Toby Curtis was a New Zealand actor best known for his roles in “Once Were Warriors” (1994) and “To Love a Maori” (1972). He was born on November 13, 1939, in Rotoehu, New Zealand, and passed away on August 17, 2022, in Lake Rotoiti, New Zealand due to natural causes.
Personal and Family Life
Toby Curtis was born under the name Noble Thomson Curtis. He attended several educational institutions, including St Michael’s College and St Peter’s Maori College, before earning a Diploma of Teaching and a Master of Arts degree. In addition to his acting career, he had a significant impact on education in New Zealand, serving as principal and vice-principal at various colleges.
Professional Career
During his career, Toby Curtis had influential roles in the education sector. He was the Director of Primary Education at the Auckland College of Education and later became a faculty dean and deputy vice-chancellor at AUT. His contributions to Maori education include being the chair of the Iwi Education Authority and the Maori broadcasting advisory committee.
Death and Legacy
Toby Curtis passed away on August 17, 2022, leaving behind a rich legacy in both the arts and education. His work in film and education has significantly impacted the Maori community, and he is remembered for his dedication to promoting Maori culture and language immersion in schools.
Filmography
| Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| To Love a Maori | 1972 | Tama’s father |
| Once Were Warriors | 1994 | Consultant |