WIFT International

WIFT International, a network of over 10,000 women working in the screen industry around the world.

2006 WIFT Awards

WIFT NZ AWARDS

New Zealand women in the film and television industry acknowledged five of their own with the announcement of the prestigious Annual WIFT Awards at the organisation’s celebrations in Auckland.

Award for Unsung Heroine of the New Zealand Screen Industry

Winner: Mairi Gunn, cinematographer.

Mairi is not only a pioneer in the field of female cinematographers, she is also a mentor and advocate of women in other male dominated areas of the NZ film & television industries. She strives to make the industry better for those who follow in her footsteps, speaking on industry issues on behalf of technicians, the Local Content Lobby and WIFT.

Outstanding Contribution to the New Zealand Screen Industry

Winner: Chloe Smith Production Manager / Line Producer

Production Manager / Line Producer on many productions from ‘The Piano’ to ‘Sione’s Wedding’ and the long running series ‘Hercules’ and ‘Xena. She has been a mainstay of the industry for a very long time, often working quietly in the background, giving her time and support by sitting on many industry committees and taking an active part in working through various Industry problems and issues.

TV3/C4 Award for Success in New Zealand

Television

Winner: Rachel Lang, producer

For her contribution to the on-going development of NZ Drama, having written and produced numerous shows including ‘Shortland Street’, ‘Maddigan’s Quest’ and most recently co-writing ‘Outrageous Fortune.’ Rachel has also worked in development with South Pacific Pictures consulting locally and overseas.

Eyeworks Touchdown Woman to Watch/Emerging Producer Award

Winner: Gemma Gracewood, Producer, Newsreader, Writer, and Publicist

For her standout performance producing ‘Fronstseat’ and short film ‘Dead Letters.’ Gemma’s understanding, care and outstanding wit have demonstrated themselves in her work which has earned respect from her peers and acknowledgement from leaders within the industry.

South pacific Pictures International Acheivement in Feature Film

Winner: Ngila Dickson, costume designer (Hamish Keith, pictured, accepted on her behalf)

For her work in such high profile films as the ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy and ‘The Last Samurai.’ Throughout her various projects and travels in New Zealand, Australia, England, America and Europe, she has always taken local crew members with her and provided a wealth of training and support to the industry.