Coast New Zealand

Coast New Zealand is a captivating documentary-style television series produced and broadcasted by Television New Zealand (TVNZ) premiering in 2015. Exploring New Zealand's extensive and diverse coastline, the series reveals not just the breathtaking features of the coastline but also dives deep into its cultural and historical significance. Inspired by the original BBC series 'Coast', the New Zealand adaptation boasts of its unique blend of information, fascination, and entertainment, making it a must-watch for both local and international audience.

Presented by Neil Oliver, a Scottish archaeologist, historian, broadcaster, and writer, each episode delves into a new region of the country’s coast, unveiled through the lens of local stories, beautiful panoramic views, intriguing histories, and captivating facts. Oliver's passion for exploration and storytelling empowers the series with an enchanting narrative style, taking viewers on unforgettable journeys through space and time.

Neil is aided by a team of local New Zealand experts including marine biologist Jacky Geurts, environmental scientist Mike Joy, Riria Hotere an actor with a deep understanding of New Zealand’s Maori history, and geologist and palaeontologist Dr. Hamish Campbell. Their rich knowledge and insights into the country's ecology, history, and culture heighten the viewers' understanding of this unique coastal environment. This collaborative narrative not only celebrates the vast natural beauty of the New Zealand coastline but also highlights its ecological and historical significance.

Throughout the series, viewers are treated to stunning aerial and on-ground shots of the distinctive New Zealand landscapes, from pristine beaches, towering cliffs, and secluded coves to bustling coastal towns, unique wildlife, and ancient Maori sites. Oliver and his team investigate these captivating places, and the series becomes a journey of questions and discoveries rather than a mere scenic tour.

Key features of the series include an insight into the rich Maori culture and their spiritual and practical connections to the coast, showcasing ancient rituals, customs, and storytelling, along with traditional navigation techniques. The impact of European settlements, vivid tales from New Zealand's past, and the array of wildlife inhabiting the coast also form integral parts of the series. The program is adept at throwing light on the intense human interaction with the coast typically overlooked in favor of its natural beauty.

There is also an underlying environmental consciousness in the narrative throughout the series. The team takes a critical look at the impacts of overfishing, pollution, and climate change, raising important conversations around environmental sustainability and conservation.

Adding to the appeal is the series' strategic choice of diverse geographic locations, allowing viewers to explore the varied aspects of New Zealand coastlines. From the remote and rugged shores of the South Island to the populous Auckland coast, from the historic regions of Northland and East Cape to the farthest reaches of the Chatham Islands, the scope is truly wide and varied.

The show also excels in presenting a blend of human interest stories with ecological and geographical aspects of the region. The personal touch comes from the interactions with local people—whether they be fishers, scientists, conservationists, surfers or historians—sharing their stories, cultural practices, and local wisdom. This not only makes the viewers feel like they are on a journey alongside Oliver and his team but also establishes a heartfelt connection with the places and the people.

Coast New Zealand stands out as an enlightening and entertaining series that offers viewers a greater understanding of New Zealand's coastal areas. With its combination of stunning visuals, engaging stories, historical insights and environmental consciousness, it transcends the boundaries of typical travel documentaries. Whether you are keen on history, culture, nature or conservation, or simply wish to indulge in the mesmerizing views of New Zealand, Coast New Zealand is sure to inspire, inform, and entertain. The series proves that the coast of New Zealand isn't just about providing stunning visuals—it’s about exploring and understanding the heart of it, where land meets sea.