Our warmest congratulations to the three WIFT NZ members who received a very special surprise on New Year's Day for their inspirational work in the screen industry.
Acclaimed Wellington-based actor, director and performance coach Miranda Harcourt was appointed a Dame Companion (DNZM) for services to the screen industry and theatre. She has been appointed an officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to theatre and the community and has twice been awarded best actress at the Chapman Tripp Theatre Awards.
Harcourt works with clients all over the world, from aspiring young actors to big names such as Nicole Kidman, Saoirse Ronan, Dev Patel and Melanie Lynskey. Her clients have won or been nominated for Academy Awards, Golden Globes, Baftas and Emmys.
Whitebait Media director and executive producer Janine Morrell-Gunn was appointed an Officer (ONZM) for services to children's television and the community.
Lisa Taouma, producer, and founder of online Polynesian community The Coconet.tv, was appointed an Officer (ONZM) for services to Pacific arts and the screen industry.