Rangatahi Voices Take Flight at Ka Rere Te Manu 2026
More than 120 filmmakers, whānau, kaiako and rangatahi gathered at the Māoriland Hub in Ōtaki on Friday, 8 May for the Ka Rere Te Manu, the E Tū Whānau Rangatahi Film Awards 2026.
Showcasing short films created by rangatahi aged 12–25 from across Te Ika a Māui, the awards celebrated Māori creativity, storytelling and emerging filmmaking talent through a diverse programme of original short films.
From comedy and action to grief, identity and documentary storytelling, the films were funny, bold, emotional and fiercely original, reflecting the unique voices and lived experiences of rangatahi Māori.
Our Te Uru Maire strategy ensures rangatahi are supported to develop creative skills, tell authentic stories and explore pathways into screen storytelling. Thanks to the support of E Tū Whānau, Māoriland is able to continue delivering these opportunities for rangatahi. Participating kura included Ōtaki College, WRM, Waiopehu College, Hato Petera Kaniera and Te Korowai Whakamana, with films created during intensive two-day filmmaking workshops facilitated by Te Uru Maire. Judges highlighted the strong sense of collaboration and kaupapa shown by rangatahi throughout the filmmaking process.
“The group came together almost immediately and put the kaupapa first, all while adhering to the ETW values. From pen to screen it was a pleasure to see this team work as one,” E Tū Whānau Judge Ethan (Tipo) Seddon-Cope said.
Ka Rere Te Manu celebrates rangatahi taking flight through storytelling, with this year’s films strongly reflecting E Tū Whānau values of aroha, whanaungatanga, whakapapa, mana manaaki, kōrero awhi and tikanga, both on screen and behind the scenes.
MCs Tamati and Paige from Hurō Productions brought humour, warmth and energy to the day, helping carry the kaupapa and keeping the whare buzzing throughout the awards
The awards recognised a wide range of rangatahi filmmaking talent, with films exploring everything from grief and identity to comedy, action and community advocacy, while judges noted the courage, creativity and collaboration shown by rangatahi working under intense timeframes.
Several filmmakers were highlighted by judges for their storytelling, leadership and creative vision. The emotional depth of storytelling was evident through Tides, with Kepas Pala receiving Te Ihorei, Rangatahi Filmmaker of the Year.
“Kepas has shown a level of interest and skill as a filmmaker at his age that is super focused,” judges said. “He shows a keen understanding of how he wanted to express his story in all facets, story, composition, colour, editing and everything in between.”
Leadership behind the camera was also celebrated, with Lina Valu receiving Te Kaitohutohu Toa, Best Director for Final Day, and Lila Porteners awarded Māire Raunui, Rangatahi Leader for her guidance and leadership throughout the creation of The Cursed Wairua.
This year’s award winners also included:
Te Ahi Kā Teina – Highly Recommended U14
Karaetehana Cuthberth (Clash)
Te Ahi Kā Teina – Best Performance U14
Waiata Estrata Y Santiago (Freeze)
Te Ahi Kā Tuakana – Highly Recommended U18
Kepas Pala (Tides)
Kauri De Croix (The Cursed Wairua)
Charlie Cutler (The Cursed Wairua)
Te Ahi Kā Tuakana – Best Performance U18
Joy O’Dwyer (Final Day)
Wai Ora – Best Use of Theme
Final Day
Kotahitanga Award – Best Ensemble
Final Day
Te Tino Whakaataata – Best Drama
The Missing Fourth
Pakipūmeka Mātua – Best Documentary
Māoritanga
Māire Raunui – Rangatahi Leader
Lila Porteners (The Cursed Wairua)
Te Kaitohutohu Toa – Best Director
Lina Valu (Final Day)
Te Ihorei – Rangatahi Filmmaker of the Year
Kepas Pala (Tides)
Across the day, Ka Rere Te Manu highlighted the power of rangatahi storytelling and the importance of creating spaces where young Māori voices can be seen, heard and celebrated.
As the credits rolled on another year of Ka Rere Te Manu, one thing is clear… these rangatahi are only just getting started.
