Renowned New Zealand filmmaker Lee Tamahori has passed away at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy that has greatly impacted the film industry.
Hailing from Ngāti Porou, Tamahori made his mark with his directorial debut in the groundbreaking film Once Were Warriors. Born in Tawa, Wellington, he also founded Flying Fish, a highly successful advertising production company in New Zealand.
Throughout his career, Tamahori ventured into international cinema, directing a range of Hollywood and independent films including Mulholland Falls, The Devil’s Double, and the James Bond movie Die Another Day.
His family announced his passing, stating that Tamahori passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his long-time partner Justine, his children Sam, Max, Meka, and Tané, his daughter-in-laws Casey and Meri, his cherished grandchild Cora Lee, and extended family.
“His legacy lives on through his family, his grandchildren, the filmmakers he inspired, the boundaries he pushed, and the stories he told with his exceptional vision and genuine heart. A charismatic leader and a passionate creative force, Lee was a staunch supporter of Māori talent both on and off the screen.”
Friends and colleagues are welcome to pay their respects at Te Mahurehure Marae in Point Chevalier, Auckland, on Sunday.
Among his other notable works are The Edge, Along Came a Spider, and xXx: State of the Union.
