A local version of hit BBC factual series Coast went into production this week for TV One.
Hosted by internationally renowned British archaeologist and television presenter, Neil Oliver, Coast New Zealand will showcase Aotearoa’s different coastlines over six one hour episodes.
The series is being produced by Great Southern Television, who are also makers of the hugely successful Australian series.
“As a Kiwi company, it was a thrill to make the Australian series and give Australia a global profile, so as you can imagine we are very, very excited that we can now turn our attention to New Zealand,” says executive producer Philip Smith. “It will be stunning, fascinating, fun – and best of all fresh and insightful,” he adds.
In this local version, four New Zealand experts will host the series alongside Neil Oliver, telling the story of the formation and evolution of our nation: our history; our people; and our culture.
“This isn’t just journeymen examining the New Zealand coastline. These are leading experts. And this is a very rare opportunity to give them a voice in primetime,” says Smith.
Oliver, who also hosts the Australian series, visited New Zealand last year on holiday to scope out a possible Kiwi version.
“I had a small taste last year and I marveled at New Zealand’s diversity, both physically and culturally. Big, big differences to Australia on both fronts. The magnitude of the beauty is breathtaking – and I must say my week in New Zealand was good for my soul. It’s our goal to dig out amazing new stories – whilst putting the history of New Zealand in context for a local and global audience to enjoy.”
TVNZ’s General Manager of Commissioning and Acquisitions, Andrew Shaw says: “Coast is a compelling, intelligent series with massive broad appeal. We’re thrilled to have the Great Southern team producing this for a local audience, and want to thank NZ On Air for their support.”
BBC Worldwide ANZ Head of Business Development, Helen Pendlebury, says: “With its incredible coastline and rich stories, New Zealand is the obvious next stop for the Coast format and we’re delighted that Neil Oliver and Great Southern TV will be bringing it to life for a TVNZ audience.”
Coast New Zealand is based on the BAFTA Award-winning BBC series Coast, which has been broadcast in the UK and internationally for the past ten years. It is commissioned by TVNZ, funded by NZ On Air, produced by Great Southern Film and Television, with the format licensed from BBC Worldwide ANZ.