Mahana

Overview

Set in 1960s New Zealand, two rival Māori families, the Mahanas and the Poatas, have been embroiled in a bitter feud over generations. Fourteen-year-old Simeon Mahana finds himself torn between his grandfather Tamihana's traditional values and his desire to understand the roots of their family conflict. As he delves into the history of their animosity, Simeon discovers uncomfortable truths that threaten not only his own dreams but also the fragile unity of their close community. The narrative beautifully explores themes of heritage, loyalty, and the struggle for change.