The Cinematic Documentary Development Programme is a year-long professional development initiative designed to nurture and support emerging directorial voices in Aotearoa’s documentary filmmaking landscape.
Thanks to the generous support of the NZ Film Commission, Deer Heart Films is delighted to offer the opportunity for wrap-around mentorship and professional support to four directors, who are currently in the process of making their first or second feature- length documentary film.
The programme is lead by award-winning documentary filming team Miriam Smith & Chris Pryor, whose work has been hailed as “Social commentary gold” and among “the most powerfully cinematic New Zealand movies ever”.
The programme will be looking to support a diverse range of directorial talent, who are seeking to bring their own unique, authentic perspectives to their documentary practice.
They’re seeking directors who are creatively fearless and deeply committed to the singular power of cinema.
Directors are invited to apply with a feature-length documentary project. The project can be at any stage of the filmmaking process - from early development through to the shooting and editing stage. The programme can support both funded projects and those that have not yet received funding. Please note that permission to film with the documentary’s key subject/s must be obtained before applying - and applicants must be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident.
All participants in the programme must be committed to actively progressing their documentary project throughout the year of the mentorship programme.
The four selected directors for the programme will receive...
- Three mentorship sessions, timed to best support your feature-length documentary at key stages across the year.
- Five group sessions, including two in-person workshops in Auckland and online hui with guest speakers.
- Funding of up to NZ$1,200 per project, to be used for additional professional support while attending the programme.
- Travel and accommodation will be provided for those who live outside of Auckland to attend the group workshop days.
- A stipend of NZ$1,000 (+GST if applicable) per person and 12 month free subscription to DocPlay.
KEY DATES
The programme will run from June 2026 - June 2027.
APPLICATIONS OPEN: 16 March 2026.
APPLICATIONS CLOSE: 20 April 2026.
NOTIFICATION OF OUTCOME: Late-May 2026.
For more information about how to apply, CLICK HERE