Kava ‘o Aotearoa is an exploration of the ancient history and traditional Pasifika practices associated with the ancient kava root. A collective of Pasifika cultural leaders have come together to revive an ancient Tu’i Tonga kava ceremony and adapted it to be performed exclusively within Aotearoa and have included Tangata Whenua at the apex of this unique kava circle. This short documentary is a reminder of the history Pasifika and Māori share with one another, maintaining and acknowledging Tangata Whenua as being the true custodians of Aotearoa and realising tikanga must evolve if we are to ensure the survival of our traditional practices of Tangata Moana and Tangata Whenua.
Concept & Director: Joshua Baker
Producer: Maria Tanner