The highly anticipated Apple TV+ series, Chief of War, transports viewers to 18th-century Hawaii, chronicling a valiant Hawaiian war chief’s monumental quest to unite the conflicted islands and thwart colonization. As the historical drama captivates audiences, a significant part of its allure lies in its visually stunning and historically accurate filming locations, prompting widespread curiosity about where this epic narrative truly unfolded.

Despite its Hawaiian premise, a considerable portion of Chief of War’s production took place in the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand. The North Island, renowned for its pristine beaches, verdant hills, rich Maori cultural artifacts, and exceptional big-game fishing, provided a surprisingly authentic backdrop for the 1700s Hawaiian setting, crucial for conveying the period’s essence.

Specifically, the Bay of Islands in New Zealand emerged as a pivotal filming location. This region, celebrated for its untouched and natural appearance, proved to be an ideal canvas for depicting a historical and pre-modern world. Its pristine beauty allowed the Chief of War creators to craft an immersive visual experience, ensuring the series resonated with an authentic sense of place.

The show, inspired by true events surrounding the unification of Hawaii between 1782 and 1810, demanded a setting that could encapsulate the grandeur and raw intensity of epic battles for identity, deeply rooted in native cultures. New Zealand’s diverse topography and unspoiled vistas offered the perfect environment to visually articulate these complex narratives, delivering a visual treat for viewers.

Following their extensive work in New Zealand, the production team journeyed to the Lava fields of the Big Island in Hawaii. This stark, dramatic landscape was strategically utilized to film the most intense battle scenes. The black lava rock and rugged terrain imbued these sequences with a raw, realistic feel, amplifying the stakes and visceral impact of the on-screen conflicts.

Naturally, questions arose regarding the decision to primarily film Chief of War in New Zealand rather than exclusively in Hawaii. This choice was largely influenced by the challenging state of the film industry within Hawaii itself, which presented logistical and financial hurdles for large-scale international productions like this historical drama.

Conversely, New Zealand’s burgeoning screen industry has cultivated a strong reputation for efficiency and attractive incentives. The country offers a significant 20-25% rebate for international productions and an impressive 40% for local endeavors, making it a highly appealing destination for major film and television projects. This stands in contrast to Hawaii’s more modest 22-27% rebate and other associated production complexities, solidifying New Zealand’s appeal as a primary filming location for Chief of War.

Ultimately, the meticulous selection of these diverse Chief of War filming locations, from the lush expanses of New Zealand to the stark beauty of Hawaii’s lava fields, was instrumental in crafting a visually authentic and deeply immersive viewing experience. These carefully chosen backdrops not only enhanced the show’s cinematic quality but also played a crucial role in bringing the powerful story of Hawaiian unification to life for a global audience on Apple TV+.