NZ Wars

The Stories of Ruapekapeka, a documentary highlighting Northland's most infamous armed conflict, is hosted by RNZ's Māori Issues Correspondent Mihingarangi Forbes, and was made alongside Great Southern Television with funding from NZ on Air. Published 25th October, 2017

The second epic chapter in the award winning NZ Wars Series. NZ Wars: Stories of Waitara combines oral histories, state of the art animations and powerful dramatic re-enactments to bring to life the narratives of Te Ātiawa in their epic battle against the military might of the British Empire. Presented by Mihingarangi Forbes. Made possible by the RNZ/NZ On Air Innovation Fund. Published 28th October, 2019

NZ Wars: Stories of Tainui is the next compelling chapter in RNZ’s award-winning documentary project on the New Zealand Wars. The 1863 invasion of the Waikato was the defining conflict of New Zealand, reinforcing the Crown’s power, entrenching one of Aotearoa’s oldest political institutions (the Kiingitanga) and resulting in land confiscations that continue to shape New Zealand today. Once again, Great Southern Television and Aotearoa Media Collective bring this important chapter of our nation’s story to life, teaming up with RNZ to create a digital documentary project that vividly illustrates how these battles looked, sounded and felt. Presented by Mihingaarangi Forbes and featuring Dr Vincent O’Malley alongside esteemed iwi historians Rahui Papa, Brad Totorewa, Tom Roa, Mamae Takerei and Kawhia Muraahi, NZ Wars: Stories of Tainui examines the events that continue to influence contemporary Aotearoa.

NZ Wars: Stories of Wairau is the fourth chapter in RNZ’s award-winning documentary series on the New Zealand Wars. The Wairau Affray in 1843 is considered the first of the the NZ Wars conflicts and the only one to take place in the South Island. NZ Wars: Stories of Wairau, documents the clash between renowned Ngāti Toa fighting chiefs Te Rauparaha and Te Rangihaeata and the notorious New Zealand Company which resulted in the loss of life and land.

The fifth chapter of this series, NZ Wars: Stories of Tauranga Moana recounts the events that unfolded in the Bay of Plenty and their far-reaching consequences for future generations.