WIFT NZ, Women in Film and Television
Incorporated, is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to
delivering education, professional development, networking and
support services to women and others working in
film, television and associated industries.
WIFT NZ is part of an established
international network of over
44 chapters worldwide, representing more than 14,000
members. WIFT Wellington started in 1993, followed by WIFT
Auckland in 1995 and WIFT Christchurch in 1996. In 2009
the regional chapters merged to become WIFT NZ. A full history
of WIFT in New Zealand is available here.
WIFT NZ's aims are to provide information
and career support; to offer an educational forum; to promote and
safeguard the interests of women in film and television; to
recognise women's achievements in the industry; and to build
capacity and benefit the screen industry as a whole.
To achieve these aims, WIFT NZ runs a
full and varied programme of workshops, events, mentoring and internships; offers a varied range of
purchasing discounts; issues a regular
newsletter; and provides networking, information and support services.
The organisation is overseen by a national
board. Day-to-day operations and activities are managed
and delivered by the WIFT NZ office, staffed by an executive director and
part-time organisational manager.
Distinguished screen women Philippa Boyens, Ramai Hayward, Robin
Laing and Fiona Milburn serve as WIFT NZ Patrons.
WIFT NZ is governed by a national
representative board voted for annually by full members.
Operations are managed by an executive director and part-time staff
and volunteers.