Kids recognised with eco film comp awards

JULIA WADE

19 Sept, 2022

Budding young film directors and actors have recently been recognised for their creative cinematography efforts showcasing various ways of looking after the world, from amazing worms, to tips on recycling, the goodness of bananas and even a warning what could happen if you mess with sea turtles.

Making its debut, environmental advocate organisation Sustainable Kaipara’s Kids Eco Film Competition award ceremony was held at Mangawhai Movie Theatre on September 3. Children living in the Mangawhai-Kaiwaka area were invited to submit a short film, between 30-90 seconds long, showing their ideas via film which would encourage the community to look after the environment. The young locals wrote dialogue, acted and directed, using props and extras including vengeful Lego sea turtles and a bunch of wiggly worms, to tell their stories.

The movies were showcased and appraised in several categories including acting and singing, uniqueness of topic, knowledge base and best presenter, as well as overall winners in different age brackets.

Sustainable Kaipara director Sarah Bray says the films were impressive.

“There were a lot of talented script writers, costume designers and creative storytelling, with topics ranging from how to buy better birthday presents to cleaning up the beach to recycling correctly,” she says. “A big thanks to our judge Andy Bruce of Elevated Media NZ for his expertise and time given to the competition. Also thanks to our generous sponsors for the prizes and Mangawhai Movies for having us – what a cool opportunity for the kids to see their work on the big screen!”

Young environmentally-mindful movie makers receive prizes for their efforts at a recent award ceremony, sponsored by local businesses and organised by Sustainable Kaipara. PHOTO/SUPPLIED