Photographer: G. Riethmaier Date: March 1977, Auckland Archives Reference: AAQT 6539 W3537 Box 171 B12023 (R24814938) www.archway.archives.govt.nz/ViewFullItem.do?code=2481493...

22 March 1994 saw New Zealand filmmaking come into the limelight when Jane Campion’s film The piano won two Oscars. New Zealand born Anna Paquin won the Oscar for best supporting actress for her role as Flora McGrath in the celebrated historical drama. Jane Campion, director, took home the award for best original screenplay. American actress Holly Hunter also won best actress for her portrayal of Ada McGrath, Flora’s mother. The film also won the Palme d’Or at Cannes.

Set during the mid-19th century in a rainy, mud-covered backwater on the west coast of New Zealand, the film revolves around Ada McGrath, the mute mother of Flora, her passion for playing the piano and her efforts to regain her piano after it is sold.

The Piano was filmed 40-minutes out of Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, on the rugged west coast beach of Karekare and in the surrounding rainforest. Piha beach also features in the film.

This photo, looking out to Piha Beach, is from Archives New Zealand's National Publicity Studios collection.

The National Publicity Studios was established in 1945, but its beginnings can be traced back to the establishment in 1924 of a Publicity Office - part of the Department of Internal Affairs.

The purpose of the National Publicity Studios was to provide advice to government departments and state agencies on the provision of photographic, art, and display services and in particular to assist in the production of publicity material aimed at conveying a favourable image of New Zealand.

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