ITV has announced a new travel series featuring comedian Jason Manford and singer Gary Barlow, titled ‘Gary Barlow’s Food & Wine Tour: New Zealand’. The series will consist of six episodes, each lasting 30 minutes, and promises to deliver a blend of adventure and culinary exploration.
Produced by Rock Oyster Media in association with Tourism New Zealand and Great Rail Journeys, the series will showcase a variety of activities, including tandem biking and rescuing penguins, highlighting the natural beauty and unique experiences New Zealand has to offer.
David Nottage, the executive producer of the series, expressed enthusiasm about the pairing of Barlow and Manford, stating, “Gary is a much-loved, charismatic and inquisitive traveller. Pair him with his mate Jason Manford and belly laughs and high adrenaline are guaranteed!” This dynamic duo is expected to bring humor and excitement to the screen.
This new series follows previous successful Barlow-fronted travel shows set in South Africa and Australia, which collectively reached an audience of 5 million viewers. The continued collaboration between Barlow and ITV reflects the network’s commitment to producing engaging travel content.
Leanne Clarke, the Assistant Commissioner for Entertainment and Daytime at ITV, played a key role in commissioning the series, emphasizing the network’s focus on innovative programming that resonates with audiences.
As viewers anticipate the premiere of ‘Gary Barlow’s Food & Wine Tour: New Zealand’, they can expect a series that not only entertains but also educates about the rich culture and stunning landscapes of New Zealand.
Dave Riley from Great Rail Journeys noted, “Great Rail Journeys has always believed that the most powerful travel stories come to life when you create genuine moments of connection – between people, cultures and landscapes.” This philosophy will likely be a guiding principle throughout the series.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact premiere date, but the excitement surrounding this new venture is palpable. Fans of both Barlow and Manford are eager to see how their chemistry translates into travel adventures.