Waikato Screen

21/08/2025

While attending For the Love of Fantasy, Sir Ian McKellen announced that Gandalf and Frodo will be back in The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum.

Filming will begin in May 2026.

18/08/2025

Day One Shorts 2026 is now open for applications.

They’re seeking diverse emerging directors who have not previously received production funding from NZ On Air, Te Māngai Pāho, or the NZ Film Commission.

✅ Open to directors aged 18–29, with a special 30+ sub-category for first-time funded filmmakers.
✅ At least 2 films will be funded with 50% Te Reo Māori.
✅ Up to four short documentary projects will also be supported.
✅ A total of eight filmmaking teams will be commissioned, including up to two te ao Māori-lensed films.

📅 Deadline: 15 September 2025, midday (no later).

📩 Enquiries: [email protected]
🔗 Full details & applications: dofilm.co.nz/shorts

This is an incredible opportunity for new voices to step forward and bring their stories to the screen. Waikato filmmakers – we encourage you to apply!

This immersive talent development programme offers workshops, mentoring and funding for filmmakers, and provides a pathway for emerging screen voices to break into the screen industry and forge sustainable careers.

18/08/2025

Developing the craft and culture of storytelling for the screen in Aotearoa, NZ

14/08/2025

Shot here this week. Its lighting and interchangeable spaces are fantastic!

09/08/2025

Exciting development 🎬

08/08/2025

Only 4 Categories left to sponsor The Tavern feature film for the New Zealand Screen Awards.

MASSIVE THANK YOU TO:

The Tivoli Cinema Cambridge for sponsoring - Stuart Shacklock (Jeremy the Wh***ng Jockey)

The Lido Cinema - Hamiltonfor sponsoring Best Feature Film

The Waikato's Newest and ONLY Talent Agency (get on their books) Bernice Breckon from BCMA spotted Matt Hicks talent and have sponsored him under the 'Best Actor category'

Matt Hicks himself paid tribute to his idol by sponsoring Josh McKenzie nomination for 'Best Supporting Actor' for his roll as Vic the Dick!

Mercury Bay Twin Cinema loved the anthem (as we all do) 'Last One Standing' written by Tom Easden and sung by Scotty Stone and sponsored them for the Best Soundtrack Feature category.

Matt's Dad the LEGEND kicked his own son to the curb in favour of sponsoring - Tom Easden (best mate Tomo) for the best supporting actor role.

Waikato Screen undoubtedly sponsored✍️ Best Script nomination

🐀 Screen Legend – The one and only Rat Mick Innes (was nominated by Waikato Screen NZ, and Matt Hicks)

From this epic bunch - Who was YOUR favourite. Contact us to sponsor for only $169+GST.

👩‍🎤 Narina Riddle (Matts ever forgiving girlfriend) - Best Actress

🙆‍♀️Best Supporting Actress, our unforgettable promiscuous bar waitress, Jamie-Lee! - Kylah Carree

🤷‍♂️- Ryan Jackson (Jacko - super-stressed Dad)

😤- Dan Sage (Keitz the stripper addict and undercover great guy)

The NZ Screen Awards dates have been extended to Tuesday the 12th so lets give these guys a shot and connect with us if you would like to see them up as a nomination at the NZ Screen Awards.

06/08/2025

Waikato Talent on Screen!
Announcing the first public screening of The View From Poets’ Corner, a powerful short film starring Bruce Cooper and directed by Aaron Christiansen.

📍 Nivara Lounge, Hamilton
🗓️ Saturday 9th August
🕖 Doors open 7PM | Screening at 8PM
🎤 Post-screening performance by Mike Conlon + live poetry from Bruce Cooper!
💛 Koha entry

Proudly supported by Hamilton City Council and Creative Communities. Come along and support local storytelling!

03/08/2025

Practical Producing Series — Share the Knowledge
Overview
An expert-led six-season Zoom workshop series, designed to equip emerging and seasoned producers with practical tools and insights across the full feature-film production lifecycle—from development and casting to financing, packaging, production, post, delivery, and release.

Each session runs for 60 minutes and is recorded for later access.

Who Should Attend
Aspiring feature film producers
Early-to-mid–career producers in New Zealand

Format & Access
Six seasons, each comprising six sessions

Live on Zoom, with recordings distributed afterwards

Pricing
Full season access: NZD $249 + GST
Individual session: NZD $49 + GST

Upcoming Season 4 (2025) Topics & Dates

Date Topic
14 Aug 2025 Local Distributors
28 Aug 2025 Sales Agents
18 Sep 2025 Streamers
02 Oct 2025 Local Networks
16 Oct 2025 Funding Applications
30 Oct 2025 Closing
https://www.sharetheknowledge.co.nz/producers-series-info

03/08/2025

Controversially, the production was mostly shot in New Zealand with non-Hawaiian crews.