September 2025 Bulletin
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September 2025
It’s been a big time for your Guild and for our industry. Here are some highlights and updates:
Copyright Reform – Writers are THE Authors
We have always championed the principle that writers are the primary and original authors of the stories that fuel our screen industry. Without the script, there are no scripted films or television shows. But we also know that bringing a story to life is a profoundly collaborative process. Producers, directors, actors, and countless others contribute their vision and craft to transform words on a page into moving images that reach audiences.
Right now, copyright reform is on the table and we’ve been there, ensuring writers’ voices are heard at every step.
SPADA – Still Waiting to Bargain
We, along with Equity NZ, DEGANZ, and SIGANZ, have formally called on SPADA to register under the Screen Industry Workers Act so collective bargaining can begin. Without their registration, negotiations for minimum standards across the sector can’t proceed. The industry cannot afford further delay. However, you can help! Join us at the final round of Creative Power workshops, where we will tell you how to help get this show on the road!
Creative Power Workshops – Final Chance to Register
NZWG, DEGANZ & Equity NZ’s nationwide workshop series is nearing the end! If you haven’t already, make sure you register and come along. This is your chance to sharpen your knowledge on contracts, meet your fellow film industry friends, learn about your rights, and about the new Rate Equation in a supportive, practical environment. Register HERE
Supporting Local Content - You Created it!
At a time when international production is slowing, Australia has shown that strong local content keeps industries alive. Here in Aotearoa, we’re seeing the same:
- TVNZ reported a $107 million profit, thanks in part to local programming.
- Tinā has smashed the box office, reaching $5m and joining the ranks of Aotearoa’s most successful films.
- Research confirms it: Local content is the beating heart of New Zealand television.
- Check out the latest local shows to watch.
Across the Ditch
We’re also backing our colleagues at the Australian Writers’ Guild, currently creating a submission on the Productivity Commission’s data and digital inquiry. These issues affect Aotearoa New Zealand writers too — especially around copyright, AI and ownership.
Vale John Barnett
The industry farewelled legendary producer John Barnett this month. A towering figure whose vision shaped much of our screen culture, he leaves behind a complicated but undeniable legacy.
Ngā mihi nui,
Alice Shearman
Executive Director, NZWG
Nationwide Events
Tauranga
Creative Power
Saturday 13 September
12noon - 4pm
The Village Cinema - Tauranga
Followed by drinks & nibbles with your film industry friends!
Auckland
Meet The Guilds - In Person
Tuesday 16 September
5pm - 8pm
Morningside Tavern - Sandringham
NZWG, along with our fellow screen industry guilds, will be there to answer any and all of your questions while we have a drink & a snack… fun!
RSVPs are essential.
Wellington
Creative Power
Saturday 8 November
12noon - 4pm
Location TBC - Wellington
Followed by drinks & nibbles with your film industry friends!
Christchurch
Creative Power
Saturday 15 November
12noon - 4pm
Location TBC - Christchurch
Followed by drinks & nibbles with your film industry friends!
Auckland
Creative Power
Saturday 1 November
12noon - 4pm
Te Puna Creative Hub - Henderson, Auckland
Followed by drinks & nibbles with your film industry friends!
Info, Opportunities & Events
Script Dev Workshops for DDN Creatives
These Script to Screen workshops will upskill Deaf, Disabled and Neuro Diverse (DDN) creatives to help create screen stories.
SPADA Screen Industry Awards
Nominations now open for the 27th Awards! Nominate your fav colleagues, collaborators and champions who deserve to be recognised.
Northland Adult Scriptwriting Workshop
Script to Screen in association with Foundation North presents a 1-day adult workshop covering scriptwriting for screen in Whangārei.
Online Q&A Masterclasses Compton School
In a series of monthly masterclasses, interviewer Abi Tabone will introduce you to leaders from across the creative sector.
South Pacific Big Pitch Competition
Entries now open, this is a chance to showcase your most ambitious idea to a live panel of judges at the SPADA conference in Auckland.
Story Camp Aotearoa 2026 Now Open
A stepping stone for any project prior to pitching, funding and production. This is a five-day journey of deep story development.
RNZ on AI in the Screen Industry
With few rules in place to control the rapidly evolving tech, there are calls for the government here to do more. Evie Richardson reports.
AWG Explains Large Language Models
What are LLMs (Large Language Models) and why are they such an issue for screen and stage writers?
Day One Shorts
This talent development programme offers workshops, mentoring and funding for young filmmakers, and emerging screen voices.
Show Me Shorts Opening Nights Tickets
The Festival is turning 20! With three Opening Nights; AKL, WGTN and CHCH. Join the pink-carpet glamour and world premieres.
The Rosey - Screen Production Base
A new bespoke production base for small to
mid-tier feature films, TV series, and TVCs.
With multi-purpose spaces available.
TEQ Talks - Wellington Edition
A night of short, sharp talks from innovators across VFX, animation, games and beyond. Thursday 18 September.
Best Practice Guide
The guide offers tools and template questions for practitioners when collaborating with writers, producers, directors and actors.
NZWG 2025 Seed Round Two Teaser
Many of you have been asking about the opening date for the next round of Seed 2025 - eyes on your emails this coming Monday!
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