PRIME's Fifty Years of Television in NZ

NZ On Air has allocated over $1 million to Fifty Years of Television in New Zealand, a seven-part documentary series celebrating the growth of television in NZ since it's introduction in 1960.

The series will screen on PRIME in 2010.

"It's a comprehensive overview of how television has evolved in New Zealand. From news and information to drama and comedy, sport, music and variety shows – even Telethons! It's all there, and it's all us. Some of it will make us laugh, now, but there is also so very much to be proud of," says NZ On Air Chief Executive Jane Wrightson.

The documentary will be produced by John Bates for Cream Media Ltd.

Many bloggers have been saying that the fiftieth anniversary celebrations for NZ TV should be on TVNZ as it has been there for the whole ride, with PRIME only being around for 12 of the 50 years. However I tend to agree with the point that since most of the series will not involve PRIME the show will have less network bias.

TVNZ are likely to have their own celebration that focuses on their own achievements.