The 10th Pacific International Documentary Film Festival in French Polynesia officially kicks off on Wednesday in Tahiti, focusing on the themes of human rights and the environment.

Thirty-nine documentaries are featured in the festival this year, about half of which comes from Australia and New Zealand, with films also being featured from Hawaii, France, New Caledonia, Tahiti, Tonga and Samoa.

The Festival's vice president Heremoana Maamaatuaiahutapu has told Radio Australia's locals says some of the films have particular resonance for locals in Papeete

"In particular one about the French nuclear bombing in Tahiti called "The Children Of The Bomb" and another film from New Zealand about the history of the Haka called "Ka Mate The Haka The Legend "," he said.

"It's very important now that we can show films on those nuclear test bombing on Moruroa in Fangataufa atolls, because we can change the relationship with France also."

Mr Maamaatuaiahutapu says he's hoping to expand the festival to other parts of the region, and even to France.