Projects
in Development

Stolen Lands A Highlanders Quest

Five x 30 -minute episodes
General audience Te reo & Gaelic speakers.

In this compelling five part documentary, witness how the formidable Māori chief Te Rauparaha creates an unexpected collaboration with the settlers, uniting against their shared enemy: The British Crown. Follow the heart-wrenching journey of the Clan MacDonald survivors, who set sail across the seas to establish a new life in a new world, only to face additional threats from the British. Discover the incredible story of Hector, a Highlander who overcomes cultural barriers to live amongst Māori people, and with the help of Te Rauparaha, learns the Māori language and tikanga. Through powerful storytelling and stunning cinematography, Stolen Lands brings to life the inspiring story of how different cultures can unite against a common foe, and the unbreakable bond between a people and their land.

Hāngī Pants

n 1971, Tawera's life takes an unexpected turn when music producer Lingus Brown discovers him during a lively Tangi ceremony in a close-knit Marae community. Faced with the choice of abandoning responsibilities and his best friend April, Tawera leaps into the unknown world of the music industry in Sydney, Australia.

Blinded by the dazzling lights of the entertainment business, Tawera is captivated by the charismatic socialite Maybelle. The allure of fans, parties, and paparazzi is intoxicating for the young man from a humble town. Life in the bustling city fulfills Tawera's dreams of fame, fortune, and the most sought-after woman. However, the honeymoon period doesn't last, and Tawera realizes the true cost of his newfound stardom.

Amidst the demands of his music career and a high-maintenance girlfriend, Tawera yearns for the simplicity of his humble home. A surprising call from April about Nanny Tira's illness prompts Tawera to cancel his biggest show and rush home, leaving behind a disgruntled Maybelle.

In Ahipara, Tawera discovers April's significant commitment to the community. Nanny Tira imparts her final advice on love, and a surprise visit from Maybelle creates a stir in the small town. Returning home and reconnecting with April sparks a change of heart. Maybelle's presence at Nanny Tira's send-off highlights the disconnect between Tawera's two worlds.

In a moment of clarity, Tawera confesses his love to April, deciding to leave fame and fortune behind for red bands and Hangi pits, realising it's his true calling.

Our
Projects

Welcome to Ten Canaries, a visionary production company changing the game in the film and television industry. Our mission is to create compelling content that showcases the unique stories and experiences of Māori communities while also fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for Māori creatives.

Nau mai ki Te Toki Tūkanohi, he kaitohutohu whakaata i ngā kōrero me ngā hītori tuku iho o ngā hapori Māori. Ko tā mātau whāinga he whakatinana i ngā whakaaturanga e whakapau kaha ai te reo me ngā tikanga Māori, me te whakawhanaungatanga o ngā kaitohutohu Māori.

STOLEN LANDS | Betrayal of a Chief

This is the story of one of Aotearoa’s most compelling and misunderstood historical figures. In a thrilling five-episode series, we will cover the accusations, injustice and conspiracy that took place in Ōpōtiki in 1865, which led to the unjust execution of Te Whakatōhea Chief Mokomoko.

Release Date - April, 2023.

Te Kūiti tanga o Te Manawa | The Heart of Te Kūiti Pā.

The historic Te Kūiti Pa holds one of the oldest whare in Aotearoa, Te toka nganui a noho. Gifted to Taonui and Maniapoto by Te Kooti in 1872, it was a sanctuary for Te Kooti and symbolised resistance to colonisation. The grand whare was crafted using Wīwī, Raupo & Manuka bundles and officially opened in 1873 before King Tawhiao.

Release Date: 2022.

Projects in Development

Our Projects

STOLEN LANDS | Betrayal of a Chief

Projects
in Development

Our
Projects