Guy Cater

Guy Cater is one of New Zealand’s most recognised entertainers - mention his name anywhere in the country, and someone’s likely seen his show. A master hypnotist, comedian, and magician, Guy has performed worldwide, from the deserts of the UAE to the nightlife of Singapore, and was the first New Zealand hypnotist to perform in Las Vegas.

Born in Auckland on May 7, 1947, and raised in Howick, Guy’s early love for laughter and performance was inspired by his father’s role as an emcee in the local lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. As a teen, he co-founded a magic club and trained in theatre under Alma Woods at Howick Little Theatre.

In 1967, during his OE in London, a last-minute performance opportunity launched his professional entertainment journey. Upon returning to New Zealand, he created Happy the Hobo, a beloved children’s character that became a staple of Auckland events for two decades.

In 1979, Guy won Funniest Routine and Best Children’s Entertainer at the 17th Magic Convention in Auckland. Known for his warmth, wit, and generosity, Guy’s legacy in entertainment is deeply rooted in both talent and heart.

Guy Cater discovered his fascination with hypnotism early, studying books he found at home. While working at a pickled onion factory in New Zealand, he successfully used hypnosis to help a colleague overcome bedwetting - an experience that revealed the power of hypnotherapy. Faced with the choice between clinical work and stage performance, Guy chose laughter and became a professional stage hypnotist.

After his wife’s passing, friends encouraged him to stage a full evening show blending comedy, magic, dance, and hypnosis. Its success led to international bookings, including multiple performances in Dubai and the UAE, where he learned to adapt his act to different cultural norms.

One memorable gig saw him performing on a Persian rug under desert stars, lit by Land Rover headlights, alongside a belly dancer.

Despite the rugged journey and a terrified driver on the nighttime desert drive home, Guy embraced the unpredictability of the job - bringing joy, comedy, and amazement to audiences around the world.

For some years Guy hosted The Guy Cater Television Show on Face TV, which gave many up-and-coming entertainers their first appearance on television.

He is a proud member of the Brotherhood of Auckland Magicians and regularly drives for three hours to attend their meetings and to spend time with other magicians. The BAM awarded him a Presidential Citation in 2019 for his contribution to the Society over the years.

He is a great supporter of the Variety Artists Club and, over the years has worked on the committee (1983 – 84, 1988, 1991, 1998 – 99, 2005 – 06), and he did two stints as President from 1993 – 95 and again from 2005 – 06. In 1995, Guy received the VAC Benny Award, the highest honour that can be awarded to a Kiwi entertainer.

They granted him a Scroll of Honour in 1985, The Rielly Comedy Award in 1991 and 1995, The Agnew Award in 2007.

In 1996, he was granted Life Membership.

His wife...Cynthia Cater received a Scroll of Honour in 2006 for her work as Secretary from 2003 – 06.

Guy Cater – Career Highlights & Legacy

• Television Host & Talent Supporter: Hosted The Guy Cater Show on Face TV, giving many New Zealand entertainers their first break on television.

• Brotherhood of Auckland Magicians (BAM): Long-time dedicated member, driving three hours to attend meetings.

Honoured with a Presidential Citation (2019) for service to the society.

• Variety Artists Club (VAC) Leadership:

• President: Two terms (1993–95, 2005–06)·

• Committee Member: Multiple terms across the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s·

• Life Member: Since 1996·

• Major VAC Awards:

• Benny Award (1995) – highest honour for a Kiwi entertainer·

• Scroll of Honour (1985)·

• Rielly Comedy Award (1991 & 1995)·

• Agnew Award (2007)

• Family & Support: Daughter Vanessa organised a dream trip to Cuba, New York, Las Vegas, and LA after Guy’s degenerative diagnosis. His wife Cynthia, was also honoured by VAC for her contributions.

• Community Mentor & Role Model: Guy is known for his generosity, mentorship, and encouragement of fellow Kiwi entertainers, embodying the true spirit of the variety arts.

• Philosophy:

• “Always be prepared – have a backup. Chances are you won’t need it, but if you do, the show will go on.”