Ake Ake Ake

> Series Classification: G (General Programmes) | Produced by Scottie Productions

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"Ka whawhai tonu mātou. Ake, ake, ake."

Often shouted after the phrase "ka whawhai tonu mātou" (we will continue to fight), "ake, ake, ake," meaning "as long as it takes," is a phrase that has become synonymous with Māori protest.

Ake Ake Ake tells the story of SOUL and the land occupation at Ihumātao through the voices of the cousins who were intimately involves in the actions that took place there.

With unprecedented access to behind-the-scenes footage shot by cameraman Conan Fitzpatrick, Ake Ake Ake is a powerful documentary series that tells an intimate story of loss, betrayal, and resilience in the face of adversity.

The story is told retrospectively through the eyes of the cousins as they recount the heartbreaking experience and trauma their ancestors endured over decades in their struggles to retain the land, and the motivation behind their resolve to never give up, no matter the setbacks.

We learn how SOUL were inspired and strengthened in their cause by using mātauranga Māori: experiences and lessons from the past used to revitalise and inform their position leading the Ihumātao protest.

Ake Ake Ake provides a fascinating insight into the minds and experiences of these young Māori who were brave enough to defend their whenua.

Ake Ake Ake is an emotive, powerful, and sometimes confronting documentary that revisits the events leading up to the occupation, the occupationn itself, and the future for Ihumātao. Present-day interviews with its leaders, including Pania Newton and Qiane Matata-Sipu, makes for inspirational and emotional viewing. We hear from other experts and supporters, such as archaeologists, policy advisors, and elders, who took part in this historic event, and of the long-term gains made over the 514 days the land was occupied.

Screened to coincide with the second anniversary of the occupation at Ihumātao in July 2019, Ake Ake Ake is a must-see documentary that explores a significant event in New Zealand's recent history and how the inspirational footsteps of protesters in the past reverberate to this day.

Available to watch until 19 July 2026.

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