[2] Cinemas agreed to air the film without charge to the government, and to donate the sixpence fee from children to "patriotic funds".
[6] The film is a history of New Zealand, from pioneer settlers in 1840, gold rushes, Māori wars, stage coaches and frontier towns.
[2] The inspiration was the official 1938 New South Wales government film commemorating the sesquicentenary of the founding of Australia, A Nation is Built directed and produced by Frank Hurley.
[1] The Evening Post gave a detailed review and synopsis, saying "It excels on the pictorial side, and the Government photographers show that in this respect they have but little to learn from overseas competitors.
"[7] The Northern Advocate called it "an excellent feature" and added "Remarkable bird studies, and some striking scenic glimpses, give the film a wide appeal.