Looking ahead for the big screen for Vista Foundations 48Hour

Posted Tuesday 02 Sep 2025

Looking ahead for the big screen for Vista Foundations 48Hour

The recent 48Hours shoot weekend on 15th - 17th August was a whirlwind of creativity, chaos, and collaboration, with filmmakers from all walks of life coming together to create a 1-5 min film under extreme time pressure. The stories shared by participants highlight the incredible teamwork, creative problem-solving, and unforgettable moments that made the weekend a resounding success.

This year, the numbers tell an incredible story of their own. 540 teams took on the challenge, with over 4000 filmmakers putting their creativity to the test. Across New Zealand, a staggering number of short films were created in just one weekend, pushing the boundaries of what's possible with a tight deadline and a brilliant idea. The competition isn't just about making films; it's about building communities and celebrating the shared passion for storytelling.

The Regional Finals events will showcase the best films from each city, with awards presented and the winning teams announced. These teams will then vie for a spot in the Grand National Final, where the ultimate champion will be crowned.

Awards and Prizes - Link

Grand Finals Event and Judges - LINK

Regional Final Dates and Venues: https://www.48hours.co.nz/regional-info/

  • Ōtautahi / Christchurch Regional Final
    • Date: Tuesday 16th September
    • Venue: Hoyts EntX Christchurch.
    • Tickets: Eventfinda
  • Te Whanganui-a-Tara / Wellington Regional Final
    • Date: 7pm, Thursday 18th September.
    • Venue: The Embassy Theatre, 10 Kent Terrace, Wellington.
    • Tickets: Eventfinda
  • Across Aotearoa Regional Final
  • Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland Regional Final
    • Date: 7pm, Friday 3rd October.
    • Venue: The Hollywood, 20 Saint Georges Road, Avondale, Auckland.
    • Tickets: Eventfinda

This year the Grand National Final will be held in Te Whanganui-a-Tara / Wellington. 

Date / Time - Saturday 25th October, 7.30pm (Labour Weekend)
Venue - The Embassy Theatre - 10 Kent Terrace, Wellington

The top 14 films from around the country, plus three Sir Peter Jackson Wildcards will compete for the title of GRAND CHAMPION. The National Best School winner will also play at the Grand Final.