Waiata by Peter Hodge

Waiata

This is the line we drew
A gateway between me and you
A place to make our stand
To stop you invading our land

These are the trenches we dug
Now all filled with mud
A hole to hide our selves
From the exploding shells

These are the walls you breached
Looking for the victory you seek
But you die in our trap
Defeating your attack

This is the mercy we showed
After we gave you a decisive blow
The water we freely gave
For your life to be saved

This is the track we took
A place you did not look
To escape your net
That was not fully set

This is the last battle we fought
Giving you the victory you sought
Our men marched straight at you
Your aim was deadly true

This is the mass grave you made
To bury our men that were brave
We mourn their loss
And count the cost

I remember them
all
I watched them all fall
Now in spirit I tend those lost
A song of reconciliation and trust