FIRST NEW ZEALAND DRAMA STREAMING ONLINE AND VIA VIDEO PODCAST

In a landmark television event Maddigan's Quest, the new epic fantasy series from South Pacific Pictures, is the first New Zealand drama production to be made available online and via video podcasting.

Since just after the show premiered on TV3 on Saturday night, viewers have been able to access episode one of the award-winning series via TV3's website, www.tv3.co.nz and the show's official website, www.maddigansquest.com which also hosts podcasts of the series trailer, behind-the-scenes featurette and episode one*.

Beverley McGarvey, TV3's Director of Programming said: "We are very pleased to be the first broadcaster in New Zealand to support our local content in this innovative way. The ability to download the first episode of this excellent family drama represents a significant opportunity for our viewers and we are confident that this progressive marketing device will benefit the series as a whole."

Jane Millichip, Managing Director of South Pacific Pictures said: "New technology should be embraced, not feared, by television companies. By offering the first episode of Maddigan's Quest online and via video podcasting we are building awareness and value in the TV series. We are thrilled that TV3 share this vision."

Maddigan's Quest airs Saturdays at 7pm on TV3 and Monday-Thursday at 4.30pm on BBC1. The show will launch on the Nine Network in Australia in March 2006.

* The trailer and behind-the-scenes of the series is also available on the iTunes Australia website.