Lake Wanaka Tourism has released 'Harvest Wanaka, an episodic style video series, showcasing Wanaka’s world-class food and wine story.
The Harvest series follows three teams from; Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane on a three-day journey of food and wine exploration in the Wanaka Region.
A selection of Australasia’s hottest chef’s and sommeliers were brought over by LWT and paired with leading local chefs; James Stapley (Kika), Mario Rodrigues (Bistro Gentil) and Eliot Thomas (Morsel – honest Food Co.) as their guides.
Each day a new discovery, from the stunning epic settings of Wanaka’s vineyards, foraging, farms and gardens, the quality produce, to the undeniable passion of the producers behind the scenes. Culminating in a very special dining experience for guests of the series sponsor Mercedes-Benz, at Whare Kea Lodge.
Sydney based sommelier and wine consultant Samantha Payne was blown away by the experience.
"We spent three of the most incredible days foraging, exploring, meeting people, uncovering the very best this region has to offer. Wanaka is so magical and will always hold a special place in my heart."
Taking the creative lead and producing this series in-house, LWT’s marketing team worked alongside award-winning creative producer AJ Johnson. With credits that include Survivor, Love Island and The Voice, AJ brought 15 years of commercial experience to the project, as well as an intimate knowledge and true passion for the Wanaka region.
Cadre was brought on to film and manage post-production, with Mirrors Audio responsible for the bespoke soundtrack.
"Designed to grow visitation in autumn, this style of content takes a more thoughtful, editorial approach to storytelling," says LWT general manager James Helmore.
"In a fast-paced, always-on world, we are continuously looking at ways to cut through the clutter in a crowded content space, and from our research we know that audiences, and in particular ’foodie’ audiences are looking for a real connection.
"With Harvest we wanted to not only inspire and inform, but to also entertain and we are very pleased with the outcome."
