Generalistalan

This Week On 20/20 The V Word

2011-06-14T14:18:00.001+13:00

This Week On 20/20

2011-06-01T12:47:00.001+13:00

THIS WEEK ON 20/20
Thursday 2ND June 2011, 9.30pm TV2

Don’t miss 20/20 – the best of New Zealand and international Current Affairs with reporters, Emma Keeling, Hannah Ockelford, Erin Conroy and Sonya Wilson

This week on 20/20:

Baby 4 Sale: Imagine finding out that your mother had sold you … after answering an ad, one of many it turns out from your Dad. After more than twenty years of chasing, 20/20 can finally reveal the pain and confusion caused by a surrogacy deal gone sour. 20/20’s Hannah Ockelford investigates the saga, and confronts the man responsible for sowing his seed and then failing to pay up ... leaving a legacy of children and a daughter struggling to make sense of where she came from.

Disney’s Fallen Star: Demi Lovato appeared to have it all … but behind the scenes the 18-year-old Disney star was battling two life threatening obsessions – bulimia and self harm. During her last tour, it all became too much for the young actress/singer and, when her family staged an intervention, she checked herself in for treatment. Now healthy again, Demi reveals all to 20/20, talking for the first time about her inner demons and the depression that has plagued her since childhood.

Dogs of War: With the shooting of Osama Bin Laden, the spotlight has been shone on the elite fighting force known as Seal Team Six. Who are these international men of mystery and what does it take to be one? 20/20 speaks with former Seals and Seal wives, to see just what it takes to be a member of the world’s most feared fighting machine.

The Terminator and the Maid: After 25years of marriage it’s all over for Hollywood power couple Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver. Its turns out the former Mr Universe had a child to the help, a house maid who worked for the couple. 20/20 goes behind the headlines of Hollywood’s biggest scandal.

Infomercial Junkie: But wait there’s more … we’ve all seen them; hell some of us have bought stuff from them … while others just can’t stop buying stuff from them. We are of course talking about infomercials, ads that promise the world in easy monthly payments. 20/20 investigates the tricks of the trade and talks to people who just can’t help themselves.
The best of New Zealand and international current affairs - 20/20 – with reporters Emma Keeling, Hannah Ockelford, Erin Conroy and Sonya Wilson

This Week On 20/20

2011-04-12T10:25:00.000+13:00

2011-04-11T17:14:00.003+13:00

This week on 20/20:

WASTED: 17-year-olds Hayden Smith and Aaron Miller grew up at opposite ends of the North Island. One was a city kid, the other a country boy. They had absolutely nothing in common in life but their names will be forever linked in death. The two teenagers are victims of an illegal trade in methadone. 20/20 speaks to their families - shattered by the loss of their loved ones and confronts a woman convicted of peddling this lethal drug. Methadone is an artificial opiate prescribed to heroine addicts and when taken by a person with no tolerance … it can be lethal. Pete Cronshaw investigates a growing black-market trade that has killed and may kill again.

Death by Dexter: An 18 year old strangles his 10 year old brother to death and a budding film maker kills and dismembers someone. The link? Both say they feel like Dexter … television’s very own serial killer. 20/20 investigates these two horrific murders and asks, did Dexter make them do it?

Monkeying Around: A story that gives an all-new meaning to "monkeying around." Vervet monkeys are giving tourists and locals a run for their money in the vacation paradise of St. Kitts. The monkeys raid local outdoor bars and steal rum cocktails from unsuspecting tourists dozing on the beach. It turns out that just like us … it’s not what they’re drinking but how they’re drinking. Research into the behaviour of these drinking monkeys is helping scientists to better understand why some of us drink more than others.

This Week On 20/20 Broken Bond

2011-03-28T15:44:00.002+13:00

Broken Bond: Leanne Kingston first made the headlines as one of three, beautiful triplet girls … she made them again when she was found brutally murdered in her own home. Adding to her family’s shock and horror, police quickly arrested Leanne’s former partner Cary Thurgood, the father of her four children. But there was worse to come as Thurgood claimed that the real killer was their own son … in a 20/20 television exclusive Sonya Wilson talks to Leanne’s sisters, two triplets without their third and we play the actual police interviews with Thurgood, part of an investigation which ultimately saw him jailed for 19 years.

Blazing Row: After a blazing fire took the life of Thomas Araguz, a young volunteer fireman, a scorching feud between his family and his wife, Nikki was ignited … was Nikki lying about who she really was for their entire marriage? Nikki thought life couldn't get any better after falling for Thomas. They settled into a happy life together, raising his two sons from a previous marriage. But there was no way Nikki could have anticipated what lay ahead - how a stunning secret she says they both agreed to keep, would trigger a lawsuit challenging the meaning of marriage and the very definition of what makes a man, a man and a woman, a woman.

Who Cares: Do we really care about other people or do we always act in self-interest? 20/20 talks to the authors of the book Freakanomics and sets up some experiments that give a fascinating insight into the human condition. Do we give more to charity if the collector is good looking? Do we give more if others are watching? The answers to these questions are both shocking and suprising.

Behind The Vines This Weeks 20/20 Promo

2011-03-23T16:11:00.001+13:00

This Week On 20/20, Moment

2011-03-17T10:30:00.001+13:00

This Week On 20/20

2011-03-14T13:52:00.001+13:00

THIS WEEK ON 20/20
Thursday 17TH March 2011, 9.30pm TV2

Don’t miss 20/20 – the best of New Zealand and international Current Affairs with reporters Pete Cronshaw, Beth Bates and Sonya Wilson

This week on 20/20:

Moment: If you’ve ever driven a car, you’ve probably had one of those “near miss” moments. 20/20 talks to Kristy King, the young driver whose “near miss” wasn’t … instead she has to live with the moment that she killed three cyclists for the rest of her life. Kristy talks exclusively to 20/20’s Beth Bates about that day, and Beth is there when she asks for forgiveness from a family still dealing with the tragic loss of a loved one and the reality that their lives have also been changed forever.

Americas Worst Mum? Lindsay Lohan was a Disney star and America’s darling … until her career and personal life became tabloid fodder, with tales of rehab, relapse and accusations of theft. 20/20 speaks to the person many are blaming… her Mum. Did Dina Lohan push her daughter too hard for a life of reflected glory or is she just a mother looking out for her girl?

Teen Rivalry: Two teenage girls and one controlling boy - what started as a classic teenage love triangle quickly turns into a deadly streetside show down. The animosity between Sarah and Rachel who are dating the same boy created a volatile mix of teenage passion and angst. It would all come to a head on a fateful night, when words would turn into blows and lives would never be the same.

Deadly Ties: Can a doctor’s necktie kill you? In Britain neckties have been banned in some hospitals - it turns out they’re just big germ rags that carry infection from one patient to another. 20/20 also discovers the shocking truth about hand washing in hospitals, could our hospitals be killing instead of curing?

The best of New Zealand and international current affairs - 20/20 – with reporters Pete Cronshaw, Beth Bates and Sonya Wilson

This Week On 20/20 Rite of Passage

2011-02-22T09:27:00.001+13:00

This Week On 20/20

2010-11-04T09:34:00.000+13:00

Thursday 28TH October 2010, 9.30pm TV2

This week on 20/20:

TAKEN: She was a young Kiwi woman on her big O.E, enjoying the trip of a lifetime in the tourist mecca of Cappadocia, Turkey… when her life was changed forever. Olivia was brutally attacked and strangled by a stranger… a man who thought he’d killed her… and planned to bury her. Incredibly she survived… and escaped… and tonight for the first time tells her story publically to 20/20’s Sonya Wilson, in the hope it might help other women survive a trauma that she very nearly didn’t.

SINS OF THE FATHER: He can’t hold down a job, buy a house or even a car – and all because someone’s stolen his identity. And that’s not the worst of it … Randy Waldron Jnr is in debt to the tune of more than two million dollars. But as 20/20 discovers, the real problem is that the person doing the stealing … is Randy’s own father. He hasn’t been able to find him either … until now. Our cameras are there for the dramatic reunion.

COVERING UP: Everyone seems to have an opinion on women who wear the full veil…and in some countries they’ve even taken steps to ban it being worn publically. Tonight 20/20 talks to the women themselves about what it really means… and whether one of the most arresting images of Islam is one of liberation or control.

PLUS Love thy neighbour – You’re at the beach… and it’s not long before you notice something a little… suspicious going on. Someone with wandering hands has helped themselves to a fellow sun lover’s belongings… so what do you do? It’s not like you know the person right? Speak up… pursue the thief … or just let it all drift past your sunnies? You may be surprised at who’s ready to become an everyday hero.

Mr Sicc

2010-09-16T15:54:00.003+13:00

I have an odd job I meet all sorts of people, people you' re not meant to like but do, people that are meant to scare you but don't, people that you're meant to like but don't ..... and so it goes on. The one thing I've learnt is that once you meet someone you're doomed, you see them for who they are. People are the product of their experiences and once you have an understanding of that you're able to understand where they're coming from. Don't under-estimate a rapper because you don't get it! have a listen you may just find that they're not that different from you. Karlos Diamond is a product of his experiences and has grown up in an environment that you may like to think doesn't exist in NZ, i have news for you it does! Have a listen he ain't that different to you but he has somethings to say that you might not like to hear. Just because you don't want to hear it doesn't mean it's not true. Watch 20/20 tonight with an open mind and at least then you will have grounds for whatever opinion you hold, but don't be surprised if you end up liking what you thought you wouldn't.

Bowled Over

2010-09-02T10:55:00.001+13:00

If you like Ugly Betty, Lost, Outrageous Fortune, or True Blood you're going to love this weeks 20/20. Beth Bates, Chris Brown and myself headed to Sydney last week and caught up with Grant Bowler a man of mant faces.

Snow Men

2010-08-26T15:12:00.002+13:00

Playing Doctor

2010-07-29T13:21:00.001+13:00

PLAYING DOCTOR: He may hate to admit it… but a few years back, he was the go to guy if you wanted a character to take his shirt off. But there’s much more to Robbie Magasiva than just his physique, with a body of work as an actor in this country that encompasses nearly two decades. He’s been famous for being funny… and more recently his star’s been blazing across our screens thanks to a certain nightly New Zealand hospital Soap. Tonight 20/20’s Sonya Wilson takes you on an all access backstage pass as Robbie shows us the power of Shortie, and says he’s a ladies man no more.

Top Bloke on 20/20 This Week

2010-07-26T14:38:00.003+13:00

20/20 Behind Closed Doors

2010-06-15T16:52:00.003+13:00

Domestic violence is a cancer eating at New Zealand society. This week we talk to victims, survivors, and go out with the police on the frontline in the battle against what could be New Zealand's biggest social problem.

The Big Tease

2010-06-01T09:48:00.001+13:00

Miss Burlesque NZ

2010-05-29T10:32:00.001+13:00

THE BIG TEASE: Christina Aguilera promotes it… Dita Von Teese made it famous… and even Rihanna is considering fronting a chain of nightclubs that offer it. So it’s no wonder that Kiwi women are now flocking in their droves to take up the hot and steamy art of burlesque. Billed as the more seductive form of striptease, its fans say it’s way more female friendly… and women of all sizes and shapes can give it a go. 20/20’s Beth Bates investigates what it is, and just how far you have to go to be good at it, with a group of corseted women from all walks of life, vying for the ultimate title of Miss Burlesque New Zealand.

Two Locals On 20/20 This Week

2010-04-19T10:59:00.000+13:00

This week on 20/20:

OFF THE RAILS: He’s the kind of guy anyone would find attractive… tall, clean cut and good looking. And with his profile on dating websites, and frequent calls to chat lines, both women and men were drawn to him, sometimes for romance … but usually always for sex. Friends say he had thousands of lovers – but Glenn Mills was hiding a secret. He’d been diagnosed HIV positive, but was relentlessly pursing unsafe sex with as many people as possible. Tonight on 20/20 Libby Middlebrook brings you the exclusive story, behind the story. Who was Glenn Mills really? And why was he driven on his deadly quest? We hear in his own words why he did it and talk to those he put at risk … and tragically infected.

THE BLING RING: Who wouldn’t like to take a peek inside Paris Hilton’s wardrobe? Try on Lindsay Lohan’s designer dresses? Or have a good look around Hills star Audrina Patridge’s home? While most of us can only dream… a group of teens has been arrested for doing just that! Police say they stole more than three million dollars worth of bling and high end brands. As they reveal to 20/20 they wanted to wear it themselves, after falling in love with the lifestyle they could see on television. You’ll see the security footage that finally nabbed them… and they show us how they got away with it for so long.

OPEN SOULS: They’re the kiwi band with a big story. Open Souls has grown to a nine piece band, and their slick Motown influenced sound is getting noticed. 20/20’s Hugh Hughes talks to Tyra Hammond, the face of the band, who’s already successfully collaborated with cousin Scribe, about her early upbringing with family talent quests, and hits the road with the band as they promote their second album, Standing in the Rain.

TANTASTIC: You may be yearning to keep that summer tan you worked so hard on, but tonight an undercover investigation reveals that all that’s golden isn’t necessary good for you. 20/20 takes you on an undercover sting where we suss out just what customers are being told. You’ll be amazed at some of the dodgy advice our hidden cameras pick up… and as 22-year old Amanda tells us, it’s information just like it, that’s left her with an enormous scar.

PLUS Search for Justice – And an update on the brave kiwi teenager who lost a leg to a drunk driver… her fight for justice, and her newfound independence.

This Weeks Promo 20/20

2010-04-07T16:35:00.001+13:00

20/20 Back With Local Stories

2010-04-07T11:22:00.002+13:00

THIS WEEK ON 20/20
Thursday 8th April 2010, 9.30pm TV2

Don’t miss 20/20 – the best of New Zealand and international Current Affairs presented by Miriama Kamo with reporters Pete Cronshaw, Beth Bates and Sonya Wilson.

This week on 20/20:

QUIET PLEAS: We’ve all been there… the throbbing bass is spilling over from next door where they’re having yet another party. Or the neighbours have thoughtfully bought their teenage son a drum set… and he’s keen to practice day AND night. Ten years ago you might’ve gone next door and asked them to turn it down. But it seems more and more of us simply reach for the phone and call noise control. Tonight 20/20’s Beth Bates goes out on the beat with those trying to keep the peace … and in an exclusive interview, she finds out what caused a Napier Dad to use an axe and a tomahawk in a desperate bid for quiet in his neighbourhood.

BREAKING POINT: There are times when all parents struggle with feisty kids and troubled teens. But tonight on 20/20 you’ll meet the families really doing it tough, after their children have been diagnosed with schizophrenia. The parents of 7 year old Jani have made the extraordinary decision to live in separate homes, so she can’t hurt her baby brother – while 9 year old Rebecca’s mother reveals her shock when her angelic daughter tells her of her vivid fantasies and plans to kill her.

THE REAL BLIND SIDE: All the talk after the Oscars has centered on Sandra Bullock’s marital woes… with husband Jesse James accused of multiple affairs. It’s a scandal that’s almost overshadowed her award-winning movie, The Blind Side. But 20/20 goes behind the scenes to talk to the family who inspired the movie, when they took in homeless teenager Michael Oher and helped him realise an incredible dream. It’s a heartwarming story set to hit the New Zealand box office early next month.

POKER FACE: It’s the interview that had the entire music world talking – when Lady Gaga dropped her poker face and revealed all in an exclusive interview with 20/20. She talks about her out-of-this world fashion sense, just what she means when she’s “bluffin’ with her muffin” and all those rumours she’s actually a man. Plus you’ll see early footage of her performances… and find out how her career helped save her Dad’s life.

PLUS The Colour of Love – They’re ten year old twins who turn heads wherever they go… not so much for their incredible similarity… but rather for their one incredible difference. 20/20 talks to the boys who’ll give you a new perspective on just how strong family bonds can be.

The best of New Zealand and international current affairs - 20/20 – presented by Miriama Kamo with reporters Pete Cronshaw, Beth Bates and Sonya Wilson

Video Test And Auto Spelling Fix

2010-03-29T20:35:00.002+13:00

Saturday In The Park

2010-03-10T08:58:00.003+13:00

This past Saturday I took my two girls to Base Fms Shake n Bake at Western Park. I live In the Auckland suburb of Pt Chevalier which is quite central, so Coco my 2yr old, Scarlett my 9yr old, and I jumped on a bus and headed into town. Me and my two girls had a blast, the weather was fab, the location perfect and the vibe was super laid back.

My 9yr old got to meet Tyra Hammond from Opensouls and was beside herself, she would not have been more excited if it had been Taylor Swift.

She was also fascinated with the graffiti art once she got over the whole they're not allowed to do that thing. I was stoked to catch Julien Dyne doing his thing, and my 2yr old was most excited by the bus ride.

Cheers Base Fm a great afternoon.

Opensouls

2010-02-18T09:42:00.009+13:00

I've just finished the edit on my 1st story of the year, it's a profile on the incredibly talented band The Opensouls. If you've never heard these guys you've gotta get their new album Standing In The Rain, it's gorgeous this is a bunch of seriouslly talented people.

I'm not sure when it will be running yet I'll let you know when I know but in the meantime buy the album or even better get out and see them live. The Opensouls will be playing at the Zoo on the 12th of March and trust me when I say these guys rock live.

I will I really will

2010-02-06T15:00:00.002+13:00

This week I promise to get back to posting stuff, not sure anybody cares but I suspect it is a good discipline to get into and will keep my dull mind active.

Christmas Card

2009-12-07T12:09:00.003+13:00

Thats us for the year, we've had some great stories and I'm now on the hunt for some more material for next year. I'm always keen to hear from anybody thats got a story they think fits our show, so dont be shy and get in contact.

Cheers Alan

Super Sizes Teens

2009-12-03T10:07:00.003+13:00

This is our Last show of the year, thanks for watching and keep coming to the site as I'll keep posting stuff over summer.

Idol on 20/20 today

2009-11-26T09:29:00.001+13:00

We Have An Idol On 20/20

2009-11-24T16:32:00.001+13:00

THIS WEEK ON 20/20
Thursday 26th of November\2009, 9.30pm

Don’t miss 20/20 – the best of New Zealand and international Current Affairs presented by Miriama Kamo with reporters Sonya Wilson, Beth Roche and Hugh Hughes.

This week on 20/20:

Stan the Man:

We meet the Kiwi kid being idolised by Australia!

Stan Walker is hot - but his chilling upbringing will leave you cold. If you’ve followed `Australian Idol’, you’ll know he’s the product of a `Once Were Warriors’ upbringing. But did you know Aussie’s new sex symbol was also the victim of sexual abuse? Stan Walker talks exclusively to 20/20 about his tragic childhood and new found fame.

Blown Away:

Johanna Orozco seemed to have it all ... until jealousy and rage changed her life forever.

Juan Ruiz – once the love of her life – fired a shotgun at her head and since then the once pretty and popular teenager has endured a medical marathon of reconstructive surgery. The hideous crime shattered her face … but not her beauty. A remarkable story of courage, strength and grace!

The Terrible Tic:

One little girl’s struggle with unwanted tics!

13-year-old Isabella loves to sing, dance, write poetry and dreams of being an actress but Tourette Syndrome has left her a stranger in her own body. Home has become a safe haven from the judgement of the outside world. However if you look beyond the screaming and twitching you’ll meet a truly remarkable girl.

Cat Women:

They are a mysterious breed – women who fill their homes with cats instead of kids. Why do they do it? Are they just crazy for cats, just crazy, or is there more to their feline fancy than meets the eye?

And:

20/20 has an exclusive peak at Rihanna’s new video: “Russian Roulette.”

The best of New Zealand and international current affairs - 20/20 – presented by Miriama Kamo with reporters Sonya Wilson, Beth Roche and Hugh Hughes.

20/20 This Week

2009-11-17T09:43:00.001+13:00

THIS WEEK ON 20/20
Thursday 19th of November\2009, 9.30pm

Don’t miss 20/20 – the best of New Zealand and international Current Affairs presented by Miriama Kamo with reporters Sonya Wilson, Beth Roche and Hugh Hughes.

This week on 20/20:

Tuned In:

Are there such things as spirits? What do channelers and mediums do, if anything? And to what end?

Sceptics will tell you it’s a bunch of twaddle and an insult to the intelligence of the living. Believers will tell you it’s the real deal and sceptics have never helped anyone with their scepticism. So who’s fooling who? We put a channeler to the test to see if they really are tuned in!

Finding Forgiveness:

Would you forgive?

Like thousands of other wives whose husbands are in prison, Kim Crespi cherishes the few hours she and her husband David, have together - sharing news about their children, their church and their friends. But what makes these visits unusual and the bond between Kim and David different is that David is serving a life sentence for brutally murdering their two daughters.

The Mad Scientists:

It is a think tank like no other!

Can a simple garden hose stop global warming? Is it possible to control killer hurricanes? We meet a bunch of self confessed mad scientists who are turning conventional wisdom upside down and finding simple solutions to some of the world’s most complex problems.

Good Cop – Bad Cop:

Caught on camera!

A drunken woman is the victim of a savage attack! A paraplegic is tipped out of his wheelchair! A transvestite is badly beaten! They were victims of brutal crimes – committed by those who took an oath to serve and protect. When good cops go bad!

The best of New Zealand and international current affairs - 20/20 – presented by Miriama Kamo with reporters Sonya Wilson, Beth Roche and Hugh Hughes.

Man We Got A Great Show This Week

2009-11-11T16:39:00.001+13:00

This Week on 20/20

2009-11-11T12:21:00.000+13:00

This week on 20/20:

Victim Statement:

The terror and tragedy of 56 seconds!

On Auckland Anniversary Weekend our biggest city’s motorway came to a stand-still. A gun man was on the loose – speeding through West Auckland and firing a barrage of shots at the police helicopter. The chase ended with an innocent bystander being shot dead and many more being scarred for life. We look at the ripple effect of 56 seconds of madness.

Rihanna Unplugged:

Rihanna breaks her silence for the first time!

Domestic violence shattered the superstar’s fairytale relationship with fellow singer Chris Brown. In a revealing interview, Rihanna talks about what really happened that night and how she feels about her once true love being sentenced to community labour, five years of probation and a year of domestic-violence counselling.

The Lost Generation:

The terrible tragedy of Aids!

We travel to Africa to meet the lonely generation. They have no mums and dads! In some remote villages, the entire adult population has been wiped out by the AIDS pandemic – forcing the children to become grown ups before their time.

Superfreakonomics:

Turning conventional wisdom up side down …

How can a doctor’s tie kill you? Why should emergency rooms be put in airports? We have some surprising revelations about staying alive!

The best of New Zealand and international current affairs - 20/20 – presented by Miriama Kamo with reporters Sonya Wilson, Beth Roche and Hugh Hughes.

The Kids Are Alright Hopefully

2009-11-05T14:07:00.002+13:00

We've just finished putting together a story that runs tonight on 20/20 on a teen rehab programme. Have a watch tonight, some young lives off to a difficult start.
Id just like to say thanks to the guys that let us follow them through what is a difficult personal journey.
Some of the stories are heartbreaking, but it is amazing how much kids can bounce back and bravely face the future.

Kids in Rehab This wekk On 20/20

2009-11-04T09:19:00.001+13:00

Finding a Fix:

We go inside New Zealand’s Teenage Rehab!

They are kids – some as young as 12 years old – and their drugs of choice include alcohol, marijuana, LPG, air-fresheners and even fly-spray. For years they’ve been riding a dangerous wave of addiction and arrest. Now they’re in rehab – desperate to break the cycle and find a permanent fix for their out of control addictions.

New Video Promo

2009-10-12T15:02:00.002+13:00

Puppies In Prison

2009-10-12T13:07:00.000+13:00

THIS WEEK ON 20/20
Thursday 15th of October\2009, 9.30pm

Don’t miss 20/20 – the best of New Zealand and international Current Affairs presented by Miriama Kamo with reporters Sonya Wilson, Beth Roche and Hugh Hughes.

This week on 20/20:

Prison Pups:

They’re some of New Zealand’s worst criminals yet they’re finding unconditional love behind bars.

We go inside Auckland Women’s Correctional Facility to meet four offenders and their canine cellmates. To a victim scarred by crime, it may be difficult to feel generosity toward offenders, or to condone any programme that may make life easier. But these wonder dogs are helping hardened criminals, society and the disabled.

This Week on 20/20

2009-10-06T08:19:00.000+13:00

Having A Larp:

We party down with New Zealand’s self confessed geeks!

They call it LARPING – Live Action Role Playing – and it’s a form of escapism like you’ve never seen before. One moment they’re medieval warriors beating each other senseless and then the next they’re saving the world! They’re living their dreams and they don’t give a damn what anyone thinks. We go inside the secretive fantasy world of New Zealand’s self-confessed geeks.

My Afternoon Behind Bars

2009-09-09T17:39:00.003+13:00

One of the best things about my job is the unusual places and people I meet, this afternoon was spent behind the electric fence of one of New Zealands prisons.

The people there were just like you and me in many ways except for the fact that unlike you and me they cant go home. To be sure some of these people have done terrible things, but as always it is striking when you come face to face with these people and see their humanity.

I'm going back again next week and believe it or not I'm looking forward to it, who would of thought.

Award For Badwater Camera

2009-09-07T10:55:00.003+13:00

Last year Sonya Wilson (reporter), Chris Brown (camera) and myself (producer) headed off to Death Valley to film a story about the remarkable Lisa Tamati. On Friday at the Qantas Media awards for craft Chris won Best Camera in Current Affairs.

Chris did a remarkable job under some trying conditions ...... although I'd like to point out my input in filming the egg, ask him if you know him.

You can watch the work of the fab Mr Brown here http://tvnz.co.nz/20-20-news/august-14-amazing-race-hosed-off-prison-prosperity-1995840/video?vid=2003723

PHOTOS FROM ON THE ROAD

2009-09-01T16:02:00.012+13:00

20/20 is on a three week break from local stories and running a series of specials so I thought I'd post some photos of us out on the road doing our thing.

Sonya Wilson and Chris Brown out Filming for our story The Keepers Secret

Sonya Wilson and Nick Chopper Reid in editing

Beth Roche doing a master interview for the story Nil By Mouth

Chris Brown filming late at night in a graveyard for our Blood Lust story ..... It was really really cold.

New 20/20 Promo Manu Vatuvei

2009-08-25T15:11:00.002+13:00

This Week On 20/20 Manu Vatuvei

2009-08-25T13:28:00.001+13:00

Beauty and the Beast:

Manu Vatuvei is a Tongan giant with a golden smile!

This year hasn’t been the best for Warrior’s fans, but Manu Vatuvei remains the people’s favourite. They call him `The Beast’! He is a bulk of a man who strikes fear in the hearts of the opposition. But there’s nothing scary about him off the field. The world’s greatest rugby league winger opens his home to 20/20. And we discover a family man, humble to the core, with a heart of gold.

They Walk Among Us

2009-08-14T16:24:00.002+13:00

Beth Roche, Chris Brown and myself spent a week searching the country for Vampires, here is the visual proof that we found some.

Keep an eye out for 20/20 on TV2 at 9.30 pm Thursday the 20th when all will be revealed

Something Awesome

2009-08-14T15:08:00.002+13:00

Dave Dallas has some new sounds coming our way soon. I've downloaded Indulge me from Itunes and seen the video for Big Time on Juice and they're both great tracks.

Busy Busy

2009-08-12T10:20:00.005+13:00

I haven't posted much lately as I've been flat out travelling the country in search of vampires, I found some too. I'll post more on that in a few days, even a couple of pictures.

Gin Wignore Promo

2009-08-06T15:39:00.001+13:00

Gin - Straight Up

2009-08-06T15:27:00.001+13:00

This week on 20/20:

Gin – Straight Up:

Gin Wigmore – if you don’t know the name you soon will!

The 23 year old from Auckland’s North Shore hooked up with “Smashproof” earlier this year and helped create the longest running kiwi chart topper “Brother”. More recently she’s been in L.A. recording her debut full length album with producer Mike Elizondo. That’s Mike – Eminem, 50-cent and Maroon 5 – Elizondo. She’s been compared with Amy Winehouse and Macey Gray and is in very real danger of becoming world famous.

Sometimes We Actually Do Good

2009-07-29T21:10:00.003+13:00

A couple of weeks age 20/20 ran a story about a wee girl named Grace who couldn't or wouldn't eat. It was a heartbreaking tale of a family doing the best they could with what they have. In the story we spoke to another couple whose daughter had the same problem and had travelled to Austria where a University ran a clinic that helped with great success.
Pip and Gareth the parents of wee Grace did not have the money needed to travel to the Austrian clinic but, after the airing of our show a couple came forward and said theyed like to help.
A trust has been set up and Grace may yet get the help her parents so desperatly want to give their little girl.
Often in the media it feels like we're tearing things down it's nice to help every now and then, I'm also constantly amazed at how mean people can be, yet equally amazed at how kind and generous they can be.

Badwater Beaten

2009-07-19T14:30:00.002+13:00

Lisa Tamati has once again run through hell and back. Lisa was the 8th female to cross the finish line in a staggering 37hrs and 14mins.
Its worth clicking across to her blog and having a read about how her race went.http://www.lisatamati.co.nz/home/runner

Back To Badwater

2009-07-13T21:03:00.005+13:00

This time last year reporter Sonya Wilson, cameraman Chris Brown and myself as producer headed to Death Valley USA, our mission was to film a story about a remarkable woman from Taranaki New Zealand. Lisa Tamiti's mission was to run 217km through possibly the hottest place on the planet.

What Lisa achieved on that trip was one of the most amazing sporting feats I've ever seen, and I've covered allot of sporting events. In just hours Lisa sets off again in what is the toughest foot race on the planet, and I thought I would post a link to the story we shot last year, give it a watch it's called The Amazing Race for good reason.

Good luck Lisa

http://tvnz.co.nz/20-20/2020-amazing-race-video-2024591

This weeks 20/20 Promo

2009-07-13T10:59:00.001+13:00

Nil by Mouth:

Kiwi kids who refuse to eat – refuse to drink!

Grace is just five years old, but she has never eaten – never drunk. A gastric tube is the only thing that keeps her alive. Nothing has passed her lips since the day she was born. It is a horrible condition that is literally consuming her life. No one knows for certain how many kiwi kids are affected by this weird phenomenon. It could be hundreds! It could be thousands! It is a parent’s worst nightmare and the cure is almost as cruel as the condition.

Killing Colds On The Couch

2009-06-30T12:53:00.006+13:00

On Friday my family and I head to the Gold Coast, where my wife will be competing in a half marathon event. This is not that unusual as Lee is a great runner and likes to compete when she can.

Unfortunately both myself and my eldest daughter have been struck down by the worst cold ever. Our mission is to convalesce on the couch all the while trying not to pass on the bug. Lee has trained through some very cold mornings and really put in some hard yards, to be struck down before we head off would be a crying shame.

Wish us luck

Lost and Found this week on 20/20

2009-06-24T11:04:00.003+13:00

My colleague Mark Sleeman has been working on this for awhile and sounds like a good yarn be sure to watch

TV Pro

2009-06-17T15:45:00.003+13:00

I’m a television professional with over twenty years of experience, so when my daughter said she had a school project to do on earthquakes I had what seemed at the time an amazing idea. I suggested to my eight year old daughter that she do an interview with her Uncle Mike who is a reporter for the 60minutes show and had gone to China to cover the 2008 earthquake.

This would be simple I thought, I’d film it, borrow a friends MAC Book and edit it on IMovie. How hard could it be, I am after all a TV Pro. Well as it turns out very hard, first up my friends shiny new MAC Book is so new it doesn’t have a fire-wire input. No problem I’ll just use my old PC Laptop.

Next what to use as an editing tool, after searching the net I discovered that Sony Vegas provides a free trail of their Movie Maker software .
Software downloaded I started editing away in the knowledge the project was due in two days time. I was once an editor however it was just starting to dawn on me that was over ten years ago…oops this might not be as easy as I first thought. Eventually I found my way around the editing tool and had a final product the night before it was to be handed in.

Next step transfer the project to DVD, oops I need to download some more software. New batch of software neatly installed I was ready to publish and be damned …. system crash …. try again …. system crash …. repeat this sequence many times over. It is now midnight and I suddenly remember how old my laptop is …. you fool it doesn’t have a DVD burner.

Due day arrives I explain to my girl I’ll take the Flintstone laptop to work make a file and use another computer to burn a DVD. I then write her a note for her teacher saying that I’ll bring the disk in at lunch time.

Disk in hand I race from the city to my daughters school, find her in the playground and hand it to her. Daddy she says to me, yes I say, we don’t need it until Friday now.

Steph Coldstream

2009-06-10T09:55:00.003+13:00

A couple of months ago Beth Roche and I did a story about a mother daughter stunt riding team for 20/20. It is with great sadness that I post notice of her death, Steph passed away yesterday morning after what can only be described as a very brave battle with breast cancer.

Our thoughts are with Kody her youngest daughter and the rest of the family, all of whom were a pleasure to meet during the filming of Stephs story.

You can watch the story again at this link. http://tvnz.co.nz/20-20-news/coming-up-20-20-taking-reins-2678931/video

New Blog

2009-06-06T09:06:00.002+13:00

Hi my mighty army of followers, this is just a post to let you all know that in the near future i'm going to be transfering my blog over to a Wordpress platform. This means it will be found at different address, I will post that address, put it on Twitter, stick it on Facebook, send out a txt, and set free some pidgeons with notes attacthed to them.
Watch this space and any other space you have that might be worth watching.

Pip Pop

2009-05-29T12:37:00.006+13:00

Chris Brown (20/20 cameraman), Beth Roche and myself just got back from Dunedin where we were filming a story about a family whose young girl Grace cant or wont eat.

Pip the young girls mother bends balloons for kids party's, now that may seem a bit hum-drum but you need to see the amazing things she does with these balloons. Keep an eye out for the story in the next month or so.

Reaction To 20/20 Story

2009-05-24T10:28:00.003+13:00

We had such a huge reaction to the story about Rachel Francis the former prostitute and brothel owner that I thought I would post this link http://www.votemenot.co.nz/thread/35926781/so-is-anyone-writing-to-tvnz-20-20/ . It demonstrates the the strength of opinion this subject generates some of it in my opinion bigoted and ill informed.

You Gotta Watch This 20/20 Promo

2009-05-18T16:26:00.001+13:00

You Gotta Watch This

2009-05-18T10:05:00.004+13:00

Beth Roche and I have been working on a story about a retired prostitute and brothel owner, some of the stories she has to tell will curl your hair. Rachel Francis is one hell of a character and a woman that says she entered the world of prostitution of her own free will and loved nearly every minute of it. Rachel speaks with passion and conviction about an industry that most of us have little real knowledge of, this is not " Pretty Woman"

I will post a video promo soon.

This Week on 20/20

2009-05-14T11:38:00.002+13:00

THIS WEEK ON 20/20
Thursday 14th May 2009, 9.30pm

Don’t miss 20/20 – the best of New Zealand and international Current Affairs presented by Miriama Kamo with reporters Pete Cronshaw, Beth Roche and Sonya Wilson.

This week on 20/20:

THE LAST RUSH: For most of us the idea of throwing ourselves off the side of a mountain, or hanging off Mt Everest without an oxygen bottle just seems too much of a mission impossible. But what makes it seem like a walk in the park for extreme athletes? Are they simply born without the fear gene? Well tonight 20/20’s Pete Cronshaw talks to a Kiwi expert who believes their brains simply operate differently from the rest of us… and you’ll hear from the men and women who think it’s normal to live on the edge. You’ll be amazed at what he discovers.

20/20 Tonight

2009-05-07T16:57:00.002+13:00

HIGH HEELS, HIGH HOPES: Critics call it a dated practice in a modern world… exploitative even… but tonight 20/20’s Sonya Wilson puts you in the judge’s chair –with an exclusive all-access pass behind the scenes of Miss World New Zealand. We follow 17 women desperate to take out the crown, while mastering the highest of heels and everything else from beach beauty to top model and talent competitions. As the pressure mounts, the nerves, the sequins and the sparkle powder keep increasing. So why do they do it? Well, as one contestant tells 20/20, the pageant is her way of proving girls really can do anything.

Steph Coldstream is Special

2009-04-29T20:53:00.002+13:00

THIS WEEK ON 20/20

Thursday 30th April 2009, 9.30pm

This week on 20/20:

TAKING THE REINS: She’s a Kiwi world beater, who refuses to let anything get in the way of realising her dreams. And for Palmerston North’s Steph Coldstream life’s been tougher than most. As 20/20’s Beth Roche discovers, Steph’s battled breast cancer, and never let it get in the way of her and daughter Kody’s life on the road as the country’s top stunt horse riders. She’s even had a starring role in a Hollywood movie, as Hayden Panettiere’s riding double. But now she’s in the race of her life, as her health is threatened once more.

Girls Love Shoes

2009-04-27T10:32:00.008+13:00

It really is true girls love shoes, she easily has as many handbags to go with them just to add weight to the stereotype.

The Great Easter Egg Hunt 2009

2009-04-14T10:50:00.008+13:00

The Clues, the search and the prize, my two girls and their friends hunt for Easter eggs

The Real Denny Crane

2009-04-06T21:00:00.005+13:00

I spent the morning sitting in Auckland District Court #1. It was for a story I'm working on, the court is a sad place none of the glamour of my favourite show Boston Legal. Spending time in a local court can give you a sense that the society we live in is held together by a thin thread that is getting more frayed by the case.
On the bright side I took my daughter to see Lisa Tamiti on the weekend. Lisa ran through Death Valley last year in race called The Badwater Classic, Sonya Wilson and I did a story on her for 20/20 I'll try and post a link. Lisa was spending ten hours running on a treadmill in an attempt to raise funds to have another crack at the worlds hardest foot race. Lisa took a moment from her treadmill bashing to sign a Death Valley hat that my girl had brought along, she was wrapt

This Week on 20/20

2009-04-06T15:42:00.005+13:00

This week on 20/20 Sonya Wilson and I meet the Groens eight of whom are members of the New Zealand Barefoot Water Skiing team. Great bunch of people doing what they love and doing it as a family.

Where The Wild Things Are

2009-04-02T16:14:00.006+13:00

One of those work days, waiting waiting waiting. Still all this waiting for talent to contact me has let me have a surf around. Being a father of two young girls can make you a bit soft in the head, but I dare you not to find the trailer for Where The Wild Things Are not cute.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--N9klJXbjQ

I've put up the follow me gadget in the forlorn hope that somebody may actually read this and decide to join.
Hopefully tomorrow will bring some excitement to TV land and I will have something to film.
Over and out.

To Twitter or Not to Twitter

2009-04-01T20:26:00.004+13:00

I'm new to this Twitter craze and am not sure of the rules. I noticed that someone I know, but not well from work is on Twitter. I decided I would follow them and added them to my list. Moments later I panicked and removed them. It occurred to me that they might not like me to follow them and would find it uncomfortable, and also find it difficult to ask me not to.
Its kind of wiered a bit like being back at school, trying to hang with the right crowd but not being sure if you fit. Anyway if you want to follow my Twitter along with the whole eleven other random folk go ahead, my Twitter is on the right hand side of the blog.
Cheers and here's to hangin with the nerds.

Friends of 20/20

2009-03-31T20:48:00.002+13:00

About three weeks ago a group of us at work decided to set up a facebook group called friends of 20/20. It's become a small obsession and I cant help checking it every five minutes to see if we have any new friends. We're sitting at 195 at the moment and busting to break 200. If anybody does actually read this, could you please check it out.
While youre checking things out you really need to go to Itunes and down load the featured free single by David Dallas called Indulge Me. David is real talent and has just returned from pushing his barrow at SXSW.
Thats all for post #3 keep your hands high and use laterial movement.

Just to Kick Things Off

2009-03-30T20:36:00.004+13:00

This is a post to get things started. I've just finished work on a story about Chris Kahui who was charged with the killing of his twin baby boys in 2006. He spoke to Beth Roche and myself exclusively last week on 20/20. If you missed it you can catch it here http://tvnz.co.nz/20-20-news/chris-kahui-speaks-2577034/video?vid=2591076

We had a huge response right across the spectrum. Next up with out giving things away I'm hooking up with a former prostitute and madam. Watch this space.

2009-03-30T15:47:00.000+13:00