Auckland’s Blockbuster Deal: City Sells Major Film Studio to Industry Giant Xytech
By Lions Roar Aotearoa Business & Entertainment Bureau
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND (Friday, January 30, 2026) — In a move set to reshape the landscape of the “Hollywood of the South,” Auckland Council has officially sold the iconic Auckland Film Studios to private lighting and equipment powerhouse, Xytech.
The sale, confirmed by Mayor Wayne Brown today, marks the end of a long-standing council ownership of the facility that hosted global hits like Minecraft and Predator: Badlands. The deal is seen as a strategic pivot to hand over specialized infrastructure to “seasoned operators” while securing a massive windfall for future screen projects.
🎬 The Deal: $30M Reinvestment and a 10-Year Guarantee
While the total sale price remains confidential, the financial structure of the deal ensures that taxpayers and the film industry both benefit.
- Reinvestment Fund: In 2022, the central government invested $30 million into the studio for two new sound stages. Under the terms of the sale, this $30m contribution will return to the council to be held in a dedicated fund for future screen infrastructure.
- Studio Protection: To prevent the site from being turned into apartments or industrial warehouses, the deal includes a mandate that the site must remain a film studio for at least 10 years.
- Settlement: The official handover to Xytech is scheduled for February 27, 2026.
💡 From Unit Driver to Studio Owner: The Pryor Journey
The new owner, Stephen Pryor, is no stranger to the Henderson-based facility. His story is one of ultimate industry success.
- The Roots: Pryor started at Auckland Film Studios 30 years ago as a unit driver on the production of The Tommyknockers.
- The Vision: Since founding Xytech in 1997, he has bid on the studios multiple times since 2011.
- The Synergy: Xytech already operates X3 Studios in Wiri. Pryor noted that owning the studio creates a “natural synergy” with his lighting rental business. “Studios need lots of lights, and we have lots of lights,” he said.
🌟 Industry Reaction: “A Natural Fit”
The screen production sector has reacted with overwhelming positivity. Katie Kempe, line producer for Amazon’s The Wrecking Crew (which was partially filmed at the studio), praised Pryor’s dedication.
“I think it’s incredibly positive for the industry… you can see how much they believe in the industry and we need more supporters and advocates to help grow this infrastructure.”
📊 Auckland Film Studios: By the Numbers
| Feature | Detail |
| New Owner | Xytech (Founded 1997) |
| Recent Major Hits | Minecraft, Predator: Badlands, The Wrecking Crew |
| Govt Investment | $30 million (2022) for new sound stages |
| Mandatory Lifespan | Min. 10 years as a studio (Pryor plans 20+) |
| Settlement Date | February 27, 2026 |
