New Zealand actress Marise Wipani passed away at the age of 61 on June 6, her birthday, with family and friends by her side. Wipani was renowned for her performances in Soldier, Soldier and Xena: Warrior Princess.
A statement on her Facebook page announced her death, though the cause was not provided. Wipani humorously referenced the film “Driving Miss Daisy” in her farewell: “I have shuffled off this mortal coil. Good byyye, good luuuck, good God!!!” Wipani wanted to say goodbye on her own terms.
Jay Laga’aia, who co-starred with Wipani in the British drama series “Soldier, Soldier,” expressed his deep sorrow at her passing. He praised their working relationship, noting her presence on set was always welcomed and referred to her as his sister.
Director Ian Mune, who collaborated with Wipani on the 1985 film “Came a Hot Friday,” paid homage to her. He highlighted her authentic and honest performance in the film, which left a lasting impression on him.
Wipani’s career in entertainment began in the early 1980s after a Miss New Zealand pageant producer discovered her. She competed in the 1983 pageant and was the runner-up to Lorraine Downes, who later became Miss Universe. Wipani later shared her relief at not winning, admitting she participated for the free trip and money.
After her pageant experience, Wipani appeared in various roles on “The Billy T. James Show.” Her professional acting career took off in 1985 with the role of Esmerelda in Ian Mune’s comedy film “Came a Hot Friday.”
By the late 1980s and early 1990s, Wipani became the face of “Lotto New Zealand” as its host. Known as the “Lotto Lady,” she first appeared in the live broadcast in 1987 alongside Doug Harvey and continued until 1991 when she shifted her focus to acting.
Wipani expanded her film career in 1988, playing Suzie in the Australian crime film “Grievous Bodily Harm.” In 1993, she joined the cast of “Soldier, Soldier,” portraying Ellie in the third series of the ITV drama.
During the mid-1990s, Wipani starred in “Hercules in the Maze of the Minotaur” and the series “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys.” She also appeared in “Bonjour Timothy” in 1995, “Channelling Baby” in 1999, and “Jubilee” in 2000.
In 2001, Wipani played Kanae in “Xena: Warrior Princess,” a role that became one of her most recognized. She later appeared as Sharon Short in “Rude Awakenings” in 2007. Her final acting role was in 2008 as Rebecca Scott in the New Zealand series “Shortland Street.”
Throughout the 2010s, Wipani worked behind the scenes in production roles and also had a job at a local café. Her career spanned TV presenting, film acting, and production work over several decades.
Following the announcement of her death, tributes from friends and colleagues appeared on social media. One friend described her as a rock star with a great sense of humor, expressing devastation at her loss. Another colleague praised her strength and individuality.
Members of the film industry remembered Wipani for her talent and personal qualities. Friends highlighted her humor, warmth, and positive attitude, noting her talent as an actress and her kindness in professional settings.
One of five siblings. Wipani was raised in Ponsonby and relocated to Christchurch at 18. Her move followed her discovery by the Miss New Zealand pageant producer, which launched her into an entertainment career in television and film.
Wipani leaves behind a diverse legacy across multiple entertainment forms, from beauty pageants to TV presenting and acting in film and television. Her roles in popular series like “Soldier, Soldier” and “Xena: Warrior Princess” made her a notable figure in New Zealand, Australia, and internationally.
