Tom Furniss Biography: Age, Comedy, Net Worth, Movies, Height, Girlfriend, Awards, Nationality

Tom Annan Furniss, professionally known as Tom Furniss is an acclaimed New Zealand screenwriter, director, comedian, and television writer recognized for his sharp comedic timing and innovative storytelling.

With a background in stand-up comedy and award-winning short films, he has transitioned into directing major TV series and features, contributing significantly to New Zealand’s comedy and independent film scenes through clever scripts and heartfelt narratives.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Tom Annan Furniss
• Stage Name: Tom Furniss
• Born: May 29, 1988
• Age: 37 years old
• Birthplace: Mount Maunganui, New Zealand
• Nationality: New Zealander
• Ethnicity: New Zealand European
• Occupation: Screenwriter, Director, Comedian, and Television Writer
• Height: Unknown
• Religion: Christianity
• Parents: Mr. and Mrs. Furniss
• Siblings: Unknown
• Spouse: Unknown
• Children: None
• Relationship: Not married
• Net Worth: $2 million

Early Life and Education

Tom Furniss is an acclaimed New Zealand screenwriter, director, comedian, and television writer. He was born Tom Annan Furniss on May 29, 1988, in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand.

Growing up in the Bay of Plenty region, he developed an interest in comedy and filmmaking from a young age, inspired by local performers and international influences.

He initially enrolled at the University of Waikato to study economics but soon shifted focus to Screen and Media Studies, where he honed his skills in writing and directing.

This educational background laid the foundation for his multifaceted career in comedy and film.

His ethnic background is New Zealand European, and he follows Christianity.

Career

Tom Furniss began as a stand-up comedian, debuting prominently in the early 2010s. He reached the finals of Raw Comedy Quest in 2010 and earned two Billy T Award nominations (2012 and 2013) for his quirky, self-deprecating style.

He performed at major festivals including the New Zealand International Comedy Festival, Melbourne International Comedy Festival, and Edinburgh Fringe.

Early television exposure came through panel appearances on 7 Days and as a contributor to shows like The Rock’s Morning Rumble and TVNZ’s Ulive.

He transitioned into writing and directing, serving as head writer on 7 Days and Jono and Ben.

His short films gained international recognition: Rustling (2021) screened at prestigious festivals like Palm Springs International ShortFest, Tribeca, and Melbourne International Film Festival, exploring themes of masculinity and family pressure.

Rochelle (2024) earned him Best Director at the Third Culture Film Festival, along with Audience and Emerging Talent Awards at the New Zealand International Film Festival.

He wrote and directed episodes of acclaimed series including Taskmaster New Zealand (as series director), New Zealand Today, Golden Boy, and Chris Parker‘s stand-up special. His debut feature screenplay, The Mountain (2024), produced by Piki Films (Taika Waititi‘s company), achieved strong box office success in New Zealand and Australia.

Furniss continues to blend comedy with directing, establishing himself as a key figure in New Zealand’s creative industry.

Awards and Nominations

• Billy T Award Nominee (2012, 2013)
• Best Director, Third Culture Film Festival (2025, for Rochelle)
• Audience Award and Emerging Talent Award, New Zealand International Film Festival (2024, for Rochelle)
• V48hours National Winner (2011, for The Child Jumpers)
• Academy Nicholl Screenwriting Quarterfinalist (2019, for The Mountain and Daisy)

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @tomfurnissnz
• Facebook Handle: Unknown
• Twitter Handle: Unknown

Personal Life

Tom Furniss, 37, is an acclaimed New Zealand screenwriter, director, comedian, and television writer. Details about his romantic relationships remain private, with no public information on a spouse or children.

He maintains a low-key personal life focused on creative work and family ties, including a close relationship with his mother, Freda Annan, who has supported his career from early gigs.

Based in Tāmaki Makaurau, he enjoys the balance between stand-up roots and directing ambitions, often drawing from personal observations in his humor and films.

Net Worth

Tom Furniss is an acclaimed New Zealand screenwriter, director, comedian, and television writer. His net worth is estimated at $2 million USD.

Earnings primarily come from television writing and directing contracts, short film festival prizes and sales, feature screenplay deals, stand-up performances, royalties, and production credits across New Zealand and international projects.

Filmography

• Taskmaster New Zealand (series writer/director)
• New Zealand Today (episode director)
• Golden Boy (director)
• 7 Days (head writer)
• Jono and Ben (head writer)
• Terry Teo (2016, appearance/credit)