Join us for the Day One New Filmmaker Awards 2025 — a vibrant celebration of Aotearoa’s emerging storytellers!
Hosted by Day One Hāpai te Haeata, this year’s event brings together young creators from the Day One Challenge and rising voices in the New Filmmakers Awards, with two special events across one big day.

Please note, this year we’ll host two sessions celebrating Aotearoa’s youngest creators and emerging filmmakers — you’re welcome to attend one or both!

🎟️ Important Ticket Information
Please note: Tickets for both sessions are non-transferable. Each ticket is valid for one person only and cannot be shared between attendees.

Pricing:

$20 – Standard Ticket
This is our standard rate and helps us run this not-for-profit event.
$10 – Reduced Rate
Available for those who need it — no questions asked.

🎬 What to Expect:

Afternoon Session (2:00–3:30 PM) – School-Age Ceremony for filmmakers up to 18 years old, featuring award presentations and screenings of standout youth stories.
Evening Session (4:30–7:00 PM) – Industry Ceremony for filmmakers up to 29 years old, with awards and short film screenings.
Post event Industry Drinks (7:30-10:30pm) 📍 Q Theatre - Join fellow creatives from Emerging Screen Alliance Aotearoa (ESAA) for an evening of connection to wrap up the year. No RSVP required, just show up and mingle.

Since 2007, Day One (formerly The Outlook for Someday) has empowered rangatahi across Aotearoa to bring their voices to the screen. The Day One Film Challenge invites youth to explore impactful storytelling through film, fostering growth, creativity, and self-expression. This event celebrates their dedication, originality, and passion.

🎖 Award Categories

Day One Challenge Awards

Stand Out Winner – capturing the heart of the Challenge
Age Awards – for filmmakers up to 11, 14, 18, 24, and 29 years old
Community Awards – including Whakatipuranga Māori Filmmaker, Cultural, and Women & Gender Diverse Awards
Craft Awards – honouring excellence in Storytelling, Editing, Cinematography, Performance, and Animation

New Filmmaker Awards (open to filmmakers nationwide, up to 29 years old)

Vision Award – for bold creative direction
Spirit Award – for leadership and innovation
Craft Award – for outstanding technical skill