Tirohia Karioi Film
Tirohia Karioi – Behold Karioi is a locally made feature documentary that explores the many relationships people hold with Mount Karioi.
Through shared memories, histories and lived experience, the film reflects the depth of connection between the maunga and those who have lived, worked and created alongside it.
Bringing together perspectives from hapū, long-established whānau, artists, farmers, conservationists and former trappers, the film presents Karioi as a place shaped over time by whakapapa, care and human presence.
Developed by the Toitū Whāingaroa team — Lisa Thomson, Lara Sweetman and Michelle Levy — with post-production and original music by Gareth Bellamy, the project was inspired by strong community interest following the launch of Oliver MacLeod’s Geology of Karioi Volcano in 2024, particularly in Karioi’s pūrākau and hapū perspectives.
Circumnavigating the maunga, the team interviewed 17 people with deep ties to Karioi, capturing its many faces and relationships — beyond the familiar Raglan viewpoint.
At its heart, Tirohia Karioi reflects Toitū Whāingaroa’s kaupapa of shared learning, respectful dialogue and kotahitanga, acknowledging different worldviews while celebrating connection.