Farewell Guangdong

Series Classification: G (General Audiences) | Produced for RNZ by Tawera Productions

In 1937, Japan invades China. The Japanese sweep south to Guangdong, capturing the strategic port of Guangzhou. Many women and children try to escape war-torn China. Their husbands in New Zealand beg the government to grant them sanctuary here.

These are some of the harrowing stories of our grandmothers and mothers, the pioneers of our community.

Based on Lily Lee's publication Farewell Guangdong, we use dramatic re-enactments, interviews, and historical archive material to bring to life first-hand accounts from the wives and children who fled Guangdong, China, during the second Sino-Japanese War from 1937 to 1945.

Coming to RNZ on Wednesday 29 January for Chinese New Year...!