The New Zealand Writers Guild – Puni Taatuhi o Aotearoa has released a new resource to help screenwriters navigate the creative and legal complexities of using generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Google Gemini.
AI Advice: NZWG Handbook for Screenwriters offers practical guidance on developing scripts, treatments, and story ideas with AI, while addressing key concerns around copyright, ownership, and collaboration. One of the many issues highlighted is that AI-generated content cannot currently be copyrighted under existing laws, as it lacks human authorship, raising questions about enforceability and eligibility for public funding.
The handbook also warns that entering original works into large language models (LLMs) can result in data retention, training, potential reuse, and loss of exclusive rights—making it essential for writers to understand the risks before using AI in their creative process.
If you’re a writer in any capacity, this is an essential resource you’ll want in your toolkit.
To support the launch, NZWG is hosting a series of free 45-minute online information and Q&A sessions. Writers can register for a session here.
