MAKAVE (2025) | Short Documentary

SYNOPSIS
In Tonga’s Vava’u Islands, the people of Makave village share stories from the frontlines of ocean stewardship. This short documentary explores how their marine protected area is transforming life—economically, socially, and culturally—as they navigate the balance between conserving marine ecosystems and feeding their families. Through their voices, we discover the challenges and innovations shaping sustainable fishing futures.

DETAILS
Genre: Mini-Documentary
Running Time: 10:30 Minutes
Language: Tongan, English Subtitles
Music: Recordings by David Fanshawe (1978)
Production Companies: NO SIX & VPON Media
Release Date: December 2025
Copyright: © 2025 Teena Brown Pulu, Niko Meredith, Rewi Amoamo, Sylvester Tonga. All rights reserved.

PRODUCTION TEAM
Writer, Executive Producer: Teena Brown Pulu
Producer, Director: Niko Meredith
Cinematographer: Rewi Amoamo
Interviewer: Sylvester Tonga
Location Assistant: Sanitesi ‘Ofa

CAST | COASTAL COMMUNITY
Makave Town Officer: Taniela Laione Tu’i
Makave Marine Zone Committee: Sione Manupuna Ika
Makave Fisher: Penieli Haukinima Finau
Makave Gleaner: Lavinia Ika

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Makave Village, Vava’u
Ministry of Fisheries, Tonga

FUNDED BY TE ARA POUTAMA
Community Research Grant, Auckland University of Technology (AUT)