MAHIKA KAI Wins Best Short Form Documentary at 2025 AIDC Awards

MAHIKA KAI a compelling short documentary showcasing indigenous food traditions in Te Waipounamu (South Island New Zealand), has won Best Short Form Documentary at the 2025 Australian International Documentary Conference (AIDC) Awards.

The remarkable film follows Tūmai Cassidy and his whānau (family) as they work to rejuvenate ancestral lands through the practice of mahika kai—traditional Kāi Tahu food-gathering methods. Set against the stunning landscapes of Wānaka, the documentary underscores themes of environmental stewardship and cultural resilience.

Directed by Kieran Mpetyane Satour—a filmmaker of Gurindji, Pertame, Worimi, and Baloch (Afghan) heritage—and founder of GARUWA, a First Nations-owned and led impact-driven production company dedicated to the power of storytelling. MAHIKA KAI was made possible through the Monster Children x Lake Wānaka Tourism Short Film Awards, an initiative that champions authentic storytelling from the Queenstown Lakes region, with emerging filmmakers working alongside local production crews to bring unique narratives to life.

As the 2023 winner, Satour crafted a film that offers an intimate and powerful portrayal of indigenous food traditions, ensuring the story is told with depth, authenticity, and cultural integrity.

We’re incredibly proud to see MAHIKA KAI recognised at the AIDC awards, said Gizelle Regan, Head of Destination for Lake Wānaka Tourism.

“These awards celebrate the best in documentary and factual content, drawing filmmakers, producers, and industry leaders from around the globe. Winning this award is a milestone not just for the filmmakers but also for Wānaka, reinforcing its identity as a destination deeply rooted in place, values-driven tourism, and committed to meaningful storytelling”.