Loading Docs 2024 - Hifi Ulu

Luka is approaching his 10th birthday and his very first haircut. Following the Niuean cultural tradition of Hifi Ulu, his haircutting ceremony will be a rite of passage — one which has, at times, been contentious for his family. This Loading Docs short film Hifi Ulu follows Luka and his family in the lead-up to the ceremony, and the big day itself, including intimate moments and emotional confessions. The importance of the tradition to Luka's father Shayne is treated with raw honesty. Directed by Luka's aunt Chantelle Burgoyne (We Are Still Here), she explored similar themes of tradition in 2012 short Tatau.  

He has mixed feelings about his hair. 

– Luka's mother Leilani on Luka's feelings about his long hair

Key Cast & Crew

Julia Parnell

Executive Producer

Cam Williams

Cinematographer

Hayley Felise

Producer

Chantelle Burgoyne

Director, Writer

Tuki Laumea

Executive Producer

Nia Phipps

Producer