Episodes(5)
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The Far South (E01)
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Central South Island (E02)
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The West Coast and Northern South Island (E03)
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Southern North Island and Volcanic Plateau (E04)
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Northland (E05)
Plots(1)
How does this mystical, but dangerous landscape inspire its inhabitants? We go on a filmic journey through the country, which was the backdrop for fantasy-films like "Lord of the Rings" or just recently „The Hobbit". Equipped with a helicopter and high-end technology we discover New Zealand from above. Landscapes, which are already fascinating from the ground, will reveal secrets and patterns of incredible beauty from a birds' perspective. From episode to episode the journey takes us from the deep south of the South Island to the northern tip of the North Island. We will meet New Zealanders, which will show us their home country and introduce us to their culture.
The first station of our journey is the Fiordland National Park, a nature reserve founded in 1952. Later on, in 1986, it became part of the UNESCO World Natural Heritage, because of its unique fiord and water landscape. We travel along the Southern Alps, a region famous for its many lakes formed by glaciers and connected with canals. These canals are used for generating power and some are even used for salmon farming.
The West Coast of the South Island is covered by thick impenetrable rainforests and carved by fiords. High mountains drop down to the ocean creating a wild, rugged coastline. This is the only place, where the Maori greenstone, Pounamu, is found. In the Maori Culture the Pounamo plays an important role. In early days it was used as a weapon and today it is still worn as jewelery. Our round-trip takes us on the Northern Island to the volcanic plateau in the centre and we discover a geothermal magic world: active volcanoes, hot springs and mud pools allow a glance into the earth's interior.
The biggest town of the country, Auckland, is located on the narrowest land strip, at some parts only one kilometre wide. Auckland is often called "City of Sails" and some say the island has more yachts then inhabitants. Further north on the western coast an archipelago with numerous active volcanic islands has created a unique marine world. Even Orcas are frequently seen here. The trip ends at the northern tip of the country. This is the place, where according to the Maori legend, the souls depart from earth. (official distributor synopsis)
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