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The New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF) has today announced the winners of the 2024 New Zealand Best Short Film Award and the Ngā Whanaunga Māori Pasifika Short Film Award. Health Care Stands out and wins the Best Film Award at the New Zealand International Film Festival Lea Tupu’anga/Mother tongue.
The five finalists for the Best New Zealand Short Award, selected by guest judge Gerard Johnstone, showcased an impressive array of talent. The six finalists for the Ngā Whanaunga Māori Pasifika Shorts Award, selected by curators Leo Koziol (Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Rakaipaaka) and Craig Fasi (Niue), were also highlighted for their unique contributions to the film industry.
After receiving the award, Via Mafileo expressed deep gratitude and pride, especially because her award coincided with the upcoming Tonga Language Week – Tonga Language Week. “I feel very honoured and proud to receive such a prestigious award, especially on the eve of Tonga Language Week.”
“This film represents the different cultural journeys each of us takes. We take many paths and our experiences vary. Cultural identity and belonging look different for everyone. But it’s what you feel inside that counts. That’s loto-māfana,” Maffileo said.
The Jury Awards were presented following the screening at ASB Waterfront Theatre in Auckland on Sunday 18 August as part of the festival’s New Zealand Film Focus Weekend. This year’s festival not only celebrated the rich diversity of the New Zealand film community, but also recognised the unique voices of Māori and Pacific Islander filmmakers who continue to make significant strides in the film industry.
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