First Feature Film: "Hinemoa"
"Hinemoa," directed by George Tarr, is considered the first feature film produced in New Zealand. It was based on a Maori legend and marked the beginning of narrative filmmaking in the country.
1914
1928
First Sound Film: "The Devil's Pit"
"The Devil's Pit," directed by Rupert Julian, became the first New Zealand film to incorporate synchronized sound, a significant technological advancement for the time.
1940
National Film Unit Established
The New Zealand government established the National Film Unit (NFU) to produce documentaries and promotional films, playing a crucial role in developing the local film industry.
1977
Formation of the New Zealand Film Commission
The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) was established to support and promote New Zealand films and filmmakers, providing funding and resources to boost the industry.
1981
Release of "Goodbye Pork Pie"
"Goodbye Pork Pie," directed by Geoff Murphy, became the first New Zealand film to achieve significant commercial success domestically, highlighting the potential of local cinema.
1993
Success of "The Piano"
Directed by Jane Campion, "The Piano" won three Academy Awards and brought international acclaim to New Zealand cinema, showcasing its storytelling and directorial talent.
1994
Wellington Film Studios Established
Peter Jackson established the Wellington Film Studios, which later became a hub for major film productions, significantly impacting the Cinema of New Zealand.
2001
Release of "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring"
Peter Jackson's adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy began with "The Fellowship of the Ring," showcasing New Zealand's landscapes and solidifying its status in global cinema.
2003
"The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" Wins 11 Oscars
The final installment of Peter Jackson's epic trilogy, "The Return of the King," won 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, bringing unprecedented recognition to New Zealand's film industry.
2005
Release of "The World's Fastest Indian"
Directed by Roger Donaldson, "The World's Fastest Indian" starred Anthony Hopkins and became a major success, further establishing New Zealand's reputation for quality filmmaking.
2009
Inauguration of the New Zealand International Film Festival
The New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF) was officially inaugurated, providing a platform for showcasing local and international films and fostering cinematic culture in New Zealand.
2010
Release of "Boy"
Directed by Taika Waititi, "Boy" became the highest-grossing New Zealand film at the local box office, highlighting the talent and potential of indigenous filmmakers.
2014
Taika Waititi's "What We Do in the Shadows"
The horror-comedy film "What We Do in the Shadows," co-directed by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, received international acclaim and showcased New Zealand's unique comedic voice.
2017
Taika Waititi's "Thor: Ragnarok"
Taika Waititi directed "Thor: Ragnarok," a major Hollywood production, bringing further international attention to New Zealand filmmakers and their capabilities.
2020
Success of "The Luminaries"
"The Luminaries," a television series based on Eleanor Catton's novel, showcased New Zealand's talent in the television industry and its ability to produce high-quality content.
2023
Expansion of Film Production Infrastructure
New Zealand continued to expand its film production infrastructure, with new studios and facilities being developed to accommodate the growing demand for high-quality film and television production.
