Why Auckland is the Perfect Base for a Global VFX Career

It’s known as the City of Sails, and for good reason. With sparkling harbours, lush native bush, and an ever-growing creative industry, Auckland is more than just a backdrop. It’s a base for building a career in the global in VFX industry.

At Cause and FX, we’re proud to call this city home. From our Auckland studio, we’ve contributed to large-scale international productions such as Chief of War, Twisted Metal, sci-fi gold such as Star Trek and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. It’s high-end visual effects – without the long-haul flight.

A VFX Career in the Heart of the Pacific

New Zealand has long been known for its breathtaking landscapes and big-screen moments – and Auckland sits at the centre of it all. From world-class live shows and concerts to cultural gems like the Auckland War Memorial Museum, the city blends creative inspiration with vibrant lifestyle.

Whether you’re into surfing or salsa dancing, hiking or high tea, you’ll find your niche here. Our team brings together talent from across the globe – and across town – to collaborate on visual storytelling that travels the world.

Talitha Marisa, Compositing Artist, shares:

“I moved to Auckland in late 2017. Auckland is such a beautiful place to live. On top of that, it has a diverse and strong arts and culture scene that I really respect!

There is always something to do and I swear there is something for everyone! Some of my favourite things to do is watch local and international gigs at The Powerstation in Eden Terrace. Visit independent cinemas like Academy Cinemas, The Hollywood, and The Capitol. Attend local comedy acts at The Basement Theatre and Q Theatre. There is also a yearly New Zealand International Film Festival, where we celebrate global cinema, all made by a diverse group of storytellers.

To stay active and stretch after a long day of sitting in front of a monitor, I love going bouldering, yoga, and pilates! Luckily all three are close to where we work.”

4 Fun Facts That Make Auckland One of a Kind

1. Built on 53 volcanoes: All dormant, we promise. The views from Mt Eden and Rangitoto? Next level.
2. Boats, boats, boats: With one for every 11 people, sailing’s a serious local pastime.
3. Sky-high thrills: You can jump off the Sky Tower (with a harness, of course).
4. Island-hopping at your doorstep: Ferries to Rangitoto or Waiheke depart from downtown.

What Our Team Loves About Living Here

We asked a few of our crew to share what makes Auckland feel like home, from their go-to coffee spots to their favourite weekend escapes. Here’s what they had to say:

Best coffee in the city:

• Kompass Cafe in Auckland CBD, they have nice coffee and the best matcha!
• Slow Koi
• Seoul Roastery 1946, right next door to us!

Favourite live show venue or theatre

• Powerstation (in-fact, most of the team recommend this!)

Where they train or unwind

• “Any of the beaches north of Albany, Orewa, Tawharanui, Te Ari Omaha – great surf spots and to just chill for the day,  Auckland has some amazing skate parks,  weekend markets in Matakana, roaming around Orewa township on the weekend in the summer is lovely too.” – Sarah-Jane Lloyd, Compositing Artist.
• Northern Rocks in Wairau Valley
• “I love the cinema culture we have here, from all the little boutique cinemas screening indie films and old films, to the IMAX screen at Events, along with the festivals and mini festivals bringing so many opportunities to see so many kinds of films all year round in so many different kinds of venues.” – Harrison Malone, Compositing Artist.
• “I’m a city gal at heart so I LOVE having shops and stuff like movie theatres all around but we also get some really nice nature spots and walks not too far out from the main parts of the area.” – Robbie Limm, VFX Coordinator.
• “To stay active and stretch after a long day of sitting in front of a monitor, I love going bouldering, yoga, and Pilates! Luckily all three are close to where we work.” – Talitha Marisa, Compositing Artist

Big Projects, Balanced Lifestyle

Cause and FX is one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing visual effects studios, and we’re always on the lookout for new talent. Whether you’re a senior compositor or just getting started in 3D FX, Auckland offers more than just a job – it offers a lifestyle.

You’ll collaborate with a passionate team, contribute to internationally recognised work, and still have time to hit the beach, the bush, or the bar after hours.

“Working on Star Trek’s VFX from here in New Zealand has been a dream come true. There’s something magical about contributing to this iconic universe from the other side of the planet. Every day we’re exploring strange new worlds right from our desks.” – Chris Lyne, Head of 3D.

Thinking of Making the Move?

If you’re ready to take the next step in your VFX career, Auckland might just be the place for you. And Cause and FX could be your people.

📍 Explore current vacancies
📍 Learn more about working at Cause and FX
📍 Visit Auckland – Official Guide
📍 Immigration New Zealand

Join a team where the work is world-class and the lifestyle is unbeatable.

Based in Auckland, delivering globally, that’s the Cause and FX way.

Read more news