The proposed film production facility at Te Awanga – Parkhill Studios, Hawke’s Bay’s No8 Studios – this week has finally been cleared by the Environment Court. Resource consents for a purpose-built film facility are approved. The studios are expected to create employment and training opportunities for locals.
More than a year ago the studio faced two appeals in the Environment Court, after receiving initial consent, including one filed by No8 Studios itself, which sought to delete the condition limiting the hours of operation of the film studios.
The other was filed by Andrew Caseley, who was a submitter opposed to the original application.
The proceedings wrapped-up last week.
This BayBuzz article filed almost exactly two years ago describes the exciting potential of this venture. It’s been a long wait.
Respected film industry veteran and No8 Studios director Tony Keddy today told BayBuzz: “Hopefully earthworks will start later, in November-December this year, with a view to be operating by the end of next year.”.
The facility is set to be greenfield development with buildings being purpose-built for the specific needs of the film industry.
The off-grid complex will be located within a 1000-acre property with access to thousands of acres of potential location options within walking distance of the studios, perfect for a raft of international productions to call Hawke’s Bay home, driving significant economic impact to the region.
The studios will create employment for locals and through partnerships with education and training-based organisations provide opportunities for people to begin a career path that is not currently available in the region.
“We are working closely with the screen sector, industry training organisations and Toi Mai to roll out a Screen Industry Training Programme in Hawke’s Bay that will then be rolled out nationally,” Keddy said.
“The programme will broaden the small but strong crew base that already exists in the Bay and in-turn attract projects to the region.”
Hasting District Council mayor Sandra Hazlehurst was excited about the film industry coming to Hastings.
“This new industry is a positive addition to our region’s economy, particularly at this time as we recover from Cyclone Gabrielle,” she said.
“It will bring employment and career pathway opportunities in cutting-edge technology. It will showcase Hastings and Hawke’s Bay to New Zealand and the world.
“I very much look forward to seeing them develop the site and make their mark on the entertainment world from Hawke’s Bay.”
Public Interest Journalism funded by NZ on Air
Fantastic news
We need more industry here to offset our reliance on the production from the rural sector, provide .ore employment & grow our skills base thereby relieving the pressure on the benefit system.
A pipe dream? I hope not.
Fantastic news
We need more industry here to offset our reliance on the production from the rural sector, provide more employment & grow our skills base thereby relieving the pressure on the benefit system.
A pipe dream? I hope not.