A new initiative designed to nurture the next generation of Māori filmmakers is set to strengthen indigenous storytelling on screen, with the launch of the Aho Shorts Development Lab, a wānanga-based programme supporting emerging Māori creatives to develop original short film projects.
Delivered through a partnership between Ngā Aho Whakaari and Caravan Carpark Films, the programme aims to provide aspiring Māori writers, directors and screen storytellers with the skills, mentorship and industry connections needed to transform ideas into compelling short films.
The initiative comes as Māori storytelling continues to enjoy growing recognition both nationally and internationally, with indigenous voices increasingly shaping New Zealand’s screen industry through film, television and digital media.
The Aho Shorts Development Lab has been designed as more than a traditional training programme.
Built around the concept of wānanga, participants will work collaboratively alongside experienced filmmakers, producers and industry mentors to refine their creative ideas while strengthening cultural approaches to storytelling.
The programme focuses on developing short film projects from concept through to production readiness, giving participants practical experience in script development, pitching, collaboration and project planning.
Organisers say the initiative recognises that Māori stories are strongest when they are developed within kaupapa Māori environments that value whakapapa, tikanga and collective learning.
Ngā Aho Whakaari has long advocated for greater Māori participation across every part of New Zealand’s screen industry, from writing and directing through to producing, editing and technical production.
The organisation says increasing Māori representation behind the camera is essential to ensuring authentic Māori stories continue to reach audiences in Aotearoa and around the world.
Short films have traditionally served as an important pathway into the wider film industry, allowing emerging creatives to build portfolios, develop professional networks and showcase their storytelling ability before progressing into feature films, documentaries or television productions.
The Aho Shorts Development Lab is intended to strengthen that pathway by providing structured support at an early stage of filmmakers’ careers.
The programme arrives during a period of significant growth for indigenous storytelling.
Māori filmmakers have achieved increasing success at international film festivals and on global streaming platforms, with audiences showing growing demand for stories grounded in te ao Māori, whakapapa and indigenous perspectives.
Productions exploring Māori history, language, identity and contemporary life have become an increasingly important part of New Zealand’s creative sector, contributing both culturally and economically.
Industry leaders say supporting emerging talent is essential to maintaining that momentum and ensuring the next generation of storytellers has opportunities to develop sustainable careers.
Beyond individual career development, organisers believe programmes like the Aho Shorts Development Lab contribute to the long-term strength of New Zealand’s screen sector.
By investing in Māori storytellers early, the initiative aims to increase diversity across the industry while encouraging stories that reflect the experiences, aspirations and realities of Māori communities.
The programme also supports wider efforts to build Māori capability across creative industries, creating opportunities for rangatahi and emerging practitioners to learn directly from established professionals.
As New Zealand’s film and television industry continues to evolve, initiatives such as the Aho Shorts Development Lab demonstrate a growing commitment to ensuring Māori voices remain central to the country’s creative future.
For participants, the programme offers more than technical training—it provides an opportunity to develop stories grounded in culture, language and identity while building lasting relationships within the screen industry.
With Māori storytelling continuing to resonate with audiences both at home and overseas, organisers hope the Aho Shorts Development Lab will help launch a new generation of filmmakers whose stories reflect the richness and diversity of te ao Māori.
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