With the world asking what to do about whales, a new film shows that New Zealand has come up with a solution that not only protects whales but also coastal communities.With the world asking what to do about whales, a new film shows that New Zealand has come up with a solution that not only protects whales but also coastal communities.The documentary "What to do about Whales?", which screens in Christchurch during October for its first ever season, features the town of Kaikoura as one of four communities worldwide developing whale watching as a viable alternative to whaling.

The hour-long film is the result of a six-year project by New Zealand born filmmaker Kate Clere and her husband filmmaker Michael McIntyre.

The pair travelled to New Zealand, Iceland, the USA and Japan to document communities that are transforming the historic industry of whaling to that of whale watching.

Co-director Kate Clere said, "With whales still under threat around the world, it's becoming increasingly clear that whale watching may provide the answer to their protection."

"As more people learn to appreciate whales, we are beginning to understand that they are worth more alive than dead."

New Zealand's Conservation Minister Chris Carter said the film clearly demonstrated why New Zealand had taken a strong international position supporting whale conservation.

"Whales are a remarkable species and this film does them justice," he said.

"What to do about Whales?" tells the success story of Kaikoura which transformed itself from a dying town into a vibrant community enticing visitors from all over the world.

"Whale watch Kaikoura is now the biggest employer in town and it's given our community a whole lot of 'mana' where we can lift our heads high when we walk down the street," said Mr. Wally Stone, Chairman of Whale Watch Kaikoura.

The film also visits Iceland, whose Government last month agreed to resume whaling after a 14-year ban on the practice.

Christchurch will be the first city to release the film ahead of tour planned throughout Australia in conjunction with the 2004 whale watching season.

"What to do about Whales?" will screen at the Academy and Cloisters Cinemas at the Arts Centre in Christchurch from Wednesday 24th September.

For more details visit www.artfilms.co.nz and www.secondnaturefilms.com.au