The Locals (2003) – A Gritty Kiwi Horror with a Supernatural Twist
Genre: Horror / Thriller
Director: Greg Page
Starring: Kate Elliott, Dwayne Cameron, Paul Glover
The Locals is a low-budget New Zealand horror film that blends rural paranoia with supernatural horror, offering a chilling tale set against the eerie backdrop of the Kiwi countryside. Directed by Greg Page, the film follows two city boys, Grant (Dwayne Cameron) and Paul (John Barker), who set out on a weekend road trip in search of good times and pretty girls—only to find themselves trapped in a rural nightmare.
After picking up two mysterious hitchhikers (including Lisa, played by Kate Elliott), the night quickly spirals into terror as the group encounters bizarre, ghostly locals who seem stuck in a terrifying limbo. As secrets unravel, it becomes clear that the sleepy backroads are haunted by more than just small-town hostility—there’s something much more sinister lurking in the shadows.
The film leans heavily into atmospheric tension and makes great use of its rural setting to create a sense of isolation and dread. The grainy visuals and practical effects add to the gritty, nightmarish quality of the story. While the narrative has some familiar horror beats, the Kiwi flavor and supernatural twist give it a distinct identity.
Though not widely known outside New Zealand, The Locals has gained cult status among fans of regional horror. It’s a creepy, offbeat ride that taps into urban fear of the countryside, laced with ghost story elements and a splash of gore.
Ever gotten lost in the wrong place at the wrong time? Let us know your thoughts on The Locals in the comments below.
