New Zealand film and television producer John Barnett has died

Monday 25 August 2025 · 6 outlets · 4 reports · updated Tue 26 Aug 2025, 11:51am

Legendary producer John Barnett died on Sunday night at the age of 80. He led South Pacific Pictures for over two decades and worked on major productions including Whale Rider and Sione's Wedding. The Screen Production and Development Association confirmed his passing.

How they headlined it

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Mon 10:21pmTue 7:46am10:45am11:51am

1. RNZMon 25 Aug 2025, 10:21pm

   Legendary New Zealand film and television producer John Barnett has died (opens in new tab)

   Also on NZ Herald (opens in new tab)

2. The Press via RNZTue 26 Aug 2025, 7:46am

   Legendary New Zealand film and television producer John Barnett dies (opens in new tab)

   Also on Waikato Times (opens in new tab), The Post (opens in new tab)

3. 1News via RNZTue 26 Aug 2025, 10:45am

   Legendary Kiwi film and television producer John Barnett dies (opens in new tab)

4. NZ HeraldTue 26 Aug 2025, 11:51am

   From Whale Rider to Shortland St: John Barnett’s most successful productions (opens in new tab)