1520 days ago

Future Hollywood star found in Upper Hutt boxing gym

Nicholas Boyack Reporter from Community News

James Matamua is a name to remember.

The Upper Hutt 22 year-old has taken an unlikely path to acting stardom after being discovered in an Upper Hutt boxing gym.

When Kiwi director Sam Kelly walked into the Heretaunga Boxing Gym, he wasn’t expecting to find New Zealand’s next big talent. But that is exactly what Kelly found when he handed out audition forms to the young men hanging around after training.

Matamua was so confident he’d get the role after auditioning, James started signing off as ’’Next Big Thing’’ in his emails to the producer, telling them not to bother auditioning anyone else. It was this confidence, humour and natural charm that endeared the casting team to him and won him the role.

Matamua scored a role in Savages, a film about the early history of gangs in New Zealand.

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More messages from your neighbours
22 hours ago

Poll: How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

While it is a fun occasion, fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night has caused much conflict over the years, upsetting our pets and disrupting the sleep of neighbours.

How should we celebrate Guy Fawkes Night? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.

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How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?
  • 27.8% With a city-wide public fireworks display
    27.8% Complete
  • 21% Small fireworks displays in each community
    21% Complete
  • 7.9% Keep it as is
    7.9% Complete
  • 31.5% We shouldn't celebrate it!
    31.5% Complete
  • 11.3% Anything but fireworks
    11.3% Complete
  • 0.4% Other - I'll share below
    0.4% Complete
1146 votes
1 hour ago

Have you seen Colin?

The Team from Wellington District Police

Police are appealing for information to locate 14-year-old Colin, who has been reported missing in Titahi Bay.

He was last seen at around 6.15pm, Monday 4 November. He was wearing a khaki green sweatshirt and black-and-white striped basketball shorts, and riding an e-bike.

If you have seen Colin, or have any information that may assist in locating him please update us at 105 online or call 105, referencing file number 241104/1862.

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19 days ago

What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.

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