Film Bay of Plenty has announced a new professional development initiative aimed at strengthening the region’s screen sector, with applications now open for its Regional Producer Accelerator.

The eight-month programme is designed for emerging screen producers based in Bay of Plenty and offers intensive mentorship, industry access and market-facing training. Up to five producers will be selected to take part.

Film Bay of Plenty director Jade Kent said the programme was about creating meaningful career pathways for producers working outside the main production centres.

“The Regional Producer Accelerator is about giving emerging Bay of Plenty producers access to mentorship and industry insight that could genuinely shift their careers,” Kent said.

“By investing locally, we’re strengthening the region’s screen sector and creating opportunities for long-term growth.”

Mentorship

A key feature of the programme is mentorship from internationally recognised producer Matthew Metcalfe, ONZM, who will work closely with participants alongside a wider circle of senior industry advisors, including financiers, lawyers, distributors and festival programmers. Metcalfe is contributing his time free of charge, supporting producers to develop market-ready projects and build confidence to engage at a national and international level.

Metcalfe is one of New Zealand’s most respected film producers, with a career spanning feature films, documentaries and television. His producing credits include Dean Spanley, Beyond the Edge, McLaren, The Dead Lands, Whina, Mothers of the Revolution and The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F***. In December 2024, he was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the film industry.

Own stories

Kent said the initiative is designed to support Bay of Plenty creatives to tell their own stories.

“By backing strong local producers, we’re giving those stories the best chance to succeed nationally and potentially internationally,” she said. “That strength attracts projects, crews and investment, delivering meaningful economic and cultural benefits for the region.”

The programme begins with a two-day masterclass in Auckland in late February 2026, followed by structured mentorship through to September. Participants will receive support to develop professional pitch materials and may be supported to pitch at selected festivals, including the Rotorua Indigenous Film Festival, Doc Edge and the Melbourne International Film Festival. Financial assistance is available to help cover regional travel and participation costs.

Applications are open to Bay of Plenty-based producers with at least one project in development and can commit to the full programme. Application close February 3.

The Regional Producer Accelerator is being launched as Film Bay of Plenty marks its 10th anniversary, having been established in 2016.