How Big Productions Boost Business in Auckland

**Hollywood Hits Aotearoa: How Big Productions Boost Small Business in Auckland**

When Hollywood rolls into New Zealand, it doesn’t just bring excitement and a touch of glamour – it’s also fueling Auckland’s economy with over $1 billion annually. Recent productions like the action-comedy *The Wrecking Crew*, starring big names like Jason Momoa, Morena Baccarin, and Dave Bautista, are showcasing how impactful the film industry can be for local businesses and communities.

One of the most recent transformations happened at a campground in Piha, where a quiet, scenic spot was turned into a bustling movie set. Fiona Anderson, a local campground kaitiaki, described the incredible scale: “We had up to 150 crew cars coming through daily and 30 trucks on-site, plus trailers for actors, makeup, and wardrobe.” Alongside these film essentials, high-end catering set up a marquee with dining tables worthy of a Hollywood spread, bringing a unique and memorable experience for the locals involved.

Anderson noted the production was “like a gift from the gods” after a challenging five years. With floods, cyclones, and the impacts of COVID-19 straining her ability to keep the campground running, this opportunity was a lifeline. “My bills are paid, the taxes paid, the rent is paid. I can employ staff,” she said, highlighting the critical support these productions offer to businesses of all sizes.

The numbers speak volumes about this boom: Auckland's film industry is now worth $1.7 billion, creating a ripple effect that extends beyond the city. Local production companies like Mt Albert’s *The Rebel Fleet* benefit from growing opportunities and experience, which they reinvest in advanced equipment, skilled freelancers, and technology to stay competitive. Co-founder Michael Urban notes that this industry knowledge “enables us to push the boundaries with our technology and equipment.”

Small businesses, too, are seeing the benefits as productions require local resources, from furniture rentals to cable supplies. The influx of work not only brings immediate income but fosters resilience and new connections within the local economy.

To maintain this momentum, a competitive international screen rebate remains essential. Tātaki Auckland Unlimited chief executive Nick Hill underscores its importance, saying, “Without that, there would be no international industry here.” Coupled with the expertise developed across many productions and a favorable Kiwi dollar, New Zealand is now a prime location for international filmmaking.

For small businesses, these large productions are more than just film sets; they represent a lifeline, a source of growth, and an opportunity to thrive. At Collaborate Management, we’re excited to see how these collaborations unfold and help local businesses leverage the benefits of Hollywood coming to Aotearoa. Whether it’s logistical support or creative contributions, small businesses are becoming an integral part of New Zealand’s growing entertainment economy.