About the film
Sgt. Haane is a 2026 New Zealand documentary directed and written by Tearepa Kahi. It focuses on Māori Battalion veteran Sergeant Haane Manahi and his troops during the 1943 Battle of the Mareth Line in Tunisia.
The story examines their role in capturing a sheer-sided pinnacle at Takrouna from Axis forces. Manahi was first recommended for the Victoria Cross by his superiors, but the British War Office later reduced the recommendation to a Distinguished Conduct Medal. The film stars Alex Tarrant as Haane Manahi, with Ryan O’Kane, Vinnie Bennett, John Bach, Niwa Whatuira, Matuera Ngaropo and Poroaki Merritt-McDonald also appearing.
Categorized as a documentary about the Māori Battalion, it is in English and was released in New Zealand cinemas on 23 April 2026, timed to coincide with Anzac Day.
Who it is for
It suits viewers studying the Māori Battalion, New Zealand military history and the Battle of the Mareth Line. History teachers and students may find its focus on Manahi’s recommendation and his troops’ action useful.
Worth knowing
- Centers on Māori Battalion veteran Haane Manahi
- Covers the Takrouna capture in 1943
- Examines the Victoria Cross recommendation change
- Directed and written by Tearepa Kahi
- Features a large named cast
Before you press play
- Released in 2026
- English-language documentary
- New Zealand cinema release
The short of it
Sgt. Haane connects one Māori Battalion veteran’s wartime leadership with the contested recognition that followed. Its focus stays on Takrouna, Manahi’s troops and the change from a Victoria Cross recommendation to a Distinguished Conduct Medal.