MEDIA RELEASE

2 April 2012

ATEED welcomes film incentive announcement

The release of key criteria in the Government’s revamped New Zealand Screen Production Grant (NZSPG), which came into effect yesterday, is welcome news for Auckland’s hugely valuable screen sector, says Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED).

Early reaction from Auckland-based production companies has been largely positive, says ATEED chief executive Brett O’Riley.

“December’s announcement of the changes to the structure and level of screen incentives were significant and pleasing, but the devil was potentially still in the criteria’s details.

“Yesterday’s release of the details shows the Government listened to the concerns of Auckland’s screen sector, which contributes just under half of the national industry’s gross revenue from production and post-production activities,” says Brett O’Riley.

“We expect the new system to significantly boost Auckland’s ability to attract mid-sized productions – both international and local – which are our key target,” says
Brett O’Riley.

ATEED is particularly pleased the Government has listened to the feedback from Auckland’s screen sector in relation to the points test for international productions, which the industry felt were likely to be a stumbling block for getting productions across the line.

“It is early days, but it appears some of the mid-sized international productions which ATEED’s Business Attraction and Investment team have been negotiating with may now qualify and come to Auckland, if they are prepared to make the commitments the Government requires – that is excellent progress, and potentially great news for Auckland’s economy,” he says.

“Auckland’s industry has established a reputation for world-class screen production talent and locations, but the Government’s ongoing support is critical if we are to remain internationally competitive.

“ATEED recognises we also need to work with the local screen industry to ensure it develops in a way which ensures it has sustainable future,” says Brett O’Riley.

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