People
Bio
Arani created Diva Productions Ltd in 1992, initially as an artist management company for New Zealand’s well-loved comedians and singer/songwriters, the Topp Twins. After many successful international tours, Diva produced the Topp Twins’ award-winning entertainment TV series, as well as several co- productions with Ninox Films (NZ) and Beyond International (Australia).
She originated and produced The Topp Twins, Untouchable Girls, which won the People’s Choice Award at the 2009 Toronto International Film Festival. It is the most successful documentary ever released in New Zealand (domestic b/o nearly $2 million) and one of NZs top 10 feature films. It won Best Feature (low budget category) at the 2009 Qantas NZ Film and TV Awards, and has gone on to win more than 20 international awards. Last year Arani was the recipient of the WIFT Outstanding Achievement Award and NZFC’s Producer Award.
Arani has a science degree BSc (Hons) from Auckland University and worked for Greenpeace International as a campaign director 1989-1992. She has also been very involved in the music industry and continues to promote live music and shows, as well as develop feature films and documentaries that inspire social change. She was selected for Art Venture 08, a business accelerator programme for creative entrepreneurs funded by the Auckland Regional Trust and Creative NZ.
Arani lives in Auckland with her partner and step-children. Interests include sailing, ski-ing, yoga, cooking and reading.
