Major growth in New Zealand’s motion picture industry occurred in the 1990s. The Lord of the Rings trilogy was probably the most high-profile production but other films added to the mix, contributing to the strong growth in employment in motion picture production. In 2001 the number of people employed in film and video production was more than double that of 1996.

Major growth in New Zealand’s motion picture industry occurred in the 1990s. The Lord of the Rings trilogy was probably the most high-profile production but other films added to the mix, contributing to the strong growth in employment in motion picture production. In 2001 the number of people employed in film and video production was more than double that of 1996.

Employment in film and video distribution fell during the same period, but growth was evident in motion picture exhibition as consumer demand continued.

The number of movie screens and ticket sales continued to climb, with the New Zealand movie box office worth around $150 million in 2003.

This report shows the changes in levels and distribution of employment in the cultural sector, highlighting the rapid growth and diversity within this sector. Demographics such as age, ethnicity, income, gender and education within each group are also examined.

Published 22 June 2005