In the 1960s on the east coast of New Zealand, two Maori sheep-shearing families – the Mahanas and the Poatas – are longstanding enemies and commercial rivals. 14-year-old Simeon Mahana, the youngest son, is in conflict with his traditionalist grandfather, Tamihana. As Simeon unravels the truth behind the longstanding family vendetta, he risks not just his own future prospects, but the cohesion of the entire tight-knit society.

Critic Reviews:

• " This is proudly a Maori story with a Maori denouement, and it's a fitting reminder of the important place Ihimaera occupies in our national literature. " – Peter Calder (NZ Herald)

• " Tamahori's ability to view Aotearoa through the Hollywood lens is unequaled. With Mahana he's made another, if somewhat gentler, classic. " – **Paul Casserly*** (Flicks.co.nz)

• " One consistent is the sweet, tenderness on show, diluting the more severe, poignant aspects with a geniality that ensures this remains an undemanding, entertaining piece of cinema. " – Stefan Pape (HeyUGuys)