Celebrating 10 years this year, Kia Mau Festival is at the forefront of contemporary Tāngata Whenua, Tāngata Moana, and Indigenous art in Aotearoa and beyond. The festival brings together artists through a programme of incredible productions, and one of those is The Handlers.

Set against the backdrop of a politically charged Aotearoa — where mana Māori motuhake is rising and the Dawn Raids are casting long shadows — The Handlers tells the story of women holding it down, lifting each other up, and handling more than most ever knew.

Today I am joined in-studio by Co-Director Sepelini Mua’au and cast member Waitahi Aniwaniwa McGee.

Kia ora kōrua welcome to Parakuihi!