Julian Arahanga

Julian Arahanga is a respected New Zealand actor, director, and producer of Whanganui and Ngati Raukawa ki te Tonga descent, known for telling stories that reflect Maori culture and the complexities of the human experience.He first rose to international prominence portraying Nig Heke in the landmark film Once Were Warriors (1994), a role that cemented him as one of Aotearoa's most compelling screen talents. His acting career has been defined by powerful performances across film and television, often exploring themes of identity, resilience, and community.As a director and producer, Arahanga has established himself as a leading voice for indigenous storytelling. Through his production company Awa Films, he created and produced the acclaimed documentary series Songs from the Inside (2012), which brought music and creativity into New Zealand prisons. More recently, his work includes The Stolen Children of Aotearoa (2024), a hard-hitting exploration of state care and its impact on Maori, and Mana Moana Mana Tangata (2023), an in-depth documentary on Maori fishing rights and the struggle for tino rangatiratanga over Aotearoa's waters.Beyond his screen work, Arahanga is a mentor to emerging Maori talent and an advocate for indigenous voices, making him a key figure in New Zealand's creative landscape.