During a speech where nerves began to get the better of him he revealed that his mum was responsible for his Oscar winning adaptation.
"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."
He also said he wanted to thank many people but joked that he wouldn't "because I can't remember them."
To finish his speech he said, "That's it. This is really great," before delivering an inspiring message.
"This is for all the indigenous kids in the world who want to do art and tell stories that you can make it here."
Focus Live: PM Jacinda Ardern congratulates Taika Waititi on his Oscar win
Focus Live: PM Jacinda Ardern congratulates Taika Waititi on his Oscar win
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