A multi-talented bi-lingual writer and performer from Whaingaroa has been named the 2011 ‘Tau Mai e Kapiti’ Writer in Residence.

A multi-talented bi-lingual writer and performer from Whaingaroa has been named the 2011 ‘Tau Mai e Kapiti’ Writer in Residence.

Antonio Te Maioha (Waikato / Nga Puhi) is well-known as an actor on stage and screen, most recently as the gladiator ‘Barca’ in the US television series Spartacus: Blood and Sand. He is also known as a co-presenter on the Maori Television series Kiwi Maara, a show which aims to revitalise Maori gardening practices.

As an emerging writer, Antonio has been composing and performing poems, stories and waiata at events throughout the North Island. He is one of a number of poets and writers invited to respond to the Oceania Exhibition at Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand when it opens later this month.

Antonio is the fourth Kapiti writer in residence and will head to the island later this month to begin his two month stay. This year’s judging panel describe him as having a diverse range of writing skills and experience across different media.

“His strengths include fluency in the Maori language and appeal to audiences of all ages,” said judging panel member Mei Hill. “He has energy and versatility both as a writer and a performer - a combination that is not easy to achieve.”

The judges commented that they were impressed with Antonio’s motivation during the residency - to “listen to the island”. He expects to complete projects in hand and extend current material, including a series of stories for children featuring two adventurous characters, Pango and Puki.

The 'Tau mai e Kapiti' Maori Writers' Residency is funded by Te Waka Toi / Creative New Zealand and hosted by Kaitiaki o Kapiti Trust. The residency offers a grant and allows an up and- coming Maori writer to live and work on the northern end of Kapiti island for eight weeks.

“Kapiti has profound spiritual power which has inspired writers and artists for many years,” said Minnie Barrett, from Kaitiaki o Kapiti Trust. “This is the only residency in the country created and run by Maori for Maori writers. We expect this year’s writer in residence will respond well to the opportunity to spend eight weeks on the island.”

Last year’s Kapiti writer in residence, Nuki Takao, described the experience as “a dream come true”.

Media Release: Kaitiaki o Kapiti Trust