Neighbourhood - Thorndon (with Grant Robertson)

Former Labour MP, Grant Robertson, hosts this episode of Neighbourhood, proudly showing off his long-time home of Thorndon — a central and cultured Wellington suburb. Showcasing those who have made new homes in Aotearoa, it features a Scottish–Syrian family raising awareness of the Syrian war (the Alkhouris), an accomplished French chef (Véronique Sauzean), the daughter of Hungarian refugees (Klara Szentirmay), and a composer in residence (John Elmsly). Filmed in 2016, while Robertson was a Labour MP in opposition, he became Deputy Prime Minister under Jacinda Ardern the following year.

I guess, like a lot of people, I came to Thorndon in Wellington to make a fresh start. It wasn't that I had a bad time growing up in Dunedin, I just struggled a bit with the fact that I was gay. So I came here to start again. 

– Presenter Grant Robertson discussing his move to Wellington as a young man

Key Cast & Crew

Tibor Riddering

Editor

Karl Steven

Composer - Original Theme

Richard Harling

Cinematographer

Peter Allison

Director

Samantha Blackley

Producer

Grant Robertson

Presenter