AROHA. A STORY OF THE MĀORI PEOPLE

Aroha, the daughter of a chief, attends a Wellington University and is no longer content with the narrow life and teachings of the marae. During a visit with whānau, her father falls ill. She persuades him to seek medical advice at the local hospital, much to the disapproval of tribal elders. After a time he becomes well and she gains the respect of her people.

Aroha depicts a young Māori chief's daughter who embraces the modernity of the Pākehā world (attending university in Wellington) while confronting her place with her own people (Te Arawa) and traditions at home. The NFU-produced dramatisation is didactic but largely sensitive in making Aroha's story represent contemporary Māori dilemmas (noted anthropologist Ernest Beaglehole was the cultural advisor). Watch out for some musical treats, including an instrumental version of classic Kiwi song, 'Blue Smoke' and a performance of the action song 'Me He Manu Rere'. nzonscreen.com

With Moana Kahui as Aroha.