History Brought to Life: Curtis’ New Historical Documentary

Now streaming on RNZ, NZ Wars: Stories of Waerenga-a-Hika, co-directed by DEGANZ member Richard J Curtis, brings a pivotal moment in Aotearoa’s history to the screen. 

Drawing on the perspectives of iwi historians and Dr Vincent O’Malley, a historian whose work specialises in Māori and Pakeha relations, the documentary presents the story of Waerenga-a-Hika, one of the most devastating battles of the New Zealand Wars in 1865. Focusing on the descendants of those who fought and survived, NZ Wars: Stories of Waerenga-a-Hika sheds new light on a history that has long been overlooked in Aotearoa.

Aiming to honour the communities that suffered from the war and land loss, the series serves as an act of remembrance and reclamation.

The 43-minute doco is a mix of drama reenactments with interviews and footage from present day. Richard wrote and directed the drama scenes, while co-director Cameron Bennett took the lead on the factual aspects. 

You can watch NZ Wars: Stories of Waerenga-a-Hika on RNZ now!

Last updated on 30 July 2026