Rāngai Limited, a Gisborne-based production studio and education provider, launched four new bachelor-level pathways and a Trades Academy course last month, creating more opportunities for local rangatahi.
The new programmes are supported by a $68,500 grant from Trust Tairāwhiti.
Thirteen students have enrolled in the Bachelor of Screen Arts, which offers majors in film, animation, concept art and design, and game development. The programme follows a HyFlex model, combining hands-on learning at Rāngai with online theory-based lessons through the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT). This approach ensures students gain technical skills and industry exposure, preparing them for careers in the creative sector.
“We’ve had a strong start,” says Rāngai manager and education lead Jacqui Knight. “The first month has focused on helping students understand the commitment to their studies and identifying their strengths. The degree begins with a collaborative module, bringing together all disciplines to work on a production, reinforcing the importance of teamwork in the creative industries.”
Recognising that the HyFlex model doesn’t suit everyone, Jacqui encourages students to complete the online component together at Rāngai. “Some students struggle with long periods at a computer, so learning as a group fosters discussion and interaction amongst their peers, with staff support, making the experience more engaging. This flexibility sets us apart from other tertiary providers.”
A focus for the bachelor courses is bridging the gap between film industry needs and graduate skills.
“When international productions come to New Zealand, like Avatar, they require thousands of skilled workers. Yet, there’s still a misalignment between industry needs and available skills. Our bachelor courses focus on practical training, preparing students for essential but often overlooked roles, like offline editors, gaffers and sound designers,” says Jacqui.
Rāngai has also introduced Integrated Creative Skills Level 2, a new Trades Academy course in partnership with EIT. Up to 20 students in years 11 to 13 can enrol annually, gaining hands-on experience in film production, game development, fashion (costume design), photography, art and design, and project management.
“Feedback so far has been really positive. Many students have said they enjoy practical, hands-on learning and feel more engaged than in traditional classroom settings. Some have even discovered new creative passions they hadn’t considered before.”
Offering these pathways locally encourages talent to stay in the region.
Previous graduates have chosen to freelance from Gisborne for Rāngai and other companies, an option available for students in both the bachelor pathways and Trades Academy courses.
“Freelancing is a great option for those who want to stay close to home. We train students to be self-directed and adaptable – essential skills in a fast-changing industry,” Jacqui says.
“Students can also build careers from home, telling the many stories of Tairāwhiti. This region has breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural narratives suited to film, yet creative careers remain undervalued. We want to change that perception.”
By expanding local education options, Rāngai is strengthening the region’s creative industries and shifting perceptions about the viability of creative careers. With a strong start and growing interest, the future looks bright for aspiring creatives in Tairāwhiti.
