New NHNZ series Wildlife Rescue coming in 2019

New NHNZ series Wildlife Rescue coming in 2019

A new NHNZ series called Wildlife Rescue was officially confirmed for production in 2019 when it received funding from New Zealand On Air, announced on 10 December 2018. The 5 x 45-minute factual programme will air on Choice TV.

Wildlife Rescue goes behind the scenes at the life-saving Wildlife Hospital, Dunedin – a unique facility that opened in January this year. The series follows the dedicated veterinary team safeguarding New Zealand’s native species through rescue, rehabilitation and research. Set in the country’s wildlife ‘capital’ Dunedin, viewers will gain an inside look at the most dramatic animal stories. The Wildlife Hospital Trust is in partnership with Otago Polytechnic, and involves other major wildlife organisations in the region. These wildlife heroes rise to every challenge to help native animals in need; from the smallest penguin to the largest sea lion, or the rare takahē to the common tui. Wildlife Rescue will provide the audience with a rare window into what it takes to save a wild life.

“Wildlife Rescue is such an important story for NHNZ to tell; NHNZ began telling stories about the plight of our local wildlife over 40 years ago, but creating and sharing content that can make a difference is even more important today than ever before,” says NHNZ Managing Director, Kyle Murdoch.

Wildlife Hospital Trust Chair, Steve Walker said “This is of course excellent news. While the Wildlife Hospital will be at the centre of the documentary series, it will also be an opportunity to highlight the efforts of so many people throughout the Otago / Southland region who are helping to recover, treat and rehabilitate our native animals. The captivating stories that we have to tell have attracted interest from TV companies across the globe. However, we have remained loyal to Dunedin-based NHNZ, so we couldn’t be more delighted that they will be producing the documentary series as it’s been a genuine pleasure to deal with them during the past 20 months.”

Otago Polytechnic CEO, Phil Ker said “This is fantastic news for all concerned, and is another example of why our decision to accommodate the Wildlife Hospital at the School of Veterinary Medicine was a good one; we are confident of solid academic and research gains, in addition to the already very clear community and biodiversity benefits. Otago Polytechnic intends to work hard to make the most of this opportunity.”

Choice TV General Manager, Julia Baylis said “This project showcases the work of the dedicated team at the Wildlife Hospital Dunedin and recognises New Zealanders’ passion for protecting and conserving our native species. We are excited to partner with NHNZ and the Wildlife Hospital, delivering this project to the wider New Zealand audience. Our reputation for fact-based quality programme content will be enhanced by the inclusion of this series in our prime time schedule.”

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