FAQs

  • As long as you have the right to work in NZ (Visa, Citizen or Resident), your own (or parents for under 18’s) reliable transport, a flexible timetable or good general availability then we would LOVE to sign you up to work in the industry and be submitted for every role you fit the characteristics and abilities for.

  • No experience is required to be an extra. However, being on time, having a professional attitude, being reliable, and following directions well will increase your chances of getting booked for jobs. If you are new to the industry we have regular workshops which we recommend you attend.

    • Extras: Usually, only a head and a bodyshot are needed.

    • Actors: A professional portfolio, headshots, and a showreel showcasing your acting work will help secure auditions.

    • Models: A portfolio with high-quality images is essential, especially for print and commercial modeling.

Getting Started

  • Casting directors will contact us when they need talent. We in turn, submit you for roles that fit your profile. The more available you are, the better your chances of being cast. It can be very short notice for auditions so you must be flexible with your weekdays and other commitments. Remember, we will only submit you when you mark available.

  • How long is a piece of string! No work is guaranteed but you will be submitted for every role you fit the brief for. Work can also be irregular, depending on production schedules and your look or skills. Extras may get booked more frequently, while principal acting or modeling roles are more competitive. Casting is a very specific process with many factors to be taken into account.  We pride ourselves on supplying the right talent for the right role, so if that’s you, you’ll be on the list.

  • No. We are an exclusive agency.

Bookings & Work

  • Pay will vary for each role but can start at minimum wage gross for 3 hours and can go up to tens of thousands! We take a 20% commission, which is how we earn our money, and will pay your tax for you e.g. You earn $100 gross, minus 20% commission and 20% withholding tax = $60, your take home net pay. Remember, you choose which roles you want to be available for.

  • We make weekly payments but bear in mind that we have to wait for production to pay us so we can then pay you. This can take between 4-6 weeks. We will need your bank details and IR330C tax form loaded onto your profile in order to pay you.

  • No, Casting Link does not charge a registration or annual website fee. We only get paid when we get you work.

Pay & Contracts

  • We will always specify wardrobe requirements. If not, wear neutral, plain clothing (NO logos, bright colours (fluoro), big prints or stripes) and always take 2-3 changes in case the wardrobe team requests a change.

  • No. Productions have strict confidentiality agreements. Never take photos or approach cast and crew, unless given permission.

  • Productions can be a minimum of 3 hours, to a maximum of 12. You can expect some down time on set so ALWAYS take your own snacks, water, and something quiet to do.

On-Set Etiquette

  • If you are not a New Zealand citizen or resident, you need a valid work visa. We do not sponsor visas.

  • We will deduct your tax at source, and will require a signed IR330C and your bank details to pay you. If you are GST registered, you will need to submit an invoice.

  • For extras, an agent helps secure roles and checks rates and terms. Social media callouts are usually very low pay, with very unfavourable terms. For Featured extras, small part performers, actors and models, having an agent significantly increases your chances of landing paid work.

    We can also make sure the work you agree to won’t limit you from future roles.

Legal & Tax Information

    • Keep your profile updated with recent photos.

    • Attend acting or modeling workshops and classes.

    • Be professional, punctual, and easy to work with.

    • Gain experience through community theatre, student films, or independent projects.

  • While most productions happen in Auckland and Wellington, there are occasional shoots in other locations like Queenstown, Christchurch, and Dunedin. Some projects also require travel.

  • Yes! Many actors start as extras. Taking acting classes, networking, and gaining on-set experience can help you land speaking roles. We regularly post our recommended list of classes and workshops as they become available.

Opportunities & Growth