Richard Taylor could be named ‘World Entrepreneur of the Year’

Special effects king Richard Taylor will fly the Kiwi flag in Monaco this week amid the world’s leading entrepreneurs, a prospect he finds daunting.

Attending the Ernst & Young World Entrepreneur of the Year awards, after winning the New Zealand title last October, Mr Taylor will compete against 46 others from around the world in the luxury Mediterranean port.

But it was the prestigious company, rather than the swanky location, that was the biggest treat.

“We have always thought of ourselves as creative people, not business people. It’s a bit daunting actually,” he said.

But it was not too daunting to prevent him trying his luck around the dinner table. “I’m wondering if any of them can help me fund a new movie.”

Mr Taylor has been a classic innovator from the beginning. His renowned creative effects business began in 1987 with him and partner Tania Rodger working in the back of their Wellington flat.

“We have gone from the most sophisticated technology in working on King Kong to making kids’ television, but it is still incredibly fulfilling.”

He said he would use the Monaco trip to visit Weta crew working on the latest Chronicles of Narnia film, Prince Caspian, in Prague, and to hold talks in London about a new movie.

The winner of the awards will be announced on Sunday.