John Cowan talks to Troy Kingi, a musician-actor of Te Arawa, Nga Puhi and Te Whanau-a-Apanui descent.

Troy is best known for his role as TK in Taika Waititi's film Hunt for the Wilderpeople.

Raised in Rotorua, Te Kaha and Kerikeri, Troy took to music at a very young age. During his Time at Te Aute College, Troy took a particular interest in the guitar. Since then he has grown to be a master of both electric and acoustic guitars; drums, bass, keys and countless other instruments. It is this musical literacy that allowed him to begin composing his own songs in the early 2000s.

Troy also spent time at the Mainz music and audio institute where he honed his musical skills and made more musical contacts. In early 2012, Troy had been spotted by producers of an upcoming New Zealand film Mt Zion. He attended an audition and the director was instantly struck by Troy’s unique personality and musical talent.

He enjoys spending time with family, helping youth, sports and recreational diving. Troy currently lives in the Bay of Islands of New Zealand with his wife Huia and soon to be four children.