Jason Momoa, Taika Waititi and Cliff Curtis Acquire Auckland’s Studio West

In a strategic move designed to reshape the landscape of Aotearoa Recent Zealand’s screen industry, powerhouses Jason Momoa, Taika Waititi, and Cliff Curtis have acquired Studio West. The West Auckland film and television production facility now enters a new era under the ownership of the Āriki Group, a company founded by the trio last year.

The acquisition, announced by Screen Guild New Zealand, marks a transition of leadership for a facility that has served as a cornerstone of the local industry for nearly three decades. Previously owned and operated by Kay and Glenn Howe for the past decade, Studio West has a long history of supporting high-profile projects, including the recent Apple TV+ series Chief of War.

A Vision for Indigenous Storytelling

The primary objective behind the purchase is to foster an environment where indigenous and Polynesian-led storytelling can thrive. By placing the studio under the leadership of indigenous creatives, the Āriki Group aims to strengthen New Zealand’s standing as a world-class screen destination that is both globally connected and culturally grounded.

For Jason Momoa, the move is personal. Momoa stated that New Zealand feels like home to him creatively, culturally, and spiritually, noting a deep respect for community, land, and story. He expressed excitement about building a lasting infrastructure that nurtures talent and creates clear pathways for the next generation of storytellers.

Revitalizing the Local Industry

The acquisition comes at a critical time for the New Zealand film sector. Director Taika Waititi highlighted that the industry has been under significant pressure, with opportunities for acting and filmmaking becoming increasingly limited or niche.

Waititi told RNZ’s Sunday Morning that the goal is to uplift not only indigenous people but the entire industry workforce. By attracting more international and domestic work to the studio, the Āriki Group hopes to reignite interest among young people wanting to enter the profession.

Cliff Curtis, who rose to prominence in the classic Kiwi film Once Were Warriors, described the acquisition as a “full-circle moment,” signaling a commitment to the growth of the industry that launched his own career.

Key Takeaways: The Studio West Acquisition

• New Ownership: Acquired by Āriki Group, owned by Jason Momoa, Taika Waititi, and Cliff Curtis.
• Strategic Goal: To expand the facility into a hub for domestic and international productions with a focus on Polynesian-led storytelling.
• Industry Impact: Aiming to create more jobs and support local crews to combat recent industry pressures.
• Legacy: The studio, established in 1997, transitions from the stewardship of Kay and Glenn Howe.

Looking Ahead

The transition of Studio West is more than a business transaction; it’s a strategic bet on the power of local production. With the combined influence of Momoa, Waititi, and Curtis, the facility is positioned to grow a catalyst for growth in Aotearoa. As the Āriki Group takes the helm, the focus remains on ensuring that stories rooted in place are seen and heard on a global stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who owns Studio West now?

Studio West is now owned by the Āriki Group, which is owned by Jason Momoa, Taika Waititi, and Cliff Curtis.

What is the goal of the Āriki Group’s acquisition?

The group intends to support indigenous storytelling, bring more production jobs to New Zealand, and create a supportive environment for the next generation of filmmakers and crews.

Which recent project was filmed at Studio West?

The Apple TV+ series Chief of War, starring Jason Momoa, was based at the studio.