Talia Pua: Rising Star of Tina and Aotearoa Screen Talent

There’s a growing global appetite for authentic storytelling, and New Zealand screen talent like Talia Pua is right at the centre of it. Her role in Tinā marks a defining moment, not just for her career, but for the kind of grounded, emotionally intelligent performances that are starting to travel well beyond Aotearoa.

What makes Talia stand out isn’t hype. It’s presence. The kind that holds weight without needing to announce itself.

In Tinā, Talia delivers a performance that feels honest and unforced. It’s the kind of work that connects across cultures because it doesn’t try too hard to translate itself. It just is.

The film itself has gained international attention and awards, building momentum through festivals and audiences who are clearly ready for stories that feel real.

For Collaborate, this is exactly the kind of project we want our talent stepping into. Work that travels, resonates, and creates long-term career pathways.

Talia’s background in theatre plays a huge role in how she approaches screen work. There’s discipline there, but also flexibility. She understands timing, space, and how to build something collaboratively.

Her work with Ōckham Collective reflects that process-driven approach. It’s not about chasing the spotlight. It’s about creating work that has meaning, even when it sits slightly outside the mainstream. You can see more of that here.

Projects like Birds show Talia's willingness to step into more experimental territory, where storytelling becomes physical, visual, and immersive. It’s not the obvious path, but it’s a smart one. It builds range that lasts. You can read more about that work here.

Being recognised as a Springboard recipient isn’t just a nice addition to the CV. It’s a signal from the industry that someone is worth backing. Talia’s recognition speaks to both her ability and her direction. She’s making choices that support long-term growth, not quick wins. 

Talia brings cultural awareness and lived experience into her performances in a way that adds depth without overstatement. It gives her work weight, and it’s a big part of why audiences connect with it. You can explore more of her background here.

This is where New Zealand talent is carving out a real space globally. Not by imitating, but by being specific and grounded.

At Collaborate, we’re not just looking at who’s busy right now. We’re looking at who’s building something. If you're looking for genuine talent, get in touch here.