Australian Idol winner Stan Walker made his acting debut in this hit feature, as aspiring singer Turei. Part of a whānau of Māori potato pickers from Pukekohe, he has to choose between duty to job and family (Temuera Morrison plays his hard-working Dad) and letting the music play. His dilemma takes place as reggae star Bob Marley performs in Aotearoa in 1979, offering the chance for Turei's band Small Axe to win a supporting slot at Marley's Western Springs concert. Released on Waitangi Day 2013, Tearepa Kahi's debut feature became the most successful local release of the year.
There’s more to me than just spud picking.– Turei (Stan Walker)
Small Axe Films
Made with funding from NZ Film Commission and NZ On Air
All Small Axe songs composed and arranged by Shane McLean, and performed by the Small Axe: Turei, Hone, Pou, Reg and Shane McLean
All Small Axe lyrics written by Tearepa Kahi
'Take it Easy" (Walker/ Egizii / Musumeci) performed by Stan Walker
'Need Your Love' (Gavin Kaukau) performed by Golden Harvest
'Booker Boogie' and "God Defend New Zealand' performed by Kevin Kaukau
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