Screentime New Zealand Preps First Responders Series for TVNZ

Screentime New Zealand is producing the 10×1-hour documentary series First Responders, shining a light on emergency rescue services, for TVNZ1.

The series is billed as the first production in New Zealand dedicated to capturing all three major emergency rescue services—helicopters, ambulances and boats—in one series. First Responders will tell the stories of those in need across the country—from the transport of critically injured patients to the winching of a cow from the sea. Each episode will combine rescue footage with emergency-call audio and interviews.

The series will be distributed by Banijay Rights.

Philly de Lacey, executive producer and CEO of Screentime New Zealand, commented: “With state-of-the-art rigging, a highly experienced team, and never-before-seen access, we are confident this series will put audiences right at the heart of the nation’s first response teams. After 18 years working on Police Ten 7, the crew is well-versed in capturing the real-life high adrenaline drama that comes with the territory and we look forward to sharing this world with the rest of the country.”

Cate Slater, director of content at TVNZ, said: “The work these three emergency teams do 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year is invaluable. We’re excited to bring viewers a unique insight into this life-saving work. They’ll get to see first-hand the immense dedication these highly skilled professionals bring to their jobs. We’re full of admiration for our first responders and we know our audience will feel the same.”