Fredrick Pokai, (Ngati Pōrou and Nati Rangiwewehi,)  is a seasoned filmmaker based in Tāmaki Makaurau, boasting 14 years of experience in the film industry. As a writer and director, Fredrick excels in exploring the strange and unusual, as well as the intricate details of daily life.

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Fredrick's humble beginnings began in Gisborne (Te Tai Rawhiti), before moving to Hamilton (Kirikiriroa,) where he spent much of his youth before moving back to Gisborne and attending Matapuna Training Centre where he would spend 2006-2007. There he studied, contemporary Māori art, graphic, and web design. His course would lead him to Wellington to do an exhibition selling art. It was at that point Fredrick decided to move to Wellington. He began professional wrestling in 2010 until 2012. 

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After his time as a Professional Wrestler, Fredrick stepped into the world of acting, performing in several different short films, and promotional videos. He would also start writing again, writing an array of short stories and ideas for features. In 2012 Fredrick began an idea that would take 12 years to screen called "Search For Hawaiki," which has gained immense traction with festivals along with, "Bringing Mere Home," and "Dive" with two more films set to be released in 2025, "Project Eve," and "Double Date."

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As of 2024, Fredrick Pokai has had several successes in his filmmaking journey. His debut film 'Search For Hawaiki' has been selected for several festivals, including the Māoriland Film Festival, NZ Webfest, and Show Me Shorts 2024. Fredrick's acting and writing abilities have led him to five years of screenings at the New Zealand International Film Festival. He also recently WON a Best Actor award at The Top Of The South Film Festival for his roles in Dive and Redlight. Plus four film entries at The Wairoa Film Festival.

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Through his acting work, Fredrick has a clear vision for performance and what he expects in each scene. His passion for working with actors and delving deep into character development is evident in his work, where he strives to uncover the essence of each character at pivotal moments in the story. Fredrick is dedicated to telling stories that resonate not only with Māori audiences but with a broader audience on an International Scale.

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