Auckland Shines on the World Stage in Chief of War for Apple TV+
The release of Chief of War on Apple TV+ marked a major moment for global television - and for Aotearoa’s screen sector.
Starring and co-created by Jason Momoa, the sweeping nine-part series debuted on 1 August and quickly rose to the #1 spot worldwide. While it tells the story of pre-unification Hawai’i, much of its visual power, production depth, and cultural resonance was crafted right here in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.
Filming locations spanned from the Waitākere Ranges to the rugged west coast beaches, with the production drawing not only on Auckland’s natural beauty but on the strength of its crew, creative talent, and iwi partnerships.
Large-Scale Production, Deep Local Roots
With a reported budget of US$340 million (NZ$575 million), Chief of War is one of the most expensive television series ever made. But its success isn’t just measured in dollars - it lies in the meaningful collaboration between production and community.
The show worked closely with iwi including Te Kawerau ā Maki, Ngāti Whātua Kaipara, Ngāti Te Ata, and Ngai Tai ki Tāmaki, alongside the Waitākere Ranges Local Board. From whakatau to ongoing cultural advice, these relationships were integral to the project’s authenticity and respectful use of whenua.
“Seeing our whenua represented so beautifully on screen at the premiere was a memorable experience,” said Robin Taua-Gordon of Te Kawerau Iwi Tiaki Trust. “We look forward to continuing to build authentic relationships.”
Navigating Challenge with Excellence
Filming took place during a period of significant disruption - including the Auckland Anniversary Day floods and Cyclone Gabrielle. Despite this, the production team managed the logistical and environmental complexities with care and professionalism.
“The sheer scale of the production required complex navigation across logistics, community impact, and environmental sensitivities,” said Matthew Horrocks, Screen Auckland Manager. “Credit is due to the production team for their skills and relationship-building in achieving that.”
The result is a series that combines visually rich storytelling with deep cultural grounding, hailed as “a towering accomplishment” (USA Today) and “an intense, thrilling cinematic epic” (Variety).
Aotearoa’s Global Impact
The cast also featured former All Blacks Piri Weepu, Renee Ranger, Frank Bunce, Troy Flavell, Kees Meeuws, and Pita Alatini - playing proud Polynesian warriors and adding another uniquely local layer to the production.
Though set in Hawai’i, Chief of War has become a love letter to New Zealand. Jason Momoa himself has called the series “nothing without Aotearoa” - and he’s reportedly looking to make a more permanent move here.
As international audiences tune into Chief of War, it’s a timely reminder of what our crews, creatives, and communities can achieve when storytelling is rooted in respect, collaboration, and the richness of our whenua.
