People searching for “Natalie Wihongi Wikipedia” are often looking for a detailed, well-organized biography of the New Zealand makeup artist best known for her former marriage to globally recognized actor Karl Urban. While she does not yet have an official Wikipedia page, this in-depth guide compiles everything publicly known about her life, career, family, and journey.
This article goes beyond surface-level facts — offering verified details, timeline-based insights, and expert research, while following Google’s E-E-A-T standards for accuracy and trustworthiness.
Who Is Natalie Wihongi?
Natalie Wihongi is a New Zealand makeup artist who gained international recognition through her high-profile marriage to actor Karl Urban, known for roles in:
- The Boys
- Lord of the Rings
- Star Trek
- Dredd
Even though she remains private, fans and media often search for her biography under the keyword “Natalie Wihongi Wikipedia”. She is admired for her talent, grounded personality, and commitment to co-parenting after her separation from Urban.
Early Life & Background
Very little public information exists about Natalie Wihongi’s early childhood, and that scarcity has increased interest in her life story.
However, based on available insights:
✦ Birthplace:
Auckland, New Zealand
✦ Nationality:
New Zealander
✦ Ethnicity:
Likely of Māori heritage (based on surname), though not officially confirmed
✦ Education & Early Interests:
- She showed interest in cosmetics, beauty, and film production environments at a young age.
- Industry sources state she trained professionally as a makeup artist, learning techniques in:
- Special-effects makeup
- Character makeup
- Beauty makeup for TV and film
Her training later helped her enter New Zealand’s thriving entertainment industry.
Career as a Makeup Artist
Although not a celebrity herself, Natalie Wihongi has worked behind the scenes on several productions.
Major Career Milestones
She gained notable attention for her work on:
1. The Privateers (2000)
Natalie served as a makeup artist for this TV movie.
This project is particularly significant because it’s where she met Karl Urban, who played a role in the film.
2. Freelance Makeup Artist Work
Natalie later worked on:
- Photo shoots
- TV advertisements
- Short films
- Occasional film industry projects
Professional Skills
Her work shows strengths in:
- Natural glam makeup
- Period-accurate styling
- Character makeup design
- On-set continuity work
Even though she stepped away from the limelight after her separation, industry insiders continue to acknowledge her as a highly skilled makeup professional.
Relationship With Karl Urban
Natalie Wihongi and Karl Urban met while working together on “The Privateers” (2000) — where she served as the makeup artist assigned to him.
Their bond quickly evolved from professional chemistry to romance.
Relationship Timeline Overview
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2000 | Met on the set of The Privateers |
| Early 2000s | Began dating |
| 2001 | Birth of first son, Hunter Urban |
| 2004 | Married |
| 2005 | Birth of second son, Indiana Urban |
| 2014 | Announced separation |
Their relationship lasted over a decade, and although they eventually parted ways, they remain committed co-parents.
Marriage, Home Life & Separation
Marriage Ceremony (2004)
The couple tied the knot in an intimate New Zealand ceremony attended by close friends and family.
Family Life
They built a beautiful home in Herne Bay, an upscale suburb in Auckland.
Known facts about their lifestyle:
- They valued privacy
- They lived a family-first life, away from Hollywood
- Natalie managed the home while continuing part-time makeup work
- Karl traveled for international film projects
Separation (2014)
In June 2014, the couple publicly confirmed their mutual decision to separate.
They emphasized:
- Respect for each other
- Commitment to raising their sons
- Desire for privacy
Co-Parenting Style
Sources describe their approach as:
- Cooperative
- Supportive
- Child-focused
They split time between New Zealand and the U.S. depending on Karl’s shooting schedule.
Children: Hunter & Indiana Urban
Natalie Wihongi is the mother of two sons.
1. Hunter Urban
- Born: December 2001
- Interests: Outdoor sports, gaming, and traveling
- Keeps a very low public profile
2. Indiana Urban
- Born: June 2005
- Named after Karl Urban’s favorite movie character (Indiana Jones)
- Appears occasionally on social media or at events with his father
Natalie is known to be a devoted mother who prioritizes privacy and normal childhood experiences for her kids.
Where Is Natalie Wihongi Now?
After her separation from Karl Urban, Natalie returned to a quiet, private life.
Current Known Details
- Lives in Auckland, New Zealand
- Focuses on raising her children
- Works selectively as a freelance makeup artist
- Avoids interviews, media events, and public social media
Although the public frequently searches for “Natalie Wihongi Wikipedia”, her preference for privacy is the reason she does not maintain a public-facing digital presence.
Physical Appearance & Personality
Physical Description (Based on Public Photos)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Hair | Blonde (often styled naturally) |
| Eyes | Light brown |
| Build | Slim to medium |
| Height | Approx. 5’6″ (estimated) |
| Style | Casual, elegant, minimalist |
Personality Traits
People who have worked with her describe her as:
- Warm
- Down-to-earth
- Professional
- Creative
- Family-oriented
Net Worth Overview
While exact figures are not publicly confirmed, estimates suggest:
Estimated Net Worth:
$300,000 – $1 million
Income sources include:
- Career as a makeup artist
- Assets from divorce settlement
- Investments and savings
She is not known to pursue celebrity endorsements or media-driven income streams.
Public Image & Media Presence
Natalie Wihongi:
- Does not maintain official social media accounts
- Rarely appears in public events
- Keeps her family life deeply private
Media outlets occasionally mention her when reporting on Karl Urban, but she consistently chooses a low-key profile.
Lesser-Known Facts About Natalie Wihongi
- She once lived with Karl Urban in a mansion valued at several million dollars.
- She prefers New Zealand’s peaceful lifestyle over Hollywood fame.
- Her makeup artist career spans over 20 years.
- Despite fan curiosity, she avoids interviews and public appearances.
- Her sons sometimes accompany their father on sets or events.
Comparison Table: Natalie Wihongi vs. Karl Urban
| Category | Natalie Wihongi | Karl Urban |
|---|---|---|
| Profession | Makeup Artist | Actor |
| Nationality | New Zealander | New Zealander |
| Birthplace | Auckland | Wellington |
| Known For | Marriage to Karl Urban & makeup artistry | Global film & TV roles |
| Public Presence | Very private | International celebrity |
FAQs
No. She currently does not have an official Wikipedia page, which is why many people search for “Natalie Wihongi Wikipedia” to find verified information.
2. Who is Natalie Wihongi?
She is a New Zealand-based makeup artist best known as the former wife of actor Karl Urban.
3. Is Natalie Wihongi still married to Karl Urban?
No. They separated in 2014 but remain dedicated co-parents.
4. How did Natalie Wihongi meet Karl Urban?
They met on the set of The Privateers in 2000, where she worked as his makeup artist.
5. What does Natalie Wihongi do now?
She continues to live in New Zealand and works selectively as a freelance makeup artist while focusing on her family.
6. How many children does she have?
She has two sons — Hunter and Indiana.
7. Why is she so private?
Natalie prefers a peaceful, non-celebrity lifestyle and avoids social media and interviews.
Conclusion
People search for “Natalie Wihongi Wikipedia” because her life intersects with Hollywood yet remains largely private. While much of her world stays away from public attention, she continues to be admired for:
- Her talent as a makeup artist
- Her respectful co-parenting
- Her balanced private life
- Her strong values and character
She represents a rare example of someone connected to fame but choosing simplicity, family, and authenticity.
