Paikea Apirana was born in a great line of leaders of her Maori village. When her twin brother died at birth, along with her mother, her family fell into despair that their traditions would be lost. Even so, her father named her after their greatest ancestor, the Whale-Rider. Pai was raised by her grandparents and grew up with a love of her history, developing a rebellious desire to be the leader they thought they'd lost. Gradually, everyone realizes what a gift they have in Pai.

In the movie, Pai is played by 12-year-old New Zealand actress Keisha Castle-Hughes, the youngest person ever to be nominated for the Best Actress Oscar.

The book was written by Witi Ihimaera, and the film version was written and directed by Niki Caro. Whalerider won best film at the 2003 Sundance film festival.