Film by descendants

The Girls War - Historical New Zealand Film

The descendents from both sides of New Zealand's early history develop a film based on a dramatic true story of love and war. Currently under development, with the working title The Girls' War, is a feature film based on the true story of English whaling captain and early pioneer William Darby Brind. The film is being developed by his direct descendants, father and son New Zealand film makers, John and James Blick, with the assistance of Moka Puru, direct descendant of Ngãpuhi chief Rewa (see image on left).

Bridging the years 1819 to 1850, and set in Kororãreka (modern-day Russell), the Pacific Ocean and London, the film charts Brind's life against the vivid and chaotic backdrop of the birth of modern New Zealand.

Brind earned the approbation of local missionaries (including Henry Williams) through his sale of muskets to Mãori and his relationships with the daughters of prominent Ngãpuhi chiefs Hongi Hika, Põmare I and Rewa.

He was blamed for the Girls' War, a battle on the beach at Kororãreka, and the loss of many lives. The child from his relationship with Moewaka, daughter of Rewa, was tragically murdered on Motuarohia (Roberton Island) and resulted in the hanging of Maketü, the first official execution after the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. This act contributed to the eventual sacking of Kororãreka by Hõne Heke in 1845.

At its heart, The Girls' War is a story of love and adventure. As a whaler and a businessman, Brind is drawn to the opportunities New Zealand represents. But as a man he is torn between two loves -a Mãori chieftain's daughter, and his English fiancée - two cultures and two worlds.

The producers have undertaken extensive research and are currently working on the script.

For enquires about The Girls' War:

Please email John Blick: blickmod@ihug.co.nz

from http://www.brownpages.co.nz/ downloaded February 2009