New Zealand Music Showcases On Television

15 April 2002

NZ On Air is pleased to announce the funding of two television programmes dedicated to showcasing New Zealand’s music history.

“Under The Influence – the Flying Nun Story and Give It A Whirl are two programmes that take a look at New Zealand’s music history and development. They showcase the richness, diversity and development of the New Zealand sound,” said NZ On Air’s acting chief executive, Bernard Duncan.

Give It A Whirl is a six part documentary series exploring the history of New Zealand popular music, starting in the 50s and running into the present day.

The focus is firmly on the big hits of each era and it will cover the songs, the artists, the pictures, the fans and the lifestyle.

Give It A Whirl is an exciting step into a genre that has met with great approval, in the form of overseas programmes such as Walk On By. Now it’s New Zealand’s opportunity to tell its own music stories,” said Mr Duncan.

"Its a mix of our ‘kiwi can-do’ attitude and our love of socialising with music that has helped produce such a high number of top singers and bands from New Zealand,” said Give It A Whirl Producer, Richard Driver.

“NZ On Air is very pleased to assist in showcasing New Zealand’s best hits and musicians over the six part documentary series,” said Mr Duncan.

The achievements of Flying Nun, the ultimate ‘garage band’ record label, are second to none in New Zealand’s recording history. This year Flying Nun celebrates its 21st birthday, with the cream of the label’s talent coming back to record two songs, one old and one new, for this special programme.

Under The Influence – the Flying Nun Story is a tale of antics, dogged determination, and unfettered optimism as Flying Nun faced the ups and downs of the local music industry. The documentary will centre on the two-day anniversary recording session and in-depth interviews with the important characters of the Flying Nun story,” said Mr Duncan.

NZ On Air has allocated $602,704 to Visionary Film & TV for the production of the six part series Give It A Whirl, to be shown on TV One and $95,473 to Satellite Media Group for a one and a half hour documentary, Under The Influence – The Flying Nun Story, to be shown on TV2.

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