Te Karakia is a tale of forgiveness set amidst the maelstrom of the 1981 Springbok tour. Excommunicated during his childhood from his family and faith, Matthew Connell has found a home within the New Zealand police force, quickly rising to the elite ranks of the Red Squad. However, Matthew's regimented existence is threatened when Ranea, a young Māori woman from his past, re-emerges to challenge his future. With precipitating civil unrest spreading across the country, Matthew is forced to confront reconciliation with his long-absent father and his childhood past.