We worked to a simple idea - present a true offer of partnership from Aotearoa, in a way that no other film nation could. An offer from deep within our culture, that promotes the uniqueness of place and the warmth of our people. The thought of carving 15 bespoke Pounamu Aurei materialised from the various wānanga we had - a special gift for 15 special film leaders, and a way to perpetuate a significant object from Māori culture and activate its mauri out in the world with this kaupapa.

These Aurei speak to the establishment of a special connection that comes from making ‘stories’ here with us. A promise of care, to know that our people and country will embrace you. These unadorned Aurei were gifted alongside a letter offering further embellishment once they had journeyed here and worked with us.

This project created many special connections for The New Zealand Film Commission and ongoing opportunities for the wider film industry. A true taonga that places Māori culture at the heart of how we can do business offshore and shares the beauty of how we see the world from here, Aotearoa New Zealand.