Local programmes spark international interest

Local programmes spark international interest

Over sixty percent of TVNZ's finished programme catalogue pitched to buyers at the international television market, MIPCOM has stimulated the interest of buyers from all over the world, with one documentary series in final negotiations.

The programmes, which include the latest series of TVNZ's popular "Taste NZ" and recently released "Toast NZ", as well as independently produced programmes such as XSTV's award-winning "MO Show", were offered for the first time at MIPCOM, one of the largest annual television markets.

Marty Behrens, Head of Business Development, acknowledged the support of producers who have allowed TVNZ to represent their programmes internationally. "Naturally, as we have invested in them, we see our programmes as assets that need to be maximised. We are fortunate to have a number of producers who also see ongoing value in presenting their product to the international market," he said.

"We're incredibly pleased at the response we've had to our sales initiative. We are now sending viewing tapes to broadcasters and channels in Asia, Europe and North America and from this we will gain feedback about how well our locally-made programmes travel into different territories."

"The market also allowed us to meet and develop good relationships with established broadcasters such as Canada's Alliance Atlantis and a number of BBC channels. For our first effort into the market, we have made some excellent contacts and achieved significant progress towards sales from this catalogue," said Mr Behrens.

ENDS

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