Get ready for Aotearoa’s wildest weekend of filmmaking — Vista Foundation 48Hours is back for 2026 and Early Bird Registration is open from June 1st!
Competition Basics
Teams from across the Aotearoa, from Kaitaia to Bluff, will have 48 hours to write, shoot, and cut a short film
in just one hectic and thrilling weekend: July 31st - August 2nd, 2026.
Whether you’re a first time director collecting material for a showreel, or a seasoned filmmaker wanting to try
something new, this competition is a credible opportunity to take creative risks and test your craft in front of a supportive audience.
Following the exhilarating shoot weekend, filmmakers share their films at heats events, compete for awards
and honours at the regional finals, and ultimately vie for the title of Grand National Champion.
The Vista Foundation 48Hours is more than a competition - it’s a dedicated community of grassroots
filmmakers and film fanatics that all support each other at vibrant screening events across Aotearoa.
“Filmmakers are born here - not just the starry ones, but a whole generation comes together and
meets one another at the screenings. It is an unforgettable experience to see your work, no matter
how short, up there on the big screen in a full theatre like the Embassy or the Civic.
That in itself is a memorable prize for any of the filmmakers.” - Dame Gaylene Preston
A Hothouse for Talent Development
For 23 years, 48Hours has been a meaningful, first or next step for filmmakers seeking an opportunity to
showcase their craft, with no risk if it doesn’t work out, and all upside for your career pathway if you crack
through. The Grand National Prize is funding and scaffolded support for your next short film.
Alumni of the competition include Mukpuddy, Viva La Dirt League, Taika Waititi, Joseph Moore and Laura
Daniels, and Tom Sainsbury. Recent alumni success includes 2025 Grand National Champions, Positive
Barry who had their short film, Grounded selected in two A-List Film Festivals following the competition;
Annecy International Animation Film Festival and Tribeca Film Festival, and long time competitors Sports
Team have created a cult classic with indie feature The Weed Eaters.
No matter your experience in the film industry, this is your chance to dive into 48 hours of innovation, chaos,
and community. Take this opportunity to show your grit and tenacity and flex your creative muscles!
The Vista Foundation 48Hours is presented by the Vista Foundation, in association with Te Tumu Whakaata
Taonga / New Zealand Film Commission.
Find Out More
www.48hours.co.nz for everything you need to know about the 2026 competition, including key dates, heats
venues, city finals, grand finals event.