People of the Waikato

People of the Waikato makes frequent pitstops along the 425 km path of NZ's longest river. Made in an era of post-war electricity shortages, the film balances requisite beautiful scenery with excursions into the Waikato's extensive hydroelectric system: including then-unfinished fourth dam Whakamaru, whose development was slowed by the discovery of clay in the foundation rock. Alongside brief glimpses of those who live and work on the river, there is footage of stunt-filled canoe races, Turangawaewae Marae, and a veteran boatman tugging coal. 

When it passes Atiamuri where the pine forests have been planted, the river is smoother. It runs deep here, in places twice as deep as its wide.

– Narrator Patrick Smyth

Key Cast & Crew

Oxley Hughan

Director, Writer

Bob Kingsbury

Editor, Writer

Patrick Smyth

Narrator

Brian Brake

Camera