The surviving, shortened 1949 version of Rudall Hayward’s groundbreaking film is inspired by the 1864 Battle of Ōrākau, where Rewi Maniapoto and 300 supporters resisted the advance of 1,500 imperial troops during a three-day siege. Hayward wove a fictional love story around this historical event, between settler Robert Beaumont, and Ariana, a young Māori woman played by the filmmaker’s future wife, Rāmai Te Miha (also known as Patricia Miller).

Screened in partnership with Canterbury Museum. 64 mins

With special thanks to Ngā Taonga Sound and Vision and the Hayward whānau.