The film and television business is experiencing a surge in activity.
MTV Networks and Sonar Entertainment confirmed yesterday that they will base production of a TV series adaptation of Shannara, a fantasy adventure book, in Auckland.
Photo: Unknown
This already follows the Power Rangers series, and major New Zealand production The Patriarch, a joint collaboration by Lee Tamahori and Robin Scholes, planned for this year.
“It’s fair to say that most of the facilities in Auckland at the moment are fully utilised for the foreseeable future, and so as a result of that that’s stimulating our interest in looking at how we potentially access new infrastructure,” Chief executive of Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development Brett O’Riley said.
Only a couple of months ago, Disney also announced production of Pete’s Dragon would be based in Wellington’s Stone Street Studios, creating up to 800 jobs.
Chief executive of South Pacific Pictures Kelly Martin agreed that the industry was strong at the moment.
“There is work to be had. If you are working in film and television in 2015, you shouldn’t be struggling to find work.”