South Island Premiere of Think Like A Forest

Join us for a powerful evening of film and conversation exploring nature-based climate solutions in Aotearoa. Curated and hosted by Wao, in partnership with Pure Advantage and WAI Wānaka, the feature of the evening is the premiere of Think Like a Forest, a compelling new documentary that makes the case for the Recloaking Papatūānuku initiative, an urgent and ambitious programme to restore our indigenous forests and wetlands at scale.

Join hunter, fisher and bushman Sam The Trap Man on a journey as he profiles the deep connections people have with native forests and the role they play in building resilience in our landscapes for climate and community . 

We’ll also screen a new short film from WAI Wānaka and host a kōrero with Simon Millar (Producer of Think Like a Forest and Executive Director for Pure Advantage) and David Norton (ecologist), moderated by Jose Cranfield (WAI Wānaka).

Join us from 6pm-7pm, and enjoy a chance to mingle with like-minded attendees and our guest speakers. We’ll have nibbles on offer, and the bar will be open. The event kicks off at 7pm sharp.

Special No Frills Screening – the 7pm Think Like a Forest event sold out, so we’re adding a 5.30pm screening with a brief intro from Simon Millar and David Norton. Stick around afterwards for drinks, nibbles, and casual conversation with the crew. Tickets can be found HERE.

Guest Speakers

DAVID NORTON: Emeritus Professor David Norton is a leading ecologist supporting native biodiversity on farms, working with farmers and industry to enable win-wins for climate and conservation. David lives in Lake Hāwea. 

SIMON MILLAR: Simon Millar is the Executive Director of Pure Advantage an NGO focussed on presenting sustainable pathways for New Zealand in a low carbon economy. He is also the Producer of Think Like a Forest, a new documentary film that brings to life Recloaking Papatūānuku an ambitious environmental initiative for large-scale ecological restoration of native forests and wetlands across Aotearoa.

CAT DILLON: Cat is the CEO of WAI Wānaka, with a background in ecology, biosecurity and the UK water industry. She’s passionate about connecting people to the water that sustains them and making it easier for communities to take action for their environment.

JOSE CRANFIELD: Jose brings water chemistry expertise and a passion for resilient communities, connecting people and ideas at WAI Wānaka to protect our lakes and streams.

Jose will moderate the panel conversation on the night.

SCREENING OF FASHION REIMAGINED and More!

Join us for a powerful evening of storytelling, inspiration, and change as we showcase Slow Fashion this May with a special Wao Film Night.

We’ll be screening the critically acclaimed documentary Fashion Reimagined, which follows British designer Amy Powney’s transformative journey to create a sustainable fashion brand from the ground up. It’s a bold look at what it takes to rethink an entire industry — and why it matters.

Also showing: Wastebusters’ short film Slow Fashion, which shines a light on how our clothing choices affect the planet – and what we can do to make better ones. A representative from Wastebusters will also share a few words.

Guest Speaker: Sue McLean, co-founder of McLean & Co.
We’re thrilled to be joined by Sue McLean, who will speak about the challenges and opportunities in today’s fashion industry and how we can be part of a global movement for change.

Guide Launch: Wao’s Slow Fashion Guide
On the night, we’ll be launching our brand-new Slow Fashion Guide — your companion for making conscious clothing choices, valuing craftsmanship, and honouring the stories behind what we wear.

Why Slow Fashion?
Slow fashion is a paradigm shift. It’s about treating clothing not as throwaway trends but as timeless investments — made ethically, worn with intention, and designed to last. It’s a journey back to our roots and a path forward for the planet.

Whether you work in fashion, love beautiful things, or simply care about a more sustainable future, this evening is for you.

About Fashion Re Imagined

Fashion designer Amy Powney of cult label Mother of Pearl is a rising star in the London fashion scene. Raised off-the-grid in rural England by activist parents, Amy has always felt uneasy about the devastating environmental impact of her industry. When she wins the coveted Vogue award for the Best Young Designer of the Year, which comes with a big cash prize, Amy decides to use the money to create a sustainable collection from field to finished garment, and transform her entire business. Over the following three years, her own personal revolution becomes the precursor of a much bigger, societal change.

Directed by award-winning Canadian filmmaker Becky Hutner .

Special Guest Speaker

Sue McLean, co-founder of McLean & Co. in Oamaru, is a passionate textile artist and weaver. With a lifelong love for fabrics and stitching, Sue has honed her craft through years of learning and making. Together with her husband Rod, she operates heritage Hattersley semi-automatic, foot powered looms to create bespoke, sustainable textiles using locally sourced New Zealand wool. Sue's work reflects her commitment to storytelling through design, colour, and traditional artistry. Her creations, ranging from fashion to homewares, embody timeless craftsmanship and a deep respect for the environment and heritage.

McLean and Co. create exquisite, high-quality textile products, including wool throws, cushions, scarves, shawls, hats and purses. Their craftsmanship reflects traditional weaving techniques combined with contemporary design, offering comfort and elegance in every piece. Each item is meticulously crafted to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal.