When the doors opened at He Pātaka Kōrero, the new Hauraki Plains Library and Community Centre in Ngātea, there was plenty to celebrate — and one local creative was there to help capture the day.
Sam, the person behind Tucker 39 Media Productions, reached out to Council and asked if he could film the library opening. We were more than happy to say yes.
For Sam, it was a chance to share the excitement of the opening with people who could not be there in person, while also showing what he loves to do — telling local stories through photos, video and live streaming.
Sam has been creating videos since the COVID-19 lockdowns, when he and his dad made a video for their church community in Waimate, South Canterbury. Since then, he has continued building his skills, including creating content for his gaming channel and filming local events.
Tucker 39 Media Productions is Sam’s first business. It began after he live streamed an event for his music class at Hamilton Christian School, followed by the WAIBOP Brass Band Regionals in Thames in 2024. Since then, he has filmed, photographed and live streamed for groups including Kerepēhi Brass Band, Matamata Brass Band, WAIBOP Brass Band Association, New Wine and Anna Rehab.
What keeps him going is simple: he enjoys helping people see what is happening in their community.
“I love being able to take photos and film videos and show them to the community,” says Sam. “It gives people some joy to their day.”
Over the next few months, Council will be working with Sam as he continues to grow his portfolio and build confidence behind the camera.
His future goals include continuing to improve his photography, videography and live streaming skills, growing Tucker 39 Media Productions, and one day working as a photographer — possibly even with the Royal New Zealand Air Force.
Ka pai, Sam. We’re looking forward to seeing what you create next.
