The New Zealand Film Commission has announced the end of its Core Funding Programme, which provided operational funding to 10 local New Zealand screen organisations to the tune of ‘just over’ NZD $1 million.
Per the NZ Film Commission, the decision to end all contracts on 30 June 2027 is a reflection of how the screen industry has changed in recent decades.
‘As the industry continues to evolve, NZFC is adapting how it invests public funding so it can respond more effectively to the opportunities and challenges facing New Zealand filmmakers today,’ the organisation says.
The fund existed in varying forms for more than two decades and provided investment to ensure the continued operation of local organisations and their support for the screen sector.
NZ Film Commission to end Core Funding Programme – quick links
What to know about the conclusion of the NZ Film Commission’s Core Funding Programme
Organisations previously supported by the Core Funding Programme include the Screen Producers Guild and the actors union, Equity. All organisations were reportedly informed prior to the public announcement, and had been aware of challenges facing the program.
As the NZ Film Commission says, the decision to end the program was based on a need to allocate funding more effectively to deliver on the strategic objectives of the company.
‘The Board concluded that ongoing operational funding through the current programme is no longer the most effective way for NZFC to deliver its mandate and strategic objectives,’ the NZ Film Commission says. ‘The decision enables NZFC to direct public funding towards fewer, higher-impact investments, stronger capability development and clearer pathways for filmmakers.’
The organisation has said it will continue to provide ‘targeted’ funds for industry development through its existing programs, and those formerly part of the Core Funding Programme will remain eligible to apply for these alternative initiatives.
It has also said it will support ‘independently facilitated, sector-led discussions about future opportunities for coordination, collaboration and collective advocacy’ to determine future outcomes.
NZ Film Commission Chief Executive on the incoming changes
NZ Film Commission Chief Executive Annie Murray has acknowledged the changes are significant, but outlined a responsibility to continuously update programs to align with the determined needs of the local screen sector.
‘The organisations involved represent a broad and diverse range of groups and communities across the New Zealand screen sector. It is important that we acknowledge their contribution as we make this change,’ Murray says.
‘We recognise that this is a significant change for the organisations involved, particularly given the programme’s long history. Our responsibility is to regularly review our programmes, carefully prioritise public funding and make deliberate choices about where NZFC investment can have the greatest impact for New Zealand film.’
‘This decision is about ensuring that NZFC’s public investment supports the New Zealand screen industry as effectively as possible, now and into the future.’
In a further statement shared by RNZ, Murray acknowledged it was a ‘tough day’ for the sector, and confirmed the funding environment of the modern era was ‘constrained.’
The commission’s funding was reportedly cut by five percent this financial year, after a two percent cut in the year prior. An additional five percent cut is expected in the next financial year.
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