World premieres of NZ films make for some of the most rewarding audience experiences at NZIFF. Waru, a striking gathering of eight different stories centred around a tangi, will have its world premiere in Auckland. Directed by Briar Grace-Smith, Casey Kaa, Ainsley Gardiner, Katie Wolfe, Chelsea Cohen, Renae Maihi, Paula Jones and Awanui Simich-Pene, it is an event that promises to be moving and memorable. Human Traces, the debut feature from Nic Gorman, will have its world premiere in Christchurch before screening in Auckland and Wellington.

We also welcome the chance to present the NZ premieres of two features that have already found an international audience. Toa Fraser’s 6 Days is a thrilling portrayal of a terrorist attack on British soil, and Jackie van Beek’s The Inland Road is a confident debut featuring fresh faces in the lead roles.

New Zealand films at NZIFF are proudly supported by Resene.