New Zealand Film Commission | 2024 End of Year Update

From the CEO 🎄

Tēnā koutou katoa,

What a Year It’s Been – And We’ve Got Good News to Share!

This year has been one of transformation for the New Zealand Film Commission—a time of change, progress, and preparation for a stronger future. Our annual report highlighted compelling results for our films, and we are better positioned to support our industry.

Globally, we’ve kept New Zealand at the forefront of international productions, creating valuable connections in Hollywood and beyond. Locally, we’ve focused on realigning how we work, removing unnecessary barriers, and ensuring our processes serve filmmakers better. Every decision we’ve made has been with one goal in mind: empowering storytellers to bring their visions to life.

So, we are excited to share some of the progress we’ve made this year.

Our First Podcast: Lights, Camera, Kōrero

Lights, Camera, Kōrero is the New Zealand Film Commission’s new podcast series, offering a deep dive into Aotearoa’s screen sector. Designed for anyone interested in our work and impact, the series explores what we do, who we collaborate with, and the stories and perspectives that shape New Zealand’s screen industry. It also gives details on learnings from our international engagements. Information on our first episode is below.

Celebrating Our Stories

We’ve refreshed our NZ Film OnDemand platform to make it more compelling and accessible, introducing it to new audiences to showcase the incredible work of New Zealand filmmakers. This summer, alongside our treasured film collection, we’re offering specially curated, discounted bundles to share the magic of New Zealand cinema. Every purchase directly supports the talented filmmakers who bring these stories to life. See further down for more.

Exciting Changes to Funding in 2025

We know the path to funding can often feel challenging, which is why we’ve reimagined our processes to make them simpler and more accessible. In 2025, we've removed deadlines and filmmakers can expect every story we support is given the best chance to succeed. This is exciting news for New Zealand filmmakers. It means faster decisions, clearer criteria, and greater support for projects that showcase the depth and diversity of our storytellers. More details are available below.

Best wishes to you and your whānau

Thank you for standing with us through this transformative journey. As we move into 2025, we’re inspired by the opportunities ahead and the potential these changes bring—both for us and, most importantly, for our filmmaking community.

Lights, Camera, Aotearoa.

Ngā mihi nui,

Annie Murray
Chief Executive,
New Zealand Film Commission

Advancing Arts and Culture: Supporting Amplify Through Film

New Zealand’s cultural sector is a key driver of soft power, showcasing our unique identity and creativity to the world. The New Zealand Film Commission plays a vital role in this, enabling stories to reach international audiences, supporting inbound productions and showcasing creative excellence.

International engagement is vital. Offshore efforts focus on expanding cultural exports, building relationships, and strengthening New Zealand’s global reputation. We believe these areas are essential for sustainable growth in the creative industries and for amplifying New Zealand’s cultural influence internationally.

Our work already aligns closely with the government’s ambitions for the arts and culture sector, as outlined in the draft Amplify strategy, but we recently had the opportunity to provide feedback.

📝 Read our feedback here

We’re committed to working alongside the government and industry to ensure the arts and culture strategy delivers meaningful support and enduring impact for New Zealand’s creative sector.

Lights, Camera, Kōrero! Listen to the First Episode now

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our new podcast, Lights, Camera, Kōrero, where we bring you behind-the-scenes insights and in-depth conversations about the future of New Zealand’s screen industry.

In our debut episode, journalist and film critic Kate Rodger sits down with Philippa Mossman, Head of International Attraction and Marketing at the New Zealand Film Commission. Fresh from leading a delegation of New Zealand’s top production and post-production experts in Los Angeles, Philippa shares highlights from this pivotal trip to Hollywood.

🎙️ Listen to the First Episode on Spotify
📺 YouTube (audio only)

Lights, Camera, Kōrero – where the heart of New Zealand’s film industry takes centre stage. Subscribe now to stay updated on future episodes.

NZ Film OnDemand – Your Gateway to New Zealand Film

Looking for the perfect way to relax, entertain the whānau, or revisit iconic Kiwi films this summer? Dive into the refreshed NZ Film OnDemand, where you can explore the best of New Zealand’s cinematic storytelling and support local filmmakers while you’re at it. Every film you buy or rent directly supports the talented creatives behind these stories, helping to ensure the continued growth of New Zealand’s screen industry.

To celebrate the season, we’re offering three discounted bundles – perfect for every member of the whānau: Kids Bundle, Nostalgia Pack and Summer Vibes!

🎁 Discover NZ Film OnDemand and Shop the Bundles

This summer, let New Zealand films bring adventure, laughter, and inspiration to your screen.

Changes to Funding and things to know for 2025

Ahead of the Xmas holidays, we have put together a summary of changes that will be made to our development and production funding processes. This is to enable you to prepare your applications for funding in the New Year.

The portal will re-open for development and production applications on February 3.

You will be able to apply for development funding at any time!

Applications for production funding for the April Board meeting will need to be submitted by February 10, 1pm. You will need to have a pre-application meeting before January 24 if you want to submit.

Wishing you a joyful and restful Xmas break and we look forward to working together in the year to come.

We're hiring!

The Auckland Funding team is looking for an Investment and Funding Executive the join the Grey Lynn office. Read more about the role.

Be Part of Building Our New Website

We’re creating a new website, and we want your input to make it the best it can be. If you’re keen to be a user tester, (an hour in early January), now’s your chance! We’re offering a fabulous incentive for those who participate, so don’t miss out. 🎁

Interested? Contact our web designer now to get involved.

Together, we can create a site that truly supports our filmmaking community and also contribute to the economy of Aotearoa. 🎥✨

NZFC is closed for two weeks

The NZFC will officially close for the festive season on Friday 20th December reopening on Monday 6th January 2025.

Ngā mihi nui and Meri Kirihimete,
The New Zealand Film Commission 🎄✨🎥