Loading Docs 2019 - Mana Wahine

This short Loading Docs documentary goes behind the front lines of the SOUL (Save Our Unique Landscape) protest at South Auckland's historical Ihumātao site. The focus is on Pania Newton, the young woman leading the occupation. In 2019 the land dispute placed the issue of indigenous land rights versus commercial muscle back in front of mainstream Aotearoa. Newton leads protests and chairs meetings with fellow mana whenua and community representatives, planning their next move. As pressure mounts on the movement she grieves the loss of her father.

For us this isn't a Treaty issue, this is a cultural heritage landscape issue in that this is the last remaining piece for mana whenua ... within the context of all the land that was confiscated and all the injustices our whānau and our marae have endured for many, many years at the hands of the Crown.

– Pania Newton explains the significance of SOUL's Ihumātao occupation

Key Cast & Crew

Jason Crane

Cinematographer

Conan Fitzpatrick

Cinematographer

Evan Howell

Cinematographer

Corinna Hunziker

Director

Juliette Veber

Producer

Mia Henry-Teirney

Producer