Around 100 roles at visual effects company Wētā FX are facing changes under a new proposal, the company says.

The digital visual effects and computer animation company based in Wellington’s Miramar has proposed changes to around 100 roles in its support departments.

Most of those positions are in Wellington.

A spokesperson from Wētā FX said a consultation period has since started with the crew that are proposed to be impacted.

“Following a period of feedback and review, the changes will be confirmed and impacted crew will be informed. If the proposed changes are confirmed, they will be phased in with specific dates or role transitions dependent on individual agreements and circumstances,” they said.

Positions, mostly in support departments, are proposed to be impacted at the animation and visual effects company based in Miramar. (Source: 1News)

Wētā FX currently has approximately 2200 staff globally, most of which are contracted artists that are not impacted by the proposed change process.

The company said a number of “macro factors have led to the proposed changes, including current challenges facing the global entertainment industry”.

“In addition to unexpected delays in projects being greenlit due to financial considerations, the industry continues to feel the long-tail impact of the pandemic, industry strikes, and changes in audience content consumption habits.”

“As with all visual effects houses, artist numbers fluctuate based on the needs of current projects, so it is not uncommon for crew numbers to shift over time,” the spokesperson said.

‘A major blow’ — Wellington Mayor

Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau said she was “saddened” to hear about the proposed cuts.

“If proposed changes leading to job losses are confirmed, this will be a major blow to Wellington’s creative sector and the city’s economy, especially with the ongoing public service cuts.

“We are ready to work with the Government and Wellington NZ to enhance the incentives programme, ensuring New Zealand can compete with other countries like Australia and attract a greater number of international productions.”