Poroaki Merritt-McDonald
Monarch, Muru, The GoneUpon Request
Poroaki Merritt-McDonald is a rising star in New Zealand’s entertainment industry, known for his compelling performances in Muru, Savage, Kairākau, and The Gone. At just 21 years old, he is quickly earning a reputation as one of Aotearoa’s most promising young talents, with upcoming roles in KōKa and Season 2 of The Gone.
His breakout role in My Brother Mitchell ignited a passion for storytelling that continues to drive his career. Poroaki’s performance in the $5 million feature Muru struck a chord with audiences, while Savage ($3.2M) gained international acclaim at several major film festivals. His role in the New Zealand–Ireland co-production The Gone further expanded his global reach, with the series streaming on Acorn TV and Prime Video.
Off-screen, Poroaki serves as the New Zealand Youth Ambassador for FestPAC 2024, where he champions indigenous voices and cultural storytelling. With a growing international presence and a powerful commitment to authentic narratives, Poroaki Merritt-McDonald is poised to be a defining force in the future of New Zealand cinema.
NZ Agent: TMH Management
