Poroaki Merritt-McDonald is a rising star in New Zealand’s entertainment industry, captivating audiences and critics alike with his versatile performances. At just 21 years old, he is already being hailed as the next major Kiwi actor, boasting significant roles in films such as Muru and Savage, as well as television series including Kairākau and The Gone. His theater debut in the powerful play Little Black Bitch further showcased his ability to bring complex narratives to life. He will be on our screens in 2025 in KōKa, Season 2 of The Gone and Netflix's Hourglass.

Poroaki's breakthrough came with the lead role in the short film My Brother Mitchell, a project deeply rooted in the director's personal experiences. This marked the beginning of his journey into acting, igniting a passion that has since grown into a thriving career. His role in Muru was particularly transformative, allowing him to embody a critical story of resistance and cultural pride, which resonated deeply with New Zealand audiences and beyond. Muru, made with a production budget of approximately NZD $5 million, garnered international attention and acclaim, becoming one of the most successful Kiwi films in recent years.

Similarly, Savage, which explores New Zealand’s gang culture and social history, was a testament to the power of local storytelling. With a production budget of NZD $3.2 million, the film premiered at prestigious festivals such as the BFI London Film Festival and the Busan International Film Festival, gaining accolades for its fresh perspective. Savages cultural impact was significant, earning praise for its raw and emotional storytelling.

Poroaki's television success includes The Gone, a gripping crime drama that achieved considerable popularity both in New Zealand and Ireland. Its strong viewership and critical reception highlight his growing influence on the global stage.

"The Gone," a New Zealand-Ireland co-production, is distributed internationally by Acorn TV, a leading streaming platform specialising in mystery and drama content. In New Zealand, the series was released by TVNZ+ in May 2023, and it reached global audiences through Acorn TV and Prime Video.

In addition to his acting achievements, Poroaki was selected as the New Zealand Youth Ambassador for FestPAC 2024, a role that reflects his dedication to advancing indigenous narratives and empowering the next generation of performers. He continues to inspire others, embracing the demanding nature of the industry while championing the transformative power of storytelling.

For specific information on production and distribution companies, Muru was distributed by New Zealand Film Commission, while Savage was backed by XYZ Films and Madman Entertainment.