Born in Nelson in 1948, Derek March graduated with a Diploma of
Fine Arts from Auckland University's Elam School of Fine Arts, as
well as a Teacher's Certificate from Auckland Teachers' Training
College. Between 1979 and 1990 March managed his landscaping
business and designed and manufactured jewellery part-time. His
jewellery featured in numerous group and solo exhibitions between
1982 and 1989, while his painting has been the focus of solo
exhibitions at Lopdell House in Titirangi, the
Suter Gallery in Nelson, and the Corban Estate
Arts Centre in Henderson, where March also tutors painting and
drawing. March lives in Te Henga (Bethells beach) on the West Coast
of Auckland, where he derives much of the inspiration for his
subject matter (notably the environment and the effects of human
civilisation on it) and his depiction of the unique and often harsh
light that New Zealand is renowned for.