Waitaha Canterbury Script Accelerator 2027
Have you got a Feature Film or TV Series script and want to take it to the next level?
Te Puna Matarau | The Canterbury Screen Industry Association has successfully run creative screen incubator programmes for Waitaha Canterbury-based filmmakers over the last 3 years, focusing on creative development of long-form feature film and TV series scripts. They are now ready to roll out their third programme for 2027.
This programme is to support and develop emerging/mid-career Screenwriters to progress their projects towards the next stage of production. Through 1:1 mentorship and development of their long-form feature film script, or TV pilot script and series arc, with hope to help supercharge their development and production journey.
Four projects will be selected (2x feature film, 2 x TV series) and each will receive one-on-one mentoring with industry professionals matched to their specific project, working towards updated drafts of their script or series, culminating with the opportunity to meet with and pitch their projects to industry and producers.
Additionally, this year they have included a writer’s stipend of $6,500+gst for each project to receive to ensure they have the financial support, resources and time needed to complete the programme.
To be eligible, at least one of the team applicants must be based in the Waitaha Canterbury region or have a strong connection to the region - see the link for full eligibility requirements.
Applications open 3 August 2026, close 5pm 30 October 2026
For all the details head HERE
Programme kindly funded by New Zealand Film Commission and New Zealand On Air.