Internationally acclaimed director Lee Tamahori’s first New Zealand film in 20 years, MAHANA, will have its New Zealand premiere on February 22, 2016 at Hoyts Sylvia Park, Auckland.
The film, which was filmed in part on location at the Onehunga Community House, depicts a profound and enduring tale of rural family life based on the book Bulibasha by Witi Ihimaera, who also wrote Whale Rider. The premiere will be held in partnership with Variety – The Children’s Charity, with proceeds benefitting Kiwi kids living in deprivation.
Producer Robin Scholes explains: “We are delighted that a portion of ticket sales will go to Variety to support their work with children and families. Mahana is all about family, so it’s a very welcome and appropriate alliance.”
Set in 1960’s rural New Zealand, two Māori sheep-shearing families, the Mahanas and the Poatas, battle for supremacy in the shearing sheds and in their own hearts. The youngest Mahana, 14-year-old Simeon, is troubled by the rivalry and begins to unravel the truth behind the longstanding feud.
Stacey Morrison, will be MC for the evening which will feature a performance by the acclaimed Western Springs College Kapa Haka group - Nga Puna o Waiorea, before MAHANA Director Lee Tamahori and Bulibasha Author Witi Ihimaera introduce the film.
Key cast members of MAHANA will attend this special screening, which will be held at Hoyst Sylvia Park on Monday the 22nd of February. The evening will begin at 7pm with light refreshments and entertainment, followed by an introduction by Director Lee Tamahori and Bulibasha Author Witi Ihimaera. Tickets begin at $40, and all proceeds will support Variety – The Children’s Charity to create brighter futures for Kiwi children living in deprivation.
To purchase tickets visit www.iticket.co.nz or call 09 361 1000
