Posted Friday 09 Jan 2026
This award recognises significant achievement with a short or feature film released in the last two years locally and/or internationally between 1 July 2023 and 30 June 2025.
The finalists are (WIFT Members in BOLD)
ANAPELA POLATA’IVAO
I dare you to find a single human being who didn’t fall in love with Anapela’s divine Mareta in Tinā. Her heart-breaker of a lead role in the fifth highest grossing NZ film of all time captures so innately her contribution to both audiences and the industry as a whole, showcasing what a driving force she is both on-screen and on-set.
CASS AVERY
In no uncertain terms Cass Avery had a blinder of a 2025. Her documentary Prime Minister wasn’t just selected for Sundance, it went on to win the coveted Audience Award for World Cinema Documentary and grossed over a million dollars at the NZ box office. Cass has an enviable reputation for embracing and delivering films that are not always easy viewing and she does so with her trademark sensitivity, empathy and authenticity.
VICKY POPE
Releasing two big feature films in one year - Pike River and Went Up The Hill - is no small feat, Vicky’s unparalleled instinct and passion for storytelling makes her one of NZ’s most trusted, authentic and successful producers. Committed to succession planning, she drives the Write Room initiative supporting writers and emerging producers alike.