Poi E: The Story of Our Song

This documentary tells the story behind one of New Zealand’s most iconic pop songs. Led by Dalvanius Prime, the Pātea Māori Club single was released soon after the town’s freezing works closed. Conquering disinterest from record labels and radio, 'Poi E' became 1984's highest selling single. The "warm, funny, touching" film (The NZ Herald) from Tearepa Kahi (Mt Zion) features interviews with Pātea locals and famous fans (Taika Waititi, Stan Walker). Poi E won applause at the opening of the 2016 Auckland Film Festival. The first excerpt covers fundraising and a rushed recording session. in the second, The Topp Twins pay tribute.

'They want you to perform at the Royal Command Performance in Scotland.' I said 'We haven't got any money to do that!' And so I went and mortgaged my house.

– Dalvanius Prime

Key Cast & Crew

Jos Wheeler

Cinematographer

Francis Glenday

Editor

Dalvanius Prime

Subject

Fred Renata

Cinematographer

Reikura Kahi

Producer

Tearepa Kahi

Director, Writer, Editor, Executive Producer