Film Family Matters - A Heartfelt Response From Our Film Whānau

Since launching Film Family Matters, we’ve been incredibly moved by the warmth, aroha, and generosity shown by so many who reached out to our first spotlighted member, Mike Westgate. The responses have been genuine, emotional, and deeply reflective of the impact one person can have over decades in the screen industry.

The messages that have come in so far remind us exactly why this initiative exists: to reconnect, to honour, and to let our people know - while they are still here to hear it - that their work, their humour, their mentorship, and their humanity truly mattered.

Below are just a few of the beautiful submissions from Mike’s Film Family who have allowed us to share their thoughts:

You can also view Mike's personal webpage HERE

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📷 Vidcom Days – Submission

Vidcom days, breaks in shooting, in the company of Mike, Terry King and David Hartnell.

One day especially, in the Auckland Domain, involving ducks and statues - a lot of laughs. Amazing projects planned for the future - radio show with pictures one of them.

The four of us often shared good humour and great camaraderie.

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📣 From Ande

Mike, You raised me in this industry. I owe everything to you.

South Seas Film School gave me a foundation - Gerben and Merida ran that place with heart, and they taught me to understand synergy, to grasp what it means to embrace the demands of a production. But it was still quite theoretical. You brought me into the real world - into all manner of jobs where I learned, again and again, what to do and what not to do, usually the hard way.

When I last visited you, you were in the thick of that awful back pain, bedridden, and it was really hard to see you like that. But even then, your mind was sharp. You had the radio on, you were still absorbing the world, still learning. You were keeping to yourself a bit more - understandably, given the circumstances - but that spark was there, that curiosity that’s always defined you.

And now to hear about your Parkinson’s diagnosis… that was a shock. A big one. But when I think of you, I don’t think of illness. I think of your body of work. I think of your enormous heart. And, as Nigel said so perfectly, your cheeky spirit. You’ve always had that combination - the ability to be fierce, to get rightly indignant when something was in the way of doing things properly, yet to laugh and joke and lift the room. You had the respect of directors, of DOPs, of everyone, because you could do both - you could demand the best and make it fun.

Mike, whatever anyone diagnoses you with, whatever your circumstances are, I know you’re still you. Still in there, fully there - maybe a lot more inside than outside this time - but it’s all still you.

I’ll never forget what you did for me. I came from nothing. I knew nothing about film. You took me under your wing after South Seas, and together those experiences made me who I am today.

It’s said that we all have our own mountain to climb - and we do. No two paths are the same. We’re not meant to be carbon copies of anyone. But we can carry with us the best parts of the people who shaped us. And I carry a lot of you with me - your humour, your toughness, your humility, and that spark that refuses to fade.

You treated every job the same - from the smallest student short to the biggest feature - because at their core, they are the same: they demand care, precision, and pride. And you always showed that.

I look forward to seeing you again when I’m back in New Zealand. You’ll always have my respect, my gratitude, and my friendship.

Thanks, Mike - for everything. For giving more than anyone could ever be asked to give. Ande Schurr

Ande Schurr

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💄 From Pete

I have very fond memories of working with Mike on my first feature film in Rarotonga back in 2000 as a hairdresser/Make-up Artist.

It was my first time working with Mike, and he was so full of life, love, and laughter that he made the job an absolute pleasure.

His cheeky sense of humour, those sideways glances, and his hilarious facial expressions never failed to crack me up.

Wishing you all the very best, Mike — you’re one of a kind.

Pete Sweeney xox

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🎙️ From Tav

Hey Mike, it's Tav here, long time no speak my friend.

It's funny, I find myself often thinking about how you're going, which is a testament to the impact that you had on me as a young man in our brief times working together.

I was really gutted to hear about your back injury and everything you've been going through my old friend. Too many years carrying around that blimmin mixer no doubt!

Really just wanted to extend my thoughts to you while you're experiencing a tough time.

Such a legend Mike and thinking back to some of your silly jokes on set reminds me how awesome working with you really was and what a difference you made on every job you worked on.

Miss you buddy. Would love to jump on the phone if you're ever feeling able.

Otherwise go well you good thing.

I know you'll get past this!

Love, Tav

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🧵 From Tracey

Mike, I always loved finding out that you were on the crew list.

As soon as I read your name I knew I’d be entertained, and surrounded by witty, and fantastic stories of your film journeys throughout your many years.

All the intrepid journeys, the crazy people you met - I always thought... if I end up with a list of experiences like that - I will be a very happy screen worker!

Not only did you inspire me with your stories, you also made the daily set grind fun.

Your cheeky smirk, your knowing eyes when things didn't go to plan, your warm reassurance when all we needed was something to smile about - and the feeling that, while often expected of us on a film set, it wasn't actually our human job to be perfect.

Your friendly nudge on the shoulder, and subtle wink was all that was needed to remind us that the challenges are all part of the journey. I was so touched to hear about your recent situation, I too haven't really been working on set for the last 3 years so had no idea you are going through this.

I just wanted to make sure you know, you're a very special memory for me within my own film journey. You had a way of cutting right through all the work drama and surface level rubbish and getting to the human heart of everyone you worked with. I thank you so much for that - It taught me that your story, experience, (good or bad), and staying real while your striving for perfection and juggling our crazy industry - is the pathway to the highest learning.

Huge hugs from me,

Tracey  - Costume.

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❤️ From Nigel

Dear Mike,

It was so real and meaningful to see you again in your home last month after so many years of not crossing paths on set. I always enjoyed our banter, as video and sound worked hand in hand to deliver the picture and sound to the crew. I always appreciated the warm smile you gave whenever we found ourselves on another job together. I was also lucky enough to be invited to your home for a few dinners, where your beautifully cooked, complex Asian meals were shared alongside stories from some of the wonderful projects you’ve worked on.

I was glad to find the words to share with others the sadness and reality I felt when I saw you last, and to express how much I wished I could help—as you have helped so many. Those words came straight from the heart, written for a wider audience, and I’m grateful they encouraged people to put pen to paper and find ways to thank you for the impact you’ve had on their lives and careers.

Lots of love to you, Mike, and to your wonderfully supportive family.
Nigel Burton

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🌿 Continuing the Kaupapa

These submissions are only the beginning. More messages are arriving every day, and they will be compiled into Mike’s Flipbook, where he can revisit these tributes in one place.

This initiative has already shown us how meaningful it is to rekindle connection, acknowledge service, and remind our people that they have left a legacy.

This is exactly what Film Family Matters is about - and Mike’s story is only the first of many.

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If you know someone who should be spotlighted, you can submit them here:
👉 https://screenguild.fillout.com/t/hJLpzfn9yKus
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And if you’d like to add your own message for Mike:
👉 https://screenguild.fillout.com/t/vnEA4LYpyTus

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