Since 2012, the Wairoa Māori Film Festival and Pollywood have proudly curated the Ngā Whanaunga Māori Pasifika short film programme at NZIFF - a celebration of storytelling rooted in whanaungatanga and the deep connections between Māori and Pasifika communities.
Now in 2026, this legacy evolves into something even more powerful: Ngā Whanaunga: Aotearoa New Zealand’s Best. This year’s programme brings together the finest short films not only from Māori and Pasifika filmmakers, but from across the motu, showcasing the best of Aotearoa’s creative voices. Out of 130 submissions, 14 outstanding finalists have been selected, promising a bold, diverse, and unforgettable cinematic experience.
Check out Ngā Whanaunga: Aotearoa New Zealand’s Best - Programme Two for more films!
Yes David (2025)
Directed by Ghazaleh Gol
If you've done nothing wrong, you've got nothing to fear. The requirement for absolute compliance is clear. - LK
Arrival (2025)
Directed by Ahmed Osman
Assimilation via torment and curiosity. Welcome to Aotearoa. - CF
In Conversation with Jack Maurer (2026)
Directed by Hash
Something's not quite right in the modern, free tech state of Aotearoa. - LK
Daunitukutuku (2024)
Directed by Tumeli Tuqota
Tradition, War, Power, Deceit & Suspense - Identity with Sovereignty echoes strongly through to today for the people of Feejee. - CF
Tall Hours (2025)
Directed by Sophie Black
Charismatic tale of a thoroughbred that captured the hearts of many and tortured the heart of one. - CF
Kurī (2025)
Directed by Ana Chaya Scotney
Blunt, unapologetic & beautiful, Kurī resonates. - LK
Lady Shaka: Sonic Sands (2026)
Directed by Ursula Grace Williams
The triumph of the marginalized migrating to the world arena. - CF
Discover more NZIFF films, here.
A Wave in the Ocean + Peel
Inspiring a new generation of filmmakers
A cohort of emerging writers and directors were selected for A Wave in the Ocean, a 12-month intensive driven by filmmaking powerhouses Dame Jane Campion and Philippa Campbell. The programme offers an incredible opportunity for developing filmmakers to deepen their craft and encourages steps towards feature filmmaking, through short-film development.
Five titles from A Wave in the Ocean will also screen as a part of the Ngā Whanaunga Aotearoa: New Zealand’s Best programme: Kurī, Lion Rock, Socks, The Girl Next Door, & In Conversation with Jack Maurer.
