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The release of the first teaser trailer for Netflix’s upcoming limited series East of Eden is shining a spotlight on Waitaki and several South Island filming locations that helped bring the production to life.
The adaptation of John Steinbeck’s classic novel stars Florence Pugh and is written and executive produced by Zoe Kazan. The series is scheduled for release later this year.
Ōamaru precinct featured
Ōamaru played a key role in recreating Steinbeck’s early 20th-century California setting, with two weeks of filming taking place in the town’s Victorian Precinct.
Additional filming locations included the Scottish Hall and the historic rail area near Friendly Bay.
The Search locations manager Phil Turner says the region offered a rare level of authenticity for period filming.
“These are incredibly unique locations that can replicate period settings in a way that’s very difficult to achieve elsewhere, you’d almost have to build a set to match somewhere like the Ōamaru Historic Precinct. It’s completely unique globally,” Phil says.
“To find anything comparable in America, you’d almost have to travel the continent, but you can find it all right here.”
Phil says filming also took place across the Maniototo and Central Otago regions.
“Maniototo and Central Otago are just extraordinary landscapes. They’re less developed and full of opportunity, from wide open spaces to historic homes.”
Tourism benefits highlighted
Filming across the South Island included a weekend shoot in central Dunedin and a further two weeks in the Maniototo between Naseby and Ranfurly.
Tourism Waitaki general manager Heather Matthews says the production reinforces the region’s appeal as part of New Zealand’s screen tourism offering.
“Ōamaru’s heritage streetscape is genuinely world-class, and it’s exciting to know it’s being featured alongside other South Island locations in a production of this scale,” Heather says.
She says hosting a major international production delivered immediate economic benefits across the region.
“Productions like this bring real economic benefits, from jobs and accommodation through to hospitality, and local services.
“They also deliver long-term value by building international awareness and encouraging future visitors to explore places like Waitaki.”
During filming, cast and crew also visited local attractions including the Ōamaru Penguin Colony.
Heather says the production has created strong local pride.
“There’s real pride in seeing Waitaki brought to life on screen. It’s a reflection of the community effort that went into supporting the production, and something locals can genuinely celebrate.”
Netflix’s East of Eden is expected to premiere in late 2026.
The Ōamaru Historic Town Centre and Port has also begun the process to become a National Historic Landmark, New Zealand’s highest heritage recognition.
