Great New Zealand River Journeys: The Whanganui River with Sam Hunt

In this series exploring New Zealand's iconic rivers, poet Sam Hunt investigates the rich history of the Whanganui River, which was an important highway for Māori and Pākehā alike. Before colonisation, generations of Māori knew and named every bend and rapid. Hunt talks to local historians about the heyday of riverboats and steamboats, and to families who've farmed in the area for generations. Historian Arthur Bates explains the history behind the mysterious Bridge to Nowhere. As Hunt travels the river, he breaks into verse — especially at Jerusalem (aka Hiruhārama) where his friend James K Baxter is buried. 

There's no journey or destination with out a beginning, no river without a source. And this is where the Whanganui River begins its course, a trickle high up in the Western slopes of Mount Tongariro.

– Presenter Sam Hunt begins his journey at the source of the Whanganui River

Key Cast & Crew

Andrew Coleman

Cinematographer

George Andrews

Producer

Bill Toepfer

Editor, Post-Production Supervisor

Sam Hunt

Presenter

Stephen McCurdy

Composer

Keith Hunter

Director