Paul Simei-Barton first novel From the Hollow of a Sling is historical fiction, tracing the formative experiences of renowned philosopher Karl Popper as he fled Nazi persecution to work at Canterbury College Christchurch in the 1930’s. Published by Cinnamon Press (UK) August 2025.

He began writing stage plays in the 1990’s for Pacific Theatre – a community based theatre company he co-founded with his partner Justine Simei-Barton. Productions of his theatre scripts include: Tusitala and the House of Spirits (1996 Taki Rua), The Contest (1993 Taki Rua / Watershed), Lupe & Sina (1991 Maidment Theatre). 

More recently he worked on film and television projects for Tala Pasifika Productions Ltd.  Credits include Script Editor for the half-hour television dramas, Matou Uma and The Overstayer for TV One.  Story-liner, Scriptwriter and Co-Producer for the seven part drama series Good Hands - Lima Lelei (TV One, finalist in the Best Drama category of the 2005 NZ Screen Awards).  Co-writer with Justine Simei-Barton for the short film The Trophy which premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival.

For 15 years he was drama critic for the NZ Herald. He currently works as a High School Teacher at Massey High School in West Auckland. 

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