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Milan A. - Freelance Animator

Available

Animator
Hi, I'm Milan Andreoli. I recently graduated with a Bachelor's in Animation from Yoobee College of Creative Innovation in Auckland, New Zealand, where I focused on charac...
Yujie Y. - Freelance Animator

Available

Animator
I’m a Bachelor of Design graduate from Victoria University of Wellington, specialising in Animation with a minor in Communication Design. As an emerging creative, I’m pas...
Anna B. - Freelance Animator

Available

Animator
Hello there, I'm Anna! A highly creative graphic designer, with seven years experience in both graphic and motion design. I am detail-oriented and am looking to develop m...
Zach - Freelance Animator

Available

Animator
2D Animation, 3D Animation, 3D Design
2D Animation, 3D Animation, 3D Design
Hi, my name is Zach. I'm a digital artist who specializes in animation, design, rendering and anything else you can throw my way. I am an experienced animator and exc...
Edgardo H. - Freelance Animator

Available

Animator
I'm Edgardo Herrera, a Brand and Motion Designer from Argentina, currently living in New Zealand. I specialize in brand design, motion graphics, and video editing. I've ...
Phil A. - Freelance Animator

Available

Animator
2D Animation, 3D Animation, Adobe After Effects
2D Animation, 3D Animation, Adobe After Effects
Hi I'm Phil, a Designer/Animator with 10 years industry experience with an obsession for bespoke Art + Animation projects. Breathing a multidisciplinary approach I can m...
Phyo K. - Freelance Animator

Available

Animator
2D Animation, 3D Animation, 3D Design
2D Animation, 3D Animation, 3D Design
Final-year Yoobee Colleges animation student with experience in health-focused animation production at Headway Auckland, where I volunteered as a 2D animator. My experien...
Ilya Z. - Freelance Animator

Available

Animator
3D Animation, 3D Design, 3D Model
3D Animation, 3D Design, 3D Model
I'm Ilya Zakharovskiy, a passionate 3D Environment Artist and generalist based in Auckland, NZ. Over the past seven years I’ve worked through the full cycle of creating g...
Wen H. - Freelance Animator

Available

Animator
3D Animation, 3D Design, 3D Model
3D Animation, 3D Design, 3D Model
I’m a graduate student at Massey University, currently balancing a casual job while seeking new opportunities to gain more work experience. I’m excited to explore a role ...
Denian S. - Freelance Animator

Available

Animator
Hi! I'm Denian, a creative and detail-oriented Brazilian designer based in New Zealand. I specialize in branding, animation, illustration, and video editing. I’m passiona...
Bea H. - Freelance Animator

Available

Animator
2D Animation
2D Animation
I am a passionate 2D Animator with over three years of key animation experience. I've dedicated my career to mastering the art of animation and storytelling. My journey i...
Jesse L. - Freelance Animator

Available

Animator
My name is Jesse Leeward. I am a New Zealand/American animator. I have worked as an animator on films, advertisements, a music video and GIFs in New Zealand. After gr...

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We have over 14,500 animators who've worked in many different industries and cover various styles and skillsets.
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"Working with him on character design was a really good experience. He understood the vision quickly and was able to turn ideas into a character that actually felt alive, expressive, and well thought out. What stood out most was his attention to detail, creativity, and the way he handled feedback without making the process..."
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Derick @ Self Employed
Apr 21, 2026
"Andrew Austin is not only talented and creative, he's also a good organizer and producer, with an impressive portfolio of projects. He has good business skills and knows how to deliver high quality animation."
Jay @ Jaymation
Apr 15, 2026
"Jay Jackson is great to work with, I have hired Jay for several projects including: Disney/American Eagle Holiday Spot, Timon and Pumbaa educational shorts, Safeway Chalkboard spots, and more! whether he's directing, designing or animating 3D or 2D, Jay delivers wonderful, expressive character performances."
Andrew @ Fowler Amusement Co.
Apr 15, 2026
"I recently had the pleasure of working with Minahil for my book design project, and I’m extremely satisfied with her work. She is very humble, patient, and highly professional in her approach. Throughout the process, she listened carefully to my requirements and made sure every detail was handled with care and creativity...."
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Zeeshan @ Noble Grow
Apr 14, 2026
"I had the pleasure of working with Chris at City Explorer, where I supported him as a lead instructor in the company’s Livestreaming Academy. Chris is a true expert in film and media production. His technical knowledge is vast, but what really sets him apart is his ability to translate that expertise into clear, actionable..."
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Gerardo @ City Explorer
Apr 13, 2026
"10/10 Work, Great Experience working with Aziz."
Ayaan @ Cowork Ltd
Apr 12, 2026
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From the blog

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an Animator do?

Animators are skilled artists who create moving images and visual effects for various media, including film, television, video games, and online platforms. They bring characters and scenes to life through a combination of traditional and digital techniques. Their responsibilities typically include:

  • Developing storyboards and character designs.
  • Creating animations using software like Adobe After Effects, Maya, or Blender.
  • Collaborating with directors and other artists to ensure the animation aligns with the project vision.
  • Editing and refining animations based on feedback.

Animation can involve 2D or 3D techniques, and animators must possess a keen understanding of movement, timing, and storytelling to engage audiences effectively.

How to Hire an Animator in New Zealand?

Hiring an animator in New Zealand involves several steps to ensure you find the right fit for your project. Begin by defining your project scope, including the style, duration, and purpose of the animation. Once you have a clear vision, you can:

  • Search for animators through platforms like Twine, where you can find a variety of freelance talent.
  • Review portfolios to assess their style and past work.
  • Reach out to potential candidates and discuss your project requirements.
  • Evaluate their communication skills and responsiveness.

Finally, ensure to discuss timelines, budget, and expectations before making your decision.

How much does it cost to hire an Animator in New Zealand?

The cost to hire an animator in New Zealand can vary based on experience level:

  • Beginner: NZD 25 - NZD 40 per hour
  • Junior: NZD 40 - NZD 70 per hour
  • Mid-level: NZD 70 - NZD 100 per hour
  • Senior: NZD 100 - NZD 150 per hour
  • Expert: NZD 150 - NZD 250+ per hour

These rates can fluctuate based on the complexity of the project and the animator’s specific skill set. Always discuss your budget upfront to find the right talent for your needs.

What qualities set exceptional Animators apart from the rest?

Exceptional animators possess a unique combination of technical skills and artistic vision. Key qualities include:

  • Strong storytelling ability to convey emotions and narratives effectively.
  • Proficiency in various animation software and techniques.
  • Attention to detail, ensuring smooth and realistic animations.
  • Creativity to innovate and bring fresh ideas to projects.
  • Excellent communication skills for collaborating with teams and clients.

These traits enable them to create compelling animations that resonate with audiences and meet project goals.

How do you recognize the perfect Animator in New Zealand for your needs?

Recognizing the perfect animator for your needs involves evaluating several factors. Start by reviewing their portfolio to see if their style aligns with your vision. Look for:

  • Previous work that showcases versatility and creativity.
  • Positive client reviews and testimonials highlighting their work ethic.
  • Experience relevant to your project’s genre or industry.

Additionally, conduct an interview to assess their understanding of your project, communication skills, and compatibility with your team. A strong fit will enhance collaboration and project outcomes.

What are the key questions to ask in an Animator interview?

During an animator interview, it’s essential to ask questions that reveal their skills, experience, and approach. Consider asking:

  • Can you describe your animation process from concept to completion?
  • What software and tools do you prefer to use, and why?
  • How do you handle feedback and revisions during a project?
  • Can you provide examples of challenges you faced in past projects and how you overcame them?
  • What is your availability, and how do you manage deadlines?

These questions help gauge their professionalism, expertise, and ability to meet your project requirements.

What’s the difference between hiring a freelance Animator and working with an agency in New Zealand?

When choosing between a freelance animator and an agency, there are distinct differences to consider. Freelance animators typically offer more flexibility and direct communication. They often have lower overhead costs, which can translate to more competitive rates. However, they may have limited resources for larger projects.

On the other hand, agencies provide a team of professionals, often with diverse skill sets, ensuring a more comprehensive approach to larger projects. They usually have established processes and can handle multiple aspects of a project simultaneously. However, agency rates may be higher due to their operational costs.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your project scope, budget, and preferred working style.

What should be in an Animator project brief/job description?

Creating a comprehensive project brief or job description for an animator is crucial for attracting the right talent. Key elements to include are:

  • A clear project overview detailing the goals and intended audience.
  • Specific animation style and techniques desired (e.g., 2D, 3D, stop-motion).
  • Timeline for project milestones and final delivery.
  • Budget constraints and payment structure.
  • Details on collaboration and communication expectations.

A well-structured brief ensures that animators understand your vision and can provide accurate proposals.

How do I hire an Animator in New Zealand on Twine?

Hiring on Twine is simple.

  1. Post a job with your project details, timeline, and budget.
  2. Browse portfolios of vetted animators and invite those who match your needs.
  3. Receive proposals and compare experience, pricing, and reviews.
  4. Communicate expectations, set milestones, and finalize the hire.
  5. Securely pay through Twine, ensuring protection for both parties. Twine connects you with top freelance animators, making it easy to find the perfect creative professional for your project.

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