A newly established organization is dedicated to advancing the film industry in Queenstown and Central Otago, both domestically and internationally. Screen Queenstown (SQ) convened its inaugural meeting last Thursday, attended by 24 professionals from the industry.
Brett Mills, a seasoned expert in lighting and camera equipment and the driving force behind this initiative, reports that the attendees, along with two who participated remotely, overwhelmingly supported the idea.
He expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The response was overwhelmingly positive.”
Mills draws a parallel between SQ and Destination Queenstown, an organization that promotes tourism in the region. He sees SQ as a platform for the film industry to showcase its capabilities, much like how tourism operators promote themselves.
Mills highlights a common scenario where film projects often opt for Auckland due to a lack of visibility regarding the infrastructure available in Queenstown. He wishes to change this by encouraging producers and industry professionals to explore the region’s offerings before making location decisions.
According to Mills, Queenstown boasts a comprehensive range of resources, including top-notch camera, lighting, and grip equipment. Additionally, its allure extends beyond the industry necessities to encompass attractions like nightlife, making it a highly appealing destination.
He emphasizes, “We’re not just a filming location; we offer the complete package. Visitors arrive, and they fall in love with the place.”
Fiona McDonald, a Queenstown business advisor, organized last week’s meeting and envisions SQ as a membership-driven, non-profit organization. While some initial funding has already been secured, she sought to gather stakeholders before pursuing further financial support.
Members will have the opportunity to promote their services through a website currently in development. It’s important to note that the organization will also encompass Wanaka and Central Otago, but the inclusion of “Queenstown” in the name is strategic, as it holds a prominent place in the industry’s lexicon.
