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

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Any great film needs great vision and so too does a great life!
Join professional Life Designer Sian Jaquet for a group session to reassess your career and life and lay the foundations for your new vision. Learn techniques and ideas for setting goals, sticking to them and making tangible changes over the coming year.
From the UK to NZ, from NZ Idol contestants to ‘The Big Stuff’ participants, Sian has helped a vast range of people redefine and achieve their goals.
With an extensive background including residential social work and theatre experience, Sian is perfectly situated to share skills to others working in the film and television industry. Read more about her here.
To secure your place for an evening with Sian contact the WIFT office on (09) 378 7271 or office@wiftauckland.org.nz
Friday 19th September
7-9pm
Heritage Hotel, Hobson Street
$25 members/ $40 non-members. Places limited.