Oscars 2020: Taika Waititi's heartwarming dedication to indigenous kids

Taika Waititi has won his first Oscar for his adapted screenplay 'Jojo Rabbit'. Video / TVNZ

Taika Waititi has today accepted the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for his film Jojo Rabbit.

During his acceptance speech, Waititi thanked his mother before admitting he had lost her in the auditorium, "hours ago".

"Thank you for being my mother and for giving me the book that I adapted," he said. "This film wouldn't have existed without you doing that."

#Oscars Moment: See the winner for Best Adapted Screenplay: @TaikaWaititi for @jojorabbitmovie pic.twitter.com/iLp6E384Bn

— The Academy (@TheAcademy) February 10, 2020

He also dedicated his award to "indigenous kids" all over the world, who he hopes to inspire with his creative endeavours and success.

"I dedicate this to all the indigenous kids in the world who want to do art and dance and write stories, we are the original storytellers and we can make it here, as well," he said.

In winning the gong for Best Adapted Screenplay, Waititi has made history as the first Māori Academy Award winner.

Jojo Rabbit was nominated for six Oscars, including Best Picture.