Peak performance
A 12-year-old from Tauranga is scaling new heights on the big screen,
starring in local dramedy The Mountain.
interview Hayley Barnett
Playing the role of Bronco in the new Kiwi film The Mountain, 12-year-old Terence Daniel (Ngāti Kahungunu, Raukawa ki Wharepūhunga, Kuki Airani – Aitutaki) never imagined he’d end up on the big screen. But he’s fully embracing his newfound talent.
The Tauranga local and pupil at Te Pūwhāriki-Maungatapu School is hoping this will be his stepping stone to swapping the school stage for the bright lights of Hollywood. The Mountain is Kiwi actress Rachel House’s directorial debut. Released in March 2024, the film is a heartfelt dramedy about three children on a mission to find healing under the watchful eye of Taranaki Maunga, and discover friendship in the spirit of adventure. Here UNO asks Terence a few questions about his foray into film.
UNO: How did you get into acting?
Terence: This is my first acting role! My nan found it on Facebook and she told my mum. My mum asked me, and I said, ‘Sure, I’ll give it a go!’ After my first audition, I got a call back from Rachel (House) who rang me on Zoom and told me I’d got the part. I was stunned. It didn’t really sink in until I saw my mum was really happy. Then I ran to tell my neighbours and my nan. My nan was proud as. I had always thought I wanted to play rugby or be a mechanic, but now I think I could actually do acting as a job.
UNO: What was it like to act in such a large production?
Terence: It was so much different to what I thought it would be like. I do Kapa Haka as part of Te Pūwhariki but that’s in front of a live audience. This had heaps more people. We had a great crew helping us, including the awesome Carrie Green, our acting coach. They all really supported us kids.
UNO: What was the highlight?
Terence: Being a part of the whole crew and production. That, and getting to be up on the maunga and waking up to the incredible view.
UNO: What do you love about acting?
Terence: It’s really easy, but also really hard at the same time. Performing on camera
is heaps different to Kapa Haka, but I’m used to acting on stage so that definitely helped.
UNO: What and/or who inspires you?
Terence: Our Māori chiefs and our ancestors really inspire me. We have so many amazing stories and I love hearing them.
UNO: What is your favourite movie and why?
Terence: This movie. And why? Because I’m in it!
The Mountain, rated PG, was released in cinemas nationwide on March 28.
