Busy. That's one way to describe Auckland-based writer, actor and director Rene Naufahu. In the last two years, he has written and directed a television series (TV2's The Market) and starred in Toa Fraser's film No. 2, for which he won Best Supporting Actor at the New Zealand Screen Awards. He is also currently developing two screenplays - Stonedogs, based on the novel by Craig Marriner, and an original project, Bloodlines, with In My Father's Den producer Trevor Haysom. Busy. That's one way to describe Auckland-based writer, actor and director Rene Naufahu. In the last two years, he has written and directed a television series (TV2's The Market) and starred in Toa Fraser's film No. 2, for which he won Best Supporting Actor at the New Zealand Screen Awards. He is also currently developing two screenplays - Stonedogs, based on the novel by Craig Marriner, and an original project, Bloodlines, with In My Father's Den producer Trevor Haysom.During what hours of the day do you feel most inspired?
It varies - different days, different inspirations.

How would a good friend describe your aesthetic or style?
With great diplomacy.

Who would you most like to write something for or direct?
I would've loved to have written something that the late John Sturges would've directed, otherwise I'd love to write a raw, true Polynesian comedy for Woody Allen to helm - that would be hardcase.

Who I'd most like to direct? The next actor.

What aspect of your creative practice gives you the biggest thrill?
Pressing the 'DELETE' button.

How do you think your environment affects your work?
It's amazing how insightful, urgent and prodigious you can be when you're faced with those amazing yet simple words: 'FUNDS OVERDRAWN'.

As well as being an actor, director and screenwriter, you also have two young children. How do you balance your family life with your creative life?
Every morning when they arise I look into their eyes and I'm filled with the greatest stories, and the most thrilling hopes and images all come flooding to my mind. But sometimes come mid-morning, after I've changed the fifth nappy, I can't even remember my own name.

Do you like to look at the big picture or focus on the details?
I'm stuck with the details, my wife gets the big picture.

How does being a director affect how you work as an actor, and vice versa?
As an actor, I can tell when directors are being brave, and as a director I can tell when actors are afraid.

Describe the ways in which your childhood play has influenced how you work as an adult.
I was always the last person called at Bullrush.

What do you find the most challenging aspect of working in the New Zealand film and television industries?
Lousy tippers.

Which of your projects to date has given you the most satisfaction?
Past projects are like ex-girlfriends - after the initial novelty has worn off, you either take off screaming or you sit there wondering "How the Hell did I get into this mess?" - the best ones are always Love/Hate.

If you could go back and choose a completely different career path to the one you've chosen, what would it be?
YouTube originator. No question.

What place is always with you, wherever you go?
Amsterdam.

What's the best way to listen to music, and why?
In your bedroom with a group of your best mates, volume cranked right up, not giving a shit about the neighbours or the outside world. Why? 'Cause I can't do that anymore.

You are given a piece of string, a stick and some fabric. What do you make?
A racket.

What's the best stress relief advice you've ever been given?
If you can keep your head whilst everyone around you is losing their's - you probably don't know what's going on.

What's your favourite word?
Epiphany. (Hey, you asked.)

What's great about today?
It's up to you.

Interview by Cass Hesom-Williams

30/1/07

Image: Rene Naufahu as Erasmus in No. 2.