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Hero image for Pukemanu - Pukemanu Welcomes You (first episode)

Pukemanu - Pukemanu Welcomes You (first episode)

Television (Full Length Episode) – 1971

Pukemanu was the first continuing drama series made in New Zealand. Set in a North Island timber town, it offered characters Kiwis could relate to at a time when New Zealand accents were rarely heard on local screen dramas: rural, bicultural, boozy and blokey. Viewers and reviewers praised its Swannie-clad authenticity. This first episode sees a culture clash as a motorcycle gang (including a young Bruno Lawrence) hits town and causes trouble, running Ray (Geoff Murphy) off the road; and stranded townie Diana (Ginette McDonald) falls in love with a local axeman while hunting.

How about a nice hot tea - will do us both good.
– Mrs Telford (Pat Evison) to a recently concussed Diana Thorpe (Ginette McDonald)

Produced by

Logo for NZ Broadcasting Corporation

NZ Broadcasting Corporation

Acknowledgements

NZ On Screen acknowledges the talent and creatives for allowing NZ On Screen to reproduce this title on this website.

Music

Music by Wayne Senior and the NZBC Symphony Orchestra

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