Poppy

Poppy tells the story of a car-mad Kapiti teenager keen for independence and a shot at love. It is also the first Kiwi feature to cast an actor with Down syndrome in the starring role. Kapiti Coast-based writer/director Linda Niccol knew "immediately" that Whanganui teenager Libby Hunsdale was perfect for the role of Poppy, as she possessed the same vibrancy and ambitions as the scripted character. Poppy also stars Ari Boyland (Shortland Street) as Poppy's protective older brother. Seb Hunter (Hunsdale's real life friend) plays Poppy's love interest Luke; he also wrote the film's original songs.