Screentime New Zealand, part of Banijay Group, today confirms TVNZ1 has commissioned a new 10×60’ documentary series, First Responders.

The first production in New Zealand dedicated to capturing all three major emergency rescue services in one series – helicopters, ambulances, boats – First Responders will portray the stories of those in need across the country; from the transport of critically injured patients, to the winching of a cow from the sea. With unprecedented access, each episode will combine rescue footage with 111 call audio and interviews to create an intimate relationship between the audience and First Responders.

Philly de Lacey, Executive Producer and CEO of Screentime New Zealand comments: “With state-of-the-art rigging, a highly experienced team, and never-before-seen access, we are confident this series will put audiences right at the heart of the nation’s first response teams. After 18 years working on Police Ten 7, the crew are well-versed in capturing the real-life high adrenaline drama that comes with the territory and we look forward to sharing this world with the rest of the country.”

Cate Slater, Director of Content at TVNZ comments: “The work these three emergency teams do 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year is invaluable. We’re excited to bring viewers a unique insight into this life-saving work. They’ll get to see first-hand the immense dedication these highly skilled professionals bring to their jobs. We’re full of admiration for our first responders and we know our audience will feel the same.

First Responders was commissioned by TVNZ and will be produced by Screentime New Zealand and executive produced by Philly de Lacey and Tina McLaren. The series will be distributed by Banijay Rights.