How Taika Waititi could help the Lions win in New Zealand

Coach Warren Gatland orders squad to brush up on Kiwi culture ahead of All Blacks test series

Taika Waititi and Warren Gatland
Taika Waititi and Warren Gatland
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Taika Waititi was named New Zealander of the year in February, inheriting the honour from former All Black rugby captain Richie McCaw. But the acclaimed filmmaker, writer and comedian could turn out to be the secret weapon for the British and Irish Lions when they tour New Zealand this summer.

Getting his squad together for the first time this week, head coach Warren Gatland revealed he had instructed the players to brush up on Kiwi culture ahead of their daunting tour and had recommended they watch two of Waititi's films - Boy and the 2016 hit comedy Hunt for the Wilderpeople - along with the Oscar-nominated Whale Rider.

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