The Trusts Launches New Docuseries Celebrating West Auckland Artists

The Trusts (Portage and Waitākere Licensing Trusts) have unveiled The Trusts Live, a new mini-docuseries spotlighting some of West Auckland’s most exciting musicians through performances filmed across the region they call home.

Dropping episodes over the next month, the series follows this year’s NZ Music Month theme, ‘Our Sounds, Our Spaces.’ Following local artists Na’amah, Sam Cullen and Michael Howell as they perform in the landscapes and creative spaces that have shaped their music and identity.

It’s that connection between place and creativity that sits at the heart of The Trusts Live.

Produced in collaboration with Dave Parker, Founder of the Titirangi Music Festival, The Trust’s Live is a cinematic love letter to their backyard, aligned with NZ Music Month’s theme ‘Our Sounds Our Spaces’.

Local roof tops, beaches and art centres

The first episode kicks off with folk singer-songwriter Na’amah, who brings an intimate energy to Cornwallis Beach, performing new songs Bridge to Terebethia, Wondering and Ilanah’s Song. Ilanah’s Song is a reflection on the final home she shared with her mother, grounding her sound in a very personal West Auckland reality.

The Waitākere Ranges serve Na’amah as a place to clear her head, and write songs. Her performance highlights her songwriting process, inspired by the experimental guitar tunings of Jeff Tweedy. She describes her music as aching and deeply personal, centering around themes of nature, emotional healing, personal growth, and the complexities of human relationships.

The second episode  follows Sam Cullen and his band, performing atop the historic roof of Lopdell House. Against a panoramic view of Titirangi, Cullen performed original songs The Cold Midwinter, Don’t Leave Me Alone and That Somebody’s You.

Sam’s songs explore themes of local culture and personal struggle, citing the unique atmosphere of growing up in West Auckland as a primary influence on their music.

The final episode takes viewers inside the Corban Estate Arts Centre with the musician Michael Howell, accompanied by violinist Charmian Keay. A true son of the West, Howell’s musical identity is inextricably linked to his upbringing in Titirangi.

In a nod to his family, Howell performs using his parents’ guitar, an instrument he has played since childhood. Their work, which flows from Michael’s local label Monosoak Records, draws inspiration from the wild, black-sand beaches and the immersive bush of West Auckland.

Local musicians sound travels far

As the musicians prepare for upcoming EP releases and nationwide tours, The Trusts Live stands as a record of the region’s talent. With more episodes already in the works for the remainder of the year, this series ensures that the sound of the West remains as loud and enduring as the landscape itself.

To watch the first episode of The Trusts Live, visit The Trusts Live!