Banijay Group is the world's largest independent content creation Group for television and multimedia platforms. Banijay Group is present in 16 territories.
Banijay Group is the world's largest independent content creation Group for television and multimedia platforms. Banijay Group is present in 16 territories.

Banijay Confirms MasterChef NZ Return

10 November, 2021

Banijay today confirms the return of global cookery hit, MasterChef, in New Zealand following a six-year hiatus.

 

Screentime New Zealand, a Banijay company, and Discovery, have struck a deal with the support of Banijay Rights, which sees MasterChef NZ launch on Discovery’s Three in 2022.

 

Last on our screens in 2015, the global family favourite is set to take on a distinctive Kiwi taste with local amateur cooks keen to show the country they have what it takes in the kitchen.

 

Inspiring food lovers everywhere, MasterChef NZ has produced some of the most-loved kiwi chefs, and this season will be no different. From time-pressure challenges, to forgetting the key ingredient, this season will have you on the edge of your seat. Which regular kiwi will surpass the judges’ expectations in the food knowledge, cooking, plating and pairing arena and win the title of MasterChef New Zealand?

 

Philly de Lacey, CEO Screentime New Zealand comments: “MasterChef continues to evolve and travel worldwide and we are so proud to be reuniting audiences with the brand here in New Zealand. Underpinned by universal themes, but with a modern hyper-local focus this season is going to stun audiences – set in one of the most stunning cuisine and produce regions in NZ with talent who are at the top of their game – the show has all the ingredients to unite the nation in its love of food culture.”

 

Lucas Green, Global Head of Content Operations at Banijay adds: “To bring a global phenomenon like MasterChef back to New Zealand after a six-year absence is an absolute thrill, and with Screentime and Discovery’s Three at the helm, we’re in no doubt this will be a very exciting launch for 2022.”

 

MasterChef is the world’s most successful cookery television format, produced across 64 markets. The life-changing show has broadcast more than 10,000 episodes to-date and recently aired its milestone 500th season globally since its reboot in 2005. Created by Franc Roddam, the show is a super brand known and enjoyed around the world.

 

The MasterChef format and finished programmes are represented internationally by Banijay Rights.

 

Led by CEO Philly de Lacey, Screentime New Zealand produces award-winning drama, documentary and factual entertainment series. This includes a high-profile local comeback of entertainment hit Popstars, prime-time factual success Eat Well For Less NZ, and award-winning drama, The Gulf.