In a move to remain competitive on the global stage, the New Zealand government has announced a significant financial boost for its film industry.Finance and Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis unveiled a subsidy increase exceeding $577 million, aimed at attracting and retaining international film productions.

The International Screen Production Rebate: A Lifeline for New Zealand Cinema

The $577 million injection, spread over the remainder of this year and the next four, brings the total International Screen Production Rebate to $1.09 billion.This substantial investment underscores the government’s commitment to preserving and growing the nation’s film sector.

Eligible productions can now access a 20 percent rebate for projects with production costs exceeding $15 million for feature films and $4 million for television productions.Moreover, productions spending over $30 million and meeting specific industry and economic growth criteria can qualify for an additional 5 percent rebate.

Competing on a Global Scale

Minister Willis acknowledged that while industry incentives are not her preferred approach, they are essential for competing with countries like Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. She emphasized the necessity of the rebate scheme for the survival of the New Zealand movie industry.

What has become clear to us is that if we were to remove this rebate scheme, we would be saying goodbye to the New Zealand movie industry, and I am simply not prepared to do that.

Nicola Willis, Finance and Economic growth Minister

Willis further elaborated on the importance of the rebate, stating:

This rebate scheme is a ticket to the game. Without that ticket, it would be almost impossible for our movie makers to compete internationally, and we would see an exodus of talent, of skill, and we would say goodbye to the investment that has been coming here.

Nicola willis, Finance and Economic Growth Minister

Recent Successes and Future Projections

According to Willis, a review of the rebate settings in late 2023 has already attracted 10 major international productions, including eight from Hollywood studios. Films that have benefited from these rebates include A Minecraft Movie,which was the second highest-grossing film of 2025 so far,and Taika Waititi’s Klara and the Sun,which is currently in production.

Navigating International Trade Concerns

addressing potential concerns regarding international trade, Willis clarified that the government’s decision preceded social media posts from former U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting tariffs on international films. She dismissed the possibility of the U.S. demanding the removal of the rebate as hypothetical, citing the United Kingdom’s recent negotiations with the U.S.as evidence that such changes are unlikely.

Balancing International and Domestic Needs

While the boost to the international rebate scheme is welcomed, Irene Gardiner, president of the Screen Production and Growth Association, emphasized the importance of supporting the domestic sector as well. She noted that the local production sector has faced challenges due to the rise of international streaming services and advocated for enhancements to the domestic screen production rebate.

This is making sure that the kitty is there to pay out the international screen production rebate, that’s significant. That’s good for the New Zealand economy, it’s good for the screen industry as it’s jobs… Though, we do need both our domestic sector and our international sector to be strong.

Irene Gardiner, President of the Screen Production and Development Association

Gardiner highlighted the difficulties in funding long-running local productions like Shortland Street, which has faced funding cuts and schedule reductions. Willis confirmed that funding for the domestic side of the scheme would be addressed in the upcoming budget.

economic Impact and Future Outlook

Over the past decade, inbound productions have invested nearly $7.5 billion in New Zealand, supported by $1.5 billion in rebate payments. The government’s latest investment aims to ensure the continued growth and success of the New Zealand film industry on the global stage.