New Zealand-Hong Kong Audio-Visual Arrangement

Embargoed until 5.30pm Wednesday 4 November 2009


New Zealand Audio-Visual (Film And Digital Entertainment) Arrangement

An audio-visual arrangement between Hong Kong and new Zealand is expected to result in significant cultural, economic development and technological benefits for both parties.

The arrangement was signed today between the New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage, and the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau of Hong Kong, to promote closer ties between the screen and creative digital entertainment sectors in New Zealand and Hong Kong.

The non-binding arrangement was signed by the Chief Executive of the Ministry for Culture and Heritage Mr Lewis Holden, and the Hong Kong Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Technology Mr Duncan Pescod today at a function at Park Road Post in Miramar.

Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Hon Christopher Finlayson met with Mr Pescod earlier today in a joint ministerial meeting with Economic Development Minister Hon Gerry Brownlee.

Mr Finlayson welcomed the arrangement saying, “I’m enthusiastic about the opportunities this arrangement provides for the screen industry and digital entertainment sectors. We know from past experience that similar arrangements have enabled significant economic and cultural gains for both parties.”

The arrangement will enable cooperation between Hong Kong and New Zealand audio-visual industries including film, television, gaming, animation and other digital entertainment content. It is a step toward future film co-production treaty negotiations between New Zealand and Hong Kong.

The arrangement encourages and facilitates:
• participation in film festivals, international broadcasting, games, animation and other digital entertainment events
• business-to-business contacts
• exchange of information, technology and training including internships
• investment and cooperation between content makers
• the exchange of audio-visual archives.

Mr Pescod and his official delegation will meet with officials from the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, and the Ministry of Economic Development, and key players in the digital entertainment, multimedia and film sectors while in Wellington.

The visit has been organised by Grow Wellington, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, and the Ministry for Economic Development.

ENDS

Duncan Pescod

As Permanent Secretary of the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau, Mr Pescod heads the Communications and Technology Branch and the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer. Responsibilities include policy strategy on broadcasting, film-related issues, the creative industries, development of communications, innovation and technology, decency standards and execution of information technology programmes and initiatives.

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