Sgt. Haane stands out as a powerful and thoughtful look into New Zealand’s military history, offering a perspective that feels both personal and culturally significant. Rather than just focusing on action, the film takes time to highlight the experiences of Māori soldiers of the 28th Māori Battalion.

 

While the mostly unknown story of how Sgt Haane Manahi and his small group men climbed the cliff faces of the Takrouna pinnacle which was being held by hundreds of enemy troops sounds like the far fetched plot of an 80s action movie. There it is on the big screen true and historically accurate, a story that all New Zealanders should know. 

 

Alex Tarrant was brilliant in his portrayal of Sgt Haane. He brought Hanne Manahi to life again, showing us that Haane was a true warrior who even in the depths of war never lost his humanity, showing kindness and respect to those who had been affected by the war and protecting those he found hiding from the enemy. 

 

Sgt. Haane is a compelling and meaningful historical drama that sheds light on an important part of New Zealand’s past, even if it isn’t perfectly paced.