Nikau Parata

Gemma Parata
Occupation(s)	Fictional character on Home and Away
Years active	2020
Known for	Character on the Australian soap opera Home and Away
Notable work	Home and Away

Gemma Parata

Gemma Parata, played by Bree Peters, made her first appearance on 27 January 2020. Peters’ involvement was announced in November 2019, with character information revealed in TV Week. Gemma is introduced as the mother of Nikau Parata (Kawakawa Fox-Reo) and the sister-in-law to Tane Parata (Ethan Browne). Peters characterized Gemma as a strong family matriarch surrounded by males, highlighting that family is central to her identity. An Inside Soap article observed that despite the hardships faced by the Parata family, Gemma remains hopeful for improved circumstances. The character’s departure was unanticipated, occurring on 8 July 2020 when she returned to New Zealand to scatter the ashes of her late husband Mikaere.

After a hostage situation involving her brother-in-law Ari Parata, Gemma visits him in hospital and later chooses to stay in Summer Bay with her family. Financial difficulties force the Paratas to move from a motel into Marilyn Chambers’ residence, which creates friction with Marilyn’s husband John Palmer. Disputes emerge regarding Ari’s criminal past and the circumstances surrounding Mikaere’s death during a robbery. Nevertheless, Gemma and John manage to reconcile, finding common ground through their sons.

Gemma provides steadfast support to Nikau as he navigates personal obstacles, including Bella Nixon’s aggressive response to his advances. When Tane arrives and rents a home for the family, Gemma gains employment at Salt following reduced hours at the Pier Diner. She organizes a hāngī gathering with friends and shares a fleeting romantic connection with Ben Astoni but ultimately opts to maintain their friendship out of respect for her late husband’s memory. After being implicated in a robbery and carjacking incident, Gemma chooses to return alone to New Zealand to scatter Mikaere’s ashes, later inviting Nikau to join her.

Nikau Parata

Nikau Parata, portrayed by Kawakawa Fox-Reo, first appeared on screen on 28 January 2020. Fox-Reo’s casting was revealed alongside Rob Kipa-Williams (Ari Parata) in November 2019. Although accepted into the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Fox-Reo decided to decline this opportunity in order to join the series. He experienced homesickness after relocating to Sydney for filming. Alongside Kipa-Williams and Ethan Browne (Tane Parata), Fox-Reo forms part of the show’s new Māori family unit, working closely with writers to ensure cultural authenticity. His goal was to incorporate elements of his upbringing and cultural humor into Nikau’s portrayal.

Nikau is characterized as "impulsive," self-assured with women, and deeply connected to his mother Gemma Parata (Bree Peters). Early storylines feature his interactions with Jade Lennox (Mia Morrissey), whose behavior leads Nikau to punch Ryder Jackson (Lukas Radovich). He also becomes romantically linked with Bella Nixon (Courtney Miller), sharing a kiss despite opposition from Dean Thompson (Patrick O'Connor).

It was announced on 30 November 2022 that Fox-Reo would be departing the show after completing his final scenes. Fans speculated about his exit following his decision to dye his hair blond and leave Australia the previous month. Nikau’s last episode aired on 2 March 2023, concluding with his departure from Summer Bay alongside Bella as they headed to New York.

Tane Parata

Tane Parata, brought to life by Ethan Browne, made his first appearance on 10 February 2020. The announcement of Browne's casting came on 29 December 2019, marking his first role on television with Home and Away. Tane is introduced as the sibling of Ari Parata (Rob Kipa-Williams) and cousin to Nikau Parata (Kawakawa Fox-Reo), together representing the series' new Māori family unit. The actors worked closely with the writing team to ensure cultural accuracy. Tane’s personality is characterized as a "troublemaker," "cheeky," and "carefree," while remaining deeply loyal to his family. In the milestone 8000th episode aired on 27 March 2023, Tane weds Felicity Newman (Jacqui Purvis). Following the departure of his immediate family from the storyline, producers introduced his cousin Kahu Parata (Jordi Webber) in April 2023. Ethan Browne earned a nomination for Best Daytime Star at the 2022 Inside Soap Awards.

Marco Astoni

Marco Astoni, portrayed by Tim Walter, arrived on screen for the first time on 12 March 2020. Walter had previously appeared in Home and Away in 2008 as Aaron Copeland. Marco is revealed as the brother of established character Ben Astoni (Rohan Nichol), with his entry delving into Ben’s background. Marco has harbored feelings for Ben’s wife, Maggie Astoni (Kestie Morassi), since their younger days. A confrontation between Marco and Maggie leads to Ben physically attacking Marco, resulting in a fractured relationship.

Marco is described as "self-assured" and "persuasive," managing the family enterprise, which has suffered from mismanagement, leaving him in financial difficulty. He arrives in Summer Bay under the guise of mending ties with Ben and proposing a collaborative business opportunity, though Maggie remains suspicious of his true motives.

He visits Ben on his birthday; despite initial hostility, Ben’s daughter Ziggy Astoni (Sophie Dillman) convinces her father to allow Marco to stay. It is revealed that Marco and Maggie shared a one-night encounter 22 years earlier, adding complexity to family relations. Marco coerces Maggie into persuading Ben to invest in his plan by threatening to expose their past liaison. After Ben agrees to fund the venture, Maggie insists that Marco leave, but he refuses.

This revelation causes Ziggy to doubt her paternity, leading to a DNA test that confirms Ben as her biological father. Despite this confirmation, animosity between Ben and Marco continues, with repeated but unsuccessful attempts at reconciliation. Before leaving Summer Bay, Marco acknowledges Maggie’s love for Ben and advises Ben to be a better spouse.

Evan Slater

Evan Slater, enacted by Cameron Daddo, made his debut on 14 May 2020. Daddo’s casting was disclosed in November 2019, with character details emerging shortly before his first appearance. His contract was for a two-month duration. Daddo described Summer Bay as "a charming location" and expressed appreciation for the opportunity amid uncertain times in the entertainment industry.

Evan is introduced as the estranged father of regular character Ryder Jackson (Lukas Radovich) and becomes a potential romantic interest for Ryder’s aunt Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker). Initially, Ryder reacts with confusion and suspicion towards Evan, while his grandfather Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher) views Evan’s arrival with distrust. Evan’s history includes a brief romance with Ryder’s mother, Quinn Jackson (Lara Cox), during their time performing as musicians aboard a cruise ship. Although he intended to settle down with Quinn on the Gold Coast, he ultimately abandoned her to raise Ryder alone. This background prompts Alf to respond coldly to Evan, causing Evan to contemplate leaving Summer Bay.

Amber Simmons

Amber Simmons, brought to life by Maddy Jevic, made her debut on 23 July 2020. Jevic, who had been a fan of Home and Away prior to joining, began filming in January and commended the friendly atmosphere among cast and crew. Known earlier for portraying nurse Lee Radcliffe in Wentworth, Jevic enjoyed the contrast Amber offered as a character. Amber works as a home carer assigned to assist John Palmer (Shane Withington), who became wheelchair-dependent following a stroke. Characterized as "loyal, funny and tough," Amber shares history with Willow Harris (Sarah Roberts), Dean Thompson (Patrick O'Connor), and Colby Thorne (Tim Franklin), having grown up alongside them in Mangrove River. She has a past romantic connection with Dean, and tension emerges upon encountering Colby, now serving as a police officer. Amber and her son Jai Simmons (River Jarvis) departed the series in May 2021.

Upon arrival, Amber takes on the role of caring for John Palmer after his stroke, initially experiencing friction due to her methods and demeanor. After John dismisses her from the position, she reconnects with old acquaintance Dean Thompson but faces rejection because of his current relationship status. Amber later confronts Colby Thorne on the beach, expressing anger both physically and verbally over her brother Jai’s fatal car accident involving Colby. Although initially hostile toward Willow Harris, Amber eventually reconciles with both Willow and Dean after meeting for drinks. Subsequently, Amber shares a night with Tane Parata (Ethan Browne).

Owen Davidson

Owen Davidson, portrayed by Cameron Daddo, entered the storyline on 24 August 2020. Confirmed by Woman's Day on 17 August 2020, Owen is revealed as the estranged twin brother of Evan Slater, also played by Daddo. Cameron Daddo highlighted the difficulty of portraying two distinct characters separately and showed enthusiasm for developing Owen’s narrative following Evan’s exit. Owen becomes romantically involved with Roo Stewart (Georgie Parker). His departure was broadcast on 12 November 2020.

When Owen arrives in Summer Bay, he is immediately recognized by Ryder Jackson and Alf Stewart due to his striking resemblance to Evan Slater. Discovering they are twins separated at birth, Owen remains to uncover more about his family background. He forms a bond with Roo Stewart, who had been close to Evan prior to his death. Their relationship progresses swiftly through several dates despite Alf’s doubts and underlying family conflicts.

Owen finds it challenging to cope with the emotional burden tied to his connection with Evan, which strains his relationship with Roo. The situation worsens when Roo accidentally calls him Evan’s name during an intimate moment and abruptly leaves. Although attempts are made to mend their relationship, Roo's lingering attachment to Evan leads Owen to end things and depart from Summer Bay.

Taylor Rosetta

Taylor Rosetta, enacted by Annabelle Stephenson, first appeared on 26 August 2020. Her casting was announced earlier that month. Stephenson initially auditioned for the role while in Italy in 2019 but secured the part after returning to Australia and relocating to Sydney for filming. She described the set environment as relaxed and inviting, referring to Taylor as "a friendly and fiercely independent woman."

Taylor is married to Angelo Rosetta (Luke Jacobz), who returns to Summer Bay following an extended absence. Their shared history includes Taylor falling for Angelo during her physiotherapy studies, attracted by his passion and charisma. However, feeling overlooked in their marriage, Taylor embarks on an affair with Angelo’s suspect, Colby Thorne (Tim Franklin). Stephenson explained that this storyline intertwines themes of love, betrayal, and complex narratives beneath an ongoing murder investigation.

In Summer Bay, Taylor supports Angelo’s homicide investigation but grows closer to Colby after comforting him following a dispute with Angelo. Colby introduces Taylor to gym manager Willow Harris (Sarah Roberts), who offers client referrals. As Angelo concentrates on pursuing leads outside town, Taylor’s relationship with Colby intensifies from a simple thank-you massage into a clandestine affair. When Taylor becomes aware that others in the community have discovered the secret liaison, she attempts to bring it to an end.

Christian Green

Christian Green, portrayed by Ditch Davey, made his first appearance on 16 September 2020. Announced on 19 June 2020, Davey expressed that the role was a fortunate opportunity during difficult circumstances. Christian is introduced as a neurosurgeon called in to manage a critical medical case at Northern Districts Hospital, specifically consulting on Justin Morgan's spinal tumour. Initially characterized by arrogance, Christian gradually reveals a more compassionate and humorous personality. He also develops a romantic relationship with fellow doctor Tori Morgan (Penny McNamee). In September 2021, both actors exited the show as their characters wed and moved to London.

Kieran Baldivis

Kieran Baldivis, portrayed by Rick Donald, debuted on 26 November 2020. Having previously appeared in a guest role, Donald was enthusiastic about taking on Kieran, described as the estranged and "deeply troubled" son of Martha Stewart (Belinda Giblin). Unlike typical "bad boy" portrayals, Kieran's storyline focuses on his struggles with mental health and addiction while seeking redemption.

Kieran arrives in Summer Bay with hopes of mending his relationship with Martha but encounters resistance due to his history of alcoholism and anger issues. He finds work managing the local gym, yet his presence disrupts family harmony, culminating in a dramatic kidnapping event and his subsequent arrest.

Following his release under a good behaviour bond, Kieran returns sober and strives to regain trust with Roo Stewart and others. Despite initial hostility from Alf Stewart, Kieran commits to recovery through support groups and therapy. His evolving relationship with Jasmine Delaney transitions from conflict to mutual encouragement, though challenges remain.

Ultimately, Kieran decides to move out to concentrate on his rehabilitation, accepting a job opportunity in Merimbula arranged by Martha. His departure is tinged with cautious hope, marked by Alf's reluctant approval.

Lewis Hayes

Lewis Hayes, played by Luke Arnold, first appeared on 30 November 2020. Announced in early November 2020, Lewis is introduced as an agency nurse and nursing unit manager driven by a "revenge mission." He arrives in Summer Bay as a former partner of nurse Jasmine Delaney (Sam Frost), intent on confronting surgeon Christian Green (Ditch Davey), whom he holds responsible for the death of his late partner Anna Jobson.

Initially working in the prison infirmary, Lewis later transfers to Northern Districts Hospital to collaborate with Jasmine. After securing the nursing unit manager position, tensions rise between Lewis and Christian due to Lewis's conviction that Christian's negligence caused Anna's fatal accident. Lewis undermines Christian both professionally and personally, escalating to attempts to implicate him in patient deaths. This includes an effort to harm patient Ari Parata, sparking an inquiry that leads to Christian’s temporary suspension.

The conflict intensifies when Lewis presses assault charges after Christian punches him; however, the penalty imposed is minor. Lewis's vendetta reaches its peak when he takes Christian hostage and administers a lethal injection, believing he is exacting justice for Anna. Christian survives the attack, leading Lewis into an emotional collapse and eventual surrender.

Lewis pleads guilty to three patient murders and the attempted murder of Christian, concluding a tragic storyline fueled by revenge that deeply affects hospital staff dynamics and relationships.

Others

Date(s)	Role	Performer	Context
27 January	Hostage Taker #3	Emanuele Battaglia	Members of the Ouroboros gang detain hostages within the hospital emergency area. One checks the stairwell and discovers a phone playing a prerecorded message before Dean Thompson disarms him.
	Hostage Taker #4	Rik-Mei Karena
27 January–	Ambulance Officer/ Paramedic Charlie	Kathryn Schuback	Responsible for transporting injured individuals to Northern Districts Hospital, including Robbo, Colby Thorne, Ben Astoni, and John Palmer. Initially credited as Ambulance Officer, later as Paramedic Charlie.
27 January–	Freya Bozic	Francisca Braithwaite	Nurse at Northern Districts Hospital who provides care and monitoring for patients such as Robbo, Colby Thorne, and Christian Green. Socially connected with fellow nurses including Jasmine Delaney.
3 February	AFP Chaplain	Winston Cooper	Officiates the funeral service for Robbo.
	Terence Salisbury	Howard Stone	Attends Robbo's funeral; shares insights on AFP history.
5 February	Journalist	Deborah An	Conducts an interview with Marilyn Chambers regarding Ari Parata's bravery during the hospital hostage event.
11–19 February	Patricia Hendersen	Sharni McDermott	Counsellor assisting Bella Nixon in coping with overdose consequences and trust challenges; suggests further therapy despite initial reluctance.
18–19 February	Jason	James Biasetto	Former partner of Mackenzie Booth, involved in extortion related to stolen funds; receives police warnings about legal repercussions.
26–27 February	Douglas	Adam Booth	Takes Leah Patterson hostage, subjects her to abuse, then is apprehended after stabbing Colby Thorne. Pleads guilty to avoid testifying; sentenced to 25 years imprisonment.
27 April	Danny	Bryden White-Tuohey	Engages in pool challenges with Nikau Parata and Bella Nixon; participates in local social activities.
	Gavin	Steve Carroll	Customer at Pier Diner involved in a dispute with Leah Patterson over service issues.
28 April	Ingrid Stone	Amy Kersey	Victims Services representative aiding Leah Patterson with an impact statement concerning abuse by Douglas Maynard.
30 April	Steve	Cramer Cain	Employee at Bridge Farm Equine Centre; interacts with Bella Nixon, Colby Thorne, and Willow Harris during therapy sessions involving horses.
30 April	Annabelle	Monique Riley	Woman discovered asleep in #Tane Parata's bed, awakened by his ringing phone.
6 May 2020, 15 July 2021	Ultra Sound Technician	Elizabeth McLean	Conducts ultrasound scans for characters including Jasmine Delaney and later for Mia Anderson, revealing pregnancy details.
7 May	Cindy	Sarah Halloran	Woman who spends the night with #Tane Parata; departs before others arrive.
24 June	Melissa	Kelly Zacharias	Recognizes Jasmine Delaney from an online forum; hosts family interactions involving Jasmine, her stepdaughter, and son Tyler.
	Baby Tyler	Aurora Williams	Child of Melissa appearing during family visit scenes.
8 July	Anna Davies	Lou Pollard	Passport control officer who flags security alerts affecting the Parata family’s travel arrangements.
11 August–	Sergeant Cooper	John Atkinson	Police sergeant engaged in investigations including discovery of Ross Nixon's body and issuing arrest warrants related to domestic violence cases.
13 August	Counsellor Peta	Beth Champion	Counsellor supporting Jasmine Delaney in addressing attachment difficulties linked to her stepdaughter and past trauma.
20 August	Dale the Camp Manager	Bryce Youngman	Oversees campsite visited by characters such as the Parata family; provides local guidance and services.
24 August 2020 – 22 February 2022	Jai Simmons	River Jarvis	Son of Amber Simmons and Dean Thompson; central figure in storylines involving family relationships, custody battles, and integration into Summer Bay community.
26 August	Ambulance Officer #2	Jennine Kelly	Responds alongside colleague to treat injuries sustained by characters like Justin Morgan following a chemical incident.
16 September 2020 – 11 March 2021	Leon	Will McNeill	Engages in criminal conduct targeting the Parata family; involved in blackmail, assault, kidnapping, ultimately arrested after conflicts with local groups.
24 September 2020, 11 August 2021	Dr Stevens	Wadih Dona	Anaesthesiologist managing surgeries for key characters such as Justin Morgan and overseeing post-surgical care for others including Nikau Parata. Credited as Dr Stevens but identified on-screen as Dr Kevin Stephens.
13–22 October	Francesca Simmons	Joanne Hunt	Amber Simmons’ mother; involved in custody disputes over Jai Simmons, critical of Dean Thompson’s influence due to his criminal background.
2 November 2020 – 17 March 2021	Paul	Jack Finsterer	Antagonist exerting pressure on Tane Parata via intimidation, blackmail, orchestrating armed robbery; involved in kidnapping family members; confronted by law enforcement following violent incidents.
16–17 November	'Katherine'	Neveen Hanna	Legal representative defending Colby Thorne during his murder trial; manages courtroom procedures including objections to evidence admission.
	Judge	Tracy Mann	Oversees Colby Thorne's trial, accepts guilty plea, sentences him to 25 years imprisonment.
	'Michael Finau'Template:Anchor Michael Finau   |   Ray Chong Nee   |   Prosecutor presenting key evidence during Colby Thorne's trial.
16 November   |   'Bailiff'   |   Peter Cook   |   Maintains order within the courtroom throughout Colby Thorne’s trial.
'25 November 2020–' 3 March 2022   |   'Officer Martinez'   |   Shameer Birges   |   Prison officer at Graydon Prison responsible for overseeing visits, managing security incidents involving Colby Thorne, and escorting inmates for hospital treatment.
'26 November'   |   Tammy   | Bernie Van Tiel	Assists Dean Thompson following a fight; offers accommodation which is declined.
	'Jess'	Kara Sheehan	Purchases beer for Dean Thompson at a local pub.
'26 November 2020, 10 February 2021'	'River Boy Ray'	Travis McCurry	Member of River Boy gang interacting with Dean Thompson concerning territorial disputes.
'30 November 2020– 11 February 2021'	'Joe'	Shaun Anthony Robinson	Inmate at Graydon Prison who exposes Colby Thorne's identity leading to violent confrontations ending in Joe's fatal stabbing by Colby.

External links

• Cast and characters on the official Australian Home and Away site
• Cast and characters listed on the Internet Movie Database