Following a string of sold-out sessions at the New Zealand International Film Festival, a new documentary shining a light on one of Aotearoa’s most beloved songwriters is on its way.
‘Anchor Me: The Don McGlashan Story’, follows the extraordinary career of Don McGlashan, whose music is among some of the most well-known and influential in New Zealand.
From the early days with Blam Blam Blam, to his theatrical stint in The Front Lawn, and then leading The Mutton Birds through the ’90s, McGlashan has cemented himself as a true legend, landing a well-deserved spot in the NZ Music Hall of Fame.
Spanning four decades of hits, his songs, including ‘Anchor Me’ and ‘Dominion Road,’ remain pillars in Kiwi music.
Directed by acclaimed cultural documentarian Shirley Horrocks, the film is set to hit cinemas across the country on January 15, 2026.
Horrocks’ film delves deeper than just the familiar anthems, though, offering a portrait of the man behind them.
"He’s both a high-energy, outward-going performer and a thoughtful, introspective artist. This film is about more than just a music career — it’s about a life spent telling our stories as New Zealanders through songwriting,” Horrocks said.
‘Anchor Me’ examines the triumphs and challenges of McGlashan’s long career, giving us the chance to hear personal reflections, backstage stories and insights from family members and famous friends, including Neil Finn and Toa Fraser.
Neil Finn describes Don as a “master of putting a lyric together.”
While North & South called the documentary a “timely and stunning tribute to one of Aotearoa’s most important artists.”
Hitting cinemas nationwide from January 15, 2026, ‘Anchor Me’ is one for the long-time fans - or anyone who wants to rediscover the man behind iconic Kiwi soundtracks for decades.
