‘Kōkā’ Wins the NETPAC Award at HIFF
Local feature, Kōkā, edited by DEGANZ member Te Rurehe Paki, won the 2025 Network for the Promotion of Asian-Pacific Cinema (NETPAC) Award at the 45th annual Hawai’i International Film Festival (HIFF) in late October. Writer/Director Kath Akuhata-Brown and Producer Verity Mackintosh were there in person to accept the award at the private ceremony held in Helekulani.
NETPAC is an international not-for-profit organisation dedicated to promoting Asian and Pacific film globally. As part of their work, they sponsor the NETPAC Award at various film festivals worldwide to promote Asian and Pacific cinema by spotlighting exceptional works and discovering new talent.
The jury selected Kōkā for the award, commenting on the film’s “magical and moving intergenerational journey of healing and reconciliation through language, culture and community.”
Under the celestial guidance of Matariki, the film follows Māori elder Hamo and local delinquent Jo, who form an unlikely bond on a road trip. As they confront past traumas and each face their demons, their shared path becomes a journey of healing, community and reconciliation.
Congratulations to Te Rurehe and the entire team!
Last updated on 19 November 2025
