A Forgotten Hero Rises: Man of Valour Brings the Extraordinary Story of Haane Manahi to Australian Cinemas

A remarkable chapter of wartime history is coming to the big screen as Man of Valour prepares to make its Australian cinema debut on 12 November 2026. Directed by acclaimed New Zealand filmmaker Tearepa Kahi, the documentary-drama tells the extraordinary true story of Lance Sergeant Haane Manahi, a Māori soldier whose courage during the Second World War helped turn the tide of a pivotal battle.

Set in 1943 during the North African campaign, the film follows Manahi and his fellow soldiers from the legendary 28th Māori Battalion as they face a seemingly impossible mission at Takrouna, a heavily fortified summit in Tunisia. The strategic position presents a formidable challenge, with enemy forces occupying defensive positions high above the surrounding landscape.

As the fighting intensifies, Manahi emerges as a courageous leader, guiding his men through a perilous assault up the steep, exposed terrain. Facing overwhelming opposition, the soldiers must rely on their determination, discipline and trust in one another to overcome the enemy's defences.

The story's significance extends beyond the battlefield. Manahi's extraordinary actions became a defining moment in his military service, yet the recognition of his contribution would remain a source of controversy and discussion for decades. By bringing his story to the screen, Man of Valour seeks to introduce audiences to a figure whose bravery deserves a wider place in the public consciousness.

Alex Tarrant portrays Manahi, bringing the historical soldier's experiences to life through a combination of dramatic reenactments and documentary storytelling. He is joined by Niwa Whatuira, Vinnie Bennett, Matu Ngaropo and Poroaki Merritt-McDonald, among others.

Kahi, whose previous work includes Muru and Poi E: The Story of Our Song, has developed a reputation for telling stories connected to Māori identity, history and culture. His approach to Man of Valour combines the intensity of a wartime drama with interviews and historical perspectives, including contributions from descendants of Manahi and members of the 28th Māori Battalion's wider community.

This combination gives the film a purpose beyond recreating a military engagement. Alongside the action, it explores the legacy of the soldiers who fought far from home and the importance of preserving their experiences for future generations. The personal recollections and historical context help connect the events of 1943 with the families and communities that continue to remember them.

The film also places Māori military service at the centre of its narrative, highlighting the courage and sacrifice of soldiers whose contributions have not always received the recognition they deserve. Through Manahi's experience, the story examines leadership under extreme pressure and the lasting consequences of how acts of bravery are remembered.

For audiences interested in military history, Man of Valour offers a chance to learn about a significant but relatively unfamiliar episode of the Second World War. Its focus on a real soldier and the people who continue to preserve his legacy distinguishes it from fictional battlefield adventures, grounding its dramatic moments in historical events.

The film's Australian release also provides an opportunity for local audiences to discover a story closely connected to New Zealand and Māori history. With its blend of immersive battle sequences, personal testimony and cultural perspective, the production aims to honour the men who fought at Takrouna while bringing their experiences to a broader audience.

Man of Valour is scheduled to arrive in Australian cinemas on Thursday, 12 November 2026. With a runtime of approximately 88 minutes, the film offers a focused portrait of courage, sacrifice and the enduring importance of remembering those who served.

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