NZ increases incentives for the screen sector | Television tonight

The New Zealand Film Commission has welcomed an announcement from Minister for Economic Growth Nicola Willis on changes to the International Screen Production Rebate.

From January 1, 2026, the following changes will be made to the International Screen Production Rebate:

• The minimum spend for feature films to qualify for the rebate will be reduced from $15 million to $4 million, to align with existing minimum spend for TV and streaming.
• The threshold for productions to access the additional 5% Uplift will drop from $30 million to $20 million, attracting a wider range of productions.
• Eligibility for the additional 5% Uplift is being extended to post-production, digital and visual effects (PDV) projects, via a new 5% Uplift PDV test.
• The limit on how many international productions can claim above-the-line roles, such as director, producer, lead actor or screenwriter, will be abolished.

NZFC CEO Annie Murray said: “International productions are a vital part of New Zealand’s screen ecosystem. They generate export revenues and drive economic growth with flow-on benefits not only to the creative industries, but also to tourism, hospitality, construction and technology. They also create a sustainable pipeline for our local screen workforce and businesses. The screen sector supports 5,200 screen businesses, employs around 24,000 people and generates $3.5 billion annually.”

“One of the benefits of the Rebate is that it is a simple cash incentive (easy to claim and not subject to tax), with the New Zealand dollar offering excellent value for international productions. These benefits, combined with the changes announced, mean New Zealand is better positioned to compete with other areas that offer incentives, demonstrating our ability to remain agile in a global screen production environment that is constantly evolving.

“We want to keep New Zealand at the forefront of major studios and streamers around the world. At the same time, we are exploring opportunities in other major markets, such as India, as well as emerging regions, such as the Middle East, to diversify our partnerships and attract new projects. This means New Zealand remains a trusted, creative partner for bold ideas and world-class on-screen experiences that resonate with audiences around the world.

“Setting a minimum spend threshold of $4 million for all film, TV and streaming productions, eliminating the above-the-line reel limit and expanding eligibility for the 5% Uplift will open the door to a wider range of productions and more post-production and visual effects work.”