New Zealand Director Lee Tamahori Dies After Parkinson’s Disease battle
Auckland, new Zealand – November 8, 2025 – Lee Tamahori, the acclaimed New Zealand film director best known for helming the 2002 James Bond installment Die Another Day, has died following a prolonged struggle with Parkinson’s disease, according to a statement released by his family. He was 78.
Tamahori’s passing marks a meaningful loss for the New Zealand film industry and the Māori community, where he was a celebrated figure. His work not only brought a unique perspective to international cinema but also championed Māori talent both in front of and behind the camera. The director’s legacy extends beyond his cinematic achievements, deeply impacting his whānau (extended family) and inspiring generations of filmmakers.
born in Wellington, New Zealand, Tamahori initially gained recognition for his work in advertising before transitioning to feature films. Die Another Day,starring Pierce Brosnan as 007 and featuring a soundtrack by madonna,remains his most commercially triumphant project,grossing over $431 million worldwide.
Beyond the Bond franchise, Tamahori directed critically acclaimed films such as Once Were Warriors (1994), a powerful drama exploring social issues within the Māori community, and The Patriarch (2016). His films often tackled complex themes of identity, culture, and societal challenges.
“His legacy lives on in his whānau, his mokopuna (grandchildren), every filmmaker he inspired, every boundary he broke, and every story he told with his brilliant eye and generous heart,” the family statement read. “A charismatic leader and passionate creative spirit, Lee championed Māori talent both on and off screen.”
Tamahori’s contributions to New Zealand’s cultural landscape and his impact on the global film industry will be remembered for years to come. Details regarding a memorial service are pending.
