Waikato’s screen industry is experiencing a positive period of growth, proving that film is not just about entertainment – it’s an economic driver that fuels business, employment, and tourism.
Tracy Hampton
With major productions choosing our region, a strong network of regional film offices working collaboratively, and increasing global interest in New Zealand as a filming destination, Waikato is solidifying itself as a key player in the screen sector.
Recent productions highlight this momentum. The highly anticipated Minecraft feature film was partially filmed in the Waikato, demonstrating the region’s ability to support large-scale international productions. Netflix’s Beyond Goodbye was filmed in Raglan to replicate Hawaii, reinforcing Waikato’s reputation on the global stage. Other major projects, including The Gone 2 in Matamata-Piako, a confidential 20th-century feature film shot in Waitomo, and the Nobel Prize winning John Steinbeck classic ‘East of Eden’ being filmed in Thames, further showcase the versatility of our locations.
These productions don’t just put Waikato on the map; they create real economic impact.
Every production that comes to the region requires an ecosystem of businesses—from accommodation providers and caterers to transport operators and equipment hire companies.
Shooting Home Kills movie near Maungatautari.
Hamilton alone is home to 40% of the region’s screen workforce, with a growing demand for skilled crew and production services. Productions like Chief of War & Celebrity Treasure Island, filmed in Thames-Coromandel, are a prime example of how screen projects generate local spending, filling hotels and restaurants while promoting regional tourism.
At the forefront of this industry growth is Waikato Screen, the regional film office dedicated to facilitating and attracting productions to our region. The role goes beyond securing locations—they actively connect international productions with local crew, service providers, and councils, ensuring a film-friendly experience.
Recent investment in our Crew Industry Directory has strengthened these connections, making it easier than ever for productions to source local expertise, reducing costs and keeping economic benefits within the region.
While the New Zealand Film Commission attracts major productions at an international level, regional film offices like Waikato Screen provide the local expertise, crew, and support that ensure these projects succeed on the ground.
Hobbiton Movie Set. Photo: Shaun Jeffers
Erin Griffiths, Waikato Screen’s Attraction and Facilitation Lead, was invited by the commission to Los Angeles last year to meet with leading producers and studios. The connections established from this visit will continue to strengthen Waikato’s presence in the international screen industry, opening doors for future collaborations and production opportunities in our region.
Beyond direct economic benefits, screen tourism is an increasingly important sector.
Waikato Screen continues to strengthen connections with tourism agencies to maximise the economic potential of screen tourism, ensuring that productions filmed here translate into future regional growth.
As demand for content continues to rise, so does the opportunity for Waikato’s screen industry. With a dedicated film office, a thriving local workforce, and increasing global visibility, Waikato is poised to play an even greater role in New Zealand’s screen sector.
The momentum is here, and we’re ready for what’s next.
A Lens on Film – Waikato Screen NZ
With a dedicated film office, a thriving local workforce, and increasing global
visibility, Waikato is poised to play an even greater role in New Zealand’s screen sector.
