When the soldiers of the 28th Māori Battalion sailed for the Second World War, they took with them songs that embodied the love and prayers of those at home.

There were hymns, haka, and popular action songs, including the rousing “Māori Battalion March to Victory”. These were sung with a style that became part of the Battalion’s legend.

The National Library of New Zealand, in association with Atoll Ltd and Radio New Zealand Sound Archives Ngā Taonga Kōrero, released an historic CD last year, featuring recordings of the Battalion while it was overseas.

“Ake, Ake, Kia Kaha E!” includes spoken messages, situation reports, concert medleys based on tribal affiliations and a song of remembrance by Pacific Island members. Also included are rare recordings such as a message, previously not known to have existed, from Princess Te Puea Hērangi, whose leadership inspired the Māori people.

The two-CD set was produced by well-known broadcaster Henare te Ua and generously supported by the New Zealand Army Ngāti Tūmatatenga and the QEII Army Memorial Museum in Waiōuru.

These unique recordings were taken “live” on location in the sands of Egypt, during gunfire in North Africa, and between the green hills in Southern Italy by the Middle East Recording Unit of New Zealand’s National Broadcasting Service.

“To hear the voices of individuals and the collective as they attempted to comfort themselves, amuse themselves and motivate themselves is truly a blessing,” says Tamati Parāone, a Past President of the 28th Māori Battalion Association.

Copies can be purchased from Atoll and SOUNZ.