Ноme And Away's: EMOTIONAL KIWI WEDDING

Why Māori actor Ethan Browne is so proud of the ceremony

- Tamara Cullen, Amy Prebble.

Kiwi actor Ethan Browne is delighted that Māori culture is a big part of his wedding on iconic Aussie soap Home And Away.

After an earlier attempt to tie the knot ended in a fiery car crash, his character Tane Parata marries Felicity Newman, played by Jacqui Purvis, in a traditional affair that includes a kaikaranga (a caller who welcomes guests) and poi dancers.

“It means everything,” says an emotional Ethan. “I’m so grateful to be able to share my culture on a platform like Home And Away. It’s important to learn about different cultures and the way they live their life, and to be able to do that with my culture outside of New Zealand is truly special.”

His onscreen bride agrees.

“I was truly touched,” says Jacqui. “To learn from Ethan what the traditions are has been really moving. I also had to say my vows in te reo Māori, so I felt the pressure! I just hope I did the beautiful language justice.”