Kaia Jamieson

I am a filmmaker, writer, and musician currently working in documentary film.

I was selected for Pinnacle during my first year of university, and had the privilege of the programme’s support throughout my undergraduate years. In 2025, I graduated from the University of Otago with a Bachelors of Arts and Science, majoring in Marine Science and Film and Media, with a minor in English Lit. I focussed heavily on filmmaking during my undergraduate degree, and was delighted when my films achieved local and international recognition through film competitions and festivals. 

I was initially drawn to documentary filmmaking by a deep sense of curiosity and a passion for storytelling and the arts; traits which are foundational to who I am and are reflected in other aspects of my life. Over the past few years, I have interned as a Features Writer with the Otago Daily Times (2024), released and toured an album (Betterland, 2025) with my band (The Audio Visual Drop Kicks), and sat on the Executive Committees of the Otago University Snow Sports Club and Otago University Students’ Association (2023-2024). 

After completing my degree in 2025, I spent five months backpacking, which allowed me time and space to consider my next steps. I am excited to create more and keep telling stories. I hope to release more music, make more films, write more poetry and fiction, and find creative ways to connect and engage in a rapidly evolving landscape of technologies. I also plan to return to university for postgraduate study once I have gained more experience in the arts’ industries.

I am grateful and honoured to have been invested in by the Hyundai Pinnacle Programme. My time on Spirit of Adventure increased my love for the ocean and assisted me in developing new leadership and teamwork tools. Outward Bound helped me self-reflect, distill the lessons I learnt in the early stages of my study, and learn to love running - a hobby which has provided me with so much since leaving Anakiwa three years ago. I am thankful to be part of this network of passionate people, and I have a great sense of optimism when I read about the inspired work of other Pinnacle students and graduates.

 Camera Showreel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byZE47fh-w4

 Filmmaking Highlights: 

• Winner Best Social Media Film - Day One Film Festival 2025: ‘Don't

   Destroy what you came to Enjoy’ (Writer, Director, Camera, Editor)

•  Official Selection for DocEdge International Film Festival 2022:

  ‘Scope’ (Writer, Director, Camera, Editor)

•  Winner Best U18 Film and Overall Best Female Filmmaker Finalist

  - 48hr Film Festival 2021: ‘Toasted’ (Director, Camera, Editor, Co-writer)

• Winner Overall Best Film - Outlook for Someday Film Festival 2020:

  ‘Public Art’ (Writer, Director, Camera, Editor).