Polynesian Panthers

Check out this look back at the Polynesian Panthers Movement that was inspired by the Black Panther movement in America!

We check out some of the history behind how the movement started here in NZ, and how their pioneering work has helped pave the way for future generations.

In the 1950s thousands of Pacific Islanders came to Aotearoa to meet a labour shortage. They faced racism, and in the 1970s, notorious dawn raids by police. In 1971 a group of young gang members and students set up the Polynesian Panthers to stand up for the rights of the Pasifika community.

They ran food co-ops, homework centres, and lobbied for support services. In this Dan Salmon-directed documentary, presenter Nevak Rogers explores the inspirations, events (Bastion Point, Springbok Tour) and legacy of the movement co-founded by her uncle Will 'llolahia.

PART 1 

PART 2 

PART 3 

PART 4