2024 Auckland, Aotearoa, New Zealand. WM (Whakaata Māori)

Whakaata Māori (Māori Television), in partnership with the World Indigenous Television Broadcasters Network (WITBN), hosted Hawaikirangi – 2024 World Indigenous Content Conference, a global gathering of Indigenous storytellers.

Shane Taurima, Kaihautū (Chief Executive) of Whakaata Māori and WITBN Chair, stated that the theme, Hawaikirangi, signified enduring cultural heritage and its pivotal role in shaping identity across generations.

“This conference highlighted the enduring power of Indigenous storytelling, bringing together Indigenous storytellers, content creators, and professionals from film, media, broadcasting, marketing, and communications. Hawaikirangi 2024 was the perfect platform for creators to showcase their work, connect with others, and learn,” Taurima said.

The event featured international keynote speakers, including Johan Ailo Kalstad, Chief Executive of Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation (NRK) Sámi Television; Tanya Denning Orman, Australian SBS Director and respected Birri and Guugu Yimidhirr woman; and Monika Ille, CEO of the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) in Canada and a member of the Abenaki First Nation of Odanak. Local Indigenous artists, creators, and leaders, such as Professor Rangi Mātāmua, film producer and acclaimed actor Cliff Curtis along with well-known actor Temuera Morrison also participated.