It is with much sadness that the New Zealand Film Commission acknowledges the passing of respected New Zealand script writer Graeme Tetley.

A script writer for over 25 years, Graeme began his film career as co-writer on Vigil with director Vincent Ward for which they were awarded the 1986 NZ Film & Television Award for Best Original Screenplay in Film.

He then worked with director Gaylene Preston on the screenplay of her debut feature, Mr Wrong; and in 1990 they partnered together again on Ruby & Rata, a feature film idea conceived and written by Tetley and directed by Preston. In 1994 Graeme and Gaylene once again joined forces to write the script for Bread and Roses, a four part three-hour adaptation of the life of MP Sonja Davies.

During this time, Graeme was also writing for television, live theatre and working on a novel.

In 2007 Graeme co-wrote with director Rob Sarkies, Out of the Blue, about the 1990 massacre at Aramoana. A gripping drama which revealed a day in the life of the isolated seaside community, the film was remarkable not just for its honest recounting of the tragic events, but also for its revelation of the heroic feats and bravery of the people of Aramoana. Tetley and Sarkies received the 2008 NZ Television and Film Award for Best Screenplay in Film.

At the time of his death, Graeme Tetley was collaborating on a number of film projects. His influence, creativity and friendship will be missed by many New Zealand filmmakers.

NZFC CEO Graeme Mason said today that Tetley was “not only a great voice of New Zealand stories of his own but also wonderful at helping others to find theirs. He will be greatly missed.”