NZ On Air Round Tahi 2026/27 Funding Round

NZ On Air's Round Tahi is the first funding round of the 2026/27 financial year, covering Scripted, Non-fiction, and Content Development projects, as well as Capability and Discoverability initiatives.

Key funding allocations:

• Non-fiction: ~$9m — documentaries, general factual series, podcasts, comedy, reality shows, and partial feature film financing. Priority given to larger-scale projects (budgets over $500,000).
• Scripted: ~$8m — drama, comedy, and partial feature film financing. Particularly seeking series requiring $1m–$3m, especially those accessing the NZ Screen Production Rebate (NZSPR).
• Tamariki / Children: ~$4m — scripted and non-fiction children's content across multiple platforms.
• Rangatahi / Youth: ~$1m — bold, innovative content for 15–24-year-olds. Youth-created content (key personnel aged 18–34) is prioritised.
• Content Development: Limited funding available, with preference for platform-supported projects.
• Capability & Discoverability: Skills and training initiatives and industry events/awards support.

All projects must have confirmed support from a recognised local platform (exceptions apply for qualified rangatahi/youth projects). A clear distribution plan is essential.

Assessment criteria include equity and representation, gender equality, talent and skills development, and regionalism — with a strong emphasis on reflecting Aotearoa New Zealand's diverse communities.

Projects using AI or Generative AI should refer to NZ On Air's AI Guidelines. All productions must budget for compliance with industry standards (SPADA, NZ Actors' Equity, Screen Industry Workers Act, The Blue Book) and ScreenSafe health and safety guidelines.

Timeline:

• 16 April 2026: Applicant information webinar (register at funding@nzonair.govt.nz)
• 30 April 2026: Round opens via NZ On Air Portal
• 21 May 2026, 4pm: Applications close
• 31 July 2026: Decisions confirmed

For Capability/Discoverability queries, contact Glenn Usmar at glenn@nzonair.govt.nz before applying.