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SPADA congratulates South Pacific Pictures on the release of its insightful study into the economic and cultural impact of Shortland Street over the last 30 years. 

The Olsberg SPI ‘Study on the Cultural & Economic Impact Of Shortland Street’ was commissioned by SPP at the 30-year milestone of the show. International creative industries consultancy Olsberg SPI specialises in the global screen sector and also recently completed a report on the economic impact of the New Zealand Screen Sector.

Olsberg SPI’s findings show that Shortland Street has undoubtedly provided the template for screen production in New Zealand. From NZD$227 million in direct economic output over the last decade, to some of the most talked about ‘water cooler’ moments on New Zealand television, through to creating the infrastructure on which many other local productions are based, the results outlined in the report clearly support how important Shortland Street is to New Zealand - economically, culturally and creatively. 

The report also highlights the importance of the production as a training ground for cast and crew - as well as producers, directors, and writers. NZ acting alumni who have learned their craft from their time on Shortland Street include Temuera Morrison, Martin Henderson, Rose McIver, Karl Urban, KJ Apa, and Thomasin McKenzie – all of whom now command international acclaim for their work.

As acknowledged in The Spinoff by Duncan Grieve, "it's that rarest of jewels – a huge commercial hit that delivered major socio-cultural returns". 

If you'd like to read the full ‘Study on the Cultural & Economic Impact Of Shortland Street’ you can download a copy HERE