Aroha Awarau, Celebrated Journalist and Playwright, Passes Away at 49

Aroha Awarau, the acclaimed Māori journalist and playwright, has passed away at the age of 49. His death was confirmed through a heartfelt post on social media, stating he died on Wednesday afternoon, “surrounded by care and love.” The message reflected on Awarau’s life, describing him as someone who faced his final moments with “grace, courage, and his unmistakable spirit.” Despite his battle with cancer, those close to him emphasized that his vibrant personality and creativity remained undiminished.

Awarau gained recognition for his contributions to the arts and journalism. His debut play, Luncheon, which starred renowned actress Jennifer Ward-Lealand and was directed by Katie Wolfe, won the award for Best Play at the 2014 New Zealand Script Writing Awards. His second play, Officer 27, inspired by a real-life police shooting, was a finalist at the NZ Adam Playwriting Awards. Awarau also collaborated with Ward-Lealand and broadcaster Peata Melbourne on the short film Disrupt. His most recent project, the short film Puti, was released in 2025.

In addition to his work in theatre, Awarau made significant contributions to New Zealand journalism. He held positions at various media outlets, including Woman’s Weekly, Woman’s Day, Māori Television, and RNZ. A notable highlight of his journalism career was his interview with Oprah Winfrey for Māori Television’s Native Affairs in 2018, during her visit to New Zealand for the filming of A Wrinkle in Time directed by Ava DuVernay.

Tributes have poured in from colleagues and friends, highlighting Awarau’s impact on the arts and his commitment to telling diverse stories. Ward-Lealand expressed her sorrow on social media, writing, “E te hoa piri pono, Aroha Awarau, kua wehe wawe rawa koe, ā, kei te tangi hotuhotu tēnei ngākau.” She recalled the many moments they shared, filled with laughter and meaningful conversations, expressing her profound love for him.

The Māori performing arts company Te Pou Theatre also paid tribute, stating, “Aroha Awarau: fabulous fierce friend and storyteller extraordinaire has finished his brave fight and we are broken hearted.” They acknowledged his dedication to uplifting the stories of Māori, Pacific, BIPOC, and queer communities. “He was always creating, always working to share those stories that needed to be heard,” they added, noting the significant legacy he leaves behind.

Awarau’s body will be at Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Kōtuku in Auckland until midday on Friday. Final arrangements for his funeral are yet to be announced, as many continue to mourn the loss of this influential figure in the New Zealand arts and media landscape.

His legacy lives on through his impactful work and the stories he shared, ensuring that his spirit will continue to inspire future generations.