A home for screen creatives · Auckland
A relaxed, generous space for actors, writers and film professionals to strengthen their craft, develop work and find their people.
Grindspot Studios >>>Tamaki Labs
Tamaki Labs connects the energy of a workshop with the practical possibilities of a working studio. Come to train, test an idea, develop a project, or meet collaborators who care about the details.
Every Monday · 7:30–9:30pm
Led by Kat Hawkes - actor, director, producer and founder of Tamaki Labs. Developers (writers, directors, producers and other makers) work in the room with actors, so both groups can test ideas, improvise, try fresh material and have fun working together.
Mondays & Wednesdays · 4:15–6:15pm
Led by Kat Hawkes. Fun, lively workshops for emerging talent - building confidence and trying out different creative ways of working. Each young person’s path is tailored: one might lean into acting, another into writing. We’re in the registration stage now, so register your interest to help get this class started.
Wednesdays · 7:30–9:30pm
Led by Darryl Jones. Screenplay development, outlining, character, subtext checklisting, writing exercises, collaboration and constructive review - a place to move a script forward. Begins in 2027; registrations are being taken now.
Industry-leading guest lecturers will bring fresh perspectives into the room. The Labs also opens a pathway toward independent film opportunities as related projects and productions develop.
Young Creatives and Writers Development are extra workshops we’re building alongside the Monday Actor-Developer Lab. We’re now growing registrations and support to get them running. Register, tell a friend, or get in touch if you’d like to support the Labs.
Register your interestNo nonsense, no posturing - just serious creative work in a welcoming environment.
The Monday Actor-Developer Lab runs every Monday. Young Creatives is taking registrations now, and Writers Development starts in 2027 - registrations open.
Tamaki Labs shares Grindspot Studios’ live calendar, so classes, studio activity and creative gatherings all stay in one place.
Space to take risks, ask questions and make the work more alive - whether you arrive with a scene, a character or a blank page.
Develop alongside actors, writers and makers in a supportive environment built for useful feedback and generous exchange.
Tamaki Labs @ Grindspot Studios: a living film environment with creative projects, screen culture and independent production at its core.
Tell us what you’re interested in and Tamaki Labs will get back to you.