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Two Indigenous broadcasters have launched a collaborative production partnership on an upcoming children’s adventure series. New Zealand’s Whakaata Māori and Canada’s APTN announced their work on “Māui & Elvis,” a science fiction comedy that brings together creative talent from Māori and Métis/Cree communities across both nations. The partnership was revealed at the World Indigenous Broadcasters Network Conference in Sápmi, Norway.
The series follows two young protagonists—Māui from New Zealand and Elvis from Canada—as they embark on a mission to rescue Māui’s grandmother from an alien threat. The story is primarily set across New Zealand’s South Island, with scenes filmed in Vancouver, incorporating local landscapes and cultural elements. Te reo Māori will comprise at least 30 percent of dialogue, while Māori cultural values remain central to the narrative.
Industry leaders emphasize the significance of the collaboration for Indigenous representation. Officials from both broadcasters highlighted how the project delivers culturally grounded storytelling without sacrificing entertainment value, allowing young audiences to see themselves and their languages reflected on screen. The series aims to create family viewing content that celebrates Indigenous perspectives while reaching international audiences.
The partnership exemplifies growing cooperation among Indigenous broadcasters worldwide. WIBN, an international network founded in 2008, facilitated the collaboration between the two organizations, demonstrating how cross-national Indigenous partnerships can produce distinctive, culturally authentic content for children and families.
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Originally reported by Variety →
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