Dunedin’s film industry growing, DCC told in report
DUNEDIN’S film industry is on the rise as more work and production companies are drawn to the city.
A recent report, to be considered by Dunedin city councillors at today’s economic development committee meeting, underscored the signs of growth.
The report pointed to a jump in filmingrelated inquiries seeking to discuss potential projects, locations and permits to Enterprise Dunedin’s film office, up from 22 in 201617 to 54 so far in 201718.
The report also noted the OtagoSouthland film industry was worth $34 million a year in 2017, up from $25 million the previous year.
Enterprise Dunedin director John Christie told the Otago Daily Times the city was reaping the benefits of a concerted effort in recent years to become more ‘‘filmfriendly’’.
The results included increased interest in Dunedin from production companies and experienced crew wanting to relocate to the city.
Mr Christie said he was aware of three ‘‘sizeable’’ companies within the industry which were either considering relocating to Dunedin, or had already done so.
He could not name the companies, but said one was now in the city, while a second would be here soon and a third was still considering whether to move.
‘‘We’ve been working hard to pursue those opportunities with companies that are looking to be located here.’’
Mr Christie said the industry was going ‘‘gangbusters’’ nationally, and Enterprise Dunedin had ‘‘consciously stepped up our visibility’’ to promote the city as a film destination.
It worked with Film Otago Southland, which promoted the wider region, but the Grow Dunedin Partnership had also invested $30,000 a year since 2016 to fund a parttime staff member, tasked with lifting Dunedin’s game.
‘‘We’re seeing some growth as a result of that. We’d like to see a lot more growth, to be honest. It’s an area that we want to see substantially grow for the city, and we think we’re well placed for it, too,’’ Mr Christie said.
Drawcards included the city’s gigspeed internet and lifestyle, its skilled workforce, established companies and university resources, as well as the wide range of city, coastal and hinterland locations on offer, he said.
‘‘We’ve got all of the right things, the right variables, here. I think Dunedin’s just being discovered from that perspective.’’
The aim was to grow the industry by drawing workers and companies here, while also attracting a mix of television series, commercials, short films, movies and other projects to the city, he said.
‘‘We want the industry to be sustainable, so ultimately we’re looking for longterm production opportunities. That’s the end goal we’re really working towards.’’