有关the Maori of New Zealand（毛利人）的资料

The Whale Rider is touching the world with its beautifully expressed depiction of Eastland Maori culture. The heroine Paikea's struggle for recognition and the mysticism of local legend mingle to cast a spell over people of all ages and cultural backgrounds.

The movie is based on the novel by Witi Ihimaera, who was born and bred in the Gisborne region.
"My early life was spent in this very special part of New Zealand. Much of it is still untamed and wild - you can lose yourself in the beaches, hills, valleys, mountains and rivers", says Witi. "Living in Waituhu, where I was born, is like living in a National Park."

The coastal road that traces the edge of Eastland is dotted with small Maori settlements. The beautifully carved meeting houses aren't just for show, they're used every day. "The Maori people in this region are actually living the culture", says Witi.

For Niki Caro, who directed the movie, l