M (New Zealand)

New Zealand's M rating is an OFLC-mandated classification used in New Zealand to state that a movie is suitable for persons aged 16 and over, but anyone is still allowed entry without an adult. This rating was authorised by the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act of 1993. People of any age may also purchase an M rated title (because it's not restricted).

Along with G and PG, it is one of the ratings that can be assigned by the Film & Video Labelling Body.

Through a cross-rating system, films rated 12A/12 in the United Kingdom or M in Australia usually get an M rating for release in New Zealand. However, there have been some cases that a film originally rated M through a cross-rating system is unsuitable for unrestricted release. For example, The Batman and Nope were originally given M ratings when cross-rated from their Australian system. Due to the mature subject matter of the films inconsistent with unrestricted titles, they were both given R13 ratings by the Classification Office.

List

• As of September 1, 2022, there are over 9,700 M rated titles according to IMDb. (list)

Trivia

• Unlike Australia's classification system, the use of the word "c**t" does not usually result in a restricted rating. Instead, they could be accommodated within the M rating if not frequent or aggressive. This has occurred several times. For example, Margin Call, which has one use of "c**t", is rated M in New Zealand, but MA 15+ in Australia.
  • In exceptional cases though, films with one exceptionally justified use of "c**t" could be accommodated within the M classification.
  • This is probably the advisory rating that allows more foul language in the anglosphere.
• Unlike its Australian counterpart the guidelines don't specify the content must be moderate in impact.
• Some video games rated M by the ESRB and MA 15+ in Australia have been given this rating (e.g., Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver, Metal Gear Solid, Final Fantasy XVI, etc.)