From Classroom to Film Set In 48 Hours
Posted 13th May 2026
What happens when you give a bunch of students a camera and a 48-hour countdown to make a short film? A little bit of chaos, unleashed creativity and a unique educational opportunity.
Students turn classrooms into production studios, hallways into movie sets, computer rooms into editing suites while transforming creative ideas into a finished film.
The Vista Foundation 48Hours 2026 competition is back, and it’s more than just a film challenge. It’s one of the most exciting, adrenaline-filled filmmaking competitions in Aotearoa.
An Educational Opportunity Like No Other!
Nothing fuels creativity like a deadline. Students find their filmmaking voice over one weekend, brainstorming ideas, solving unique problems and working together under the excitement of a countdown.
This is a chance for students to challenge themselves creatively in a nationwide competition while gaining real world experience and a film they can add to a portfolio.
An average team is around 8 students, with roles ranging from directors and editors to actors, musicians, choreographers, costume designers, and even snack coordinators.
Need help getting started? City managers are available to support schools and answer questions throughout the process.
No Experience? No Problem.
Some of New Zealand’s best-known filmmakers got their start by having a crack at Vista Foundation 48Hours. This competition is an opportunity for students to follow in their footsteps, unlock a new skill and collaborate with friends over an unforgettable weekend.
Eyes On The Prize
Of course there are accolades, and bragging rights. Teams have the chance to screen their films, compete for awards and cash prizes, and have their work seen by participants ranging from beginners to film veterans, judges and audiences from around New Zealand.
It’s Happening All Over New Zealand
The best part of the competition is knowing it’s happening everywhere at the exact same time. From Bluff to Whangārei, you’ll see school teams and competing teams around the country racing against the clock, running through the streets carrying tripods, costumes, props, and maybe a road cone or two.
Your Film Gets Seen!
Making something is fun but having an audience watch it is even better. Every team becomes part of an engaged audience of judges, filmmakers, schools, and competitors from around Aotearoa.
The Best School Team in each region will get to watch their film at the heats. School films are in the running for the regional ‘best school’ award to screen at the regional finals. One school film will take out ‘Best School’ - a national award with a cash prize and other goodies. The best school film will be screened at the Embassy Theatre to a packed out cinema.
Students get to see what other teams create, compare ideas, cheer each other on, and be part of a community that’s just as sleep-deprived and excited as they are.
2 For 1 Deal!
To support our school teams we offer a two for one deal! Register one team and you’ll be emailed a 100% discount code to use when you register a second team. If you register in the early-bird period you get the early-bird price.
Key Dates for 2026: The Vista Foundation 48Hours
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Early Bird Registration Opens: June 1st, 2026.
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The Shoot Weekend: July 31st – August 2nd, 2026.
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The Genres: Announced at 7:00 PM on Friday, July 31st.
School’s 2 for 1 Deal! More info here
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