The film centers on Joe Warbrick (Calvin Tuteao), captain of the New Zealand Natives rugby team, as he attempts to motivate his exhausted players for a crucial match against England. The story takes place in midwinter during the historic 1888-89 tour, a grueling 17-month journey involving 107 matches that established the All Blacks' iconic black jersey and silver fern emblem. In a locker room reminiscent of a medical facility, Warbrick gathers himself and leads an inspiring haka. The haka, created by brothers Pere and Meihana Durie, famously motivated the All Blacks to a decisive 33-6 victory over Australia in 2009.