Get your applications ready for Day One Shorts 2026! They are looking for diverse creatives who haven't received film or series production funding in the past. Day One Shorts is a series of short films by rangatahi emerging filmmakers from across Aotearoa.
The contracted production teams will need to include;
Director
Producer
There may be variations on the above (e.g Writer-Director or Co-Producers) but the team must include a producer who is separate to the director.
Applications are invited only from teams whose Director:
Is aged between 18 - 29* when they make their film, between Jan - June 2026.
Is currently a New Zealand citizen or resident
Has not previously received production funding from NZ On Air, Te Māngai Pāho or the New Zealand Film Commission
*30+ Sub-Category
Again this year, they have a sub-category for applicants that can illustrate they are still new and emerging directors (with no record of production funding via NZFC, TMP or NZOA) who are older than 30 years. They will commission up to two films by filmmakers who fit this description.
To apply for this category each director/writer or director must provide a brief one paragraph description of their filmmaking journey and how/why they are still a new filmmaker upon applying.
Te Reo Māori Category
They will be selecting and commissioning two films that meet the above criteria and also
contain a minimum of 50% Te Reo
are of Māori subject matter
have a predominantly Māori team
Important dates:
Call for Applications opens: 5th August 2025.
Deadline for applications: 15th September, 2025.