A biopic produced and directed by former Dunedin people has scooped nine awards at an international film festival.
The feature-length television film Jean - about New Zealand aviatrix Jean Batten - was awarded five gold medals and four silver, including best drama special and best screenplay at the 2017 New York World's Best Television and Films Festival.
Dunedin-based television production company NHNZ was also heralded at the festival. It was awarded a gold medal in the nature and wildlife category for the documentary The Desert Sea: Land of the Giants.
Jean co-producer Donna Malane, now living in Auckland, said Jean had a strong Dunedin connection as both she and fellow producer Paula Boock, also in Auckland, of Lippy Pictures grew up in the city, as did director Robert Sarkies.
The team's shared experience of growing up in a ''very creative space'' influenced the creation of the film, she said.
''We certainly collaborated very well with Rob. I think there is something about coming from the same place and having similar childhoods that encourages that.''
Ms Malane was thrilled by the ''extraordinary number'' of awards the film received.
Gold medals for ''Drama Special'' and ''TV Movie'' meant the most to the production company ''because they reflect the work of everyone involved''.
Mr Sarkies said he was particularly pleased for actress Kate Elliott, of Auckland, who won the Best Performance by an Actress category.
''Unfortunately, in New Zealand something goes to air and some people watch it and some don't and usually that's it.
''This gives everyone that sense that we can make it on the world stage.''
She was also pleased the story of Jean Batten would be shared with more people.
''Hers is a largely uncelebrated story, and a remarkably unknown one.''
