SelwynMuru
- Reporter
- Director
Selwyn Muru was first and foremost an artist. But his absolute fluency in Māori and English and his extraordinary facility as a storyteller saw him undertake many roles in radio and television from the 1960s to the 1990s. His dulcet voice and deft cultural abilities helped make tikanga Māori a vital element of New Zealand television. Muru passed away on 24 January 2024.
Screenography
Biography
Herewini Murupaenga was born in Te Hāpua, the far north home of the Ngāti Kurī people of Te Aupōuri. His upbringing was steeped in the traditions of his people. He had a profound love for Māori history and art, and made a career out of it. His 10 brothers and sisters were taught the ways of the seas and harbours that surrounded their home, in particular the skills of fishing, and feeding the old people. Muru loved fishing.
Awards
1990 Creative New Zealand Te Waka Awards
Toi Te Tohu mō Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu Award: for contributions to Māori visual art, broadcasting, journalism and whaikōrero
“Whenever Selwyn's name comes up, people always ask 'what is it he hasn't done?' Because no matter what area of work I consider, Selwyn has done it.”