New Zealand Docos
New Zealand has a rich tradition of quality documentary-making. We may not be able to get Merita Mita's 'Patu' but we do have the searing social commentary of 'In A Land of Plenty' or 'Out of Sight'. Look into New Zealand's history with 'The New Zealand Wars' or 'The Toogood Years'. These are New Zealand stories made by New Zealanders and a great treasure for us here.
Pictured: The tragic story of the Wahine ferry disaster is told in 'Shipwreck! Deadly Harbour'
Conquest of Everest 1953 (1997)
Starring: Edmund Hillary, Tenzing Norgay
This fascinating documentary cuts together actual archival footage of Edmund Hillary's journey and the surrounding circumstances and scenery. Giving i... Read more
Kiwiana (1996)
Director: Shirley Horrocks
This, one of the most popular New Zealand documentaries of recent years, takes a light-hearted look at the growing craze for "Kiwiana" or things which... Read more
Captain's Log (2002)
6.4/10
Starring: Peter Elliot
Follow in the footsteps of Captain James Cook. Re-live his amazing voyage and first contact with Maori. Peter Elliott sails around New Zealand using t... Read more
Pioneering Aviation in New Zealand (2006)
Four programmes covering the history and innovations of New Zealand's aviation industry. Includes 'Boeing 737 - 25 Years in Kiwi Service'; 'Flying the... Read more
She Shears (2018)
Director: Jack Nicol
In the gruelling world of competitive sheep shearing there is no women's section. Women and men compete together. She Shears is the story of passion,... Read more
South (Marcus Lush) (2009)
8.7/10
Starring: Marcus Lush
Another offering from broadcaster Marcus Lush sees him on a heartfelt journey into the rugged and beautiful south of New Zealand. While work introduce... Read more
Into the Void (2016)
8.2/10
Director: Margaret Gordon
Deep in the caverns of a 1990s practice room lurks one of New Zealand's loudest and least respectful art-noise-rock-heavy metal bands. Made up of heav... Read more
What Lies Beneath (2006)
6.6/10
Starring: Simon Dallow
In this eight part series, Simon Dallow takes viewers on a journey back in time to the earliest stages of Maori and Pakeha occupation in New Zealand.... Read more
Trouble is My Business (2008)
6.5/10
Director: Juliette Veber
The inspirational story of Peachy (that's Mr Peach, to you), an unconventional but determined-as-hell teacher in a tough South Auckland school. When... Read more
The Chills: The Triumph & Tragedy of Martin Phillipps (2019)
Director: Julia Parnell, Rob Curry
The story of lyrical genius, Martin Phillipps and his band, The Chills, is a cautionary tale, a triumph over tragedy, and a statement about the meanin... Read more