The New Zealand International Film Festival is a major showcase of the best in global film-making. The Auckland International Film Festival in July is an offshoot of this major festival which provides the residents of the city with the opportunity to sample some of the finest films from around the world.

The extravaganza is a culturally oriented non-profit event which attempts to enrich the lives of New Zealanders by screening a wide selection of exceptional movies from across the world. Typically a series of between 150 and 170 motion pictures are screened in the cities of Auckland and Wellington. These movies include the finest moments from film industries across the globe, and the intention is to provide an array of motion pictures that will appeal to mainstream audiences as well as the avid film connoisseur.

Generally the festival in Auckland and Wellington takes place across 17 days of cinematic excitement and magic. The festival will then proceed to other cities in New Zealand, with the highlights of the extravaganza enjoyed by a nationwide audience.

The event has its origins in the integration of the Auckland Film Festival, which originated in 1969 and the Wellington Film Festival, which had its origins in 1972. The two events were merged in 1984. Presently the festival is managed by the charitable trust known as the New Zealand Film Festival Trust, founded in 1996.

In 2011 the spectacular festival will be held with more glamour than ever. The important opening night feature is eagerly anticipated by film fans in the country. There can be no doubt that this film festival has captured the hearts and minds of New Zealanders.