from the intrepid Kiwi comedian.
Hiding Behind the Green Screen (2011): Dir. Paora Joseph; An empowering documentary on the negative impact of marijuana on New Zealand youth, as openly discussed by four young men who are mentored by two…
Inside Child Poverty (2011): Dir. Bryan Bruce; Wellington documentary maker Bryan Bruce investigates the appalling level of child poverty in New Zealand, and travels to Sweden to found out why…
Last Dogs of Winter, The (2011): Dir. Costa Botes; For the past 40 years, in a remote and harshly beautiful corner of northern Manitoba, Brian Ladoon has devoted his life to preserving and breeding an…
My Kind of Place (TV Series) (2011): Kiwi celebrities swan around various Australian holiday hotspots for our entertainment in this thinly veiled tourism advertisement for the lucky…
North (TV Series) (2011): Feat. Marcus Lush; The ever–endearing Marcus Lush follows up his award–winning SOUTH with this typically offbeat traverse of New Zealand's far…
Operation 8: Deep in the Forest (2011): Dir. Errol Wright, Abi King-Jones; Cohesive and compelling documentary that gives credible voice to the Maori sovereignty and peace activists who were targeted in police raids and…
Primeval New Zealand (TV Series) (2011): Excellent Kiwi–spun series adopts the WALKING WITH DINOSAURS model of prehistoric life reanimated with CGI effects to illuminate us on New…
Rugby World Cup 2011 (2011): For the diehard All Blacks fan, an official review of the team's 2011 Rugby World Cup triumph. Includes highlight's from the side's epic…
When a City Falls (2011): Dir. Gerard Smyth; Heavy–hearted chronicle of the impact of Christchurch’s devastating earthquakes, and on the lives of its resilient citizens.
Wild Coasts (TV Series) (Wild Coasts with Craig Potton) (2011): Photographer Craig Potton continues his exploration of New Zealand's celebrated landscape with this new series dedicated to the nation's rich and…
2010 Fifa World Cup (New Zealand; Highlights; World Cup Final) (2010): The All Whites are All Right in this historic three–match replay (vs. Slovakia, Italy, Paraguay) of New Zealand’s courageous showing at the…
Asylum Pieces (2010): Dir. Kathy Dudding; Local filmmaker Kathy Dudding charts New Zealand's cultural and medical attitudes towards mental health and institutionalization, with a movingly…
Coasters (TV Series) (2010): HUNGER FOR THE WILD's Al Brown circumnavigates New Zealand's rugged coastline in search of Kiwi characters and spectacular scenery while cooking up a…
Dave Dobbyn - Beside You (30 Years of Hits) (2010): Still going strong after 30 years, New Zealand’s Dave Dobbyn reflects on a career spanning collaborations from Th' Dudes to Bic Runga, songwriting…
Expedition Antarctica (2010): A team of international marine scientists on board the research vessel PV Tangaroa head for the Ross Sea off the Antarctic Ice Shelf in this battle…
Free China Junk, The (2010): Dir. Robin Greenberg; Dir. Robin Greenberg follows her 2008 documentary HULOO with this toothy, humour–filled yarn, circa 1955, of five Taiwanese fishermen who set…
Gordon Crook: A Life in Art (2010): Dir. Clare O'Leary; Thoughtful, and enlightening portrait of ex–pat British artist Gordon Crook, who since 1972 has called Wellington – and Aro Valley…
Hayley Westenra: Live on Tour in Northen Island (2010): A look at Hayley Westenra’s recent tour of Northern Ireland. Interviewed by the young singer Kate Garbutt, Hayley shows what it’s like to be on…
Home By Christmas (2010): Dir. Gaylene Preston
Feat. Tony Barry, Martin Henderson, Chelsie Preston-Crayford; The director of WAR STORIES returns to the subject for this deeply personal yet affecting docu–drama focusing this time on a single story…
Last Paradise (2010): Dir. Clive Neeson; Cinematographer Clive Neeson's poignant, free–spirited documentary on his pioneering adventures in extreme sports.
Love Story (2010): Dir. Florian Habicht
Feat. Florian Habicht; Ebullient Kiwi filmmaker Florian Habicht creates his own 'New York Story' by turning his camera to a beautiful Russian model and his own creative…
Michael Smither - The Next Ten Years (2010): Dir. Tony Hiles; Intimate two–part documentary following New Zealand artist and musician Michael Smither, as he prepares for his final dealer exhibition and…
Politically Incorrect Guide to Teenagers, The (2010): The irreverent and provocative Nigel Latta returns with advice on how parents can navigate the pitfalls of raising teenagers.
Radar's Patch (TV Series) (2010): Resourceful comedian Te Radar attempts to create a green backyard both lush in life and sustainable in this amusing and enlightening series.
Rivers (TV Series) (Rivers with Craig Potton) (2010): Striking documentary series follows renowned photographer and conservationist Craig Potton as he traverses along some of our most significant…
Sam Hunt: Purple Balloon and Other Stories (2010): Dir. Tim Rose, Jim Scott; A bluntly honest portrait of New Zealand's most recognisable poet, with conversation by Hunt – along with friends, relatives, and other talking…
9/11: Blueprint for Truth (The Te Papa Lecture) (2009): Dir. Colin Hodson; Speaking at Te Papa Museum in Wellington, late 2009, American architect Richard Gage presents further evidence (or complete bullshit, depending on…
Barry Barclay - The Camera on the Shore (2009): Dir. Graeme Tuckett
Feat. Barry Barclay; Film critic Graeme Tuckett directs this sensitive tribute to the late Kiwi filmmaker Barry Barclay, who passed away during the production of the…
Birdland with Jeremy Wells (2009): Dir. Paul Casserly
Feat. Jeremy Wells; Offbeat ornithology with the typically droll Jeremy Wells taking the viewer on a tour of some of New Zealand's finest scenery in pursuit of our most…
Chasing The Ghost: New Zealand's P Epidemic (2009): Feat. Paul Holmes; Relevant documentary sees Kiwi broadcaster Paul Holmes investigating New Zealand's 'P' – pure methamphetamine – epidemic, through the…
Fly My Pretties - A Story (2009): Dir. Mikee Tucker; Represents the best takes from the 2009 New Zealand tour, performed, filmed and recorded across ten shows, and is a conceptual extension of the…
He Wawata Whaea: The Dream of an Elder (2009): Dir. Shirley Horrocks; An insightful portrait of 87–year–old Maori teacher and artist Merimeri Penfold, whose lifelong struggle for Te Reo Maori provides…
Land of the Long White Cloud (2009): Dir. Florian Habicht; Loveable loose sequel to Florian Habicht’s Kiwi classic KAIKOHE DEMOLITION finds the engaging filmmaker returning to Northland, where hundreds of…
Line of Fire (TV Series) (2009): In–depth documentary series delves deep inside the New Zealand police force's highly regarded Armed Offenders Squad, with interviews and…
Living With Coffee (2009): Dir. Diane Abad; Premiering at the 2009 NZ Human Rights Film Festival, this short yet concise doco highlights the importance of fair trade in an $80 billion industry…
Lost in Wonderland (2009): Dir. Zoe McIntosh; Wellington filmmaker Zoe McIntosh offers an insightful take on the Rob Moodie character: an eccentric, headline–grabbing lawyer (and former…
Man In The Hat, The (2009): Dir. Luit Bieringa; Sam Neill narrates this intimate portrait of veteran art dealer Peter McLeavey, commemorating his 40 years in the business of running an independent…
Ours (2009): Dir. Emma Heke; Kiwi 'children's doco' informs kids of the creatures, environments and eco issues that are unique to New Zealand, based around an…
Politically Incorrect Parenting Show, The (2009): Feat. Nigel Latta; Straight–shooting Clinical Psychologist Nigel Latta presents this series that teaches parents parenting tips in a hilariously frank manner…
Sisters from Siberia (2009): Dir. Russell Campbell; Wellington City Councillor Stephanie Cook is the subject of this insightful documentary on her successful adoption of sisters Katya and Nadia, who…
South (TV Series) (2009): Feat. Marcus Lush; Another "love story" from intrepid broadcaster Marcus Lush, who this time explores the South Island of New Zealand, an area he fell in love with…
This Way of Life (2009): Dir. Tom and Barbara Burstyn; Evocative, moving Kiwi doco which treats the viewer to an intimate glimpse of a family who reject modernity and live wild with six kids and fifty…
Through Rainbow Coloured Glasses (2009): Grassroots documentary that explores how the Queer community have survived and thrived in Christchurch over the past five decades. Part documentary,…
Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls (2009): Dir. Leanne Pooley
Feat. Jools Topp, Lynda Topp; An adorable, "Kiwi–as" portrait of NZ's beloved folk–singing comedy duo, Jools and Lynda Topp, which also resonates as a ripely…
Trouble is My Business (2009): Dir. Juliette Veber; Keenly observational documentary about an empathetic assistant principal (Gary Peach) who battles to keep his students in school and out of trouble…
Allan Wilson - Evolutionary (2008): Dir. George Andrews; Pithy and practical documentary on Kiwi ‘evolutionary’ Allan Wilson, whose humble, can–do–anything beginnings thrust him from…
Art Star and the Sudanese Twins, The (2008): Dir. Pietra Brettkelly; With a genuinely compelling subject to draw confession from, this oddly–topical documentary – on the increasingly common adoption of African…
Barefoot Cinema (The Art and Life of Cinematographer Alun Bollinger) (2008): Dir. Gerard Smyth; The camera work of veteran Kiwi cinematographer Alun Bollinger is appraised in this documentary which includes tributes from Peter Jackson, Vincent…
Crossing the Ditch (2008): Surprisingly captivating story of two young Australians, James Castrission and Justin Jones, who were the first people to cross the Tasman by kayak.…
Dance of the Instant (2008): Dir. Shirley Horrocks; Documentary exploring the history of the New Dance Group, who pioneered contemporary dance in post–WWII New Zealand. The film draws on an…
Hollow Men, The (2008): Dir. Alister Barry; Seasoned documentarian Alister Barry distills Nicky Hager's hot potato expose of National Party leader Don Brash into a confronting, election year…
Huloo (2008): Dir. Robin Greenberg; Delightful documentary about the remarkable and diverse life of T’ai Chi master Loo–Chi Hu, nicknamed Huloo, who despite being well into his…
Investigator, The (TV Series) (2008): Probing Kiwi crime doco series investigating six unsolved New–Zealand crimes by delving into the pitfalls of the justice system in our country…
Margaret Mahy: A Tall Long Faced Tale (2008): Dir. Yvonne MacKay; An invaluable documentary on New Zealand's greatest children's writer, which combines a fascinating conversation between Mahy and Elizabeth Knox with…
Off The Radar (TV Series) (2008): Home–grown TV series featuring Te Radar – comedian, presenter and self–confessed latte drinking city boy attempting to become…
Rubbings From A Live Man (2008): Dir. Florian Habicht; Film–maker Florian Habicht finds the perfect portrait subject in Warwick Broadhead, a fiercely independent, 40–year veteran of performing…
Sir Edmund Hillary 1919 - 2008 (2008): Towering tribute to the late, great Sir Ed. Includes the documentary ‘Remembering Sir Ed: A Tribute to Sir Edmund Hillary’, an overview of the…
Third Richard, The (2008): Dir. Danny Mulheron, Sarah Stretton; A labour of love for actor–director Danny Mulheron, this explores the life and music of his unheralded grandfather, Richard Fuchs, a gifted…
Wahine Disaster, The (2008): Commemorative documentary to mark forty years since the Wahine passenger ferry struck Barrett Reef in Wellington Harbour, killing 51 people.…
Yes That's Me - Dave Murphy Plays the Blues (2008): Dir. Costa Botes; Intimate Wellington–based biopic following Kiwi blues performer Dave Murphy as he is given the opportunity to record at Braeburn Recording…
A Civilised Society (2007): Dir. Alister Barry; Documentarian Alister Barry concludes his loose trilogy on New Right economic policies with this impassioned plea for the standards of public…
Antonello and the Architect (2007): Dir. Tony Hiles; A fitting tribute to Wellington architect Bill Toomath (whose associations include the likes of I.M. Pei), dir. Tony Hiles backdrops the…
Big Picture, The (TV Series) (2007): Commentator Hamish Keith brings New Zealand’s imposing arts history down to earth in this appealing, highly accessible reappraisal of everything…
Cowboys and Communists (Cowboys & Communists) (2007): Dir. Jess Feast; Engaging culture documentary centred on a risque East Berlin bar and eatery (known as White Trash Fast Food), operated by an ex–pat 'cowboy'…
Equator (Power of the Sun, Challenge of the Cold) (2007): Stunning NHNZ production exploring six areas of the planet that exist along the equator and the effect this location has on the flora and fauna of…
Flightless: Bill Hammond's Cure for Being Kiwi (2007): Dir. Alan D'Arcy Erson
Feat. Ian Hughes; An intriguing blend of drama and documentary are used to tell the story of an everyman who's life is falling apart at the seams when he is…
Gravy, The (TV Series) (2007): Insightful local arts magazine–style series made by Sticky Pictures for the now defunct TVNZ 7 channel that was a “30 minute tour through…
Here to Stay (TV Series) (2007): An enlightening, culturally pertinent reference point for the current make up of New Zealand society, this six part series revisits a number of key…
Heritage of Maori Song (2007): Comprehensive collection of 15 Maori song and dance performances, including 3 poi dances, stick games, haka and a number of well–known songs…
How To Save The World (2007): Dir. Tom and Barbara Burstyn; Touting globalization as an environmental and human disaster, this inspiring eco–doc looks to India as a provider of possible solutions in the…
Ice (TV Series) (2007): Feat. Marcus Lush; Radio and TV Personality Marcus Lush goes well and truly off the rails, here embarking on a month–long sojourn in the below–zero…
La Verdad? (The Truth?) (2007): Dir. Helen Smyth; Whilst in Cuba, Kiwi journalist and mother–of–two Helen Smyth and husband Tim Rose (of Havana Coffee Works) inadvertently delve into its…
Last Western Heretic, The (2007): Dir. Monique Oomen; Riveting documentary presenting the life and ideologies of New Zealand's leading theologian – 89–year–old Lloyd Geering. A key…
Lovely Rita - A Painter's Life (2007): Dir. Gaylene Preston
Feat. Loren Taylor (Horsley); Evocative, celebratory remembrance of New Zealand’s Rita Angus, told primarily through a collection of over 300 letters the artist wrote to…
NZSAS: First Among Equals (TV Series) (2007): Eye–opening insider’s guide to the SAS offers a unique tour of duty in recruitment and training for the elite special forces, through to…
Rain of the Children (2007): Dir. Vincent Ward
Feat. Vincent Ward, Rena Owen; Vincent Ward's masterful docu–drama – in which he investigates the 'cursed life' of an elderly Maori woman – is a deeply personal…
Th' Dudes Live - Th' 2006 Reunion Tour (2007): One–time reunion tour sees Th’Dudes reunite after 26 years in celebration of Radio Hauraki’s 40th anniversary. Includes live concert…
Time of Our Lives, The (2007): Dir. Gaylene Preston; Kiwi documentarian Gaylene Preston joins 32 war veterans en route to London, selected to inaugurate the erection of a New Zealand War Memorial in…
Ans Westra - Private Journeys/Public Signposts (2006): Dir. Luit Bieringa; Photographer laureate Ans Westra takes to the other side of the camera in this insightful, contemplative retrospective of her photography, and…
Buddha Wild - The Monk in a Hut (2006): Dir. Anna Wilding; Modest documentary following the lives of a group of Thai and Sri Lankan monks as they reveal their unique way of life and dedicated faith. Narrated…
Earthquake (2006): Dir. Gaylene Preston; Staple filmmaker and documentarian Gaylene Preston chronicles the devastating Hawkes Bay earthquake of 1931 through a series of vivid and moving…
Figure 8000 (2006): Dir. Lindon Puffin; Former glam rock front man of The Puffins, Lindon Puffin, takes to the road as an under–resourced solo act, touring with a single roadie in a…
Hunger for the Wild (TV Series) (2006-2007): Wellington restauranteurs Steve Logan and Al Brown (of 'Logan Brown') travel the wilds of New Zealand looking for fresh food to turn into…
Kiwi Kitchen (TV Series) (2006): A wee beauty of a TV series has gastronome Richard Till investigate the roots of Kiwi cuisine and serve up some iconic recipes and dinner…
Last Resort, The (2006): Dir. Errol Wright, Abi King-Jones; A modest coastal campground is the site of much dispute and debate in this thorny documentary casting light on New Zealand’s ceaseless ‘land…
Magical World of Misery, The (2006): A short documentary on the creations and career of New Zealander Tanya Thompson (a.k.a. 'Misery'), who began as a hip graffiti artist and has gone to…
Maori Queen, The: 1931-2006 (Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu) (2006): Televised tribute to the 'Maori Queen', Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu, on the occasion of her funeral in August 2006, edited down from…
New Oceania, The (2006): Dir. Shirley Horrocks; Dir. Shirley Horrocks continues her excellent series on local artists and literary figures with an enthralling study of 'South Pacific' writer Albert…
Sign of the Times (2006): Dir. Victoria Manning, Paul Wolffram; In April 2006 the New Zealand Parliament recognised New Zealand Sign Language as the third official language of New Zealand. This short 'insider'…
Squeegee Bandit (2006): Dir. Sandor Lau; The hard–luck story of a charismatic street window–washer who works the intersections of South Auckland is documented with warmth and…
Struggle No More (2006): Dir. Costa Botes; Affectionate tribute to veteran Wellington band 'The Windy City Strugglers' who formed in 1968 to play a mix of blues, soul and jug–band music…
Surfing the Menu - New Zealand (2006): Adventure–bound Australian food show which here features surf–mad Kiwi chef Mark Gardner and host Ben O'Donoghue on an exciting food…
Tough Act (TV Series) (2006): Dir. Stuart McKenzie; Compelling 'reality TV' show follows a class of aspiring actors in their first year at Toi Whakaari – New Zealand Drama School in Wellington,…
Waves (2006): Dir. Li Tao; Shot with empathy and an open heart, this fine documentary on the arrival of four Chinese high school students to New Zealand offers rare insight…
What Lies Beneath (TV Series) (2006): Feat. Simon Dallow; An eight–part series about New Zealand's archaeological heritage, presenting a series of intriguing site studies, with Simon Dallow asking the…
Aerosol Crimes (Chemtrails) (2005): Dir. Clifford Carnicom; Interesting account of the possible conspiracies lurking behind the increasing presence of 'chemtrails' in our skies. These are the polluting trails…
Banana in a Nutshell (2005): Dir. Roseanne Liang
Feat. Roseanne Liang; Having fallen in love with a white New Zealand boy, 27–year–old Liang turns the camera on herself in this thoroughly intimate…
Billy Connolly - World Tour of New Zealand (TV Series) (2005): Feat. Billy Connolly; The special New Zealand segment of comedian Billy Connolly's 2004 world tour, which has the crazed Scot covering the length of the country over eight…
King Kong: Peter Jackson Production Diaries (2005): Presenting a close–to–the–ground account of the forging of Peter Jackson's KING KONG (2005), this shows the filming with all its…
Loop Select 007 (We Are Here) (2005): The third of the hugely popular "showcase" for New Zealand music, music videos and short filmmaking. This edition also includes motion graphics…
Love, Speed and Loss (2005): Dir. Justin Pemberton; Skilfully interweaving home movies and and present day interviews, this presents a heartfelt tale of a couple's journey through grand prix racing in…
Marcus Lush Collection Boxset (Off the Rails, North, South, Ice) (2005-2011): Feat. Marcus Lush; Four quality documentary series on New Zealand's natural and personal history from television personality Marcus Lush.
Off the Rails - A Love Story (TV Series) (2005): Feat. Marcus Lush; Quality TV series that journeys with presenter and train buff Marcus Lush from Bluff in the South to Opua in the North on a variety of railways…
Old Men of the Point (2005): Dir. Evan Booth; A quasi–experimental documentary which covers the surfing scene on the West Auckland coast including Piha. Includes some tasty archival footage…
Rediscovering Intrepid Journeys (TV Series) (2005): Generally enlightening TV series in which New Zealand celebrities journey to various exotic climes and give a running version of their…
Sedition (2005): Dir. Russell Campbell; Thorough and fascinating doco about the experiences of conscientious objectors in New Zealand during WW2 – particularly the social ostracism…
Who Laughs Last? (2005): Dir. Shirley Horrocks; Short but informative documentary about New Zealand's most successful playwright, Roger Hall. Covers his long career writing for both the stage and…
Allie Eagle and Me (2004): Dir. Briar March; A portrait of an artist, dir. Briar March's highly personalised dedication to Allie Eagle confronts the painter's staunch feminist and lesbian…
Colin McCahon: I Am (2004): Dir. Paul Swadel
Feat. Sam Neill; A sterling examination of the life and work of New Zealand's most renowned modern artist, Colin McCahon, who was born in 1919 and blossomed into a…
Colour of War: The ANZACs (2004): Dir. Paul Rudd, Ben Ulm
Feat. Russell Crowe; Russell Crowe hosts this documentary TV series about the Australian and New Zealand military experience from the 1930s to Vietnam, utilising colour…
Gladiators Of World War Two - The Anzacs (2004): A special look at the contributions of the Australian and New Zealand ANZAC troops during WWII, covering the Greek, African, Italian and Pacific…
Kaikohe Demolition (2004): Dir. Florian Habicht; A glimpse into the mirth, mayhem and pathos of provincial New Zealand, this concerns a group of unkempt Northland residents who relish their…
Marti - The Passionate Eye (2004): Dir. Shirley Horrocks; A celebratory savour of the life and times of New Zealand photographer Marti Friedlander, who arrived from England in 1958 and proceeded to document…
Michael King - History Man (2004): Feat. Colin Hogg; A balanced television documentary on acclaimed NZ historian Michael King, made shortly after his untimely death in 2004. Presenter/writer Colin Hogg…
Sheilas: 28 Years On (2004): Dir. Annie Goldson, Dawn Hutchesson; Utilising the approach of Michael Apted's 7–UP films, this features encounters with the participants of the 1976 New Zealand TV series 'Women'…
Wrestling With The Angel - Janet Frame (2004): An unique insight into Janet Frame's private world, accurately framing her childhood years, psychiatric institutionalisation, and eventual freedom…
Behaviours of the Backpacker (2003): Dir. Sandor Lau; Chinese/Hungarian–American film student, Sándor Lau, walked 500km alone from Auckland to Cape Reinga – New Zealand's geographic and…
Give it a Whirl (2003): An in–depth visual and musical exploration of New Zealand rock 'n' roll stories, from the fledgling sounds of the 1950s to today's…
Haunting Douglas (2003): Dir. Leanne Pooley; Mesmerising exploration of renowned New Zealand contemporary dance performer and choreographer Douglas Wright, featuring generous excerpts of his…
Last Post, The (2003): Dir. Dan Cleary, James Hollings; A documentary of local significance, yet universal application, charting the last week of operations for the long–running Wellington newspaper…
Ngatahi - Know the Links (2003): Dir. Dean Hapeta
Feat. Dean Hapeta; An extended voyage by Upper Hutt Posse–founder Dean Hapeta through the self–determining cultures of many of the world’s indigenous…
Peter Blake - Death on the Amazon (2003): Investigative documentary about the death of famed New Zealand yachtsman Sir Peter Blake, who was sailing up the Amazon River in 2001 before being…
Real Middle Earth, The (2003): Jim Hickey embarks on a journey into the making the LORD OF THE RINGS trilogy, touring the NZ countryside and talking with Peter Jackson (and many…
Test, The (2003): Television documentary celebrating 100 years of rugby with New Zealand's All Blacks. Includes interviews with various legends of the game –…
Captain's Log (2002): Feat. Peter Elliot; Peter Elliot sails around New Zealand retracing Captain Cook's voyage of discovery in 1769. Travelling on 20 different boats, this television series…
Children of Gallipoli (2002): Dir. Anna Cottrell; Interesting documentary interviews the grandchildren of four combatants in the ANZAC Gallipoli campaign of WWI – involving Turkish and New…
Coffee, Tea or Me? (2002): Dir. Brita McVeigh; An engaging lowkey look at the experiences of seven woman who worked as air hostesses in the 1960s and 70s. Similiar in tone to the documentaries…
Flying Visit, A (TV Series) (2002-2003): Former TVNZ weatherman Jim Hickey channels the heritage of his father as a WWII Spitfire pilot and flies a Cessna 182 around New Zealand airstrips,…
Georgie Girl (2002): Dir. Annie Goldson; The unique and quite remarkable life story of Georgina Beyer, born George, a Maori transsexual and former sex–worker, who recently was elected…
In a Land of Plenty (2002): Dir. Alister Barry; Described as ‘the story of unemployment in New Zealand,’ this serves as a strong companion piece for SOMEONE ELSE'S COUNTRY, dir. Barry’s…
Living Room, The (TV Series) (2002-2006): Nicely quirky and unpretentious TV series about different (mostly young) local artists living in New Zealand and overseas. Each episode is presented…
Lost Dinosaurs, The (2002): Dir. Bryan Bruce; The true story of Joan Wiffen who in 1975 discovered dinosaur bones in the remote Mangahuanga Stream (Hawkes Bay, New Zealand). Returning to the…
Manapouri - The Toughest Tunnel (2002): New Zealand's specialist documentarians 'Natural History NZ' tell the heroic story of how a team of a thousand men laboured in the 1960s to complete…
Shipwreck: Deadly Harbour (2002): Dir. Christopher Rowley; Short but vivid documentary account of the disastrous voyage of the Interisland ferry 'Wahine' in April 1968, in New Zealand's worst recorded storm.…
Tomb of the Unknown Warrior (2002): A four–hour special on the opening of the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior in Wellington, New Zealand. This monument was planned to commerate the…
Blerta - The Return Trip... (Blerta Revisited) (2001): Dir. Geoff Murphy
Feat. Bruno Lawrence, John Clarke, Martyn Sanderson…; Less a nostalgia 'trip' than a brilliant compendium of manic moments from New Zealand's 1970's travelling roadshow of anarchic performance –…
Bound for Pleasure (2001): Dir. David Blyth; Non–sensational delve into the Auckland B&D scene from horror dir. Blyth (DEATH WARMED UP), that throws up some bizarre scenes of mistresses,…
Early Days Yet (2001): Dir. Shirley Horrocks; A quietly thoughtful and engaging look at the life and work of New Zealand poet Allen Curnow, filmed when Curnow was in his late–80s and still…
Epitaph (TV Series) (2001): Feat. Paul Gittens; TV series that scours the cemeteries of New Zealand for the intriguing, weird and worthy tales of our ancestor's demises. Paul Gittens is the…
Flight 703 - The Survivors (2001): Individual stories of miraculous survival, heroism and tragedy emerge through the telling of this gripping story of the 15–hour rescue…
Hotere (2001): Dir. Merata Mita; Noted documentary on New Zealand's reclusive artist Ralph Hotere, constructed in non–linear, impressionistic style. Seven years in the making,…
Titless Wonders (2001): Dir. Gaylene Preston; “An upfront exploration of the emotional discoveries of women with breast cancer”, this bravely and valuably documents a subject most people…
Trio at the Top (2001): Dir. John Milligan; Playful Kiwi doco telling the story of the 'golden age' of New Zealand motor sport in the 60s, when Bruce McLauren, Denny Hulme and Chris Amon were…
Feathers of Peace, The (2000): Dir. Barry Barclay; Acclaimed study of the curious history of the Chatham Islands, originally occupied by the Moriori people before conquest by Maori tribes and…
Our People Our Century (2000): Major, award–winning series tells the story of New Zealand and its people throughout the 20th century. Six episodes across three…
Real New Zealand, The (2000): Dir. Shirley Horrocks; An interesting 'backpack' across New Zealand, as seen from the perspective of tourists who choose to get off the beaten trail and spend their…
Whirling Man, The (2000): Dir. Gretchin Mornin, James Hollings
Feat. Arnold Brooker; Brief compelling whirl through the world of Arnold Brooker, an eccentric fixture on the streets of Wellington who campaigns for the rights of the…
Campaign (1999): Dir. Tony Sutorius; Close–up account of the cracking political contest for the marginal seat of Wellington Central during the 1996 general election, given a…
Destination Disaster - The Sinking of the Mikhail Lermontov (1999): Compelling document of the 1986 sinking of Soviet cruise ship Mikhail Lermontov in the Marlborough Sounds. Delves into the controversial aftermath of…
Getting to Our Place (1999): Dir. Gaylene Preston, Anna Cotrell; The creation of NZ’s national museum, Te Papa, was an exciting, self–conscious and fraught journey in defining the nation’s identity, this…
New Zealand Wars, The (1999): Dir. James Belich
Feat. James Belich; Praised, yet inevitably controversial documentary series on New Zealand's 19th century history, in particular the various land–wars between…
Punitive Damage (1999): Dir. Annie Goldson; Emotive documentary about the ordeal of an ordinary New Zealand mother, Helen Todd, who ultimately sued an Indonesian general for punitive damages…
Zoo, The (TV Series) (1999-2006): Selected highlights from New Zealand's own animal documentary series, which looks at the goings–on at the Auckland Zoo among the various animal…
Gathering, The (1998): Dir. Kylie Plunkett; Document of the popular New Years Eve celebrations at Takaka Hill 1997–8, featuring a variety of dance–music, local DJs and of course,…
Hillary - A View From the Top (1998): Feat. Edmund Hillary; A straightforward, populist documentary about New Zealand’s most famous individual, mountaineer and philanthropist Sir Edmund…
Mouth Wide Open (1998): Dir. Jonathan Dennis; A portrait of pioneering NZ camera person and inventor Ted Coubray, who was one of the first people in Australasia to use a sound camera. Offers a…
Velvet Dreams (1998): Dir. Sima Urale; Director Sima Urale presents this short documentary investigating the world of 'velvet paintings' by traversing the Pacific to talk to artists and…
Road to Jerusalem + Roaring Forties (1997): Dir. Bruce Morrison; Affectionate biography/homage tracing the life of the late great NZ poet James K Baxter. Admirable recitals of his verse complement many candid…
Betrayal, The (1996): Dir. John Anderson
Feat. Allen O'Leary; A dynamic mix of documentary, rare achive footage, and vivid dramatic recreations tells the extraordinary adventures of Kiwi Ron Jeffrey in wartime…
Cinema of Unease (1996): Dir. Sam Neill & Judith Rymer; Sam Neill essays a personal history of Kiwi film as a reflection of our national identity. From his big break in the landmark SLEEPING DOGS to the…
Hone Tuwhare (1996): Dir. Gaylene Preston; The late poet laureate, Hone Tuwhare, is captured in this affectionate, candidly observed portrait of an artist. Filmed by Gaylene Preston in the…
Journeys in the New Zealand Heartland (Heartland (TV Series)) (1996): Feat. Gary McCormick; From Stewart Island to Cape Reinga, Kiwi bloke Gary McCormick exposes out–of–the–way New Zealand by way of a scenic…
Kiwi As (1996): Dir. Shirley Horrocks; The second of dir. Shirley Horrocks journey into the delightful world of 'Kiwiana' – those often quaint artifacts of New Zealand's past –…
Kiwiana (1996): Dir. Shirley Horrocks; The first of two congenial excursions into the increasingly popular genre of 20th century New Zealand cultural artifacts, collectively known as…
Someone Else's Country (1996): Dir. Alister Barry; Controversial account of the 'rise of the New Right revolution in New Zealand' was refused television broadcast on account of its 'left wing bias'.…
The Promise - Sir Tristram's Story (1996): The remarkable story of the world's most famous stud stallion Sir Tristram and his partnership with the New Zealand studmaster Patrick Hogan.
Transformers (1996): Dir. Shirley Horrocks; A short documentary about a mid–1990s international art exhibition which showcased works that 'transform' in various ways (create music, grow,…
Trilogy of Films by Alister Barry, A (Someone Else's Country, In a Land of Plenty, A Civilised Society) (1996-2007): Dir. Alister Barry; Alister Barry's trilogy of 'New Right' economic policy documentaries, available together in one set.
Flip and Two Twisters (1995): Dir. Shirley Horrocks; Exploring NZ film–maker Len Lye's other outstanding talent, this documents the ongoing quest to build full–size versions of his…
For Love or Money (1995): Dir. Shirley Horrocks; An interesting documentary about the 1990s New Zealand art scene, in particular the rise in number of those collecting art, whether for pleasure or…
Greatest Moments In Sport, The (1995): A sterling compilation of world–famous sporting moments, matches and races from from Phar Lap's 1930 Melbourne Cup to Fermin Cacho Ruiz's 1500m…
Pacific Rescue (1995): Framed around the infamous 1994 rogue storm which hit 40 vessels and aircraft at sea, this is the story of the largest ever sea rescue in the South…
Putting Our Town On the Map (1995): Dir. Shirley Horrocks; An eye–opening documentary about how many New Zealand towns create prominent versions of local icons in their search for distinction and…
War Stories (War Stories our Mothers never told us) (1995): Dir. Gaylene Preston; Remarkable documentary manages to compel almost exclusively via the spoken word as seven elderly women offer candid yet articulate and boldy frank…
Act of Murder (1993): Dir. Shirley Horrocks
Feat. Miranda Harcourt; A riveting look at NZ actress Miranda Harcourt's impressive solo theatre show 'Verbatim' (written by William Brandt), which was derived from…
New Zealand Trams (1993): A comprehensive look at the history of trams in New Zealand, which have been an elegant and much–admired form of public transport, although…
On Denniston (1993): Dir. Hugh MacDonald, David Sims; Nicely informative documentary on the West Coast coal–mining town of Denniston, which was notable for its ingenious railway incline access and…
Tangiwai and Wahine Disasters (1993-2002): Dir. David Sims, John Carlaw; Released for the first time together on DVD, two in–depth documentaries detailing two of New Zealand's worst transport disasters of the last…
Emperors of Antarctica (1992): Dir. Max Quinn; Before MARCH OF THE PENGUINS, New Zealand's own dedicated documentarians 'Natural History NZ' filmed the story of the Emperor penguin's journey…
Gully-ites, The (1992): Dir. John Anderson; A slice of character–filled life filmed in our own backyard, this is a heartwarming insight into a community with a unique history, capturing…
See What I Mean (1992): Dir. Shirley Horrocks; An interesting and educative documentary about hearing loss and deafness, which follows two sets of experiences: first, of a family who are all deaf,…
Pleasures and Dangers (1991): A glance at the work and lives of six women artists in New Zealand; Alexis Hunter (painter), Alison MacLean (film–maker), Julia Morison…
Rebels in Retrospect (1991): Dir. Russell Campbell; An inquiry into the aims, methods and achievments of the Progressive Youth Movement, Kiwi political activists in the turbulent '60s.
I Want to Die at Home (1990): Dir. Monique Oomen; A sensitive documentary about Elizabeth, a woman with terminal liver cancer who chose to die at home. This is the story of her dying wishes,…
Colin McCahon - Victory Over Death (1988): Dir. Judy Rymer; An award–winning documentary on New Zealand's most controversial and profound contemporary artist, and the social environment that influenced…
Journeys in National Parks (1987): Peter Hayden presents this classic tour through New Zealand's famed National Parks. Episodes: Tongariri, Te Maunga, Westland Aoraki, Fiordland, Te…
Len Lye - Doodlings (1987): Dir. Keith Griffiths; A refreshing paean to New Zealand's best known avant–garde filmmaker (who is equally famous for his kinetic sculptures). Features clips from…
Leading Edge, The (1986): Dir. Michael Firth
Feat. Billy T. James; Adventure docu–drama that's little more than an excuse to show off some wonderful South Island scenery and awesome ski theatrics. Billy T.…
Islands of the Empire (1985): Dir. Alister Barry, Rod Prosser, Russell Campbell; Documentary from Wellington production company Vanguard Films (SOMEONE ELSE'S COUNTRY) offering a valuable examination of military relationships…
Journeys Across 45 Degrees Latitude South (1985): Unique documentary series tracing Peter Hayden's journey from the east of the South Island to the rugged west coast. Made by the same creative team…
Grasp Of Wind, A (1984): Dir. Robert Franken, Russell Campbell
Feat. Neal Gunn; Dutch born New Zealand visual artist Robert Franken's one–and–only directorial effort is a quietly surreal, wordless fable in which a…
Making Utu (1983): Dir. Gaylene Preston; Exemplary behind the scenes documentary observes the making of Geoff Murphy's groundbreaking 'puha western' UTU, revealing both the insistence on…
Patu! (1983): Dir. Merata Mita; The 1981 protests against the South African Rugby tour of New Zealand are documented here by M?ori director Merita Mita, providing a landmark in…
Our Heritage (TV Series) (1981): A unique series of television snippets, in which seven ballads by legendary Waitakere historian Jack Diamond are recited over historical imagery and…
Off the Edge (1976): Dir. Michael Firth; This breathtaking film captures both the grandeur of the Southern Alps and some spectacular skiing and handgliding feats performed by an American…
Mururoa 1973 (1973): Dir. Alister Barry; Documentary filmed on the protest boat "The Fri" which visited Mururoa Atoll in 1973 to protest the testing of nuclear weapons by the French…
Wild South (TV Series) (1972-1982): Acclaimed nature series from renowned wildlife documentary makers NHNZ. Includes the best episodes from the series covering the lives of a range of…
This is New Zealand (1969): Dir. Hugh MacDonald; A long–awaited DVD release of the landmark three camera/three projection spectacle, produced by the National Film Unit for the New Zealand…
Children of the Sun (1968): Dir. Andrew McAlpine; A nostalgic time capsule from the 1960s about the burgeoning surf culture of New Zealand and Australia during the heyday of longboarding. Filmed…
Country Calendar (TV Series) (1966-2015): The iconic New Zealand series that unveils the doings of our rural populace – their innovations, traditions and eccentricities. 'Very Best…
War Years (1939-1945): An excellent representative selection of wartime footage shot by the National Film Unit during WW2. Originally distributed as newsreels, this…
Time to Remember, A - New Zealand Edition (Movietone Edition) (1930-1975): Comprehensive archive of New Zealand Cinesound and Movietone newsreels, from 1930–1975. Surveying five decades of Kiwi history and heritage,…
Adventures in Maoriland: An insight into the making of 'Hei Tiki', a romantic drama by American Alexander Markey, circa 1930. From the Education and Resource Series.
Coast New Zealand (TV Series): New Zealand chapter of the picturesque BBC documentary series exploring the world's coastlines. Neil Oliver returns as presenter, and explores…
Exiles - The Story Of A Polish Journey: Dir. John Anderson; A 30 year old writer and historian endeavours to uncover more about her Polish mother's harrowing life prior to arriving in Wellington in 1944, as…
Keri Hulme: An encounter with the acclaimed writer by Gaylene Preston plus an except from Hulme's short story 'Hooks and Feelers'. From the Education and…
Maori - Culture, Traditions and History: Historical doco presented by NZ historian Don Stafford tracing the history of Maori from their arrival on the fair shores of Aotearoa to traditional…
Newest City On the Globe: Dir. Peter Wells, Stewart Main; From the Education and Resource Series, this is Peter Wells and Stewart Main's film about our art deco city, Napier.
Pop - The Conspiracy of Popular Culture: Dir. Aaron Keown; Laughable, local–made conspiracy ‘doco’ concerns a dubious Larry Loungehard galavanting around the world with various pop cultural icons in…
Wake: Dir. Annie Goldson; Annie Goldson's complex film that examines 'NZ as the promised land for immigrants'. From the Education and Resource series.

Main menu

Section navigation menu

Subgenre Sampler