Friend of Flicks and filmmaker Florian Habicht is marking Matariki with a trio of his films that spotlight Te Tai Tokerau – its unforgettable characters, its spirit, and the kind of raw, heartfelt storytelling only he can deliver.
Streaming from Matariki weekend on TVNZ+
Florian’s cult documentaries Kaikohe Demolition and Land of the Long White Cloud – each one a salty, soulful tribute to life in the Far North – land on TVNZ+ on Friday.
Kaikohe Demolition is as legendary as its cast of local heroes – think demolition derbies, steaming hot springs, and whānau vibes for days. Meanwhile Land of the Long White Cloud goes philosophical on the shores of Ninety Mile Beach, following surfcasters at the Snapper Classic in a film that’s meditative, funny, and full of local wisdom.
James & Isey
Matariki big-screen events
In Tāmaki Makaurau, doc James & Isey is back on the big screen. It follows the bond between 99-year-young Kawakawa kuia Isey Cross and her devoted son James, in the days leading up to her 100th birthday. Each screening has an in-person Q&As with Florian.
James & Isey plays:
– Sat 21 June, 6:30pm at Avondale’s Hollywood
– Sun 22 June, 5:30pm at the Bridgeway in Northcote
And, Kaikohe Demolition will screen outdoors in Kawakawa on Friday, a proper whānau night with kai, blankets, and lanterns released in memory of those who’ve passed.
Kaikohe Demolition screens:
– Friday 20 June, 6:30pm at Atea Square, Kawakawa
These screenings are held in memory of Florian’s dad, the legendary Sixties photographer Frank Habicht who departed from Kawakawa hospital last October; James Cross the subject and loving heart of James & Isey who passed this year; and Lotte, Florian’s beloved pet chicken.
Says Florian, “As the stars gather once again in the winter sky, we are invited to pause, to reflect, and to reconnect with what truly matters to us. Hope you can join me when we celebrate these bright shining stars of the Far North!”
