Entertainment

Shavaughn Ruakere tells us about the time she met Brad Pitt

All she wanted was eye contact.

The acting business

Some of my most memorable moments were when I played Roimata on Shortland Street and there were a lot of really heavy scenes dealing with her sexual assault storyline. Just after she’d been attacked, she describes to a detective what happened. It was a very tough scene to try to do justice to. I really felt for her and any person who’s been in a similar situation.

Foodie faves

For a quick go-to meal, you can’t beat avocado on toast. But if I’m having a lazy Sunday afternoon brunch, I’ll opt for bacon, eggs – sunny side up – and pancakes with maple syrup.

Famous friends

I’ve been lucky enough to have met a bunch of celebrities through my work, and Brad Pitt would be the most famous. He was handsome as hell, tall, and his hair was super-long at the time. He was cool, although didn’t make much eye contact, which I found a little disconcerting. Look at me, Brad. Look at me!

Fitness loves and loathes

Hip hop is the top workout music guaranteed to get me moving, and my least favourite exercise has to be running on a treadmill. Here in LA there’s a class called Barry’s Bootcamp, which is 30 minutes of interval training on a treadmill and 30 minutes floor work with weights/resistance bands. It’s pretty intense!

Another favourite at the moment is Betty Rocker on YouTube. She has her own site but also posts workout vids. They’re only 15 minutes or so, but she’s great and super-motivating. I like her energy.

Quickfire questions

What advice would you give your 16-year-old self?

Worry gets you nowhere. This too shall pass. Floss. And you are freaking awesome!

If you could have one superpower, it would be…

I already have one: the power of finding a carpark!

Best holiday you’ve ever been on?

Tokyo, Ibiza, London and New York all in one go.

What books are next on your reading list?

Oh man, my friend just sent me an article titled ‘How To Find A Quality Man’. Ha, I think I need to read this.

What’s your favourite childhood memory?

Sleeping in the back seat of the car with my brother and two sisters covered in a silky pink blanket.

I feel most energised when…

I’ve ticked all the boxes I’d set myself for the day.

I feel most comfortable when wearing…

trackies and an old tee.

The hobby I’d like to try or skill I’d love to learn is…

salsa dancing.

When I’m living abroad, the thing I miss most about NZ is…

Kiwis. My whanau and friends.

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