Speech: Film NZ Networking Function

Firstly can I thank Film NZ for the invitation to speak here this evening.

Can I start by acknowledging the presence of so many influential figures within our screen production industry.

And can I quickly acknowledge a few others:

- my cabinet colleaque, the Minister for Arts, Culture, and Heritage, Chris Finlayson. - the recently appointed Chief Executive of the Film Commission, Graeme Mason.... welcome aboard. - and also Lewis Holden, he has been working as a Deputy Secretary within the Ministry of Economic Development but has now been appointed as the CEO of the Ministry of Culture and Heritage. Congratulations Lewis.

As Economic Development Minister, I have a strong interest in the continued success of the screen industry because it makes a real contribution to both the culture of New Zealand, and the New Zealand economy.

Look at the most recent statistics released last Friday:

- you mentioned the screen production sector increased gross revenues by 18% to $1,266 million in 2007/2008 - if you break that down....the gross revenue from screen production from foreign productions rose 79 percent to $542 million.

- and many different regions displayed increases in economic benefit from film production....that was especially so in Wellington and also Auckland.

As a nation we are now on the global map for screen production and post-production.

Some of the people in this room are behind the leading technology that is impressive on a global level.

We're not just known for Lord of the Rings anymore. If you look to any large-budget production you'll probably find there's a New Zealander behind the scenes.

We're known for world-class work on some of the largest productions - such as the new Wolverine film with its stunning views of Central Otago, and the groundbreaking technology being used in James Cameron's Avatar.

But we're also making a name for ourselves on the small screen.

From exporting TV series for global audiences, to video games by companies like Sidhe [pronounced ‘Shee'] Interactive.

We often say that New Zealand punches above its weight punch above its weight . And the screen industry is one of the best examples of this.

We have a precious pool of talent in New Zealand.

Talent which shows through at every level of the industry.

Its talent you can all be proud of, and a talent the Government recognises and wishes to encourage.

As good as the industry is in New Zealand...this doesn't mean that we shouldn't seek further improvement.

Our competitors continue to work to attract productions to their countries. So while we don't want to engage in a ‘race to the bottom' within higher and higher incentives the next step is to cultivate a regulatory environment that makes it easy for filmmakers to come to New Zealand, and film in our locations, use our facilities, and hire our workers, and engage our talent pool.

I understand there are some areas we can improve on, and the government is open to fresh change that facilitates further growth in the industry For example, the approach to gaining filming permits in public estates differs between conservancies.

Park management plans often restrict access to the very locations that draw filmmakers to New Zealand.

While environmental regulations are important to protect our national parks, we need to be sure that we balance economic growth with environmental concerns.

I think a more co-ordinated approach on this issue sounds sensible.

I am asking my officials at the Ministry of Economic Development to work with DOC to develop protocols that can apply nationwide, and balance conservation values with ease of access to film crews. And that's not just about drawing foreign filmmakers to New Zealand. It's also about helping some of our filmmaker's right here.

The Government wants to support and develop the domestic screen production industry.

We recognise the need to foster an environment where strong skills can be retained and developed. It is early days, and I know my colleague, the Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage has some work to develop.

But can I say from the outset.....there are certain areas as Minister for Economic Development that I favour.

I believe the Large Budget Screen Production Grant and the Screen Production Incentive Fund have both played important roles....they should continue in their present form... to continue the good work they produce.

There is plenty of work and fresh approaches to develop.

I look forward to talking with you tonight.

To meet and hear further ideas you have to develop one of our most innovative and well-known industries.

And finally I know the Cannes Film Festival is just about to start....we are lucky to actually have so many of you in the same place...

I know some of you face a very busy, exhausting schedule over the next month...I wish you good luck...and hope you get some great deals signed-up.

Thank you.