Brilliant producer and longstanding stalwart of the New Zealand screen industry Fiona Copland was absolutely shocked and delighted to be awarded Outstanding Contribution to the New Zealand Screen Industry at this year's WIFT Awards!
This award honours long-term outstanding work in the industry, generous support for others and a commitment to the growth and development of the industry. It can be won only once, and the judges determine there be only one finalist and winner.
Presented by Phil Smith, CEO of Great Southern Film and Television, he paid tribute to a career built that spans platforms, genres, and borders. She has produced award-winning documentaries, children’s television and multiple feature films.
However, what sets Fiona apart is not just the work itself, but the way she has made it. Navigating large, often financially complex international deals independently, without corporate backing, taking significant personal and financial risk to bring projects to life. she has been a leading figure in the New Zealand screen industry for over three decades, but her most recent success— is next level.
Kiri & Lou her stop-motion pre-school series is currently screening on nearly every continent on earth. The show has earned too many accolades to list, but highlights include…screening in competition at Annecy (the Cannes of Animation Festivals), a BAFTA nomination, and wins at the ‘NZ TV Awards’, the ‘Asian TV Awards’, the ‘Banff World Media Festival’, as well as prizes in New York, Europe, Australia and India. From the BBC to Nickelodeon the series is a worldwide phenomenon, all made in Ōtautahi, Christchurch.
Alongside the more than 100 beautifully crafted episodes the Kiri & Lou universe includes merchandise ranging from toys, books and sustainable nappies— to three award winning albums of children’s music. AND… Kiri and Lou the MOVIE will be out soon!
For nearly forty years, Fiona has created opportunities for hundreds of Kiwi actors, artists, and screen industry professionals. From Topless Women Talk About Their Lives and the landmark art series The Big Picture to her new, yet to be released, animated children’s series Tralala; Fiona has navigated international co-production finance, sales, and distribution across continents. Expertise she’s been generous in sharing with her many female producer friends.
Few screen industry professionals (male or female) have matched Fiona’s achievements, yet in many ways she has been working under the radar. Fiona Copland is extraordinary, and WIFT is extremely proud to present her with the Great Southern Film and Television Award for Outstanding Contribution to the NZ Screen Industry 2026.