Lee Tamahori
Lee Tamahori was a renowned New Zealand director best known for his impactful films such as 'Once Were Warriors' and 'Die Another Day'. Born in Wellington in 1950, he made significant contributions to the film industry, particularly by championing Māori talent. His career spanned both New Zealand and Hollywood, where he directed a mix of critically acclaimed dramas and commercial thrillers. Tamahori's legacy is marked by his ability to tell compelling stories that resonate with diverse audiences, and he passed away at the age of 75 due to Parkinson's disease.
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Recent news mentions
Lee Tamahori was a renowned director known for his contributions to indigenous storytelling.
Our Heroes: Herald’s top NZers of 2025 in news, sport, business and entertainment
New Zealand· 2025-12-06
Lee Tamahori was honoured posthumously with his historical drama The Convert winning five major honours.
Media Insider: NZ Screen Awards guest arrested, trespassed after becoming aggressive following incident with female hospitality workersNew Zealand· 2025-11-24
Lee Tamahori was acknowledged for his extraordinary vision and lasting contribution to NZ cinema.
John Lithgow and the late Lee Tamahori among top winners at Screen AwardsNew Zealand· 2025-11-21
Lee Tamahori was a famous Kiwi director celebrated for his decades-long career in film.
Lee Tamahori: Whānau gather to farewell famous Kiwi directorNew Zealand· 2025-11-08
Lee Tamahori was a respected New Zealand director known for his films that highlighted Maori identity.
Morreu o realizador neozelandês Lee Tamahori, empenhado cultor da identidade maori | Cinema
Portugal· 2025-11-08
Lee Tamahori was a notable figure in Maori cinema and passed away at the age of 75.
La mort à 75 ans de Lee Tamahori, réalisateur de « L’Ame des guerriers » et figure du cinéma maori
France· 2025-11-08
Lee Tamahori, the New Zealand director of Once Were Warriors and Die Another Day, has died aged 75.
Lee Tamahori, director of Once Were Warriors and James Bond movie Die Another Day, dies aged 75 | Film
United Kingdom· 2025-11-07
