Roimata

Part of the E Tipu E Rea series, Roimata tells the story of half-sisters, one raised in a rural area, the other in the city. The pair recoonect when the country-born sibling arrives in the city.  Before long, she has learned some harsh life lessons.

Based on a stage play by Riwia Brown, the writer was initially unwilling to adapt her story for the screen, and even more reluctant to direct it. When she realized the only female Māori director working in New Zealand at the time was Merata Mita, she  recognized the need to develop the talents of Māori women in the film industry.

Riwia Brown went on to write the screenplay for the phenomenally successful Once Were Warriors.