NZ On Air, Sky New Zealand and global production and distribution company Dynamic Television have joined forces to launch a scripted development initiative that will support the development of up to three original New Zealand drama series with international potential.
The Aotearoa Scripted Series Initiative will bring together local creative talent with local and international development expertise to help shape distinctive New Zealand stories with global appeal. It creates a new pathway for ambitious, premium scripted series to be developed for both domestic and international audiences.
NZ On Air Chief Executive Cameron Harland says the initiative reflects a shared commitment to supporting ambitious New Zealand storytelling.
"Our strongest stories are the ones that could only come from Aotearoa. This initiative gives local writers and producers a local broadcast home through Sky, and international development and distribution expertise through Dynamic Television, so that distinctive New Zealand drama has a stronger pathway to reach audiences here and offshore.”
Sky Commissioning Editor Tina McLaren says the initiative represents an exciting opportunity to strengthen New Zealand's scripted production sector.
“New Zealand is home to exceptional storytelling talent, and we're committed to helping bring more local stories to life. Through the Aotearoa Scripted Series Initiative, we're creating a new pathway for bold, original drama projects that can connect with New Zealand audiences while opening doors to international opportunities.”
Dynamic Television Founder and Managing Partner Dan March says New Zealand's creative sector continues to attract international attention.
“Our experience on Ms. X proved just how exceptional New Zealand's creative community is. We are thrilled to partner with Sky and NZ On Air to build on that momentum — nurturing world class talent and developing original stories designed to resonate with global audiences.”
The initiative is open to New Zealand writers and producers developing original one-hour scripted drama series.
A live webinar will be held on Tuesday 3 November at 12pm – 1pm NZT for those wishing to learn more and ask questions of NZ On Air, Sky and Dynamic Television about the initiative.
Applications for development funding of up to $75,000 per project will open on 6 November 2026 through the NZ On Air Portal, with submissions closing on 3 December at 4pm 2026. NZ On Air, Sky TV and Dynamic Television are making equal financial contributions to the initiative.
Full guidelines and application information are available here Aotearoa Scripted Series Guidelines. Selection for the Aotearoa Scripted Series Initiative does not guarantee future production funding through NZ On Air, which will be subject to the usual competitive application process.
Notes for editors
About the Aotearoa Scripted Series Initiative
The Aotearoa Scripted Series Initiative is a partnership between Sky, NZ On Air and Dynamic Television to support the development of original New Zealand scripted drama. The initiative is designed to help New Zealand creators develop distinctive stories with the potential to engage audiences both locally and internationally