When New Zealand gave two young Chinese refugees citizenship in the 1940’s they found an unlikely way to return the gift – by saving the almighty kumara.
Fay and Joe Gock are quite simply beyond inspiring. Having escaped the Japanese Invasion of China, they fell in love in 1950’s New Zealand. And it seems that nothing, even the fact that owning land was illegal for the Chinese at this time could stop these two from becoming the largest and most sharing kumara growers in New Zealand.
THE FILMMAKERS
Director Felicity Morgan-Rhind Musician, chef and filmmaker Felicity is committed to telling inspiring heart-felt stories, often revolving around food and comedy and always featuring endearing characters. Her first short film Donuts For Breakfast (2000) screened internationally including the Melbourne, New York and Sundance Film Festivals. An award winning commercials director she has also directed and written three series of Topp Country (TVNZ, 30 x ½ hours). In Jan 2016, in collaboration with NZ RED CROSS and KIWIS ON BOARD, Felicity wrote and directed three short films to raise awareness of the refugee life experience in NZ. Joe and Fay Gock appeared in these films and Felicity was inspired to tell their story.