Shortland Street and Outrageous Fortune were both honoured this week at NZ on Air's celebration of 15,000 hours of locally made and funded content. The milestone was celebrated at Parliament on 27 August with a light-hearted award ceremony acknowledging some of the identities and icons who have contributed to New Zealand television over the 18 years since NZ On Air was established. The function was hosted by Broadcasting Minister Steve Maharey and MC'd by Outrageous Fortune star Robyn Malcolm. Ms Wrightson says that without NZ On Air funding, many of our favourite TV shows and personalities would never have made it to the small screen. "There's no organisation like NZ On Air in the world. Imagine television without Cheryl West, Dr Ropata or Newsboy. NZ On Air-funded programmes, and their unsung heroes, including producers, directors, actors and writers, have helped articulate who we are as New Zealanders. "Broadcasting plays a powerful role in shaping a nation's culture and identity. NZ On Air funding serves larger audiences than any other cultural organisation. Seeing ourselves on screen and hearing ourselves on air helps us to connect as a society, and to know who we are as a nation. "We are proud of our contribution to preserving, shaping and reflecting national identity through our funding and archiving of television, music and radio programmes. Ms Wrightson said while it was not possible to acknowledge all the wonderful programmes, producers, directors, writers and performers who have contributed so much over the years, the following were recognised for their special contributions The awards won by South Pacific Pictures' productions were: The Nailing New Zealand Award This award acknowledges the shows that truly get us – that have nailed the Kiwi psyche, and without pretension, have shed light on something beyond stereotype about who we are as New Zealanders. These are shows that broke ground for acceptance of local content and for development of their craft. Finalists: Shortland Street, Country Calendar, Bro'Town, Outrageous Fortune, Mercy Peak, Duggan, Heartland Winner: Shortland Street The Drama Queen Award For the dramas that gripped the nation and drew crowds at water-coolers around the country. They are brilliantly written, the performances are outstanding, have taken risks and have made us laugh and cry because they reflect us so closely. Finalists: Outrageous Fortune, Whale Rider, Once Were Warriors, Duggan, Insiders Guide To Love Winner: Outrageous Fortune |
