Do international productions require permits to film in New Zealand?

Yes. Most professional productions require permits, particularly when filming in public spaces, conservation land, or council-managed areas.

How long does it take to secure filming approvals?

Timelines vary depending on location and scope, but approvals are generally efficient when applications are well prepared.

Is New Zealand suitable for large international crews?

Yes. New Zealand regularly hosts large-scale international productions and has the infrastructure and workforce to support them.

Can productions film in national parks and conservation areas?

Filming is possible but subject to specific approvals and environmental guidelines.

Is New Zealand a safe country for filming?

New Zealand is widely regarded as a safe and stable filming destination with strong health and safety standards.

New Zealand

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in New Zealand, facilitating international productions of every scale with a full range of services, including location scouting, obtaining permits, full range of logistic support and connecting production teams with local talent and experienced crew.

Ultimate Filming Guide for New Zealand

Capital

Wellington

Main Cities

Auckland, Christchurch, Hamilton, Dunedin, Tauranga

Local Languages

English (official), Te Reo Māori (official), New Zealand Sign Language (official)

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Climate

Temperate maritime

General Visa Requirements:

Foreign film crew members need a visa to work in New Zealand. Apply online through the official portal (Apply for Visa Online).

Required Documents:

Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond departure
Proof of onward travel
Health and character certificates (if applicable)
Evidence of sufficient funds
Letter of support from the New Zealand Film Commission or the production company
Crew list and production schedule

Visa Application Process:

Apply via the New Zealand Visa Portal.

Processing Time:

Varies depending on the application and processing workload.

Cost:

$205–$270

Accreditation Requirements:

Register with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for tax purposes
Obtain a New Zealand Business Number (NZBN)
Comply with New Zealand tax, employment, and health and safety regulations

Required Documents:

Temporary Work Visa (TWV) or Visitor Visa depending on the production’s scope and duration
Passport valid for at least 6 months
Completed application form (INZ1015)
Proof of onward travel
Health and character certificates (if applicable)
Evidence of sufficient funds (about $610 USD or NZD $1,000 per month)
Letter of support from the New Zealand Film Commission or the production company
Crew list and production schedule

Processing Time:

Allow for standard visa processing time plus IRD and NZBN registration (varies).

Cost:

Approximately $475 USD (NZD $775).

Issuing Organization:

Permits are issued by local film offices depending on filming location, such as:

Auckland Film Protocol Office (AFPO)
Wellington City Council Film Office

Required Documents:

Completed application form
Location plan and map
Proof of public liability insurance
Payment of permit fees
Compliance with New Zealand health and safety regulations

Processing Time:

Approximately 10–20 working days.

Cost:

Approximately $120–$610 USD (NZD $200–$1,000).

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Private location permits are arranged by negotiating directly with property owners or through a local fixer or production service.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Costs vary widely depending on the property and production requirements.

Drone Regulations:

Part 102 certification from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is required.
Obtain an Unmanned Aircraft Operator Certificate (UAOC).
Drone pilot must hold a Remote Pilot License (RPL).
Crews must secure local authority approvals and follow restricted airspace and privacy rules.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Required Documents for Drone Importation

Commercial invoice
Packing list
Certificate of origin
Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
Customs declaration (CN23/SINGLE)
Import permit (if required)
Compliance certificate and product manual
Certificate of Conformity (CoC)

Permit Issuance:

Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Timing:

Approximately 5–10 working days.

Cost:

Approximately $60–$300 USD (NZD $100–$500).

Carnet Status:

New Zealand accepts ATA Carnet for temporary importation of film equipment.

Required Documents:

Commercial invoice
Packing list
Certificate of origin
Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
Customs declaration (CN23/SINGLE)
Film permit from the New Zealand Film Commission or local authorities
Detailed equipment list with valuation
Proof of temporary importation (Carnet or Temporary Import Permit)

Issuing Organization:

New Zealand Customs Service.

Timing:

Typically completed within 20 days of arrival, depending on documentation.

Cost:

Varies depending on the type and value of equipment.

General Overview:

New Zealand is considered a safe and film-friendly country with low crime rates and strong government support for international productions.

Security Requirements:

No special security is typically required beyond compliance with standard health and safety regulations.

Rebates/Incentives:

The New Zealand Screen Production Rebate (NZSPR) offers a 40% cash rebate on qualifying production expenses for eligible projects filmed in New Zealand.