Making cool stuff since 1987

Co-founders Richard Taylor and Tania Rodger are the creative duo who have built Wētā Workshop into what it is today.

With more than thirty years’ experience, Co-founder and Creative Director Richard Taylor is the passionate creative at the core of Wētā Workshop. Richard has built a culture of enthusiasm and excellence that is brought to bear in every project that enters the workshop.

Additionally, Richard undertakes many other responsibilities and endeavours. Richard has spent over 20 years working regularly in China and has built a highly respected relationship with local and central government, educational facilities, and the creative industries, and has nurtured many strong business collaborations. In 2010 Richard was made a Knight Companion of the NZ Order of Merit for his services to film, and in 2012 he was named New Zealander of the Year. Richard has won over 30 national and international awards for his work within the creative industries. He was also a founding board member of Florida-based mixed reality technology company Magic Leap.

Regardless of these extensive endeavours, Richard is still found on the workshop floor nearly every day with sleeves rolled, mucking in with the team.

Thirty years in, and now with two wonderful children in tow, Tania focuses her efforts on managing crew induction, health and safety, and archiving at the workshop. She also applies her passion for creativity, artistry, and professionalism in associated businesses on the Miramar Peninsula, including as a partner in the iconic Roxy Cinema.

Together, Richard and Tania (along with friend and colleague Martin Baynton and Chinese company Shambala) co-own the children’s IP development and TV production company Pukeko Pictures. Tania and Richard are also co-owners and directors of Stardog LP, their IP development company best known for Greg Broadmore’s The World of Dr. Grordbort’s. As patrons of The Little Miracles Trust, the pair are also heavily involved in the Wellington community and regularly contribute their time to charity projects and initiatives.

Both Richard and Tania have had the great fortune of working with and meeting many wonderful people throughout their career. Says Richard:

“When I reflect on what Wētā Workshop’s team have grown to become, it is one of a collective of creative thinkers and doers, all driven by an affinity towards the process and love of making. Like myself, our team are inspired by the creative challenge of the projects we have the good fortune to be involved in.”