Tracking Shots
Close Ups on NZ Film History
Hei Tiki's Troubles
New Zealand film's first bad boy was American director, Alexander Markey.
Markey arrived in New Zealand in 1928 to make Under the Southern Cross for Universal Studios. He exploited and offended local people and acquired taonga by dubious means. Fortunately he was recalled as costs rocketed and the film was finished by his assistant Lew Collins.
But Markey came back. In 1930 he filmed the locally backed Hei Tiki around Taupo. Markey again caused trouble with local Maori and is still remembered with bitterness.
Hei Tiki was finally screened in New York in 1935 and in New Zealand four years later.
