Government updates to International Screen Production Rebate

The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) welcomes today’s announcement by Economic Growth Minister, Nicola Willis, on changes to the International Screen Production Rebate, ensuring New Zealand continues to grow as a leading destination for global screen production.

NZFC CEO Annie Murray says the revised settings will strengthen New Zealand’s competitive position in an increasingly dynamic global industry.

“International productions are an essential part of New Zealand’s screen ecosystem. They generate export income and boost economic growth with flow-on benefits not just to creative industries but to tourism, hospitality, construction, and technology, they also create a sustainable pipeline for our local screen workforce and businesses. The screen sector supports 5,200 screen businesses, providing work for around 24,000 people, and generating $3.5 billion annually.

One of the advantages of the Rebate is it’s a straightforward cash incentive (simple to claim and not tied to tax), with the New Zealand dollar offering excellent value for international productions. These benefits combined with the announced changes mean New Zealand is better positioned to compete with other territories offering incentives, demonstrating our ability to remain agile in a global screen production environment that is continually evolving.”

The continued growth of New Zealand’s screen industry relies on expanding international opportunities and relationships, both in established markets and emerging ones. This focus is central to NZFC’s international trade activity.  

“We’re committed to keeping New Zealand front of mind with major studios and streamers worldwide. At the same time, we’re exploring opportunities in other major markets such as India, as well as emerging regions, like the Middle East, to diversify our partnerships and attract new projects. This means New Zealand remains a trusted, creative partner for bold ideas and world-class screen experiences that resonate with audiences everywhere.

Setting a $4m minimum spend threshold for all film, TV and streaming productions, removing the cap for above-the-line roles, and expanding eligibility for the 5% Uplift will open the door to a broader range of productions, and increased post-production and visual effects work.”

From 1 January 2026, the following changes will be made to the International Screen Production Rebate:  

• The minimum spend for feature films to qualify for the Rebate will lower from $15 million to $4 million, to align with the existing minimum spend for TV and streaming.  
• The threshold for productions to access the extra 5% Uplift will reduce from $30 million to $20 million, helping to attract a broader range of productions.
• The eligibility for the extra 5% Uplift will expand to include post-production, digital and visual effects (PDV)-only projects, via a new 5% Uplift PDV test.
• The cap on how much international productions can claim for above-the-line roles, such as director, producer, principal cast, or screenwriter, will be removed.  

Read the press release on the NZFC website

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