How to search for a classification
There are two sources of information on New Zealand classifications of films, games, books, or other publications. One is the Film and Video Labelling Body Database, and the other is the NZ Register of Classification Decisions. This page explains where you should search, depending on the classification information you are looking for.
The Film and Video Labelling Body Database
This database is maintained by the Film and Video Labelling Body. You can search for classifications on films by title and director.
What you will find in this database:
- Classification decisions on films and games by the Office of Film and Literature Classification - 1994-present
- Ratings issued on unrestricted films and games by the Film and Video Labelling Body - 1994-present
(Note: many unrestricted games have not had ratings issued for them because they are exempted from labelling requirements in the Classification Act)
Search the Film and Video Labelling Body Database
The NZ Register of Classification Decisions
This database is maintained by the Office of Film and Literature Classification. You can search for classifications by title, date of classification, medium, or by a range of other search criteria.
Search the NZ REGISTER OF CLASSIFICATION DECISIONS
What you will find in this database:
- All classification decisions of the Office of Film and Literature Classification - 1994-present
- Classification decisions of the Indecent Publications Tribunal - responsible for classifying books and magazines from 1963-1994
- Classification decisions of the Video Recordings Authority - responsible for classifying videos from 1987-1995
- Decisions of the Chief Censor of Films - responsible for classification of films from 1917-1994
- Decisions made by the review authorities for each of the censorship authorities listed above, such as the current Film and Literature Board of Review.
What you won't find in this database:
- Some of the decisions of the Chief Censor of Films. Many have been added to the database, but the rest will be added over the coming years. If you can't find a classification for an older film title, please contact us
- Classification information for most unrestricted G, PG, and M films. You will find some films that were classified G, PG or M by the Classification Office, but most films G, PG, and M films are cross-rated from the Australian Classification Board and you can search for them on the Film and Video Labelling Body Database
- Classification information on unrestricted games. Unrestricted games are not required to carry New Zealand classification labels under an exemption in the Classification Act
- Information on television and radio classifications - find out about these on the Broadcasting Standards Authority website
The database does not contain written summaries of the reasons for classification decisions. For more detailed information on a specific classification decision, please contact the Information Unit.
Search the NZ REGISTER OF CLASSIFICATION DECISIONS
What to do if you cannot find information on the title you are searching for
Contact the Information Unit if you cannot find what you are looking for or need additional information.