Indian cinema is set to get a major platform in New Zealand with the launch of the country’s first dedicated Indian film festival later this year. Actors and producers Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal will attend the official launch of The Indian Film Festival of New Zealand (TIFFNZ) on June 2, 2026. The duo will also host a special screening of their debut production venture, Girls Will Be Girls, which has earned acclaim at the Sundance Film Festival and the Independent Spirit Awards.
Set to officially debut in October 2026, TIFFNZ has been founded by Petrina D’Rozario with the aim of strengthening cultural and creative ties between India and New Zealand through cinema. The festival is expected to shine a spotlight on Indian films and South Asian storytelling while fostering meaningful collaborations between artists and audiences from both countries.
Speaking about their association with the festival, Richa and Ali said, “We’re very happy to be part of the launch of TIFFNZ. Film festivals play an important role in building dialogue and creating space for diverse stories. The idea of bringing Indian cinema to New Zealand in a structured, celebratory way feels both timely and meaningful. We’re looking forward to supporting this new chapter and engaging with audiences there.”
The four day festival will be held across Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, featuring film screenings, workshops, cultural events and industry discussions. Organisers are planning to showcase nearly 30 feature and short films in the inaugural edition, with a focus on celebrating the diversity of Indian cinema and amplifying South Asian voices in Aotearoa, the Māori name for New Zealand.
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