'Deeply sorry': Cliff Curtis excused from court appearance over crash

 Cliff Curtis attends the 2026 Film Independent Spirit Awards at Hollywood Palladium on February 15, 2026

Kiwi actor Cliff Curtis has been excused from attending his first court appearance tomorrow after a crash in downtown Auckland last month injured three people.

In a statement released today, the Avatar star confirmed he would be excused from attending his first appearance in the Auckland District Court on October 15 as he "continues to recover at home from internal injuries".

"I made a devastating mistake, and I'll have to live with the consequences and do what I can to address the harm caused. I am deeply sorry. My thoughts are with the injured taxi driver and his family," Curtis said.

The collision on September 23 occurred at the intersection of Jellicoe St and Halsey St and left Curtis’ Tesla and a taxi badly damaged.

According to the NZ Herald, the taxi driver’s vehicle had to be cut open for emergency services to get to the occupants.

Two people were taken to hospital, one in a serious condition and one moderate, while a third suffered minor injuries.

A statement released by a representative for the 58-year-old earlier said Curtis had suffered internal injuries in the crash and was admitted to hospital.

The Once Were Warriors actor helped provide first aid until emergency services arrived.

Police last Tuesday confirmed Curtis had been charged with reckless driving and driving with excess blood alcohol.

SHARE ME

More Stories