Supported by New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC), the four-day programme connected Hollywood’s leading studios with representatives from Aotearoa New Zealand’s screen industry. The trip underscored New Zealand’s reputation as a world-class destination for screen and post-production, while emphasising the regional strengths of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, and other regional film offices.
The KIA ORA LA initiative featured a thirty-strong delegation of New Zealand’s screen industry leaders, including representatives from Department of Post, Cause and FX, Pinnacle Post, Screen Auckland, Xytech, Studio West, and Kumeu Film Studios. This diverse group met with Hollywood’s top decision-makers at an intimate and candid event, with the Hollywood contingent including heavy-hitters such as 20th Century Studios, Amazon-MGM, Amblin Entertainment, Disney, Blumhouse, Focus Features, Lionsgate, Paramount, Warner Brothers/HBO Max and Netflix. The programme facilitated discussions on potential collaborations, and showcased New Zealand's world-class capabilities.
As the regional film office for New Zealand’s largest city, Screen Auckland’s independent presence played a crucial role in complementing NZFC’s national strategy. While NZFC promotes New Zealand as a unified screen destination, Screen Auckland brings a regional lens, showcasing Auckland’s unique offering for international productions.
Screen Auckland’s time in Hollywood was an opportunity to advocate for Auckland’s distinct value as a screen destination. International relationships with key industry players were strengthened, and new opportunities were explored, to secure a robust pipeline of work for 2025 and beyond. By highlighting Auckland’s specific capabilities—such as its state-of-the-art facilities, diverse locations, and extensive talent pool—Screen Auckland enriched the broader message of New Zealand’s global appeal.
This follows a successful and productive 2024: Auckland hosted major productions such as Amazon MGM Studios’ The Wrecking Crew, as well as East of Eden, Back Pack, and Klara and the Sun. The presence of these major productions further cements Auckland’s reputation as a vital hub for the screen industry. Screen Auckland’s presence ensured the region’s voice was heard, reinforcing its position as an innovative and integral part of New Zealand’s screen ecosystem.
Auckland’s diversity of locations, exceptional local talent, state-of-the-art studios, and forward-thinking approach to the screen industry are what make it a standout destination for international productions,” says Matt Horrocks.
“The sector not only drives creative excellence but also delivers substantial economic value—creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and contributing significantly to the regional economy. Our role within the delegation was to showcase these strengths, ensuring Auckland’s contributions to New Zealand’s global reputation as a premier destination for film and television production were front and centre.
Kirsty Donoghue understands what international productions need, beyond just a location:
"They need a seamless, collaborative experience. Our focus is on building trust and ensuring every production we work with feels supported, whether it’s through our infrastructure, local expertise, or the unique opportunities Auckland can offer."
“A thriving screen sector isn’t just about attracting productions—it’s about creating long-term value for our economy, environment, and communities,” Kirsty adds.
We work closely with productions to ensure they not only benefit from Auckland’s world-class services but also leave with a truly memorable and meaningful experience.
The major studios responded positively to Auckland’s film-friendly services and infrastructure, recognising the region’s capacity to support large-scale productions and deliver exceptional results. Producers and executives have had recent and positive experiences of Auckland, and a number count working in New Zealand as an early career experience, on their journey to occupying senior positions in Hollywood.
The meetings also highlighted Auckland’s growing reputation for exceptional post-production and visual effects (VFX), which further bolster New Zealand’s standing as a top-tier screen destination.
“Being part of this NZFC-led initiative allowed us to directly connect with key decision-makers, advocating for Auckland as a vital part of New Zealand’s screen success,” says Matt. “The relationships we’ve built will help us drive sustainable growth and ensure Auckland continues to thrive within the wider national offering.”
As 2024 ends, the Los Angeles trip highlighted the strength of New Zealand’s collective screen industry, and the critical role of Auckland’s regional expertise. Screen Auckland is committed to working with the local industry and key partners to ensure the region continues to be a go-to destination for world-class screen and post-production.
