Statistics Confirm Wellington as NZ Film capital

Statistics Confirm Wellington as New Zealand’s Film Capital

Figures released by Statistics New Zealand today highlight the importance of Wellington’s film industry and confirm its dominance of the national industry according to the Wellington Regional Chamber of Commerce.

“For the first time Statistics New Zealand’s regional screen industry data provides useful information on the television and film components of the sector,” said Chamber Chief Executive Charles Finny. .

“Revenue from feature film production in Wellington grew by 70% to $429 million in 2009. This compares with New Zealand’s total film production revenue for the year of $508 million. Wellington also had the lion’s share of the total screen industry’s post-production output.

“Because the bulk of New Zealand's television production occurs in Auckland, it has dominated total screen production figures to-date but today’s data provides a much needed breakdown between regional film and television production.

“The data confirms that Wellington dominates New Zealand film production while Auckland is top of television production.

The Wellington film industry is internationally recognised. It is also an increasingly important part of the Wellington economy as today’s figures confirm.

“What the figures do not quantify is the importance of the local industry as an export earner. The Wellington screen industry has become an important source of foreign exchange for New Zealand and is providing an increasing number of local jobs.

“The Chamber is keen to see the ongoing growth of the film and screen sector as it plays an increasing role in Wellington’s economic development,” Mr Finny concluded.

ENDS

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