Health and popular music to feature in new local content

14 March 2014

Health, a poignant tribute, and popular music to feature in new local content line up

A new science-based documentary series will seek answers to worrying declining health statistics for New Zealanders, asking the question Why Are We Fat?

In funding decisions made by NZ On Air this week, the Razor Films production for Prime was supported. The series intends to examine new scientific evidence evaluating why more New Zealanders have become obese and what the solution might be.

“This is an important social issue. With the input of credible, leading New Zealand scientists, we hope a serious examination of the issue, and possible solutions, will help to educate and inform a wide audience,” said NZ On Air Chief Executive Jane Wrightson.

Also funded was a one hour special featuring local music genius Dave Dobbyn composing a musical tribute to the victims of the Pike River Mine disaster and performing it for their families.

Dreams Lie Deeper will be made by Satellite Media Group for TV One.

Music legends are the focus of a further documentary, The Dragon Story, which has been funded for Prime. The one-hour programme will follow the tumultuous journey of Kiwi rockers Dragon through 40 years of music.

NZ On Air also confirmed funding for six episodes of the Smokefree Rockquest 2014 competition on FOUR, profiling young musicians as they compete in the annual quest to break into a music career.

Funding details

Why Are We Fat?, 3 x 1hr, Razor Films for Prime: $532,594
Dreams Lie Deeper- Dave Dobbyn Pike River Special, 1 x 1hr, Satellite Media Group for TV One,: $210,520
The Dragon Story, 1 x 1hr, Notable Pictures for Prime: $171,037
Smokefree Rockquest 2014, 6 x 30 mins, Commotion for FOUR: $319,050

ENDS

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