11th February 2025
New Zealand’s screen industry is at a crossroads. As talent agents, we’re advocating for stronger support to keep our actors and creatives working and our local stories alive.
When household names like Shortland Street face an uncertain future, the ripple effect hits every corner of the screen industry. Behind every production is a wealth of talented actors, directors, writers, and crew who bring stories to life. As talent agents, we see firsthand the challenges our industry faces—and the opportunities that could turn things around in 2025.
The State of Play
In 2024, local screen production took a significant hit. With TVNZ and Three slashing their local content budgets by approximately $50 million combined, work for actors, writers, and crew dried up. The repercussions have been devastating—not just for those behind the scenes, but for New Zealanders who deserve to see their culture, struggles, and triumphs reflected on screen.
This isn’t just about jobs; it’s about identity. Who are we as a nation if we can’t tell our own stories?
Supporting Local Talent
Government funding through agencies like NZ On Air and Te Māngai Pāho has been a lifeline, but inflation and tight budgets mean those funds don’t stretch as far as they once did. While initiatives like the Screen Production Rebate have helped by enabling co-productions and securing international investments, it’s not enough to keep up with demand.
Our actors are ready to take on new roles, but the opportunities must exist. As agents, we’re advocating for a more robust domestic industry so our talent can thrive here in Aotearoa, not just overseas.
The Role of International Streamers
Streaming platforms have transformed the industry, but their success has come at a cost. These companies dominate viewership in New Zealand without contributing to local production. It’s time for change. A 5% levy on their NZ revenue could inject an estimated $25 million back into the sector—money that could fund more local productions and provide jobs for our actors and creatives.
The Government is finally exploring options for regulation, but time is of the essence. For the sake of our industry, we need action now.
Building on Success
Despite the challenges, there are reasons to be optimistic. Internationally, New Zealand-made shows like The Brokenwood Mysteries and My Life is Murder are finding global audiences. Every dollar invested in local productions generates $6 for the economy, proving that supporting the screen sector isn’t just culturally important—it’s smart business.
SPADA’s proposal for a $20 million export incentive tied to NZ On Air-funded rebate projects could build on this momentum, helping more productions reach international markets. This initiative would create more work for our actors while ensuring the stories of Aotearoa are seen on a global stage.
A Call to Action
As agents, we’re committed to supporting our actors and advocating for a thriving local industry. But we can’t do it alone. The screen sector needs:
Immediate regulation of streaming platforms to level the playing field.
Increased funding for local productions to keep our actors employed.
Export incentives to help New Zealand productions compete globally.
The talent is here. The passion is here. Now we need the industry to step up and provide the opportunities that our actors—and our country—deserve.
2025 is a pivotal year for the New Zealand screen industry. Together, we can ensure that the voices of Aotearoa are heard loud and clear.
© 2025 Collaborate NZ