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This film outlines the efforts to transform the “barren” pumice-lands of the North Island’s Central Plateau into arable farmland. Once scientists discover the magic missing ingredient that will make the soil more fertile (cobalt chloride), the staggering job of burning scrub, ploughing and sowing begins. It is dated by the requisite 'triumph over nature' narrative, but John Feeney directs with flair, making elegant use of montage and composition. Writer Maurice Shadbolt regarded it as "without doubt the best film to come from the [National Film] Unit".
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Television, 2000 (Excerpts)
A look at some of NZ's early farming families
Short Film, 1950 (Full Length)
Another 1950s NFU documentary with a focus on Rotorua
Film, 2007 (Trailer and Excerpts)
A more ecologically sensitive approach to farming
Television, 1981 (Full Length Episode)
The country's best farmers fight it out
Television, 1981 (Full Length)
Rural drama set in what used to be the ‘pumice lands’
Finalist - Most
Outstanding Website
The ONYAs 2010 & 2011
Best Entertainment Website
Finalist – Website design
Qantas Media Awards 2009
NZ ON SCREEN 2012
This website has been made with funding from NZ ON AIR ›
Bevan Marten
Posted at 08.18AM - 02.12.2011
The pitching of man against nature, with scientists and pioneers working to tame nature with chemicals, machines and fire is certainly of its time, and a modern viewer would struggle to express such earnest enthusiasm for the project. We would surely never present land development in the same way now, but would mining sections of our conservation estate really be so different in substance?
The absence of any reference to the Maori history of the land is also telling, although the confident use of"Pakeha" (at 16:53) is an encouraging sign.
The Maori man wielding a flamethrower (at 9:23) definitely has the makings of an internet meme.