Dynamic Television, Sky New Zealand and NZ On Air have joined forces to support the development of up to three original scripted series from New Zealand.
The Aotearoa Scripted Series Initiative will offer development funding of up to NZ$75,000 per project. Each partner will provide a one-third share. The initiative builds upon Dynamic Television’s experience with the NZ drama Ms. X, starring Melissa George, which was acquired by Peacock in the U.S. this summer.
“Our experience on Ms. X proved just how exceptional New Zealand’s creative community is,” said Dan March, founder and managing partner of Dynamic Television. “We are thrilled to partner with Sky and NZ On Air to build on that momentum—nurturing world-class talent and developing original stories designed to resonate with global audiences.”
Cameron Harland, NZ On Air chief executive, added, “Our strongest stories are the ones that could only come from Aotearoa. This initiative gives local writers and producers a local broadcast home through Sky, and international development and distribution expertise through Dynamic Television, so that distinctive New Zealand drama has a stronger pathway to reach audiences here and offshore.”
Tina McLaren, Sky commissioning editor, added, “New Zealand is home to exceptional storytelling talent, and we’re committed to helping bring more local stories to life. Through the Aotearoa Scripted Series Initiative, we’re creating a new pathway for bold, original drama projects that can connect with New Zealand audiences while opening doors to international opportunities.”
Applications open on November 6. It is open to New Zealand writers and producers developing original one-hour scripted drama series.
Dynamic runs a similar initiative in Australia with Screen Australia.
