Irene Gardiner
Irene Gardiner is the president of Spada, the Screen Production and Development Association of New Zealand, which advocates for the interests of the local screen industry. She has been actively lobbying for government regulation of international streaming platforms, arguing that they should contribute to the local industry to support its sustainability. Gardiner believes that the current lack of contribution from these platforms has significantly impacted the local production sector, and she emphasizes the need for a level playing field to ensure a thriving media landscape in New Zealand.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
Irene Gardiner is a longstanding governor who is departing the RNZ board.
Media Insider: RNZ shake-up: New board chair, directors revealed; Who’s in line to be CEO?; PR boss: ‘All the big ad agencies are morphing into PR stunt agencies’
New Zealand· 2026-05-29
Mather is due to vacate his position as chairman at the end of June, along with two other long-serving directors, Irene Gardiner and Jane Wrightson.
Budget 2026: RNZ and NZ on Air funding cut, boost for domestic screen production rebate and Māori broadcasting – Media InsiderNew Zealand· 2026-05-28
Irene Gardiner is an RNZ director unlikely to have her position renewed.
Media Insider: Air NZ sends flight safety video into holding pattern; RNZ faces shake-up at highest level; NBR v IRD stand-off heats up; The spicy battle for KFC accountNew Zealand· 2025-12-11
Irene Gardiner, president of SPADA, expressed concern over the potential tariffs on films.
New Zealand film officials discussing Donald Trump’s announcement of 100% tariff on films produced outside USNew Zealand· 2025-05-05
Spada president Irene Gardiner wrote in December that the idea of streamers being required to support the local industry will be welcomed by the screen sector.
Media Insider: Global streamers such as Netflix would be forced to invest in NZ content under new Government media proposalsNew Zealand· 2025-02-12