A Boy’s Powerful Niuean Rite | Hifi Ulu (2024)

As Luka prepares for a significant Niuean rite of passage, the ceremony sparks cultural expectations and unspoken conflicts. Luka simply hopes to navigate the day his own way.

Luka is a boy full of action and adventure, distinguished by his long, uncut hair—a proud symbol of his Niuean heritage. As his tenth birthday approaches, Luka prepares for the Hifi Ulu ceremony, a rite of passage that will mark his transition into young manhood. Navigating this milestone in his own unique way, Luka’s journey is quietly mirrored by his father’s unresolved feelings, having never experienced the ceremony himself. As the day draws near, anticipation builds, leaving everyone to wonder how Luka truly feels about this pivotal moment in his life.

Director: Chantelle Burgoyne | Producer: Hayley Felise

Hifi Ulu is part of the new Loading Docs Season 10. Watch the full season on the ‪@LoadingDocsNZ‬ channel.

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