Tō Te Wai

When her ambitious nature-led project clashes with local iwi, Renaye is forced to confront the idea that she has been too far from home, too long.

 About the project:

In late 2022, Michaela Te Awa and Georgia-May Russ wrote a script for a short film that highlighted how difficult and personal it can be to begin a journey of reconnection to your culture. This film pulled from real-life moments and conversations we'd had as Māori wahine, and was initially sparked by a poem written by Michaela.

She remembered the cold hard concrete underneath her feet 

She remembered the light droplets of rain falling across her cheek

She remembered the smell of dampness all around her

She remembered the spin tingling karanga coming from the distance 

She remembered the knot in her tummy and the uncertainty in her heart 

Then she remembered she was not alone, she stood with her fam

Bruh, this anxiety is lit, this is where you are from so why are you so scared? 

I don't know 

Take your shoes off 

Enter the wharenui

Three days later you belong 

You got through it 

Not only that but you connected 

You belong 

Just like that life has changed 

You know who you are 

Where you come from 

Evolution… Pfffffttttt

I do not whakapapa back to apes.

I am the descendant of gods. 

The original script was commissioned as part of Someday Stories Series 7 - an incredible organisation that supports emerging directors and producers with funding and mentorship on their first funded film journey. Since then our film, Tō Te Wai, has been refined and reflected upon, upgraded, renewed and is ready to start shooting.

We started filming on the 17th April - 19th April in Whatawhata, with an incredible crew and cast, we have one more day to film coming up!

A short film that blends the real-life experiences of the writers with a poignant narrative. This film follows Renaye, a white-passing Māori woman who moved away from her whānau - and her culture - as a young girl.

About the People:

Writers

Michaela Te Awa Bird

Georgia-May Russ

Director

Georgia-May Russ

Producer

Jewels King

Consultancy

Reon King

DOP

Jared Jones

1st AD

Sammie Craddock

Cam Assist

Finn Kaad

Cameron Sly

Gaffer

Cameron Sly

Sound

Ngakorau Nohotima

Rob Pendy

Art Department

Mariah Jones

Costume

Anahera Morehu

Make Up Artist

Sarai Ndaba

Runner / PA / Locations / The Guy Who Can Do Everything

Leo Allan

Unit

Reon King & Whaanau

About the Narrative:

Renaye's life is unsettled when her plan to create a nature reserve is halted due to lack of consultation and her disregard for local iwi, and when she needs to return to her old home and her marae, she is uncertain she can face the shame and hurt that follows her.

We are seeking additional funds to cover the remaining production, post-production and marketing of the short film. We believe this film will enter many hearts, and that there will be many Māori and indigenous people out there who will resonate with the characters involved, and we hope this film will encourage them in their own journeys of returning to their roots.

The additional funds will go to:

-Bolstering the rates for our cast and crew so that we can fairly pay them for their time and mahi.

-Increasing the allocated budget we have for editing and sound sourcing, including an original score for the film.

For people who contribute, we would love to invite you to the private screening of the finished film.

Nga mihi nui