OF NEW ZEALAND
ADVANTAGES
GEOGRAPHY
New Zealand offers the unique advantage of being small but mighty–a country where you can shoot an urban skyline, dense forests, and a sun-soaked beach all in the same day. Seriously, the variety is unmatched and easily accessible, you’ll spend more time filming and less time travelling. Whether you need dramatic mountains, lush forests, bustling cities, or golden beaches, it’s all here–and within easy reach. Take a look at our LOCATIONS page for the full menu of what’s on offer.
ACCESSIBILITY
Getting to New Zealand is easier than you think– just an overnight direct flight from Los Angeles, and you’re here, ready to roll. We’re roughly the size of California, but with fewer people and a lot more sheep. The main production hubs–Auckland, Wellington and Queenstown–have everything you need from top-tier facilities to jaw-dropping locations within close proximity. Whether you’re hopping between the North and South Islands or sticking close to your base, you’ll find endless variety.
WORLD CLASS STUDIOS
New Zealand’s studios are as impressive as the natural landscapes. In Auckland you’ve got Auckland Film Studios, Kumeu Film Studios, and Studio West–complete with high-spec sound stages and unique ocean surface and deep-dive tanks, making them ideal for water-based and large-scale productions.
Wellington steps up with Stone Street Studios and the legendary Weta Workshop and Weta Digital, offering top-tier VFX, CGI, and design where films like Avatar and The Lord of the Rings came to life. If you need post-production, Park Road Post, another Wellington gem, has got you covered with top-notch sound and editing services.
And Queenstown? It’s a filmmaker’s dream with breathtaking landscapes paired with smaller studios that are perfect for interior scenes. Wherever you go, New Zealand delivers the goods.
CREW
Skilled, adaptable, and always ready with that famous “can-do” attitude, Kiwi crews are globally respected. They’ve worked on everything from blockbuster films to award-winning series. No fringes, no residuals–just straight-up world-class talent. With English as the main language and a timezone that syncs nicely with the US, working with Kiwi crews is as smooth as it gets.
CASTING
New Zealand’s rich cultural mix is a treasure trove for casting directors. Whether you’re after comedy, drama or high-octane action, our actors bring versatility and depth to any project. The diverse talent pool ensures authentic representation of a range of ethnicities, with high-caliber performances. Whatever your story needs, we’ve got the talent to tell it right.
REBATES
Yes, New Zealand looks good on film, but it also looks great on your budget. Production rebates make shooting here a smart, cost-effective choice. Reach out to our team, and we’ll walk you through what your project could qualify for—because saving money never goes out of style.
WORKING HOURS & VALUE
New Zealand’s screen industry operates with a standard 10-hour workday that aligns beautifully with US timezones. Day rates and production costs are competitive too, giving you serious bang for your buck without compromising on quality.
TRAVEL & TOURISM
When the cameras stop rolling, the adventure begins. From skydiving to sipping on a glass at one of Waiheke Island’s best wineries, New Zealand offers unforgettable downtime for cast and crew. With filming locations so close to incredible experiences, you’ll never have to choose between work and play. Our local team are more than happy to point you in the right direction. Oh, and we’re one of the safest countries in the world—so you can rest easy knowing your team and gear are in good hands.
HOSPITALITY
Kiwis are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. Add in world-class hotels, a café culture that rivals the best, and cuisine that’ll have you asking for seconds (or thirds), and you’ve got a recipe for a great production experience. And don’t worry—we’ll hook you up with a guide to our favourite local spots so you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.