11. HEKIA PARATA (National) Link to this
to the Minister for Economic Development
What support has this Government given to the development of a vibrant screen production industry in New Zealand?
Hon GERRY BROWNLEE (Minister for Economic Development) Link to this
The Government provides support to the screen production industry through the incentive of the Large Budget Screen Production Grant. The most notable film support this year was for the biggest-ever grossing movie, Avatar. The production spent over $300 million in New Zealand. After a robust audit process, it received a grant of around $45 million for the qualifying expenditure. This incentive keeps our industry competitive with other countries, and maintains a highly skilled and a highly technologically capable industry on our shores. I congratulate Weta Digital in Wellington on winning the Oscar for best visual effects for the movie. That is another win for a leading high-technology firm in New Zealand.
Hon GERRY BROWNLEE Link to this
A recent PricewaterhouseCoopers study on the economic impact of the film and television industry in 2009 found that the film and television industry contributed $2.5 billion to the New Zealand economy and contributes additional financial benefits to the country by enhancing international awareness of the New Zealand brand. Major benefits also accrue to our wider service economy through associated activities, like the provision of accommodation and hospitality. Screen production has continued to deliver strong economic support through the recession. I have come to know a lot more about this industry, and I think we are doing very well with the support we are giving it.