Nigel Raymond Latta ONZM, born in 1967 – aged 57 passed away with dignity late Tuesday 30th September 2025, it was reported by his wife and posted on his Facebook page early Wednesday morning. Nigel was a New Zealand clinical psychologist, author, and broadcaster who has been described as “New Zealand’s best-known psychologist.” Over the past two decades, has become a household name across New Zealand, known for his down-to-earth approach to complex psychological topics and his ability to connect with audiences from all walks of life.
He will be dearly missed by his wife Natalie, daughter Rina, son Kieran, and three stepchildren Elijah, Maya and Leon.
In September 2024, Latta revealed he had been diagnosed with terminal stomach cancer and was given between six and twelve months to live. The cancer was described as both inoperable and incurable. Nigel Latta diagnosed with terminal cancer, given less than a year to live | RNZ News
However, in March 2025, Latta announced his cancer was in remission and that he expected to live for “years and years.” He responded well to chemotherapy treatment, and the original stomach tumor had largely disappeared.
Early Life and Education
Latta was born and raised in Oamaru, New Zealand, where his father worked as a builder and his mother was a housewife. He attended Waitaki Boys’ High School and briefly considered becoming a police officer. In his youth, he toured the South Island as part of a skiffle band, showing early signs of his ability to engage and entertain.
Latta studied marine science and zoology at the University of Otago before completing a Master of Philosophy with First Class Honours in Psychology at the University of Auckland, along with a postgraduate diploma in clinical psychology. This strong academic foundation would serve as the basis for his later work in both clinical practice and public education.
Career as a Clinical Psychologist
Throughout his career, Latta has worked as a consultant for private companies and government social service agencies, including the Department of Corrections. His clinical work focused on understanding criminal psychology and helping troubled youth, earning him respect among colleagues for his ability to connect with difficult cases.
Author and Thought Leader
In 2003, Latta wrote “Into the Darklands: Unveiling the Predators Among Us,” a book that examined the psychology of criminals. This publication established him as an authority on criminal psychology and would later inspire one of his most successful television series.
He has also written several books about parenting advice, helping New Zealand families navigate the challenges of raising children in the modern world. His practical, no-nonsense approach to parenting resonated with parents across the country.
Television Career
In the 2010s, Latta became known for his true crime documentaries and psychology-based television series. He hosted Beyond The Darklands, The Politically Incorrect Guide to Teenagers, and The Politically Incorrect Parenting Show, among others.
His “Politically Incorrect” series became particularly popular for tackling difficult topics with honesty and humor, avoiding the overly cautious language that often characterizes discussions about parenting and adolescence. The shows offered practical advice grounded in psychological research while remaining accessible to everyday viewers.
Latta also began presenting general interest television shows, such as The Hard Stuff with Nigel Latta, which approached social and political issues, and You’ve Been Scammed by Nigel Latta, which examines common types of scams. Nigel Latta – Wikipedia These programs demonstrated his versatility and commitment to educating the public on issues affecting their daily lives.
Production Work
In 2016, Latta co-founded Ruckus Films, a production company which produced several feature documentaries including Born This Way: Awa’s Story and Stan. This move allowed him greater creative control and the ability to tell stories that mattered to him and to New Zealand audiences.
Personal Life
Latta has a daughter and a son from his first marriage, which lasted from 1991 to 2020. He met his current wife, Natalie Flynn, in 2018 when they began working together on his Parentland app. Flynn is also a clinical psychologist, and they married in 2023.
Legacy and Impact
Nigel Latta’s contribution to New Zealand society extends far beyond entertainment. He has helped demystify psychology for the general public, made complex topics accessible, and provided practical guidance to families navigating difficult situations. His willingness to tackle uncomfortable subjects with honesty and compassion has made him a trusted voice in New Zealand homes.
His work has influenced how New Zealanders think about crime, parenting, mental health, and social issues. Through his books, television programs, and public speaking, Latta has demonstrated that psychology isn’t just an academic discipline—it’s a practical tool for understanding ourselves and others, and for building stronger communities.
Whether exploring the darkest corners of criminal psychology or offering advice on managing teenage behavior, Nigel Latta has consistently brought insight, empathy, and a touch of humor to everything he does, earning his place as one of New Zealand’s most respected and beloved public figures.