ATEED and Film Auckland hold successful industry event

ATEED and Film Auckland hold successful industry event to discuss proposed film studio precinct at Hobsonville Point.

Film Auckland in conjunction with ATEED last week held an industry-wide event dubbed the ‘Film Forum Part II – Hobsonville Studio Proposal Information & Discussion Evening’.

The meeting, held at Unitec on the 27th of August, brought together a good crowd of people from a much wider cross section of the film industry than is usually seen at industry events. Both filmmaking veterans as well as newer faces were in attendance, representing many different groups including production companies, crew and technicians, producers, actors, creative sectors, third party suppliers and small businesses.

After welcomes from Alex Lee (chair of Film Auckland), and introductions from the New Zealand Film Commission representatives Philippa Mossman and Catherine Bates, the evening got underway. Mark Ford from ATEED gave a brief presentation on the Proposal for Screen Innovation and Production Precinct as it currently stands. This proposal was approved in a vote by Auckland Council in July, and would need a deal to be cut with a preferred investor by the 31st of October this year.

ATEED’s plan expects the complex to provide for both local and internationalproductions, would be managed by an experienced operator (not Auckland Council), and would have spaces for third party suppliers businesses and tertiary education postgraduate facilities.Feedback was then gathered from stakeholder groups, including producers,crew and technicians, creative sectors, and third party suppliers.

The general consensus was of overwhelming support for the studio proposal from all groups, and the ideas and concerns raised showed an industry that is looking towards sustainability and growth for all - without compromising local community and relationships.

Film Auckland chair, Alex Lee, regards the evening as a resounding success: “Film Auckland is very pleased to be able to bring together the industry to discuss and provide valuable feedback to the council regarding the Hobsonville Studio campus. With the industry very busy due to the tax incentives implemented in 2013, a purpose-built studio capable of hosting large productions is long overdue.”

ENDS

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