Spada Conference

Programme

Thursday 20-Friday 21 November 2025
The Pullman Hotel, Auckland, NZ

> 30th Spada Conference Programme HERE

Listen to live recordings from the 2025 Spada Conference:

* On Spotify HERE

* On Apple Podcasts HERE

* On YouTube HERE

You can view photos from the 30th Spada Conference on our Facebook Page


THANK YOU FOR JOINING US!

The complimentary barista coffees were a perfect way to kick-start Day One, fueling delegates ahead of the Mihi Whakatau and Official Welcome at 9:00 AM.

A big thank you to Koāwa Studios for sponsoring this year’s Coffee Cart and keeping everyone energised!

Before the official kick-off, many delegates also took the opportunity to book time with Commissioners from TVNZ, Three, Whakaata Māori, Sky NZ Originals, and RNZ. The Commissioners' Roundtable proved once again to be a popular and valuable part of the programme.

A big thank you to all the incredible speakers, moderators, and panellists who shared their insights, experiences, and vision at the 30th Spada Conference. Your expertise and generosity made the event inspiring and invaluable for everyone in attendance.

Special thanks to:

  • Frances Valintine CNZM (academyEX) – for guiding us through the future of screen and digital innovation.

  • Steve Crombie (Totem Global) and Nadia Tolich (TVNZ), moderated by Natalie Apostolou, explored how content can thrive in a digital-first world.

  • Debra Richards (Netflix), Bronwynn Bakker (Kevin & Co), Kelly Martin (South Pacific Pictures), Thomas Robins (Sky NZ Originals) – for sharing your expertise on partnerships and collaboration.

  • Paul Wiegard (Madman Entertainment), Jas McSweeney (Umbrella Entertainment), Dr David Court (Compton School), moderated by Rosie Hole, for your perspective on audience and financing strategies.

  • Poppy Dowle (Film Finances), Michele McDonald (Screen Australia), Emma Slade (Velvet Moss), moderated by Jennifer Wilton, for insights on building content for global audiences.

  • J.P. Pomare and Paula Browning for a captivating conversation.

  • Paul Wiegard and Dr David Court – for sharing the inspiring journey of Madman Entertainment over 30 years.

27th Annual SPADA Screen Industry Awards

Congratulations to this year’s outstanding award recipients:

  • Emerging Producer of the YearPrincipal Sponsor: New Zealand Film Commission

    JAZZ DOS SANTOS

  • Independent Producer of the YearPrincipal Sponsor: Gallagher Insurance

    DAN HIGGINS

  • Industry Champion AwardPrincipal Sponsors: Spada and The Data Book

    STEPHEN STEHLIN

 

The Great Screenrights Lunch featuring the South Pacific Pictures BIG PITCH

The 30th Spada Conference culminated in the much-anticipated Great Screenrights Lunch, featuring this year’s South Pacific Pictures BIG PITCH Competition.

This year's winner was Amanda Jane Robinson with her project PITCAIRN.

Well done and thank you to all our amazing finalists who delivered polished and entertaining pitches:

  • Arvid ErikssonCold Cuts

  • Jordan Windsor & Sean WallacePissed

  • Lucy TimminsThe Bug Club

  • Magda WojciechowskaRoadkill Rockband

  • Rachel Fawcett, Ryan O’Kane & Emma LeonardGod Awful


Congratulations to all the finalists for their creativity, passion, and compelling ideas. The competition showcased the incredible talent and storytelling potential in New Zealand’s screen sector.


The 30th Spada Conference was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with industry colleagues and forge new connections with producers, funders, broadcasters, platforms, and screen professionals. Thanks to everyone for helping make it happen.

Strategic Partner
New Zealand Film Commission

Key Sponsors
NZ On Air, Screenrights, South Pacific Pictures, Images & Sound
Gallagher Insurance, Film Finances Australasia

Sponsors & Supporters
The Data Book, TAG, Budget Rental Cars, NZ On Screen
Kōawa Studios and Perfect Curve Creative