Creating Your Acting Portfolio: A Guide for New Zealand Actors

Looking to get an agent in New Zealand? A professional portfolio is essential for catching the eye of reputable agents. Here’s how to put together a winning submission package for the Kiwi market.

Understand your casting type and the roles your natural personality/look suits. Dont try to be too versatile. If you are strong in a certain character then lean into that, rather that being a weak version of everything. This helps the agent know what to put your forward for.

The Essential Elements

1. Professional Headshots

First impressions count, and in NZ, natural is best. Kiwi agents prefer authentic headshots that truly represent you. Budget NZD 300-600 for a quality photographer.

You’ll need:

  • Commercial (warm, approachable) shots
  • Casting shots, what you actually look like (full/mid/head length neutral edit)
  • Theatrical (dramatic) shots
  • Digital files (both high-res and web-ready)
  • Professional printing for hard copies if asked for
  • Updates every 18 months or when your look changes

Click here to read more on Headshots for Actors…

2. Acting CV

Keep it to one page and include:

  • Full name and contact details
  • Physical stats (height, age range, eye/hair colour)
  • Playing age range (be realistic)
  • Credits divided by category:
    • Television
    • Film
    • Theatre
    • Commercials
  • Training and Education
  • Special Skills
  • Accents (especially important for international work)
  • Te Reo Māori proficiency level (if any)
  • Driver’s license type
  • Visa/passport status

New to acting? Focus on:

  • Drama school training
  • Workshops attended
  • Student films
  • Community Theatre
  • Any performance experience

3. Demo Reel

The standard in NZ is short and sweet:

  • 90-120 seconds maximum
  • Start with a slate (your name)
  • 2-3 of your best scenes
  • Professional quality only

Starting out? Options include:

  • Drama school scenes
  • Student film footage
  • Professional showreel scenes (available in Auckland and Wellington)
  • Self-tape monologues (as a last resort)

4. Digital Presence

Essential platforms:

  • Actors Access NZ
  • StarNow
  • Professional social media accounts (Instagram/Facebook)
  • Simple website (optional but recommended)

Submitting to NZ Agents

Do:

  • Research each agency’s client list and success stories
  • Follow submission instructions exactly
  • Write a brief, professional cover letter
  • Submit to one agency at a time
  • Mention any industry referrals

Don’t:

  • Send group emails
  • Submit incomplete materials
  • Follow up too quickly (wait at least 2-3 weeks)
  • Claim experience you don’t have

Market-Specific Tips

Major Markets:

  • Auckland: Largest market, especially for TV and commercial work
  • Wellington: Strong in film and theatre, home to major studios
  • Regional: Increasing opportunities with local productions

Industry Insights:

  • Join Equity NZ for industry connections and resources
  • Get familiar with self-taping (crucial for NZ market)
  • Consider part-time acting initially (common in NZ)
  • Build theatre experience (highly valued)
  • Network at industry events and workshops

Key Skills to Develop:

  • Standard NZ accent
  • American and British accents (for international productions)
  • Te Reo Māori (increasingly important)
  • Self-taping skills
  • Improvisation

Action Steps

  1. Invest in professional headshots
  2. Create a clean, professional CV
  3. Develop your showreel
  4. Research NZ agents thoroughly
  5. Prepare submission materials
  6. Submit and stay patient

Remember: The New Zealand market values authenticity, professionalism, and a strong work ethic. Kiwi agents appreciate actors who are genuine, reliable, and committed to developing their craft.

Useful Resources

  • Equity NZ website for industry updates
  • Local casting Facebook groups
  • Drama schools: Toi Whakaari, The Actors’ Program
  • Showreel services in major cities
  • Self-tape studios in Auckland and Wellington

YouTube/Spotify

Actor/Model Headshot Types and Portfolio – Explained

How to get an acting agent step by step

HOW TO MAKE A REEL FROM SCRATCH | Acting Reel Demo | Actor Showreel

how to have a great acting headshot: everything you need to know

Actor Headshots Tips From A Casting Director

HOW TO GET THE BEST ACTOR HEADSHOTS

The New Zealand screen industry is growing, with increasing international productions choosing to film here. Focus on presenting yourself professionally, continue training, and stay persistent.

Good luck with your submissions!