New Zealand Film Commission
The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) or in the Maori language Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga is a New Zealand government commission formed to assist with creating and promoting New Zealand films. It was established under the New Zealand Film Commission Act 1978 (as amended in 1981, 1985, 1988, 1994 and 1999) with the assistance of film director, producer and writer Roger Donaldson.
Functions and responsibilities
The functions of the Commission are to encourage and participate in the making, promotion, distribution, and exhibition of films and generally to encourage the development of the New Zealand film industry. A special direction to the Commission is that it shall not make financial assistance available for any film project unless the Commission is satisfied that the film has or is to have significant New Zealand content. The Commission handles worldwide sales of a range of New Zealand feature and short films.
Structure
The Commission is appointed by the Minister of Culture and Heritage and comprises a Chairman and seven other board members. It meets formally every two months. Day to day activities are carried out by a staff of 14 from a Wellington office.
Records
The main classes of records held include:
- Applications for financial assistance for development, production, distribution and promotion of New Zealand films;
- Contracts in respect of investments made by the Commission; and
- Contracts in respect of sales of a New Zealand film represented by the Commission.
Film financing
The NZFC provides financial assistance for New Zealand feature film projects and New Zealand filmmakers, by way of loan or Phone: +64 4 382 7680
Fax: +64 4 384 9719
