Character Overview

Ricky Baker

Ricky is the protagonist of Hunt for the Wilderpeople. He is a troubled 13-year-old boy who has been moved from one foster home to another throughout his life. Initially, Ricky is shy and introverted. He expresses himself through haikus, often pretending to be a gangster to mask his vulnerability. "I didn't choose the skux life; the skux life chose me."
Ricky's character embodies the themes of identity, belonging, and growth. His journey through the New Zealand wilderness with Hec helps him discover who he truly is, moving beyond the labels and stereotypes that have been imposed on him.
Ricky's determination and resilience are highlighted as he navigates his fears and the challenges of the wild, ultimately forming a deep bond with Hec.
Ricky's evolution from a withdrawn boy to a confident, self-assured young man reflects the film's exploration of self-discovery and the healing power of nature.

Hec is Ricky's foster father. He is a gruff and reclusive man who initially takes Ricky in only to satisfy his wife, Bella. Hec is portrayed as independent and irritable, struggling with anger management issues and a past filled with regret. "Me and this fat kid / we ran, we ate, and read books / and it was the best."
Hec's character development is central to the film's themes of redemption and the importance of human connection. As the story progresses, Hec's relationship with Ricky transforms from reluctant responsibility to a deep, fatherly bond.
Despite his rough exterior, Hec's softer side emerges, showing his capacity for love and care, particularly after Bella's death. Hec's journey with Ricky not only helps Ricky grow but also allows Hec to confront his past and find a sense of peace and companionship that he has been missing.

Bella is Hec's wife and Ricky's foster mother. She is a warm and caring woman who immediately welcomes Ricky into her home with open arms. Despite Ricky's initial reluctance, Bella's kindness and positivity significantly impact him. "He's home now. He'll be OK."
Bella represents the themes of love, acceptance, and positivity. Her nurturing nature contrasts with Hec's gruffness, and her influence is felt throughout the film, even after her death. Bella's ability to see the good in Ricky and her unwavering belief in him set the stage for Ricky's transformation.
Her character underscores the idea that love and care can bring about profound change, and her memory guides Ricky and Hec as they navigate their journey.

Paula is a dedicated but overzealous child services officer who is determined to return Ricky to state care after he runs away. She is portrayed as strict and somewhat humourless, often treating her job with a level of intensity that borders on obsession. "No child left behind!"
Paula's character illustrates the theme of government institutions being dehumanizing. Despite the apparent growth and bond he has formed with Hec, her relentless pursuit of Ricky highlights the often rigid and impersonal nature of social services.
Paula's interactions with Ricky and Hec underscore the film's critique of how bureaucratic systems can fail to see the individuals behind the cases, reducing them to mere problems to be solved rather than people to be understood and supported.

Andy is Paula's partner, a policeman who contrasts sharply with her intense demeanour. He is laid-back and often provides comic relief in the film, following Paula's lead but with a more relaxed attitude. "We're offering $10,000 to anyone who can capture them, dead or alive. Oh,... alive. They should be alive."
Andy represents loyalty and the importance of maintaining a sense of humour, even in serious situations. While he doesn't share Paula's drive, his willingness to support her and his calm approach to the search for Ricky and Hec add balance to the dynamic duo.
Andy's character reminds the audience of the importance of perspective and the value of staying grounded, even when faced with challenging circumstances.