A Year After the Win: Nuggets Reflect on Their 48Hours Triumph with Chicken
Posted 8th July 2025
Last year, a newcomer team burst onto the 48Hours scene and took out the top prize with their wildly creative short film Chicken. That team was Nuggets — a group of friends; Tyla Tuala, Arohanui Watene, Nopera Watene and Valerie Lui, who entered the competition for fun, and walked away with not only a trophy, but a renewed sense of creative purpose.
Now, a year on from their win, we caught up with them to reflect on the experience, the chaos, and the moments that almost broke (but ultimately bonded) the team.
What was the best thing about taking part in 48Hours?
For Nuggets, it was all about the magic of collaboration.
Tyla - “The best part was being able to create magic with your friends. Our goal was to have fun and create something we'd be proud to show — and we think we did that!”
They also embraced the unique creative pressure of the weekend:
Arohanui - “The excitement of trying new ideas and putting ourselves in situations we would never usually think of... the pressure of 48Hours can either break your team or make it. We just had a lot of fun doing it.”
What did it mean to your team to win?
Winning came as a surprise — but also a powerful affirmation.
Tyla - “Very humbled. Winning reaffirmed our love for creativity and how important it is.”
It also proved that storytelling doesn't have to rely on expensive gear — heart and humour go a long way.
Arohanui - “For us, winning helped us believe we could accomplish something while still having fun. Sometimes it’s not about the latest gadgets and toys — it’s more about believing in what you're creating and just enjoying the ride. It also opened up opportunities to think more creatively.”
Why would you recommend others register a team this year?
Team Nuggets’ advice? Just dive in.
Tyla - “Just do it — take the opportunity!!”
They also believe it's a must-do for anyone who wants to explore their creativity.
Arohanui - “Every person interested in being creative should tick this off as a bucket list-approved activity. You just need a good team that’s willing to have fun and enjoy the process.”
Any favourite memories, behind-the-scenes chaos, or lessons learned?
There were definitely some unforgettable moments behind the scenes — including a literal action-movie mishap:
Tyla - “We almost didn’t finish the film. There was a real-life kung fu accident on set (we probably should’ve listened a bit more during the health and safety briefing 😅). Don’t worry — there was laughter and tears — but if Aroha hadn’t pushed through, our film might never have been completed.”
And then there was the magical synchronicity that gave the film its final, satisfying twist:
Arohanui - “One of my favourite memories was seeing God’s hand align our project so perfectly. We were called Nuggets, made a film about a game of chicken, ordered chicken nuggets in the film without even realising it was all tying together — and ended the film with credits that read CHICKEN by NUGGETS. It was just so cool to see the flow come together.”
Thinking about signing up for 48Hours this year? Take it from the Nuggets: get a good crew, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to get a little chaotic. You might just end up with a story worth telling — and maybe even a trophy, too.