Maori Thriller On Mainstream Television

NZ On Air is funding a groundbreaking new Maori drama series designed for mainstream television audiences.

Mataku – The Quivering - is a series of modern day tales of the unexpected, set in New Zealand, in which ordinary characters encounter mysterious phenomena of Maori mythology.

“Mataku will deliver a recognised and popular drama format in a New Zealand context. Our own history and in particular Maori mythology, is full of elements which are as contemporary and dramatic as those found anywhere in the world,” said NZ On Air Chief Executive Jo Tyndall.

The series is a joint venture between NZ On Air and co-funders Te Mangai Paho, the NZ Film Commission and TV3.

“We have pooled our resources for the making of Mataku,“ said Ms Tyndall.

“It’s an exciting venture for everybody involved. The series not only delivers on NZ On Air’s aim of fostering Maori creative talent, but it will have broad appeal to general audiences both in New Zealand and overseas, “ she said.

Trevor Moeke, Chief Executive of Te Mangai Paho, applauds the project.

“Mataku is stunning and invigorated because it promises exciting television which combines the use of both the Maori and English languages throughout the series,” said Mr Moeke.

He said that Mataku not only sets the benchmark for co-funding ventures but potentially offers a precedent for successful bi-lingual television programmes – “now that’s exciting!”

Each episode will be introduced and hosted by internationally recognised television and film actor, Temuera Morrison (Once Were Warriors and What Becomes of the Broken Hearted?) and produced by Carey Carter and Rhonda Kite.

NZ On Air has allocated $1,000,000 to South Pacific Pictures to produce five, half-hour episodes of Mataku. Te Mangai Paho, the New Zealand Film Commission and TV3 have contributed the balance of the funding.

Mataku will be broadcast in a late night slot on TV3, later next year.

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For further information:
Jo Tyndall
Chief Executive
NZ On Air
Tel: (04) 382 9524
This media release is available on the Internet, at http://www.nzonair.govt.nz

Mataku $1,000,000
5 x ½ hour drama series
Producer: Carey Carter/Rhonda Kite, South Pacific Pictures
Broadcaster: TV3

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