Seven Rivers Walking - Haere Marire to make Christchurch Premiere

Christchurch and the braided rivers of the Canterbury Plains have been poisoned and depleted for the sake of agri-business. 

Filmmakers Gaylene Barnes and Kathleen Gallagher interview diverse collectives of Cantabrians who have been walking and rafting the length of the rivers, from the mountains to the sea, to educate themselves and others, about the damage done and the opportunities available for repair.

Anglers, rafters, trampers, Ngāi Tahu, Fish and Game, Forest and Bird, natural scientists, farming families, old and new, all bear witness, some as designated experts, all as sentient inhabitants of the only planet we’ve got.

 In the film, a fisherman recalls how the mighty Rakaia once pushed its way a mile out to sea. Aerial footage shows us the river today as it slinks into the sea, obliterated by the first breaker that crosses its path.

The wonderful music from Songbroker artist Ariana Tikao's album Tuia features in the film.

You can listen to Ariana's music here.

Seven Rivers Walking - Haere Mārire will premiere at the Christchurch International Film Festival on August 19th.