NHNZ dives under NZ’s Oceans For Blue Chip TVNZ series

Media Release

23 January 2013

NHNZ dives under NZ’s Oceans For Original Blue Chip TVNZ series

TVNZ has commissioned NHNZ to produce a six-part series on New Zealand’s oceans and the creatures that swim in them.

The series titled OceaNZ is now in production, and will be the first blue chip natural history series on New Zealand’s oceans ever produced.

OceaNZ executive producer Judith Curran says the production house is thrilled to have OceaNZ in production.

“Many broadcasters have strayed away from underwater- it’s a challenging film environment, so it’s just wonderful that TVNZ has taken the plunge. And we are probably the best company in the world for this particular production job, as we have really strong experience, we have great gear technicians ensuring our gear is purpose-built for the conditions and the creatures, and our teams are equally skilled under the water as they are topside.

“We have high hopes OceaNZ will be an incredibly iconic series for New Zealand. And the whole team’s excited and motivated by that prospect, as they also are by the chance to get their wet suits on in the name of a job! “OceaNZ will reveal the stories of numerous creatures lurking beneath the surface in locations ranging from New Zealand orca’s home ranges in Northland Harbour down to the white shark feeding grounds surrounding Stewart Island. Each location will be explored from the perspective of a “neighbourhood narrative”; from the tiniest barnacles and sea anemones to iconic whales, revealing the daily dramas, challenges and triumphs of those who live in these watery neighbourhoods – almost like a “Coronation St” of under the sea.”

TVNZ commissioner Jude Callen says New Zealanders have been embracing the international natural history programming they have brought to primetime on TVONE.

“We very pleased to have an “up close and personal” look in our own underwater backyard and reveal the fascinating lives of some of our ocean creatures to this appreciative audience.”

OceaNZ is funded by NZ on Air’s Platinum Fund

Follow the making of via OceaNZ’s facebook page http://www.facebook.com/OceanzTV

NHNZ

NHNZ is a major global producer of factual television creating original content for National Geographic Channels, Discovery Channels, Smithsonian Channel, A&E Television Networks, 3net and NHK. Highly regarded for its 30-year plus natural history heritage, more recently NHNZ has branched out to other factual genres with hit shows like I Survived for A&E’s Bio Channel. The company’s storytelling prowess has been recognized with more than 250 international awards including Emmy awards and the prestigious Wildscreen Panda. In addition to its base in Dunedin, New Zealand, NHNZ has offices in Beijing and Washington DC, and a controlling stake in Singapore production company Beach House Pictures. www.nhnz.tv

ENDS

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