Content powerhouse, Banijay Entertainment, today announces the renewal of Screentime New Zealand’s acclaimed international co-production A Remarkable Place to Die for a second season. The hit crime drama returns with an expanded six feature-length episode run, produced by Screentime New Zealand in co-production with ZDF and Real Film Berlin in association with global distributor, Banijay Rights. Lead broadcasters include ZDF (Germany), Acorn TV (US), Nine Network (Australia), and TVNZ (New Zealand) and with support from the NZ SPR and NZ On Air.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Queenstown/Tāhuna, A Remarkable Place to Die blends gripping crime with emotional, character-driven depth. The series follows smart and determined detective Anais Mallory (Chelsie Preston-Crayford) as she unravels complex new cases while secretly investigating the display murder of Maya Staunton. Known for its layered storytelling, the drama’s first series became a breakout hit, with 30% channel share on TVNZ, very strong VOD numbers for ZDF in Germany, and attracting one million viewers weekly in Australia.
Filming has commenced at Screentime NZ’s recently launched Remarkable Studios, Queenstown/Tāhuna’s first 2300sqm, sound-proofed, sound stage. Repurposed from a department store, it has already hosted multiple major productions, and is driving a pipeline of work through 2027.
Philly de Lacey, Creator and CEO Screentime New Zealand says: “This renewal is more than continuing a great international co-production, it’s about building a sustainable industry in Queenstown/Tāhuna, showcasing our culture to the world, and creating opportunities for local talent. Filmed entirely in the region and utilising our own Remarkable Studios, this production showcases New Zealand’s stunning scenery, sense of humour, and vibrant character, bringing major investment in the local economy, through high regional spend and new employment opportunities.”
Nadia Tolich, Chief News and Content Officer, TVNZ: “A Remarkable Place to Die continues to set a new benchmark for local drama, uniting exceptional talent and storytelling that resonates with audiences both here and abroad. We’re proud to support a series that not only delivers compelling entertainment but also champions the unique voice and landscape of Aotearoa on the global stage.”
Frank Seyberth, Head of Coproduction ZDF, International Fiction: “For us, New Zealand might be on the other side of the world, and yet it is very close to the hearts of our viewers. The way our audience connected with characters like Anais and her team over season one is a great testimony to the fruitfulness of this type of international collaboration, and we can’t wait to present an extended season two to crime-hungry fans.”
Henning Kamm, CEO and Sibylle Stellbrink, Executive Producer at Real Film Berlin say: “We are thrilled to begin principal photography on the second season of A Remarkable Place to Die. Thanks to our wonderful team and the fantastic, trusting collaboration with our partners we will be shooting not just four, but six episodes. We are very grateful for the best co-production we could have hoped for.”
Joining Chelsie Preston-Crayford, the expanded ensemble cast includes returning talent Matt Whelan, Roimata Fox, Dahnu Graham and Michala Banas (McLeod’s Daughters), and new faces Luke Arnold (Black Sails), JJ Fong (Creamerie), and guest cast Roger Corser (Doctor Doctor), and Antonia Prebble (Westside).
Created by Philly de Lacey and John Banas, with scripts by John Banas and Dahnu Graham, A Remarkable Place to Die is directed by Peter Burger, Josh Frizzell, Emmett Skilton, Victoria Boult and Charlie Haskell. Executive Producers include Philly de Lacey, Henning Kamm, and Sibylle Stellbrink, and Don Klees for Acorn TV.
Season two, which will premiere in 2026 across partner networks and streaming platforms, including AMC Networks’ Acorn TV in the U.S., the leading streamer for compelling international crime dramas and murder mysteries, and will be available as either 6×90’ or 12×60’. The series deepens its cultural lens, including a powerful episode exploring Māori customs and language, helmed by Ngāi Tahu director Peter Burger and written by Dahnu Graham. Darren Rewi (Take Tuia Consultancy) has been involved from script stage and will remain on set for key cultural scenes.
Banijay Entertainment is home to over 60 scripted labels, producing more than 110 titles annually. Its global portfolio of English-language titles includes Peaky Blinders, House of Guinness, Half Man, A Woman of Substance, The Buccaneers, Bergerac, Falling and many more.
