Dame Catherine Winifred Harcourt, professionally known as Kate Harcourt, has had a remarkable career spanning multiple mediums, including comedy, drama, theatre, film, television, and radio.
Born and raised on a sheep station in Amberley, New Zealand, Harcourt's early life was marked by her rural upbringing. Her mother, Winifred Harriet (Austin),was Australian, and her father, Gordon Fulton, was a local resident. From the age of nine, Harcourt attended boarding school, initially at Amberley House and later at Woodford House in Hawke's Bay.
Music played a significant role in Harcourt's early years, much like her mother's. She pursued her passion for singing and piano by attending Christchurch to train as a kindergarten teacher. Additionally, she attended the prestigious Joan Cross Opera School in London.
Harcourt is the proud mother of actress Miranda Harcourt and former Fair Go television presenter Gordon Harcourt, as well as the grandmother of actress Thomasin McKenzie. She also made a notable appearance in the movie adaptation of The Changeover.
Harcourt met her husband, Peter Harcourt (1923-1995),at Wellington Repertory Theatre. Peter came from the family that founded Harcourts International real estate. The couple was married until Peter's passing on March 6, 1995, due to cancer. Prior to his death, Peter was appointed a Companion of the Queen's Service Order in the 1993 New Year Honours for his 54 years of service to the community as an actor, broadcaster, and presenter since 1941.
In recognition of Peter's contributions, the Nga Whakarakei O Whataitai / Wellington Theatre Awards annually presents The Peter Harcourt Outstanding New Playwright award.
