FAQs | Film New Zealand - Filming in New Zealand

Does New Zealand offer any incentives to filmmakers?: The New Zealand government has incentives available for the film and television industry. More about incentives.
What tax issues are there with filming in New Zealand?: New Zealand has a relatively simple, low-cost tax system compared to other countries. More about taxation.
What passports or work visas do I need to film in New Zealand?: Cast and crew who do not hold New Zealand or Australian passports require a work permit.; Location scouting requires only a tourist visa as applicable to your nationality. More about immigration.
Will you have snow when we are filming?: New Zealand has snow in the winter months of May to September. Most of New Zealand's snow falls to the east of the Southern Alps in the South Island, and on the Central Plateau of the North Island. More about snow.; New Zealand's SFX industry includes a number of experienced artificial snowmaking companies. More about artificial snow.
Are there restrictions on working with child actors?: Child actors are protected by special conditions including restricted working hours. Your local Line Producer or Production Manager can assist with contracting.
Is there a list of local crew I can contact?: Visit the Production Contacts section of this site for a list of Line Producers and Production Managers experienced with international productions, as well as information about crew agencies and directories.
Is there a list of local equipment companies I can contact?: New Zealand has a comprehensive selection of production equipment and services. Visit the Equipment section of this site for more information, or visit The Data Book for a full list.
What are New Zealand's labour laws for hiring cast and crew?: New Zealand cast and crew are generally considered to be self-employed independent contractors. More about employment.
Are New Zealand crews unionised?: No, New Zealand film and television crews are not covered by a union agreement but there is a best practice guide known as "The Blue Book". This document covers booking procedures, cancellation & postponement, working day and week structures, overtime and turnaround, and truck driving hours. Visit the Crew Employment page of this website for more information or order the NZ Film and Video Technicians' Guild's Blue Book .
Does New Zealand have any sound stages?: New Zealand has a variety of sound stage, studio and warehouse options for filming. More about studios.
Do I need a permit to film in New Zealand?: No specific permit is required to film in New Zealand, however certain locations may require permits. Your local Location or Production Manager or regional film office can assist with obtaining these.
How do I get listed on your website?: To be listed on the website, you must be working in the New Zealand screen production industry and have at least two credits on international productions. For an application form please contact Film New Zealand.
I have a script and I am looking for someone to produce it. Who do I call?: Contact the Screen Production and Development Association or the New Zealand Film Commission for advice about finding a producer.
How can I get funding for my film project?: New Zealand projects may be eligible for funding from several different sources. Projects from outside of New Zealand may be developed as an international co-production. More about film finance.
How can I get funding for my television project?: New Zealand projects may be eligible for funding from several different sources. Projects from outside of New Zealand may be developed as an international co-production. More about television finance.
How can I get into the New Zealand film and television industry?: If you do not have experience in the industry you might consider training.
Can I work in the New Zealand film industry if I am not a New Zealand citizen or resident?: You will need to obtain a temporary or permanent work visa. More from Immigration NZ.
How can I find out what projects are hiring?: The NZ Film & Video Technicians Guild website includes a What's Shooting list . You might also like to contact your local regional film office for information about projects in your area.
How can I become an extra?: Contact talent agencies in your area through the yellow pages or The Data Book.
How can I get an idea of crew rates in New Zealand?: Contact a crew agency and or a New Zealand Line Producer or Production Manager.
Where can I find information about per diems?: The NZ Film & Video Technicians Guild has produced a Per Diem Guide which can be downloaded from their website.
How do I make my property available for filmmakers as a location?: Film New Zealand welcomes images and information about potential locations which we pass on to interested filmmakers and the relevant regional film office.
Do you have a hard copy production guide?: Contact Film New Zealand for a copy of The New Zealand Screen Production Guide.
Does Film New Zealand provide internships for students?: No. Try contacting production companies in your area about opportunities for work experience.
Is Film New Zealand hiring?: In the event a position becomes available at the Film New Zealand, application details will be posted on the News section of this site.
What services does Film New Zealand provide?: Film New Zealand is the national film locations office facilitating access both nationally and internationally to New Zealand as one of the world's best screen production destinations. More about Film New Zealand.

Regions, Film Offices and Films made in NZ