About Our Story
Frequently
Asked Questions
What is a stunt performer?
A stunt performer is a trained professional who executes high-risk action (like falls, fight scenes, wire work) in place of actors to ensure both safety and realism.
What age can you start stunt training?
In-person: ages 12+ and Online:16+
We run few kids stunt and horse workshop throughout the year from 8 years old. Check our courses here
Do I need prior experience?
Not at all. Our entry-level workshops are designed for complete beginners. If you're unsure about your physical readiness, we offer a free course and fitness quiz to help you assess your current level and get personalised tips before starting the Fight for Camera course.
Take the Free Fitness Quizz Now
What skills do I need for stunt work?
You don’t need to be an athlete! But over time, you’ll build skills in body coordination, falls, fight choreography, rolls, and reactions. We’ll guide you step by step.
Read More about Stunt Performer Roles
Join the Fight For Camera Course
How long does it take to become a working stunt performer?
It varies per person, but consistent training over 2-3 years can get you ready for professional work. We offer a full progression pathway from beginner to advanced.
See our full training pathway
How do I go from stunt trainee to professional stunt performer and eventually stunt coordinator?
Becoming a registered professional stunt performer is a multi-step journey that takes time, dedication, and consistent training. Here's a general pathway:
Start with foundational training — like our Fight for Camera course and monthly stunt sessions to build basic skills in falls, fights, reactions, and safety.
Continue training and get on-set experience — work as a background or action extra, or assist with stunt departments when possible.
Film your work and build a stunt CV/demo reel to show progress.
Submit yourself for industry trainee lists or registration — each country has different requirements. In NZ, there’s no formal registry, but coordinators like Dayna prefer working with known, trusted performers who are registered in the NZ Stunt Guild.
Work under senior stunt coordinators and build up years of credited work.
When you’re ready and have strong industry experience, you may be trusted to lead teams and apply for stunt coordinator positions.
Should I train online or in person?
Both options work great! In-person training is ideal for hands-on learning. Our online platform is perfect if you're based outside Auckland or overseas.
Explore our online stunt training options
Do I get a certificate after the course?
Yes! All participants receive a certificate of completion, which you can include in your stunt CV or send to your agency.
We also can provide assessment certificate if needed.
What safety measures are in place during training?
Safety is our top priority. All sessions are supervised by experienced stunt professionals, and we use crash mats, safety gear, and gradual learning progressions. If learning online, safety precautions and progressive lessons are implemented to reduce risk of serious injuries. Please read safety disclaimer and waiver here.
Can I work internationally after training with NZSS?
Yes. Many of our students go on to work internationally. Our training covers globally recognised stunt techniques. We can provide a reference letter or assessment to support your Stunt Guild application if needed.
Please note: Fight for Camera is an introductory course, not a full professional qualification.
Can I record videos during the training?
We film demo videos for you to access afterward. You're also welcome to record your own training so you can compare your footage with ours and review your progress.
How do I get private stunt coaching online?
You can access personalized online stunt coaching through our 4-Week 1-on-1 Stunt Coaching Program. Designed for performers who have completed beginner training, this program offers weekly training plans, video feedback, and skill-specific coaching — all delivered remotely by professional stunt instructors.
Read more and fill out the inquiry form
How do I get stunt work after training?
After your training at NZSS, we recommend building a stunt CV and demo reel to showcase your skills. We can also If you're continuing to train on your own, you can submit videos for instructor feedback through our remote assessment service. Once you're ready and meet the criteria, you can apply to join our agency, NZ Action Talent, to be considered for real jobs in the industry.
Do I need to bring my own gear?
We provide everything needed during training. You just need to wear active clothes and bring a water bottle. We have a shop available for merch and stunt pads accessible to all our NZSS members.
What are common injuries, and how are they managed?
Minor bumps or bruises can occasionally happen, but we focus on proper technique, warm-ups, and gradual progressions to reduce risks. If you have any existing injuries or medical concerns, please get clearance from a medical professional before attending and let us know in advance. You are responsible for monitoring your own condition during training and must stop immediately if you experience pain or discomfort.
What are the payment options?
You can pay in full or in split payments when available (depending on the course). We also accept manual payments including internet banking and, in some cases, cash on the day. Payment instructions will be provided after registration.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel, please notify us at least 24 hours before the course to be eligible for a refund or credit. No refunds will be given for no-shows or late cancellations. If we need to cancel or reschedule a course, you’ll be offered a full refund or the option to transfer to another date.
Read our Terms of Use
Where is the training held?
Most of our in-person training takes place in Auckland. We use different venues depending on the course (indoor gyms, outdoor spaces, or equestrian facilities). Exact location details are sent after registration.
We run few stunts training in Christchurch and Wellington throughout the year.
What if I arrive late or miss part of the training?
Please arrive on time as we start with safety briefings and warm-ups. If you're running late, contact us as soon as possible. Missed sessions are not refundable but we’ll do our best to catch you up if time allows.
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
You can email us anytime at [email protected] We're happy to help with course info, registration, or general enquiries.
What is NZ Action Talent (NZAT)?
NZAT is our in-house talent agency representing background extras, action extras, body doubles, and stunt performers. It’s connected to NZ Stunt School, so we prioritise trained and reliable talent.
If you're just starting out, you'll likely be submitted for background roles (non-speaking parts), action extras (movement-based roles with light stunt elements), or sometimes body double work if your physical look matches a specific character.
Once you gain more experience and training, you may be considered for more advanced or featured stunt roles.
Is there an age limit to join NZAT?
You must be at least 16 years old to join the agency independently. For underage talent, please contact us directly to discuss guardian consent and eligibility.
We do also represent kids under 16, but please note that work opportunities for children are more limited and depend on production requirements.
Will I be paid for fittings, makeup tests, or rehearsals?
Yes, most productions pay for fitting days, makeup tests, or rehearsal sessions — though rates vary. Always clarify this before accepting a booking.
What if I accept a booking and can’t make it?
Let us know immediately. Last-minute cancellations affect our relationship with productions, so please only accept jobs you can commit to.
Do I have to be available all the time?
No — you choose which roles you’re available for. However, the more flexible and responsive you are, the more likely you are to get booked.
Is my profile visible on the NZ Action Talent website?
No. We don’t display public profiles on our website. Talent profiles are managed privately through Heycast, where we submit you directly to casting agents and productions. Only approved industry professionals can view your details.
Create your profile for free
Is there a fee to join the agency?
Yes. There’s a one-time $50 admin fee when you join, which covers your onboarding and setup. We also take an 18% commission from any paid jobs you receive through us. This is deducted from your gross earnings — no hidden fees.
Is NZ Action Talent a big agency?
No and that’s by choice. We’re a small, independent agency focused on representing talent we know and trust. You won’t get lost in a database of thousands. We take time to work closely with each performer and only submit people we believe are ready for the job.
Will I be contacted directly by production?
No, all communication goes through NZAT. We handle your booking, submit your details, and liaise with production to keep everything organized and professional.
Do you guarantee work once I join?
No agency can guarantee work. We submit you when you're a good fit for a role, but final casting decisions are made by the production or casting director.
How do I improve my chances of being booked?
Keep your profile updated with clear, recent photos
Add new skills or training (especially from NZSS)
Be reliable and responsive when we reach out
Continue training and growing your experience
Will I be on a contract with NZAT?
No long-term contract is required. You are free to leave at any time, and we only ask that you’re not represented by another extra’s agency at the same time (unless agreed in writing).
Can I partner with NZ Stunt School or promote your courses?
Yes – we offer a selective Affiliate & Partner Program for gyms, martial arts clubs, dance studios, and other aligned communities. If you’re interested in promoting NZ Stunt School workshops or online training, you can apply via our Affiliate page. Approved partners may receive a referral commission and early access to exclusive events and collabs.
What does the Horse Department do?
We coordinate all horse-related services for film and television — from selecting trained horses and rehearsing scenes to training actors, stunt riders’ provision and ensuring on-set safety. Our team is led by experienced Horse Master Dayna Pomare Pai.
Do you run horse safety workshops?
Yes! We offer horse safety training for film, tailored to actors, crew, or anyone with limited horse experience. These workshops are also available to pony clubs and public.
Contact Us
Can actors learn to ride with you?
Absolutely. We offer riding training for screen, including character-specific riding, safe mounting/dismounting, and working alongside horses on set.
Are the horses trained for film?
Yes, all our horses are camera-ready, trained for noise, movement, and working calmly under pressure. They’re regularly rehearsed for combat scenes, riding doubles, and on-set conditions.
Do you provide horses for hire?
Yes, we supply horses, tack, wranglers, and safety coordination for productions. Packages are tailored to the scene, number of animals, and actor preparation needed.
Where is the horse training held?
Most sessions are held at our private facility (South Auckland), with the option to travel to set or clubs with prior arrangement and also have a full facility in Wellington
Do you work directly with production?
Yes. All horse work is coordinated through the Horse Master in consultation with the stunt or action team, production, and safety reps. We do not use subcontractors, everyone is selected and supervised directly.
What safety procedures are in place?
We use industry-standard safety protocols, including rider assessments, calm and well-trained horses, controlled environments, and clearly rehearsed action. All participants receive a full safety briefing and must follow instructions at all times.
Our team members have no criminal convictions and operate with zero tolerance for unsafe behavior, including strict adherence to animal welfare standards at the highest level.
Can kids or beginners join horse workshops?
Yes — we welcome beginners and young riders in our horse safety and intro sessions. For film-specific roles, participants must be assessed for suitability.
Do you offer documentation like risk assessments or horse profiles?
Yes, we can provide Job Safety Analyses (JSA), horse profiles, and safety plans upon request for production use.
What kind of horse lessons do you offer?
We offer tailored horse lessons for all levels — from complete beginners to riders preparing for film roles. Lessons include horse care, ground handling, mounting and dismounting, posture, and riding in character for screen. We also run horse safety workshops for those new to working around horses.
Trekking, mounted archery, trick riding, intro to rodeo riding skills, horse riding
Do you train stunt riders?
Yes. For riders who already have solid horse skills, we offer stunt-specific training, including riding with weapons, high-speed riding, falls from horseback, and coordinating scenes safely. All stunt riding sessions are supervised and by invitation only to ensure safety and readiness.
What services do you provide for productions?
We offer a full range of services including:
Stunt coordination and performers
Rigging and wire work
Horse coordination and trained horses
Fight choreography and rehearsals
Stunt and safety equipment hire
On-set safety briefings and documentation
Can you help with pre-production planning?
Yes, we assist with script breakdowns, stunt budgeting, storyboarding, and risk assessments to help you plan safely and efficiently from the start.
Contact Us
Do you offer custom training for actors?
Absolutely. We regularly train actors in basic stunt skills, fight scenes, and horse riding to prepare them for specific roles. Training can be held at our facility or on location.
Contact Us
Can we hire your team for commercials or short films?
Yes. We work on everything from student projects and independent films to large-scale commercials and international productions. Let us know your budget and needs.
Contact Us
Do you offer safety briefings and documentation?
Yes. We provide Job Safety Analyses (JSAs), risk assessments, fire safety documentation, and pre-rig inspections tailored to your shoot.
Contact Us
Are your crew qualified and experienced?
Yes. Our team includes professional stunt coordinators, riggers, horse masters, and safety advisors, all with years of on-set experience and a proven safety record with no criminal convictions.
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Do you travel for work outside Auckland?
Yes. We’re based in Auckland but regularly travel across New Zealand and overseas for productions. Travel and accommodation costs will apply.
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How far in advance should we book your services?
For larger jobs or full coordination, please contact us at least 3–4 weeks in advance. For urgent or short-notice jobs, we’ll do our best to accommodate depending on availability.
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Do you provide fight choreography for theatre productions?
Yes — we choreograph stage combat and fight scenes for theatre, tailored to your cast's skill level and the production’s tone. We focus on safe, repeatable movements that look great live while keeping performers protected.
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Can you run workshops or support schools and drama classes?
Absolutely! We offer in-person workshops for schools, drama departments, and film programs, as well as online resources for teachers and students learning about stunt work or stage combat.
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Do you provide rigging services for stunts?
Yes — we offer professional rigging for wire work, flying gags, harness setups, deadmen, air rams, and more. Our rigging team works to the highest safety standards and can assist with both pre-rig and on-set execution.
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Can we hire stunt equipment from you?
Yes. We provide stunt equipment hire for productions, training, and workshops. Available gear includes:
Crash mats and padding
Wires, harnesses, and safety gear
Foam and prop weapons
