Whetū Mārama: Bright Star explores the story of Sir Hekenukumai Ngaiwi Puhipi, Hek Busby, and his significance to Te Ao Māori, the Māori world, in rekindling their wayfinding DNA and for all New Zealanders in reclaiming our place as traditional star voyages on the world map.

The ultimate underlying focus of the film is the story of a culture that understands an inner compass. Being at sea and trying to find your way across a vast ocean without modern technology makes you completely dependent on the natural world to find your way. Find your way at sea – find who you are – and find your way in life. Hec talks of always knowing where he is and a sense of connection to his ancestors that lies "just below the surface". His voyaging has reconnected his crews with their inbuilt GPS systems and they in turn are teaching and inspiring the next generation, building a bridge back into our past to take us forward into the future.

2021, 94 mins. Watch the trailer here.