Gary Barlow is venturing into new territory with a six-part ITV series, Gary Barlow's Food and Wine Tour: New Zealand, which explores the country's world-class food, wine and culture. The singer is joined by his friend, comedian, vocalist, presenter and performer Jason Manford, for the adventure.
According to the first look, standout moments include an ultimate barbecue on Waiheke Island's remote coastline, dolphin watching from the Coastal Pacific railway, and savouring wine beneath the legendary Te Mata Peak.
A Fresh Lens on New Zealand
New Zealand is familiar to Brits for its rugby squad, the indigenous kiwi bird, and as the setting for The Lord of The Rings trilogy. Now, the nation is set to be viewed through a fresh lens as it arrives on ITV's weekend schedule.
Gary has left the recording studio behind for an expedition he describes as "not just a tour of food and wine, but an epic adventure". The series examines the nation's culinary and wine encounters and broadcasts precisely as New Zealand emerges as the most sought-after fresh destination to join the prestigious MICHELIN Guide.
As Gary admits in the show's opening moments, in his instantly recognisable northern tone: "It's one good looking country".
Stories Behind Every Experience
Gary said: "What stood out about New Zealand's food and wine was the story behind every experience. Every meal, every glass of wine, and every ingredient had some kind of connection with the people, place and the natural environment.
"I experienced firsthand how New Zealand's pure flavours are shaped by a deep respect for the land and a genuine spirit of hospitality. And in the world of wine, New Zealand is right up there with some of the best vineyards in the world. The difference between the North and South Island and the East and West Coast is just unbelievable and so much is packed into these two islands in the South Pacific."
An Epic Adventure with a Friend
The programme is the third instalment of Gary's worldwide culinary and viticultural adventure, following previous ventures in South Africa and Australia. On this occasion, he is accompanied by Jason.
The duo embark on diverse adventures throughout New Zealand, meeting regional growers, chefs, vintners and communities to demonstrate how each meal and beverage links to New Zealand's inhabitants, heritage and remarkable natural environment.
Jason said: "A trip to New Zealand with Gary was one of the biggest privileges of my life. I've never seen such an incredible country, the scenery, the people, the food and of course discovering wine with Gary and a host of experts! Me and Gary have been mates for years but to have so much time together talking, laughing, learning and getting to know each other away from the pressures of work and life was a real treat. I came back with some fantastic memories and I cannot wait to take my own family back to New Zealand."
The series concludes with a glass of wine at the foot of Te Mata Peak, where the pair savour a meal crafted by chefs at premier wine destination, family owned Craggy Range.
René de Monchy at 100% Pure New Zealand said: "Gary's journey offers viewers a chance to see a different side of New Zealand through the lens of world-class produce and wine, warm hospitality, rich cultural connections and unforgettable natural settings.
"What comes through in the series is the strong connection between our landscapes, our culture and the experiences visitors can have here. We love to see these stories shared with UK audiences and hope the series inspires people to explore New Zealand for themselves."
Gary Barlow's Food and Wine Tour: New Zealand kicks off Sunday 30th August on ITV.
