Wansolmoana Film Series 2026
- Saturday 7 March from 10:30am to 12pm
- Saturday 7 March from 12:30pm to 2pm
- Saturday 7 March from 2:30pm to 4:45pm
This March, enjoy the Wansolmoana (One Salt Ocean) Film Series, a cinematic celebration of stories from the South Pacific. From standing up to cultural injustice, to rallying together in unexpected ways, to navigating profound personal transformation, this year’s lineup of films illuminates the many forms of strength found across our ocean of islands.
Plus, enjoy free entry to the Australian Museum’s Pasifika Gallery, Wansolmoana (One Salt Ocean), on Level 2.
Please be advised some seats in the theatre have obstructed views. Seating is not allocated in advance and will be available on a first come, first served basis.
The Haka Party Incident (Saturday 7 March, 10:30am - 12pm)
On 1 May 1979, a group of young Māori and Pasifika activists confronted a gathering of University of Auckland engineering students as they rehearsed their ‘mock’ haka. The fracas that followed prompted the nation to confront systemic racism and make change for a better and more equal partnership between Pākehā and Māori. Despite the clash changing race relations in Aotearoa forever, the incident itself was quickly forgotten. Until now...
Red, White & Brass (Saturday 7 March, 12:30pm - 2pm)
Maka, a Tongan superfan, will do whatever it takes to get tickets to the Tonga v France Rugby World Cup game – even if that means promising to deliver a brass band for the pre-match entertainment. Only problem is, the band doesn’t exist and Maka has four weeks to make one. Based on a true story, this inspiring film showcases one community’s perseverance, passion and cultural pride on an international stage.
Tinā (Saturday 7 March, 2:30pm - 4:45pm)
Still mourning her daughter’s death in the Christchurch earthquakes, Mareta reluctantly becomes a substitute teacher at an elite private school and is surprised to find children in desperate need of guidance, inspiration, and love. Drawing on the musical traditions of her Samoan roots, she forms a rebellious, soulful student choir, rekindling connection, identity and healing across generations.