What about NZ content creators?

Why do the overseas content creators get all the love from the NZ Govt's new Digital Nomad policy? Here are my 12 recommendations to fix this nonsense.

The New Zealand government just opened up Visitor / Digital Nomad Visas, allowing influencers to come and work in New Zealand for free for up to nine months, and three months without becoming a tax resident.

They get to use all New Zealand facilities without paying any income tax, just a small amount of tax on the money that they spend in New Zealand.

Now that really gets on my nerves, because what happens to trying to support New Zealand creators, influencers, and people who are bringing overseas income into the country through content creation?

I'd love to see some support for us, like me and you, who might read this.

Supporting local talent is crucial for fostering a sustainable creative ecosystem. Here are some point-by-point ideas for how the New Zealand government could better support local creators and influencers:

1. Tax Incentives for Local Creators

• Introduce tax breaks or reduced tax rates for local content creators who earn income through digital platforms or overseas markets.
• Allow breeder and better rates for deductions for expenses related to content creation, such as equipment, software, and travel.

2. Grants and Funding Programs

• Establish grants specifically for local creators to fund projects, purchase equipment, or attend training programs.
• Create a fund to support emerging influencers and creators in niche industries, such as Māori culture, environmental advocacy, or tourism.

3. Skill Development and Training

• Offer subsidized or free workshops, courses, and mentorship programs to help local creators improve their skills in areas like video production, social media marketing, and brand partnerships.
• Partner with industry experts to provide masterclasses or networking opportunities.

4. Recognition and Awards

• Launch annual awards or competitions to recognize and celebrate the achievements of local creators and influencers.
• Provide cash prizes, media exposure, or sponsorships to winners to help them grow their platforms.

5. Local Collaboration Opportunities

• Encourage partnerships between local creators and New Zealand-based brands, tourism boards, and government campaigns.
• Create a platform or directory where businesses can easily find and collaborate with local influencers.

6. Export Support for Creative Content

• Provide resources and guidance to help local creators expand their reach into international markets.
• Offer funding or logistical support for creators to attend overseas conferences, expos, or networking events.

7. Infrastructure and Workspaces

• Invest in co-working spaces or creative hubs where local creators can work, collaborate, and access high-quality equipment.
• Subsidize access to studios, editing suites, or other facilities needed for content production.

8. Promotion of Local Content

• Launch government-backed campaigns to promote New Zealand-made content on social media and other platforms.
• Feature local creators in tourism campaigns or other national initiatives.

9. Fair Competition Policies

• Ensure that policies like the Visitor Visa program do not disadvantage local creators by requiring foreign influencers to collaborate with or mentor local talent during their stay.
• Implement measures to ensure that foreign influencers contribute to the local creative economy, such as paying taxes on income earned while in New Zealand after 3 months, without allowing them to hop over to Australia and then back again to avoid it..

10. Feedback and Representation

• Create a council or advisory group made up of local creators to provide input on policies affecting the creative industry.
• Regularly consult with the creative community to identify challenges and opportunities for growth.

11. Mental Health and Wellbeing Support

• Provide resources and support for the mental health and wellbeing of creators, who often face unique pressures such as online harassment or the stress of maintaining a public persona.

12. Data and Research

• Conduct research to better understand the economic and cultural impact of local creators and influencers.
• Use this data to inform policies and initiatives that support the growth of the creative sector.

By implementing some of these ideas, the New Zealand government could create a more balanced and supportive environment for local creators, ensuring that they are not overshadowed by international influencers while still benefiting from global talent and perspectives.

Gosh, I'm annoyed about this ...