The pressure is on for Kiwis who are among filmmakers set to take the red carpet at the Oscars.

Weta Workshop's nominated for its work on 'War for the Planet of the Apes' while Maori actress Keala Settle sings a nominated song from 'The Greatest Showman'

New Zealander Anthony McCarten wrote 'Darkest Hour' which is up for Best Picture.

He told Mike Hosking the Oscars are the holy grail for film makers, but says the award season - we've already had the Golden Globes and the Baftas - can be intense.

"It's unrelenting, it's like running for office in a major political campaign. You never forget that you are very fortunate to be there."