New Zealand Film Commission hires Leanne Saunders

The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) has hired Leanne Saunders as its new head of production and development.

Saunders arrives with 15 years’ experience in film and television production and will start in late May, replacing Lisa Chatfield who recently left the NZFC for a role at local production outfit Pukeko Pictures.  

Saunders’ feature film credits include The Weight Of Elephants, Born To Dance, The Devil’s Rock, Christmas and Desert. Most recently she co-produced Hunt For The Wilderpeople with Piki Films co-founders Carthew Neal and Taika Waititi.

NZFC chief executive Dave Gibson said: “Leanne is one of New Zealand’s most experienced film producers and I am delighted she has accepted this key role at the NZFC.

“Her regular attendance at international festivals and markets, combined with her extensive development and production experience, makes her an ideal addition to the NZFC team.”