Pollywood - Pasifika Film

17/08/2026

Mauri Ora! Leo's Farewell will be deserved of all the Mahi he did and the passion he had for Native Film and the Maori/Pasifika narrative. Looking forward to the Wairoa pilgrimage & paying my last respects to a champion of Maori/Pasifika film dear friend. See you soon Bro ; )

A special invitation to join the Koziol family at Kahungunu Marae on Thursday 20th August, for one last hoorah. Powhiri begins at 2pm, followed by an evening of kai and kōrero. Overnight guests may stay at Marae on Thursday night. Friday morning will be an early start in preparation for Leo's 10am service. Please take time to review the 2-day timetable.

For catering purposes, please RSVP here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfGnvQWnVV9EE2f6lISG_K2oOoqYltr-fi2A0cKRUd_Bl88Gw/viewform

06/08/2026

My Dear Brother in native film - Leo Koziol.
Our last meeting in March this year was shared over a humble brunch in Grey Lynn. Discussing the up coming NZIFF short film selection and how we would Captain another showcase of the BEST NZ short films via our Waka - NZIFF Nga Whanaunga Maori Pasifika Short Film Programme .

You founded the Wairoa Maori Film Festival Inc. over 20 years ago and graciously invited Pollywood Pasifika Film to be a part of the first Maori film festival for which I will be forever grateful. We grew to be faithful comrades in the war to uphold the voice of the marginalized in film. Countless conversations, opinions and perspectives we shared have impacted the landscape of Maori & Pasifika film. It will not be the same without you ; (

Beyond film we had a unique connection that only we understood and I will sorely miss. You indeed were one in a million and I am truly honoured to be considered your friend.

Huge Alofa to your Son Jordan and grand-daughter Mila.
Much respect to all those you freely gave your light to.
Nga Mihi Nui!😢

16/01/2026

Aroha Awarau... Gone too soon...

29/11/2025

Final screening at the Auckland Art Gallery was a success ; )

Thank you to the gracious directors Aroha Awarau, Vea Mafile'o & Marcus Savelio for sharing your time and knowledge of film with the audience. Humble thanks to all the Directors who were in Pollywood this year!

Pollywood Pasifika Film 24 / 2026 is on the horizon - if you would like to submit your film for consideration - please reach out.

Grateful & Blessed to share Polynesian pride in film
Monuina!