The New Zealand film industry is strengthening its ties with the Shijingshan district in Beijing, announced the chief delegate from the country at the 10th China-New Zealand Film Carnival on Friday.

The carnival kicked off on Friday evening at Shougang Park in Shijingshan, an arts and entertainment venue transformed from a former steel mill, and will continue until June 29.

Michael Stephens, head of the New Zealand film delegation of the ongoing event, said, "The New Zealand film industry stands ready to establish closer and more regular cooperation with Shijingshan, focusing on areas such as co-production, talent exchange, IP incubation, and integrated cultural tourism."

A New Zealand-produced film, 1978, premiered during the opening ceremony, and both Chinese and New Zealand artists showcased folk art performances throughout the event.

Taking place at one of the venues that hosted the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, the ongoing event offers film enthusiasts a stunning celebration that merges cinematic art, cultural exchange, and urban revitalization.

Zhong Mianmian, the district's deputy director, said, "The district is empowering the film industry with cutting-edge technologies, leveraging cultural strength from its industrial heritage."