Films
The definition of 'film' in the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act 1993 includes videos, DVDs, video games, moving computer image files and, of course, 35mm cinematic film. The way that these types of 'films' have been censored and classified in New Zealand has changed since film censorship first began in 1916. In this section you will find information about the history of film censorship in New Zealand, how films are censored and classified under the current system and how classification decisions are made.
History of film censorship
As New Zealand's society has changed, and different types of films have been introduced into (or made in) this country, censorship legislation has had to adapt to keep up.
Film censorship today
Today's censorship system is governed by the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act 1993.
About unrestricted films
Films go through different classification processes depending on what type of content they have. Most unrestricted films (G, PG and M-rated films) do not come to the Office of Film and Literature Classification.
About classified films
All classified (restricted and banned) films are seen by the Office of Film and Literature Classification. Different people and organisations submit films for classification.
Appealing a classification
Decisions of the Classification Office can be appealed to the Film and Literature Board of Review.
