21st November 2025
The 2025 New Zealand Screen Awards delivered a strong vote of confidence in local screen content — with 26 awards going to productions funded by NZ On Air, emphasising that home-grown storytelling is thriving and valued in Aotearoa’s screen landscape.
For actors, writers, producers, directors, and casting specialists, this year’s awards reaffirm that New Zealand’s creative sector is not only active — it is expanding in range, quality, and visibility.
Importantly, this year also saw Collaborate Management’s own Nepia Takuira-Mita recognised as a finalist, reflecting the industry’s growing embrace of authentic, culturally grounded talent and storytelling. Nepia’s work represents the calibre of New Zealand actors now leading the charge in local content — with performances that resonate deeply with audiences and demonstrate the emotional intelligence and depth our actors bring to the screen.
Why 2025’s NZ Screen Awards Matter
Local funding powers local success. With over two dozen awards going to NZ On Air–supported productions, the industry is clearly committed to nurturing local voices and performances.
Diversity in genre and identity. From drama to comedy to Māori-led storytelling, this recognition validates the value of inclusive narratives across screen formats.
Rising credibility on the international stage. When local content is consistently recognised, it boosts the reputation of New Zealand actors as highly skilled, versatile, and globally relevant.
What This Means for New Zealand Actors
More screen roles and casting opportunities, particularly for actors based in Auckland and Wellington.
Greater representation of Māori, Pasifika, and multicultural identities, enabling actors to see themselves in meaningful, dimensional roles.
Career pathway stability, as locally-originated productions continue to create sustainable employment for New Zealand actors.
And for rising talent — the message is clear:
There is room for you. There is demand for you. Local storytelling is not just surviving — it’s accelerating.
A Moment to Celebrate
Seeing actors like Nepia Takuira-Mita reach finalist status is not just a personal accolade — it signals a maturing ecosystem that recognises nuance, cultural authenticity, and emotional resonance in performance.
For casting directors and producers, this is a reminder that some of the strongest screen performances are right here at home.
For young actors, especially in the Auckland region, it demonstrates the pathways available in New Zealand’s evolving screen environment.
https://www.collaborate.co.nz/creatives/view/Nepia_Takuira-Mita
© 2025 Collaborate NZ