Introduction
Hoodlum offers professional film fixer services in New Zealand, providing essential support to international film production teams. With extensive experience across the country, we specialize in location scouting, permit acquisition, and sourcing skilled local crews to ensure that your project runs smoothly from start to finish.
New Zealand is renowned for its diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to lush forests and sweeping plains, making it an ideal filming destination for all kinds of productions. Whether you’re working on a commercial, feature film, TV series, reality TV, or documentary, Hoodlum’s expert team on the ground is your trusted partner for seamless production logistics and support.
Planning to film in New Zealand? Let Hoodlum handle all the details—from securing permits to finding the perfect locations—so you can focus on bringing your creative vision to life. Contact Hoodlum today to discover how we can make your New Zealand film production a success.
Country Overview
NZ nestled in the southwestern Pacific, is a land of remarkable geographical diversity. Its varied landscapes include towering mountain ranges, verdant forests, tranquil beaches, and expansive plains. The country offers an eclectic mix of environments, making it an ideal location for film and TV productions seeking distinctive and immersive settings. Whether capturing rugged terrains or serene vistas, New Zealand provides an exceptional canvas for storytellers.
Bordering Countries:
NZ is an island nation situated in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, completely surrounded by water. It has no land borders with other countries, but its closest neighbors include Australia, New Caledonia, Tonga, and Fiji.
Main Cities:
The key cities include Auckland, Wellington (the capital), Christchurch, Hamilton, Tauranga, Lower Hutt, Dunedin, Palmerston North, Napier, and Hastings, as well as popular tourist destinations such as Queenstown and Rotorua.
Local Languages:
English: The predominant language spoken in NZ, used for everyday communication, business, and education.
Māori (Te Reo Māori): The native language of New Zealand’s indigenous Polynesian people, the Māori.
Local Currency:
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Climate:
The ideal time to film is between February and April, and from September to November, when the weather is mild, crowds are fewer, and the scenery is at its most captivating.
Visa Requirements
Visa Application Link:
Apply for Visa Online
Required Information/Documentation for Application:
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Proof of onward travel
- Health and character certificates (if applicable)
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Letter of support from the New Zealand Film Commission or the production company
- Crew list and production schedule
Timings:
Varies depending on the application and processing time.
Cost:
NZD $335 – $445
International crew accreditation
General Accreditation Requirements:
- Register with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for tax purposes.
- Obtain a New Zealand Business Number (NZBN).
- Comply with New Zealand’s tax, employment, and health and safety regulations.
Required Information/Documentation for Application:
- A Temporary Work Visa (TWV) or Visitor Visa (based on the production’s scope and duration).
- Passport with at least six months’ validity.
- Completed application form (INZ1015).
- Proof of onward travel.
- Health and character certificates (if applicable).
- Evidence of sufficient funds (NZD $1,000/month).
- Letter of support from the New Zealand Film Commission or the production company.
- Crew list and production schedule.
Cost:
NZD $775.
General Film Permit
What Organisation Issues the Permits?
In New Zealand, film permits are issued by various organizations depending on the filming location and type:
- Auckland Film Protocol Office (AFPO)
- Wellington City Council Film Office
Timings:
10-20 working days.
Required Information/Documentation for Application:
- Completed application form.
- Location plan and map.
- Proof of public liability insurance.
- Payment of permit fees (variable).
- Compliance with New Zealand’s health and safety regulations.
Cost:
NZD $200-$1,000.
Private Locations
General Process
Hoodlum Film Fixers Libya plays an essential role in securing private film locations by negotiating with property owners, obtaining the necessary permits, and ensuring a seamless filming experience. Their local knowledge and connections are crucial in facilitating these arrangements.
Drone Permit
Drone Regulations:
For film crews operating drones in New Zealand, Part 102 certification from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is required. This includes obtaining an Unmanned Aircraft Operator Certificate (UAOC), ensuring that the drone pilot holds a Remote Pilot License (RPL), and adhering to specific safety standards and operational guidelines. Film crews must also secure approvals from local authorities, respect restricted airspace, and ensure privacy and consent for individuals captured in the footage.
What Organisation Issues the Permits?
Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)
Required Information/Documentation for Local Drone Application:
- Completed Application Form (CAA Form 240)
- Operator’s Manual
- Drone Specifications (make, model, weight, etc.)
- Proof of Insurance (third-party liability)
- Pilot’s Certificate (Remote Pilot License, RPL)
- Organizational Certificate (for companies)
Required Information/Documentation for Drone Importation Application:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin
- Bill of Lading/Air Waybill
- Customs Declaration (CN23/SINGLE)
- Import Permit (if required)
- Compliance Certificate (EMC, Safety, etc.)
- Product Manual
- Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
Timings:
5-10 working days.
Equipment Customs Clearance
Is it a Carnet country?
Yes, New Zealand is a Carnet country.
Required Information/Documentation for Equipment Customs Clearance:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin
- Bill of Lading/Air Waybill
- Customs Declaration (CN23/SINGLE)
- Film Permit (issued by New Zealand Film Commission or local authorities)
- Detailed Equipment List (valued inventory)
- Proof of Temporary Importation (e.g., Carnet, Temporary Import Permit)
What Organisation Issues the Clearance?
New Zealand Customs Service
Timings:
Customs clearance for film crews in New Zealand typically occurs within 20 days of arrival. The exact timeframe may vary based on several factors.
Cost:
The cost of customs clearance for film crews in New Zealand depends on the type of import, value of goods, and other variables.
Film Rebates and Tax incentives
New Zealand offers a Reality TV film rebate through the New Zealand Screen Production Rebate (NZSPR) scheme. This government-supported initiative provides a 40% cash rebate on qualifying production expenses for eligible projects filmed in New Zealand.
Safety and Security
New Zealand is known for being a safe and welcoming destination for international film productions. The government, through the New Zealand Film Commission, regional film offices, and local authorities, actively supports and facilitates the smooth execution of international projects.
