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1531 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
3 days ago

What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.

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9 hours ago

Art Trail

Jeanne from Waikanae Beach

We had a total 0f 508 visitors for the Kapiti Art Trail--such a pleasure meeting everyone and sharing our interest in the Arts and Crafts of the Kapiti Coast. Looking forward to some summer activity here at the gallery. We will let you know about upcoming events.

7 hours ago

Food Recall: Mrs Rogers brand Spice Products

James from Waikanae

Rogers Distribution Ltd is recalling specific batches of its Mrs Rogers brand Naturals Butter Chicken, Curry Powder and Garam Masala due to presence of an undeclared allergen (gluten). People with a gluten allergy or intolerance should not consume this product. If you are not allergic or intolerant to gluten, this recall does not affect you.

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