Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do.

I’m a filmmaker and producer. I produced films like The Dark Horse and Shadow in the Cloud. And, I co wrote, directed and produced series such as The Panthers (about The Polynesian Panthers). I am currently in pre production on a new comedy series and post production on a music documentary. 

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do.

I’m a filmmaker and producer. I produced films like The Dark Horse and Shadow in the Cloud. And, I co wrote, directed and produced series such as The Panthers (about The Polynesian Panthers). I am currently in pre production on a new comedy series and post production on a music documentary. 

As a father of gorgeous twins, what has been your favorite memory as a Dad so far?

I will never forget the moment our twins were born. Especially my daughter, Mahina Joy, who came first. We kept their genders a surprise - which is apparently not common these days. I hadn’t wanted to admit it during the pregnancy but I was secretly hoping for a girl. When MJ arrived, I broke down in joy. Then, her brother, Noah, soon followed. He was born so tiny that he could only feed through a tube for a time in the hospital and I got the important job of feeding him, while Mum breastfed his sister. The bond that Noah and I built during those first weeks when he needed so much help, was deep and special. I still feed him every evening as part of our routine.

Since becoming a Dad, I’ve realized that it is what I was born to do. 

 

What is a special memory you have with your dad or grandfather that has helped shape who you are today?

My dad was always there to support and cheer for me as a boy.  I remember that, distinctly. On the sideline at all of my games, in the hall at all of my prizegivings and speech competitions. I always felt his belief in me. And, that kind of belief is powerful.


Which lessons have you learned from your father that you will pass down to your twins?

My dad showed me the importance of always turning up. And the power of a father’s encouragement. These are two qualities I very much plan to emulate as a father. 


Do you have any gems of wisdom that you can share with new or expectant fathers? 

Dads…

Love and appreciate your baby-Mums. Keep expanding and nurturing that love for her. 

Juggling parenting, work, and life can be exhausting, demanding, and relentless.  But, if you work as a team and keep feeding and growing your love as parents, this will make everything more possible. I love the thought of our babies seeing how much I adore their Mum and what this models to them, too. It shows them that this kind of love is real, normal, and attainable. I love the seeds that this plants in their little, growing hearts.

Further to all of this. Find a way to build some movement into your day. Spare time can be very tough to find (especially with twins), but a 20-minute run and/or a quick burpee workout will aid your mental health and make you a better, happier dad. I promise!