When We Go to War
Focuses on the impact World War I has on a middle New Zealand, Pakeha family and a Maori brother and sister. This spectacular drama cuts between life at home, Gallipoli and Egypt. The series begins in a time of optimism and hope, on the eve of war. New Zealand has one of the highest living standards in the world, is part of the mighty British Empire and few can foresee the horrors soon to come.
- 2015-2015
- 1 season
- Drama
Focuses on the impact World War I has on a middle New Zealand, Pakeha family and a Maori brother and sister. This spectacular drama cuts between life at home, Gallipoli and Egypt. The series begins in a time of optimism and hope, on the eve of war. New Zealand has one of the highest living standards in the world, is part of the mighty British Empire and few can foresee the horrors soon to come.
Season 1 Episode Guide
6 Episodes 2015
Episode 1
Bea's Letter
44 mins
We meet nurse Bea Smith at a military hospital in Alexandria. At the same hospital is her lecturer from Otago Medical School where she was studying to become a doctor. A scandal ended her chance to become a doctor and she became a nurse and then off to war.
Episode 2
Manaaki's Letter
44 mins
This episode begins in Egypt with Manaaki writing his letter and moves to the landings at Gallipoli. Flashbacks to Auckland touch on tribal lands and the feelings of the Maori about the war.
Episode 3
Harry's Letter
44 mins
Charles clashes with Harry when he returns to Gallipoli, Cissy is seduced by an admirer, and Manaaki and Harry go 'over the top' with tragic results.
Episode 4
Awa's Letter
44 mins
Manaaki fights a recurring nightmare, John takes his guilt out on James, and Richard finds an unlikely ally in Awa.
Episode 5
Charles' Letter
44 mins
Charles is shaken by the horror of war and entrusts Violet with a letter exposing the truth. Meanwhile, war hero Manaaki is questioned in relation to a murder.
Episode 6
Cissy's Letter
45 mins
As rumours of a Gallipoli evacuation spread, Charles, Manaaki and Bea start making plans for the future.
