NZ chosen as filming destination for Travel Channel series

CANNES – OCTOBER 9, 2013:

NZ chosen as filming destination for Scripps' biggest Travel Channel series

Scripps Networks International today announced that Travel Channel, the world’s leading international travel broadcaster, has commissioned a new 10 x 60’ series RV Rampage, to be set in the breath-taking landscapes, bustling cities and rugged coastline of New Zealand.

The stunning new series, which will air in over 130 territories worldwide, will see five couples from around the world taking on an incredible challenge – travelling together in RVs. Each couple must make their way from Auckland at the top of the country right down to the tip of the South Island. Along the route of their mammoth road trip they will face inspiring cultural, physical and mental challenges. Filming will start later this month.

Catherine Bates, Tourism New Zealand’s General Manager of International PR and Major Events said the organisation often supports broadcast productions wanting to film in New Zealand, to maximize the benefit and exposure of the country as a visitor destination.

“It’s a real coup that New Zealand has been chosen as the filming destination for this new series, which will showcase its breadth and beauty to a global audience,” said Catherine.

Set to be a journey of a lifetime, the series will capture the camaraderie and the competitiveness along with the fun and drama of the trip. It will be hosted by charismatic presenters Henry Cole and Amanda Byram who will bring their own brand of warmth and wit.

RV Rampage was commissioned by Nick Thorogood, Senior Vice President of Content and Marketing, Scripps UK and EMEA and Sue Walton, VP, Commissioning, Scripps UK and EMEA.

RV Rampage is the first commission to come from Tuesday’s Child, the indie set up by former Shine TV joint MD Karen Smith (MasterChef, Got to Dance, The Biggest Loser, Strictly Come Dancing) in September 2012. It specializes in entertainment and popular factual programming. RV Rampage will be executive produced by Karen Smith and Steph Harris on behalf of Tuesday’s Child.

Commented Nick Thorogood: “In our most ambitious commission to date, we are thrilled to be working with such an exceptional producer as Karen and her team at Tuesday’s Child. It’s even more rewarding as it’s their first series and look forward to bringing this epic series to international audiences.”

Added Sue Walton: “RV Rampage is an exciting format, with a dynamic on screen team and compelling cast of characters, which combined, create what promises to be a show stopping series in Travel Channel’s schedule.”

Karen Smith said: "RV Rampage sees big characters on an epic road trip across spectacular scenery being tested to their limits by extreme sports, mental challenges and living in close proximity whilst sharing a chemical toilet. It'll be an exhilarating, engaging and thoroughly entertaining watch, hosted by a couple of wonderful presenters in Amanda and Henry, and we're thoroughly excited to be making it."

The latest commission builds on Scripps UK & EMEA’s aim to build more original content. Other recent commissions include Jonathan Phang’s Gourmet Express (working title), Luxury Uncovered featuring Jenny Powell for Travel Channel, Man Vs. World featuring Rob Bell, also for Travel Channel and Jenny Morris Cooks the Riviera for Food Network.

Additional comments from the co-hosts:
Henry Cole: “Presenting this brand new series RV Rampage surely beats working for a living! Ok, I'm not on my motorbike, but I get to go back to one of my favourite countries, New Zealand, preside over competing couples in RV's and co-present the series with one of the hottest ladies in the world. I can’t wait to get there and see what happens.”

Amanda Byram: “Travel and adventure are my two favourite pastimes, to be able to combine these with a game show, is quite literally my dream job! And in New Zealand? What could be better? I can't wait to hit the road!”

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