When Nobody Was Looking

A Pākehā entomologist takes on the 1970s New Zealand Government, calling out institutional racism.

We need your support to tell this culturally historical story on Loading Docs’ award-winning short documentary platform.

THE FILM

In 1970s Aotearoa, Dr. Oliver Sutherland took on the New Zealand Government. What drove a scientist who specialised in grass grubs to become a leading fighter for justice on abuse and racism? And how has his advocacy had a lasting impact on the disproportionately Māori and Pasifika victims?

Spending 15 years discovering atrocities of racism and abuse, Dr Sutherland and his wife Ulla Sköld started the Auckland Committee on Racism and Discrimination (ACORD) in 1973 with a handful of like-minded Pākehā. ACORD, with their lawyer David Lange, were part of a vanguard fighting alongside Ngā Tamatoa and the Polynesian Panthers.  

50 years later, the evidence is at long last having a pivotal impact on current hearings in the Royal Commission Enquiry into Abuse in Care. 

When Nobody Was Looking explores the fundamental question of Pākehā responsibility for the systems of power and institutional racism in New Zealand. A topic not only relevant, but critical, in understanding and creating an impact on our current social and political climate.

THE TEAM

As the nephew of Dr Oliver Sutherland, this is a hugely important and personal story for director Alex Sutherland. Alex grew up close to this story and the artistic community surrounding it. Of Ngāi Tahu descent, Alex’s previous short documentary The Jump is one of Loading Docs' most successful films to date. Producer Bianca Delalic also has a deep understanding of creating stories centred on the justice system and wider social injustices.

THE TARGET

As part of the Loading Docs initiative, we need to raise a minimum of $3,500 through Boosted to do justice to this story. This funding is critically needed to acquire archival TV footage, produce animated photo and drawn story elements, and also pay for the crew and equipment for filming interviews.

Once we reach our minimum target, it will unlock additional funding from Loading Docs. But, this is an all or nothing campaign. If we don’t reach our target, we get nothing! That’s why we need your help. 

Loading Docs is an award-winning short documentary initiative to develop New Zealand filmmaking talent. Loading Docs is funded by NZ On Air with support from NZFC and Te Māngai Pāho.

Thank you for your support.
Alex Sutherland and Bianca Delalic