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In 1951, New Zealand temporarily became a police state. Civil liberties were curtailed, freedom of speech denied, and the Government used force against its own citizens. This film tells the story of the infamous lockout of waterside workers and the nationwide strike which followed. The film won Best Documentary and John Bates was named Best Director, Documentary, at the 2002 New Zealand Television Awards.
Producer-Director John Bates says the 50th anniversary of the events of 1951 both inspired and facilitated the production of his film. A comparatively enlightened commissioning regime recognized the ...
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I am so pleased to see this doco available on line. I have used it for teaching purposes for some years and students are always taken by the powerful story. They often comment "why are we not taught this in school". Recently my copy "disappeared" So really pleased I can again show this important chapter of our history. Thank you
Bates Productions
Bates Productions
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Television, 1970 (Full Length)
A programme that had a significant impact on the resolution of the Post Office dispute
Television, 1993 (Full Length)
Also directed by John Bates
Film, 2002 (Full Length)
A documentary looking at the “story of unemployment in New Zealand”
Television, 2003 (Excerpts)
An episode of this travel series - featuring Peter Elliott
Film, 1996 (Full Length)
A documentary looking at the radical economic and and social changes of the 80s
Television, 1996 (Full Length Episode)
Also directed by John Bates
Television, 1984 (Full Length Episode)
This drama anticipated the events of 1951
2002 TV Guide Television Awards
New Zealand Television Archives Best Documentary
Best Directory, Documentary (John Bates)
Finalist - Most
Outstanding Website
The ONYAs 2010 & 2011
Best Entertainment Website
Finalist – Website design
Qantas Media Awards 2009
NZ ON SCREEN 2012
This website has been made with funding from NZ ON AIR ›
The synopsis and credits are included
Gerard Hill
Posted at 09.24PM - 17.02.2011
This is an important documentary . for 50 years the truth was hidden .this documentary breaks that terrible silence . All power to john Bates and his crew . i hope before long it is available to buy as DVD