Studio West Acquired by Curtis, Momoa and Waititi — A New Era for Aotearoa Storytelling

There are moments in the screen industry that feel bigger than a single deal. This is one of them. The purchase of Auckland’s Studio West by Cliff Curtis, Jason Momoa and Taika Waititi, through their company Āriki Group, signals something deeper than expansion. It signals intent.

The message is clear. This isn’t just about owning a studio. It’s about reshaping what gets made, who gets to make it, and where those stories come from.

"What excites me most is the opportunity to build something lasting that supports local crews, nurtures talent, and creates pathways for the next generation of storytellers." - Jason Mamoa

Studio West has long been part of Auckland’s production landscape, but under Āriki Group, it takes on a different kind of weight. The focus is on creating opportunities, building infrastructure, and backing stories led by Māori and Polynesian voices in a way that feels long overdue.

There’s also a strong commercial edge to this move. Coverage from NBR points to the scale of ambition behind the purchase — this is about positioning Aotearoa as a serious global production hub, not just a scenic backdrop.

"We're bringing our experience from working overseas back home... It's about ownership, creative control, and building a space where our community can lead in the industry." - Taika Waititi

What stands out is the alignment between the people involved. Cliff Curtis has long been an advocate for indigenous storytelling. Taika Waititi has proven how far those stories can travel when they’re told with clarity and confidence. Jason Momoa brings both global reach and a strong connection to Polynesian identity.

Together, it creates a foundation that feels both grounded and expansive.

The Post’s coverage adds another layer, highlighting the job creation and industry growth tied to the studio. It’s not just about creative output. It’s about economic impact, workforce development, and long-term sustainability for the local industry.

And that matters. Because for years, there’s been talent here in New Zealand. Strong talent. Proven talent. What’s often been missing is consistent infrastructure and ownership at this level.

What makes this move different, is that this isn’t just a business decision, it’s a cultural one too.

For those working in the industry, this kind of investment shifts the landscape. It creates more pathways. More visibility. More chances for local stories to be developed, produced and distributed on a global scale without losing their identity along the way.

At Collaborate, this is exactly the kind of momentum we pay attention to. Because behind every production are the people who bring it to life. Actors, presenters, creatives and storytellers who are ready for opportunities like this.

The growth of spaces like Studio West means more room for that talent to step forward. More chances to connect with projects that align with who they are and what they want to say.

This isn’t just a studio changing hands. It’s a shift in ownership, in perspective, and in possibility.

And if it delivers on what it’s aiming to do, it won’t just impact Auckland. It will influence how Aotearoa storytelling is seen, valued and experienced around the world.