‘E te Hokowhitu a Tū’ was written by Tuini Ngāwai as a lament for Te Moananui-a-Kiwa Ngarimu who was killed in action in Tunisia.

Ngarimu was awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery, determination and outstanding leadership. He was the sixth New Zealander, and first Māori to receive the military honour. 

In this series, Rongo Toa, Heeni Brown (Te Arawa, Te Aupōuri) and Te Wehi Preston (Mataatua, Te Arawa) uncover the stories behind the songs that have become part of our history. 

Rongo Toa is made by Creative Nātives and Hāni Dread to commemorate and celebrate the waiata of the 28th Māori Battalion. 

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