John Daniel Barnett

John Daniel Barnett (17 August 1945 – 24 August 2025) was a New Zealand film and television producer. He is best known for producing the film Whale Rider.

Life and career Barnett was born to a Jewish Family 17 August 1945 in Auckland, and studied at Victoria University of Wellington for a commerce degree. In 1970, he, with fellow graduates, invested in the first financial publication in New Zealand, the National Business Review (NBR). Barnett was an NBR director for several years. He spent years leading one of most successful production companies in New Zealand, South Pacific Pictures. During his career, he produced a number of feature films, including Strange Behavior, Footrot Flats: The Dog's Tale, Whale Rider, and Sione's Wedding. He also worked as an executive producer for television series including Shortland Street.

Honours and awards In the 2003 Queen's Birthday Honours, Barnett was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for services to the film industry. He was promoted to Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for services to film and television, in the 2020 New Year Honours.