A full-length feature film has begun filming in the Bay of Plenty this month, and despite creative funding, additional financial support is needed from the community, to ensure a Hollywood quality production throughout the movie.

A fundraising campaign has been launched to help cover some production costs, such as affording more actors and extras for the large-scale battle scenes.

The film, called Ka Whawhai Tonu: Struggle Without End, stars acclaimed actors Cliff Curtis, Temuera Morrison and Miriama Smith and is a coming-of-age drama of two fictional teenagers set alongside real historical events of the Battle of Ōrākau.

The fundraising event, which is fully subscribed, is on Wednesday, March 15 at 5.30pm at the Tauranga Art Gallery where attendees will have an opportunity to learn more about the film and engage in a Q&A session with some of the cast and crew. Special guests include actress Miriama Smith and stunt stunt legend Augie Davis.

Piripi Curtis, producer of Ka Whawhai Tonu says the movie is an exciting opportunity for our region.

'We can attract way more feature films to our area and create more jobs, however to create a quality of film we can all be proud of, we need more supportive funding."

Piripi says additional funding will ensure this film tells this story honestly and at a quality that gives it a long life, ensuring that future generations will learn with pride how their ancestors contributed to the true story that is Aotearoa.

There are also sponsorship packages available in exchange for red-carpet tickets, and set visits, and recognition in film credits.

Piripi says the story is a tribute to the resilience and heroism of their 19th Century tūpuna who courageously challenged the might of the British machine.

'We have entered a new era of facing our past and telling our stories in dramatic and dynamic new ways, this is a pivotal moment of Aotearoa's history, we are making history by telling our history," says Piripi.

The campaign will run this week, with filming concluding at the end of this month. The filmmakers hope that by reaching out to the public for support, they can bring their unique vision to the screen and share it with a wide audience, both nationally and internationally.

If you resonate with this kaupapa, donations can be made through the project's Give-a-Little page https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/ka-whawhai-tonu-struggle-without-end-fundraiser