Written by new-contact on Sep 30, 2011. Posted in On Location

Hawaiian island of Maui considers its location filming future

Hawaiians on the island of Maui are looking into ways to improve their appeal as a filming location. Over 150 people gathered at a meeting earlier this week held by the Maui Film Office, according to MauiNow.com. New studios and a cash injection to the local industry could help boost business.

Zoning provisions have been made on the island for potential new studios and there’s also the possibility of a USD7 million revolving fund being set up to improve filming incentives and boost job creation. The island is keen to appeal on an international level, as opposed to being simply the exotic choice for US productions.

We are not just going to look at the mainland US to attract film productions. We’re going to Asia - we’re going to look globally.

Teena Rasmussen, Maui Office of Economic Development

Teena Rasmussen is Director of Maui’s Office of Economic Development addressed the meeting: “We are not just going to look at the mainland US to attract film productions. We’re going to Asia - we’re going to look globally. We know we’re special; we know what we have to offer. So I just wanted to tell you that we are looking beyond the shores of the United States for film work and I think we’re going to be very successful with your help.”

As a state Hawaii offers filming tax credits of between 15% and 20% depending on the specific island. Earlier this year Relativity Media and Shangri-La Industries lobbied extensively to have the tax credits increased in order to develop major new studio facilities, but the decision was deferred for a year.

Hawaii’s biggest claim to fame in recent years was hosting TV show Lost throughout its run. The remake of Hawaii Five-0 replaced it last year.