According to a Statistics New Zealand survey, which covered a span of twelve months, thirty-five feature films were made in the country in 2011.
Regional data in the survey defined Wellington as the country’s main base for film, with a vast majority of revenue for its screen industry business being in feature film work (which was worth more than $500 million in 2011).
Figures show how focused the film business is on activity surrounding Sir Peter Jackson’s interests, including Weta Workshop and his post-production house. Additionally, the period covered within the survey would have included preliminary work on his highly-anticipated Hobbit films.
Says Graeme Mason, chief executive of the New Zealand Film Commission, “These figures highlight the determination of those making local films and working on international productions to make great movies.” He adds that, “it also emphasises the importance of the sector’s contribution to the New Zealand economy.”
While the survey shows fewer businesses taking part in the industry, about 180 of them earned over $1 million a year, which is eighteen more than in 2010.
Total broadcasting industry revenue, which includes free-to-air and pay TV subscriptions, was up 7% (to $1.26 billion), representing 40% of the gross revenue for the whole screen industry
Cinema exhibition revenue was up 6% to $163 million, due largely in part to higher charges on tickets to 3D movies.
The survey also revealed advertising to be up 4% (to $2.99 billion).
