The streaming giant has officially kicked off production on its first-ever ANZ-commissioned scripted series to be set and shot entirely in New Zealand.
Netflix is heading to the Southern Alps. The streamer has announced that cameras are officially rolling on Queenstown, a bold new eight-episode scripted series that marks a historic milestone: it is the first Netflix original series commissioned in the ANZ region to be both set and filmed in New Zealand.
Described as a “propulsive story of power, class, and family,” the series looks to peel back the polished veneer of Queenstown’s world-famous luxury ski scene. According to the official logline, the drama will follow a privileged dynasty and the staff who keep their world running as they “collide over power, loyalty, and desire.”
A Heavyweight Cast
Netflix isn’t holding back on the star power for its Kiwi debut. The ensemble is led by Emmy nominee Rufus Sewell (The Diplomat, Scoop), who is joined by Frances O’Connor (Wednesday), Alyce Debnam-Carey (The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart), and Te Kohe Tuhaka (The Convert).
The series is the brainchild of creator, writer, and executive producer Chloe Stearns. Production is being handled by Silent Firework and Runaway Unicorn, with acclaimed director Glendyn Ivin (The Cry, Penguin Bloom) at the helm.
A Landmark for Local Production
While New Zealand has long been a hub for massive international productions (from Lord of the Rings to Sweet Tooth), Queenstown represents a shift in Netflix’s local strategy by centering a story specifically on New Zealand soil.
“Shooting our first locally-commissioned series here in New Zealand is a huge moment for us,” said Amanda Duthie, Netflix ANZ Content Director. “This is a bold story set against the opulent world of a luxury ski town, and we can’t wait for our members to fall in love with it.”
The production is being supported by the New Zealand Film Commission and the Screen Production Rebate, which Duthie notes is already creating significant opportunities for local crew, businesses, and emerging talent.
Executive producers Jodi Matterson and Libbie Doherty shared their excitement for Stearns’ vision, stating, “In Chloe Stearns, we’ve found an extraordinary new voice… we believe this will become audiences’ next obsession.”
Queenstown is slated for a global release on Netflix. Stay tuned to Novastream for more updates and a first look as production continues.
