2001, Directed by Merata Mita   •  New Zealand • ​ 82 mins  •  HD •  M adult themes

For more details about this film visit https://www.nzfilmsociety.org.nz/hotere.html

Whanganui Film Societys invite you to a special public screening of the acclaimed documentary Hotere directed by pioneering Māori filmmaker Merata Mita (1942–2010).

Presented jointly by Whanganui Film Society and Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery, this screening invites you to experience an intimate and evocative portrait of one of Aotearoa’s most significant artists, Ralph Hotere (Te Aupōuri).

Widely regarded as one of New Zealand’s foremost contemporary artists, Ralph Hotere is the subject of Mita’s impressionistic and deeply considered documentary. Rather than following a conventional biographical format, Hotere offers a perspective on the artist’s world through his extensive body of work, relationships, and environment.

The documentary is enriched by a distinctive score directed by Hirini Melbourne, blending jazz, Māori, and popular music traditions. Poetry readings by Hotere’s first wife, poet Cilla McQueen, add another layer of texture, echoing the interdisciplinary nature of Hotere’s creative collaborations.

Admission is by koha at the door, ensuring the event remains accessible to all.

See Film Society website membership for membership fees.

The Whanganui Film Society 2026 season is a year-round film festival of classic and contemporary art cinema. Whanganui Film Society meets most Monday evenings February to November (excluding public holidays) at the Davis Lecture Theatre, Whanganui Regional Museum.  Screenings begin at 7.00pm unless otherwise stated.  Please arrive early to sign up or collect memberships. Film Society representatives will be in attendance from 6.30pm.  Join them for a cuppa and an ice-cream from 6.40pm.

​Most screenings are open to members only so join the Film Society today for:

• Access to exciting cinema that pushes the boundaries beyond the mainstream fare
• A diverse mix of fiction and documentary films to enlighten and entertain
• Exceptional value – a full membership subscription works out at only $3 per session (even less with discounted membership)
• Free entry to any other NZ Film Society screenings and discounts at Whānau Mārama New Zealand International Film Festival with full membership
• A welcoming community of friendly film-lovers!

whanganuifilmsociety@gmail.com