Industry members
Information about classification system requirements for people supplying, selling and exhibiting publications (e.g. films, games, adult magazines) to New Zealanders.
Resources for industry members
People often ask
How do I get something classified?
In order to obtain a classification you need to submit your film or game to the Film and Video Labelling Body. Depending on a number of factors, it may be submitted to the Classification Office to be classified. Find out more about the process here.
What is the Film Video Labelling Body responsible for?
The Film and Video Labelling Body of New Zealand (FVLB) is responsible for consumer labelling. The FVLB reviews the publication and determines an appropriate age rating (G, PG or M) and content warning note for the label. If they think the publication needs to be classified, they refer it to us.
Do I need to get a classification?
Films must have a classification label before they are supplied or exhibited to the New Zealand public. There are a few exceptions to this rule, which you can read about here.
How are classification decisions made?
We apply an analytical framework laid out in the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act 1993. Click here to find out more about the classification process.
Research
What We're Watching – 2023 Snapshot
This national survey, which asked New Zealanders about their attitudes towards classification, highlighted the public’s desire for more information about the challenging topics that are appearing on our screens.
Young New Zealanders Viewing Sexual Violence - Stage 3
Our research and consultation project explored the effects of viewing sexual violence in mainstream commercial media such as movies, TV shows and games. Stage 3 involved 24 interviews with 48 young people.
Young New Zealanders Viewing Sexual Violence - Stage 2
Our research and consultation project explored the effects of viewing sexual violence in mainstream commercial media such as movies, TV shows and games. Stage 2 involved participants from 20 different including NGOs, government officials, academics and others.
Children and Teen Exposure to Media Content
We commissioned UMR to survey New Zealanders about media content. Results indicate there is widespread public concern about content such as sex and violence in entertainment media, particularly amongst parents. The results support previous research showing the importance of classifications.
Young New Zealanders Viewing Sexual Violence - Stage 1
Our research and consultation project explored the effects of viewing sexual violence in mainstream commercial media such as movies, TV shows and games. Stage 1 of the research involved a number of focus groups with teenagers.
Understanding the Classification System: New Zealanders' Views
This representative survey of 1,000 people found that New Zealanders continue to have a high level of trust in the classification system, despite a rapidly changing entertainment media environment.