New Zealand actress Marise Wipani passed away on June 6, her 61st birthday, with her family and friends by her side. Wipani was recognized for her notable roles in Soldier, Soldier and Xena: Warrior Princess.
Her passing was announced via a statement on her Facebook page, though the cause of death was not revealed. The post mentioned Wipani’s farewell using a humorous line from Driving Miss Daisy: “I have shuffled off this mortal coil. Good byyye, good luuuck, good God!!!”
Her co-star Jay Laga’aia from “Soldier, Soldier” expressed his sorrow over her death, highlighting the pleasure of working with her and referring to her as his sister.
Ian Mune, who directed Wipani in the 1985 film “Came a Hot Friday,” paid homage to her performance, attributing it to her truthfulness and honesty, which always impressed him.
Wipani’s entertainment career started in the early 1980s when a Miss New Zealand pageant producer encouraged her to participate. She competed in 1983 and finished as the runner-up to Lorraine Downes, who was crowned Miss Universe that year. Wipani later stated she was relieved not to win, as she joined for the travel and financial benefit.
Following her pageant experience, Wipani appeared in “The Billy T. James Show” and secured a role in Ian Mune’s “Came a Hot Friday” in 1985, marking her entry into professional acting.
By the late 1980s, Wipani became known as the face of Lotto New Zealand, earning the nickname “Lotto Lady.” She debuted in the first live broadcast in 1987 with Doug Harvey and continued until 1991 to focus on acting.
Her film career expanded in 1988 with “Grievous Bodily Harm.” In 1993, she joined “Soldier, Soldier” as Ellie in the third series of the ITV drama.
In the mid-1990s, Wipani appeared in “Hercules in the Maze of the Minotaur” and “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys.” She secured roles in “Bonjour Timothy” (1995), “Channelling Baby” (1999), and “Jubilee” (2000).
In 2001, Wipani played Kanae in “Xena: Warrior Princess,” a notable role in her career. In 2007, she portrayed Sharon Short in “Rude Awakenings,” and her final role was as Rebecca Scott in “Shortland Street” in 2008.
Throughout the 2010s, Wipani worked in production roles and at a local cafe. Her career spanned television presenting, film acting, and production work.
Tributes from friends and colleagues followed her passing. One friend described her as a rock star with a great sense of humor. Another colleague praised her strength and individuality.
Industry professionals remembered Wipani’s talent and personal qualities. Friends noted her humor and warmth, emphasizing her talent and kindness.
Wipani was one of five siblings from Ponsonby and moved to Christchurch at 18, after being spotted by the Miss New Zealand pageant producer, starting her career in entertainment.
Her career left a mark across beauty pageants, television presenting, and acting. Her work in popular series like “Soldier, Soldier” and “Xena: Warrior Princess” made her a well-known figure in New Zealand and internationally.
