The impact of World War I on families in New Zealand from life at home to the fronts of Gallipoli and Egypt. Beginning at a time of optimism, even as the world prepares for war, but as the battlefield beckons, few foresee the horrors to come.
EPISODE 1
Bea's Letter
Nurse Bea Smith is at a military hospital in Alexandria, also with 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
In Egypt, Manaaki is 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
Charles clashes with Harry when he returns to Gallipoli and Cissy is seduced by an admirer. Meanwhile, George breaks James' heart and Manaaki and Harry `go over the top' with tragic results.
EPISODE 4
Awa's Letter
Manaaki fights a recurring nightmare, John takes his guilt out on James, and Richard finds an unlikely ally in Awa.
EPISODE 5
Charles' Letter
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
As rumours of a Gallipoli evacuation spread, Charles, Manaaki and Bea start making plans for the future. Meanwhile back home, Awa and Cissy find their circumstances are changed forever.
Ido Drent
Sophia Huybens
Freya Milner
Esther Stephens
Leith Towers
Jarred Blakiston
Nathalie Boltt
Milo Cawthorne
Tom O'Sullivan
Peter Burger
Robin Scholes
