16th September 2011

Kiwi Flyer Races Out Of Nelson

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Following four weeks of shooting on location in Nelson, KIWI FLYER has wrapped, with many of the cast and crew making a sad departure.

“Filming in Nelson has been just fantastic,” says Christchurch-based director and co-writer Tony Simpson. “The weather has been stunning – clear blue skies almost continuously and the people have been marvellous – so generous and supportive.”

“It couldn’t have been as successful without the help of so many local organisations and individuals,” agrees Producer Tim Sanders. “From Nelson Intermediate, the Trolley Derby Club, the Hot Rod Club, Scouts and many others.

Big thanks are also due to the Nelson City Council and the Regional Economic Development Agency for their contributions on and off screen.

Inspired by the Nelson Trolley Derby and shot entirely in Nelson KIWI FLYER is a feel-good movie for the whole family. Twelve year old Edward Hall stars as Ben who sets out to win the derby in memory of his father. Tandi Wright is his mother Karen, trying to keep that memory real, while fending off the advances of Ben’s teacher Mr Lumsden (Dai Henwood). Jazz Crooner and Beaurepair’s front man Vince Martin heads the opposition, with Nelson talents Doug Colling and Myer Van Gosliga as his sons Shane and Shannon and Jane Winter of Soundstage, as wife Shirelle.

“It’s hard to single out any one performer in the film - it’s been a terrific ensemble cast and the kids have been real pros,” says Simpson. “Vince and Dai’s presence added so much humour that came across superbly on screen, while Tandi’s motherly instincts really shone.”

I’m also extremely grateful to Gordon Dacombe, our trolley designer, and all of his family for their work.

The film now moves in post production where the picture is edited and the music by composer Don McGlashan is added. It will be finished around Christmas and Rialto, the distributors, will have it into theatres in 2012.

A gala premiere is being planned for Nelson where the film will have it’s first ever showing.

KIWI FLYER has been financed with kind assistance from the NEW ZEALAND FILM COMMISSION (NZFC); NZONAIR, MEDIAWORKS, NELSON CITY COUNCIL and THE VENTURE ACCELERATOR GROUP.

ENDS

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