The name of the Turangawaewae marae was taken from a 19th-century prophesy by King Tawhiao, that in his grandson's time Ngaruawahia would become the turangawaewae (standing place) of the Kingitanga. His granddaughter Te Puea dedicated her life to fulfilling his prophesy and 'Waikato' explores the Waikato people's relationship with and support for the King movement. The visual and emotional climax of this episode is the poukai or annual loyalty hui held at Turangawaewae marae, on the bank of the Waikato River.
—Bill Gosden, New Zealand International Film Festival (reprinted with permission)