New Zealand Film Commission | February 2025 Update

From the CEO

Kia ora

As we step into a new year, we're excited to welcome Hon Nicola Willis as our new Minister for Economic Growth. Her role will oversee the economic aspects of our work, particularly the New Zealand Screen Production Rebate which drives significant economic value for our country.

In our introduction to the incoming Minister, we highlighted NZFC’s strong commitment to nurturing international partnerships and driving innovation. We also included testimonials from key industry leaders who spoke passionately in support of our industry. Their words were both heartening and reaffirming, reminding us of the compelling industry we are working to support and advocate for, and what’s at stake for many.

On that note, local filmmakers will welcome the new funding guidelines now available on our website. With deadlines removed for development, applications can be submitted when projects are ready.  To understand the changes and how to make the most of them, tune in to our latest podcast, Lights, Camera, Kōrero: Episode 2 – Funding Made Easier, where host Kate Rodger chats with Ainsley Gardiner and Esther Cahill-Chiaroni from our funding team. See below for more.

This year also brings an important opportunity to help shape the future of our media landscape. The Media Modernisation consultation document from  Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage is out this week. The document outlines a number of high-level proposals for the sector. This includes global streaming investment in local content, improved accessibility, and the potential for a streamlined funding model.  As discussions progress, we encourage industry voices to engage with this process to ensure the best outcomes for our sector.

That’s a big start to 2025, but as always, we’re ready. Here’s to a year of new opportunities, bold storytelling, and continued growth for our screen sector.

Ngā mihi nui,  
Annie Murray

INDIA - A GROWTH MARKET FOR KIWI FILMMAKERS

India’s screen industry is booming, producing over in excess of 2,000 feature films annually most years. Chris Payne, Head of Co-Production and Incentives was invited to attend and present at the NFDC Film Bazaar in Goa at the end of last year. His focus was on exploring opportunities for New Zealand to collaborate through co-productions, investment, inbound production and post-production services. Key takeaways include:

• Co-productions: Strong interest in the NZ-India co-production treaty.
• Production & post-production: NZ’s expertise can enhance production values and assist with wider reach for Indian films and shows.
• Targeted approach: Hindi, Telugu, and other regional industries hold high potential for NZ.
• Industry partnerships: Strengthened ties with India Cine Hub, NFDC, Invest India and global partners.

You can read the full article here. With Indian filmmakers keen to collaborate, now is the time to connect.

HE KAUAHI CATALYST ANNOUNCEMENTS

We are pleased to announce the five teams selected for funding in the December 2024 He Kauahi Catalyst round. This initiative supports New Zealand filmmakers in advancing their careers by creating high-end narrative short films designed to spark local and international interest.

1. Homestay – Mia Maramara (writer/director), Joyce Wong & Morgan Leigh-Stewart (producers)
2. Napier Paradiso – Jade Jackson (director), Esteban Jaramillo (writer), Torisee Laulu (producer)
3. The Edge Finders – Tim Hamilton (director), Jonny Brugh (writer), Alister Baxter (producer)
4. The Road Out – Pennie Hunt (writer/director), Alex Reed (producer)
5. The Taniwha – Michael Reihana (writer/director), Michael Reihana, Honor Byren & Gina Varela (producers)

Congratulations to all the teams—we can’t wait to see these films come to life!

IN SHORT

Code of Conduct – Our new Code of Conduct outlines the standards we uphold within our organisation and expect from stakeholders we work with. It is designed to foster a respectful, inclusive, and professional environment in all our interactions. Please take a moment to familiarise yourself with it.

Terms of Trade – This document sets out the terms under which the New Zealand Film Commission does business with feature film producers. It is important you read and understand this document before you apply for feature film production financing.

Short Film Festival Marketing Guide – Our new Marketing Guide helps you promote your film to festivals with confidence. This resource covers essential tips on building your film's presence, crafting a standout submission, and connecting with the right audiences.  Take a look and start getting your film noticed.

ARTIFICAL INTELLIGENCE

We have recently introduced a questionnaire about AI usage at the end of our funding application forms in the portal. This questionnaire will help us better understand how AI is being used by funding applicants currently. It is NOT used in determining eligibility or assessment of an individual application. We will also shortly publish guiding principles in relation to AI.