News

A politically charged near-future drama from Brazil, an acclaimed Norwegian trilogy exploring intimacy and desire, an Australian animated queer space opera, a haunting psychological drama set in remote Aotearoa, and a 70s horror classic restored to its full glory are among the first films revealed for Whānau Mārama New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF) in 2025.

Artistic Director Paolo Bertolin says these films offer an early glimpse of the energy, ideas and themes shaping this year’s festival and a taste of the adventurous and memorable stories awaiting audiences this year.

“These films reflect the pulse of contemporary cinema and speak powerfully to the moment we are living in. They ask big questions, take risks, and remind us why cinema matters more than ever.

“Thanks to the exceptional work of the NZIFF programming team, we are shaping this year’s festival as a chance to experience that urgency, curiosity and beauty together on the big screen,” Bertolin says.

Bertolin is joined in the selection of films by a renewed programming team composed of Programme Manager Michael McDonnell and programmers Carmen Gray, Heperi Mita, Amanda Jane Robinson and Jordan Salomen.

Each of the first films revealed is part of one of the ten

Continue reading…

Whānau Mārama New Zealand International Film Festival will return to six regional centres in 2025, with screenings confirmed in Kirikiriroa Hamilton, Ahuriri Napier, Whakatū Nelson, Ngāmotu New Plymouth, Whakaoriori Masterton, and Tauranga-moana Tauranga this August and September.

This completes the national rollout for NZIFF 2025, following the earlier announcement of festival dates in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington, Ōtautahi Christchurch, and Ōtepoti Dunedin.

We’ve worked closely with regional cinemas and film societies to ensure the festival continues to reach audiences across Aotearoa in 2025. There’s a strong appetite for NZIFF in the regions, and we’re excited to return this year and build on the partnerships that make it all possible.

NZIFF 2025 will screen in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland (31 July – 10 August), Ōtautahi Christchurch (8 – 24 August), Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington (14 – 24 August), Ōtepoti Dunedin (15 – 31 August), Kirikiriroa Hamilton (28 August – 10 September), Whakatū Nelson (28 August – 10 September), Ahuriri Napier (28 August – 7 September), Ngāmotu New Plymouth (28 August – 7 September), Tauranga-moana Tauranga (28 August – 7 September), and Whakaoriori Masterton (28 August – 7 September).

Whānau Mārama New Zealand International Film Festival will return this year with a bigger and bolder programme, bringing more films to audiences across Aotearoa.

NZIFF 2025 will feature a selection of around 100 films curated by international film programmer and critic Paolo Bertolin, continuing in the role of Artistic Director for a second year. 

Bertolin will lead the NZIFF 2025 team, headed by former NZIFF Production and Events Manager Matt Bloomfield as Festival Manager. 

NZIFF 2025 will screen in Auckland (31 July – 10 August), Christchurch (8 – 24 August), Wellington (14 – 24 August), and Dunedin (15 – 31 August). 
Regional programmes and venues will be confirmed in April.

Bertolin says NZIFF 2025 will offer a strong and diverse lineup including films from major international festivals, independent filmmakers, and local productions.

“This year’s international festival circuit is delivering some of the most thoughtful and striking films in recent memory.  

“It will be a privilege to share these films with New Zealand audiences, work that deserves to be seen and experienced together on the big screen,” Bertolin says. 

Alongside standout international titles, the 2025 programme will continue to champion New Zealand films and help them reach wider audiences both here and overseas.

“NZIFF continues

Continue reading…

Join us at screenings in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch which will each be followed by a Q&A with director Miki Magasiva, and the film's stars, Anapela Polataivao and Beulah Koale.

Struggling after the death of her daughter in the Chrischurch earthquakes, Samoan teacher Mareta Percival takes on the role of substitute teacher at an elite, wealthy private school and is surprised to find children crying out for guidance, inspiration, and love.

Directed by Miki Magasiva (We Are Still Here, NZIFF 2022) and starring Anapela Polataivao and Beulah Koale, Tinā follows Mareta on her journey of rediscovery and empowerment.

AUCKLAND: Wednesday 26 February 6.30pm, Bridgeway Cinemas, Northcote | Book here
WELLINGTON: Wednesday 19 February 6.00pm, Roxy Cinemas, Miramar | Book here
CHRISTCHURCH: Thursday 13 February 6.00pm & 6.30pm, Lumière Cinemas | Book here