Ep 2. Manaaki's Letter

Set in New Zealand during World War I, the gripping drama series "When We Go To War" follows the lives of Kiwi soldiers and their families who are faced with the devastating effects of the Great War. In season 1 episode 2, titled "Manaaki's Letter," the narrative delves deeper into the emotional turmoil and personal sacrifices made by those left behind as loved ones head to the battlefields.

The episode begins with the ripple effect of the war touching the lives of the residents of Waimaru, a small farming community. Manaaki, a young Māori soldier who has enlisted to fight for his country, writes a heartfelt letter to his family, expressing his deep love and yearning to protect them. Although filled with pride and noble intentions, Manaaki's letter keeps his family on edge as they anxiously await news from the front lines.

Back in Waimaru, tempers flare as the war takes its toll on relationships and everyday life. Love is put to the test when Ruby, a spirited young woman, and her beau, Joseph, find themselves at odds regarding their future amidst the uncertainty of the war. Joseph, unable to leave the burden of anxiety brought on by the conflict, struggles to commit to Ruby, leaving their romance hanging by a thread.

Meanwhile, tensions rise between disparate cultures living side by side in wartime New Zealand. As the Māori community rallies together in support of their soldiers, Pākehā (non-Māori New Zealanders) prejudices come to the forefront. The clash of cultures unfurls as accusations of theft are hurled, igniting a volatile undercurrent that threatens to divide the community.

Alongside these internal conflicts, the show explores the broader ripple effects of the war on society. The role of women shifts dramatically, as they take on traditionally male-dominated tasks to keep their households and communities intact. The audience witnesses the resilience and determination of these women as they prove their capabilities to handle the absence of men during a time of crisis.

With the war machine in full swing, the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF) prepares to depart for Europe. Eager enlistees, fueled by patriotic fervor, say their goodbyes, leaving their loved ones brimming with both pride and trepidation. The emotions run high, as families bid farewell to their sons, daughters, husbands, and brothers, while the soldiers themselves face the harsh reality of war on the horizon.

Amidst the chaos of farewells and uncertainty, the Māori culture shines through as a guiding light. The traditions and spiritual strength become a source of comfort for the tight-knit farming community, as they face the unknown together. The importance of manaakitanga, the Māori value of hospitality and care, becomes a guiding principle, unifying the characters through their shared humanity.

As the episode unfolds, the resilience and sacrifices demanded by World War I become increasingly apparent. Manaaki's letter symbolizes the love and longing felt by soldiers and their families alike, capturing the heartache and hope that intertwine during times of conflict. "When We Go To War" offers a poignant portrayal of the human experience during one of the most challenging periods in history.

In "Manaaki's Letter," the second episode of the first season, viewers are transported to the front lines of emotion, giving them a glimpse into the lives of those left behind as they navigate the hardships of war. With its compelling characters and powerful storytelling, the show continues to paint a moving portrait of the human stories behind the world-changing events of World War I.