The man many knew as “Kiwi” was a regular on the Asia-Pacific poker circuit
The poker community is mourning the loss of Graeme “Kiwi” Putt, a respected figure in the Australian and New Zealand poker scene. Putt, who was inducted into the Australian Poker Hall of Fame in 2014, was known for his deep passion for the game, his skills at the table, and his engaging storytelling. While the exact cause of death has not been disclosed, tributes from players and poker organizations have poured in, remembering him as both a competitor and a gentleman.
Originally from New Zealand, Putt became a well-known figure in the Asia-Pacific poker circuit, particularly in Australia. Over his career, he accumulated $866,744 in tournament earnings, ranking him 10th on New Zealand’s all-time money list, according to The Hendon Mob. His biggest career cash came in 2004 when he finished fifth in the €6,000 Grand Final of the Gaming Club World Poker Championship in Dublin, earning $49,455.
Putt came close to securing a World Series of Poker (WSOP) gold bracelet in 2013 when he placed sixth in the WSOP Asia-Pacific AUD$1,100 (US$682) NLH Accumulator event, earning AUD$41,610 (US$25,798). That same series, he finished third in the AUD$2,200 (US$1,364) Mixed 8-Game event, adding AUD$22,427 (US$13,905) to his resume.
His last recorded live tournament cash was in May 2024, where he finished fourth in the APT Gold Coast Championships AUD$350 (US$217) H.E.R.O.S. event. More recently, he took second place in GGPoker’s Winter Giveaway Series $250 Grand Final, securing a $325,621 payday.
Known as “the most seasoned road gambler in Australia,” Putt’s legacy extends beyond his tournament achievements. His presence at the tables, combined with his kindness and love for the game, made him a beloved figure in the poker community.
