24/04/2026
Ka maumahara tonu tātou ki a rātou.
Today we remember.
We honour and reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and service of all those who stood for Aotearoa, and the whānau who stood behind them.
On this day, we also acknowledge Sergeant Haane Te Rauawa Manahi, DCM, who served in the 28th Māori Battalion. He was a koro of immense mana, courage, and humility.
Born in Ōhinemutu in 1913, Haane was one of the first to enlist in the Māori Battalion in 1939. He served with distinction across Greece, Crete, North Africa, and Tunisia, including at El Alamein and the fierce fighting at Takrouna in April 1943.
At Takrouna, he led a small group of soldiers in a daring and sustained assault on heavily defended enemy positions. Under intense fire, over many hours, he showed extraordinary leadership, bravery, and determination - actions that led to him being recommended for the Victoria Cross, the highest military honour for gallantry.
Despite this recommendation being supported by senior commanders, the award was downgraded to a Distinguished Conduct Medal. This outcome was deeply felt by his comrades and fellow soldiers, who believed his actions warranted the highest recognition.
After his passing in 1986, members of the Māori Battalion, his whānau, and iwi continued to advocate for greater acknowledgement of his service and bravery. While a posthumous VC was not granted, in 2007 his courage was formally honoured through a special presentation - including a letter from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, a ceremonial sword, and an altar cloth gifted for use at St Faith’s Church in Ōhinemutu.
Today, his legacy continues to be remembered and shared with new generations, including through the film Sgt. Haane, which opens in cinemas today.
We honour Sergeant Haane Manahi, and all those who served with courage, humility, and aroha.
Kei Wareware Tātau
