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Cordell Jigsaw Zapruder acquires NZ producer

CJZ acquires NZ production company Greenstone TV, which specialises in factual, documentaries and drama.

2013-11-15_0022Production company Cordell Jigsaw Zapruder (CJZ) has acquired New Zealand production company Greenstone TV (The Zoo, Highway Patrol, Coastwatch, Motorway Patrol and Serious Crash Unit.)

Greenstone has been producing factual, documentaries and drama for nineteen years and this year has had 14 shows in production.

The move follows CJZ recently appointing Matt Campbell as CEO.

“This is an important step for both companies,” says Nick Murray, Managing Director of CJZ. “We have a huge amount of respect for John Harris and his team and the quality of Greenstone’s programs. Their creative output dovetails perfectly with the successful and original content we provide networks here in Australia and internationally. This deal gives us the platform to build the CJZ group for the future.”

Michael Cordell, CJZ Creative Director added, “New Zealand is one of the great creative hothouses for new programming and bold programming. The size of the market encourages innovation and lateral thinking. We’re thrilled to be joining creative forces with the fantastic team at Greenstone to develop new shows for the international market across all genres. Plus the Kiwis do brilliant pinot noir.”

CJZ will retain its name.

Greenstone founding producer John Harris said, “It felt like the right time to make this move.

“I have a high regard for the CJZ team and the new relationship will allow Greenstone to continue to grow in its own right. We share similar values, high standards and a deep respect for our production staff. It‘s a perfect fit.”

John Harris continues with Greenstone in an advisory capacity while General Manager – Bryan Hall, Head of Production – Andrea Lamb and Financial Controller – Glenda Paterson will remain at the helm.

One Response

  1. Great to see stronger relationships wit our trans-Tasman buddies. Hopefully this means more work for local Aussie crews and production staff and eliminates the use of foreign workers on 457 visas who are taking the lions share of production work and getting paid substantially more than locals.

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