Andrea Kelland

Bio

Andrea Kelland is a New Zealand actor whose career spans over four decades across theatre, film, and television. Known for her emotionally resonant performances and her behind-the-scenes influence in casting, Andrea has helped shape the face of New Zealand storytelling.

Her love for performance began early, sparked by a childhood fascination with mime and nurtured through her teenage years in the Taumarunui Repertory Society. By her early twenties, she was touring the country with the Story Theatre Company, using the stage as both a creative outlet and a source of personal strength.

Andrea’s screen presence has been a constant in New Zealand’s entertainment landscape. Her credits include iconic feature films such as End of the Golden Weather (directed by Ian Mune), The Insatiable Moon, and Punch. She has appeared in numerous television series, including international productions like Xena: Warrior Princess, Hercules, Young Hercules, Legend of the Seeker, and Power Rangers, as well as beloved local hits like Outrageous Fortune, Nothing Trivial, Go Girls, Step Dave, and The Brokenwood Mysteries.

In 2002, Andrea joined the cast of Shortland Street as the formidable Mrs. Dupree—a role she held until 2015. She also contributed to the show’s casting department, helping to discover and nurture a generation of Kiwi talent. Though now retired from casting, her legacy in the industry remains strong.

This year, Andrea returns to the screen in Small Town Scandal, a new comedy-mystery series directed by Tom Sainsbury and based on his hit podcast. She plays the role of Mrs. Pettigrew, adding her signature depth and wit to a quirky ensemble cast. Andrea and Tom share a rich creative relationship, having previously collaborated on her Basement Theatre show Speakeasy, and most recently on her autobiographical one-woman show A Tart on Tour, which Tom co-directed.

Andrea Kelland continues to act selectively, choosing roles that speak to her creatively and personally. Her career reflects a lifelong commitment to storytelling, authenticity, and artistic courage.