In a culture steeped in tradition, one young girl challenged the past and found hope for the future. The Maori living in a small village on the coast of New Zealand claim their descent from Paikea, the Whale Rider. In every generation, a male heir has succeeded as chief. That time is now. When twins are born and the boy twin dies, Koro the chief is unwilling to accept his grand-daughter, Pai, as a future leader. As Pai matures, Koro remains convinced that the tribe's misfortunes began at her birth and calls for his people to bring their sons to him, in the hope that the new leader is among them. Pai loves Koro more than anyone in the world, but she must stand up to him and a thousands years of tradition to reveal the true way forward. A magical and deeply moving story of a young girl's struggle to fulfil her destiny. Whale Rider is an award-winning film from New Zealand filmmaker Niki Caro.