In November 2010 the NZ Writers Guild (NZWG) launched the inaugural awards evening for writers, the SWANZ. This initiative was created to recognize and acknowledge the storytellers behind the screens and stages of New Zealand.
"We believe that our stories should be shared and should be celebrated. These awards and the evening event do just that for the best in the country." Steven Gannaway, Executive Director, NZWG.
SWANZ is a low-key, more relaxed evening (no black tie or red carpet). The cost of the event therefore is humble and was supported last year through a lot of goodwill and commitment by the NZWG. Attendance at the inaugural SWANZ evening, hosted by Oscar Kightley, clearly indicated the industry support for this initiative. The night was celebrated by the creators of NZ film and television, the writers, producers, directors, actors and crew. On 24 November SWANZ will honor NZ writers again. Tickets are on sale now. See the list of finalists here.