Natalie Wihongi is a New Zealand makeup artist who gained prominence through her work in the film industry and her former marriage to Hollywood actor Karl Urban. While maintaining a relatively low profile compared to her famous ex-husband, Wihongi has established herself as a talented professional in the entertainment industry.
| Full Name | Natalie Wihongi |
|---|---|
| Profession | Makeup Artist |
| Birthday | March 8, 1972 |
| Age | 53 (as of 2025) |
| Birth Sign | Pisces |
| Birthplace | Auckland, New Zealand |
| Net Worth | $1-1.5 million (estimated) |
| Relationship Status | Divorced |
| Height | 5’6" (approximately) |
Early Life & Background
Born on March 8, 1972, in Auckland, New Zealand, Natalie Wihongi grew up in her native country. Details about her early education and family background remain relatively private, as she largely stayed out of the spotlight before her relationship with Karl Urban. She developed her skills as a makeup artist and established a career in the New Zealand film industry.
Career Journey
Natalie Wihongi built her career as a professional makeup artist in the New Zealand film industry. Her notable professional achievement includes working as a makeup artist on the critically acclaimed 2001 New Zealand film “Rain.” This drama film, directed by Christine Jeffs, featured performances by Marton Csokas and Alistair Browning. While her makeup artistry career might not have gained international headlines, her work contributed to the authentic visual storytelling of New Zealand cinema.
Hollywood Connection
Wihongi’s life took a significant turn when she met actor Karl Urban on the set of the 2000 television film “The Privateers.” Serving as his makeup artist, their professional relationship evolved into a personal connection. This meeting would eventually lead to marriage and thrust Wihongi into the spotlight as the partner of a rising Hollywood star.
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Personal Life
Natalie Wihongi married Karl Urban, and the couple had two sons together: Hunter and Indiana. Their second son was named after the protagonist of the “Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark” franchise, reflecting Urban’s appreciation for the iconic character. During their marriage, Wihongi occasionally accompanied Urban to industry events, including the Aotearoa Music Awards in 2012.
After approximately 15 years together, Wihongi and Urban divorced in 2014. The separation was reportedly amicable, with both parties prioritizing co-parenting their children. Following their split, the couple sold their Auckland home for NZ$6.65 million in December 2014.
Net Worth & Financial Success
As of 2025, Natalie Wihongi’s estimated net worth is between $1-1.5 million. This includes her earnings as a professional makeup artist, potential divorce settlement, and property investments. The sale of her shared home with Urban in 2014 for NZ$6.65 million likely contributed significantly to her financial portfolio.
Physical Attributes
While specific details about Natalie Wihongi’s physical appearance are not widely publicized, she is estimated to stand around 5’6" tall. She maintains a low profile regarding her personal image and rarely appears in public spotlight.
Life After Divorce
Since her divorce from Karl Urban in 2014, Wihongi has maintained a private life away from public attention. Unlike many ex-partners of celebrities, she has chosen not to leverage her connection to Urban for media exposure or career advancement. Instead, she has focused on raising her sons and pursuing her professional interests out of the limelight.
Professional Legacy
Although Wihongi’s name is often associated with her former marriage, her professional work as a makeup artist on “Rain” and potentially other New Zealand productions represents her independent career accomplishments. Her work contributed to the visual authenticity of New Zealand cinema during a significant period of the country’s film industry development.
Notable Facts & Trivia
- Worked as a makeup artist on the 2001 New Zealand film “Rain”
- Met Karl Urban on the set of “The Privateers” in 2000
- Has two sons named Hunter and Indiana with Urban
- Their son Indiana was named after the character from “Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark”
- Sold their Auckland home for NZ$6.65 million following their divorce
- Attended the Aotearoa Music Awards with Urban in 2012
FAQ
How old is Natalie Wihongi? Natalie Wihongi is 53 years old as of 2025, born on March 8, 1972.
What does Natalie Wihongi do professionally? She is a professional makeup artist who has worked in the New Zealand film industry.
When did Natalie Wihongi and Karl Urban divorce? They divorced in 2014 after approximately 15 years together.
Does Natalie Wihongi have children? Yes, she has two sons with Karl Urban named Hunter and Indiana.
Where is Natalie Wihongi from? Natalie Wihongi was born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand.