NZ Wars: Stories of Tauranga Moana

Through the kōrero of Tauranga iwi historians, this documentary presented by Mihingarangi Forbes recounts the battles of Pukehinahina (Gate Pā) and Te Ranga. Taken in the Ngāpuhi raids, rangatira Rawiri Puhirake returns to Tauranga trained in trench and musket warfare. He leads the construction of battle pā in response to colonial land confiscation. Guided by a code of conduct from iwi leader Hēnare Taratoa, compassion and kindness were shown to wounded British soldiers after the Battle of Pukehinahina. This third episode of the award-winning Radio New Zealand series is a narrative of bravery, empathy and enduring mamae.

As a soaking wet dawn breaks on April 29, 1864, the most ferocious artillery barrage ever seen on New Zealand soil is about to be unleashed. It will shake their newfound faith to its core.

– Mihingarangi Forbes on the morning before the battle of Pukehinahina begins

Key Cast & Crew

Cameron Bennett

Director - Documentary, Camera

Mahanga Pihama

Director - Drama

Mihingarangi Forbes

Creator, Presenter, Executive Producer, Co-Producer

Annabelle Lee-Mather

Executive Producer, Co-Producer

Nich Cunningham

Sound Mix

Paul Lear

Colourist