Merata Mita was the first Maori woman to direct a feature film, making "Patu!" a significant milestone in New Zealand's film industry and Maori cinema.
The film faced backlash from the New Zealand police, who were depicted negatively. Authorities even attempted to seize the film's footage, adding to its notoriety and historical significance.
"Patu!" is considered an invaluable archival document, preserving the spirit and struggle of the 1981 protests. It is often used in educational settings to teach about New Zealand's history of activism.
Nga Taonga Sound & Vision restored and remastered "Patu!" for the 40th anniversary of the 1981 Springbok Tour, ensuring its preservation and continued accessibility for future generations.
"Patu!" premiered at the Wellington Film Festival in 1983 to a standing ovation. It was later shown at various international film festivals, earning acclaim for its raw and powerful depiction of the protests.