Whale Rider

Story

In a small coastal town in New Zealand, a long line of Whangara chiefs claim descent from Kahutia Te Rangi, the legendary Whale Rider. When Kahu is born, her great-grandfather is grief-stricken. She cannot be his heir and save their declining community because she is a girl.

Despite her success at school and skill with the old ways, Kahu cannot win her great-grandfather’s approval. But she believes that becoming chief is her destiny, and so do the whales lying deep within the ocean.

Why we chose it

Whale Rider is a vivid and challenging young adult novel about a young girl’s determination to overcome traditions and prejudices.

The story was adapted into a beautiful and highly successful film.

Where it came from

Witi Ihimaera was born in New Zealand in 1944 and was the first Maori writer to publish both a book of short stories, Pounamu Pounamu (1972), and a novel, Tangi (1973). He wrote Whale Rider, which is a modern reworking of a Maori legend, because his daughter complained that story heroes were always boys.

Where it went next

The book was adapted into a hugely successful feature film by writer and director Niki Caro. Some questioned whether Caro, as a ‘pakeha,’ a New Zealander of European descent, should adapt a Maori story. She collaborated closely with the Maori community during development and filming, and the work was inspected and blessed by the elders.

Whale Rider achieved worldwide critical and commercial success, winning audience choice awards at the Toronto and Sundance film festivals, and an Academy nomination for its young female lead, Keisha Castle-Hughes. It was one of New Zealand’s most commercially successful films of all time.

Associated stories

Witi Ihimaera has written many other books, including The Uncle’s Story; The Matriarch; Maori Boy: A Memoir of Childhood; and Navigating the Stars: Maori Creation Myths.

Niki Caro has directed many other films including North Country and the live-action Disney remake of Mulan.