Hunt for the Wilderpeople was the big winner in last night's Rialto Channel New Zealand Film Awards in Auckland.
Julian Dennison in Hunt for the Wilderpeople, a film which won seven awards. Photo: Supplied
The film won seven awards including Best Film, Director and Screenplay.
The film's leading actors, Julian Dennison, Sam Neill and Rima Te Wiata, won prizes as Best Actor, Supporting Actor and Supporting Actress.
The movie's producer, Carthew Neal, said the awards were good for the industry.
"For me I feel like it's a celebration of New Zealand film across the board, not just for the winners."
Film-maker Gaylene Preston won the lifetime achievement award.
Her films include Mr Wrong, Ruby and Rata, and the TV mini-series Bread and Roses.
"It's unexpected and it means a lot and being there last night and being able to acknowledge all the people who've gone before, who've contributed, was a terrific opportunity."
Miriam McDowell took the best actress award for her role in The Great Maiden's Blush, which also won the award for best self-funded film.