POI E: THE STORY OF OUR SONG

Documentary / Biographical
New Zealand, 2016, 94 min

Directed and written by:  Te Arepa Kahi
Cast: Dalvanius Prime, Patea Maori Club, Ngoi Pewhairangi, Maaka Pohatu

Poi E is the name of simple Maori song with a catchy melody, that was produced more than thirty years ago and quickly became the unofficial national anthem of New Zealand. The creators, linguist Ngoi Pewhairangi and musician Dalvanius Prime, made the song to encourage young Maoris to be proud of their roots. Their creation was a hit that combined traditional Maori music with 80’s pop. The film humorously documents the creation the unconventional song and its journey to fame not only in New Zealand but also internationally.