In Production · With Air New Zealand

TheForgotten River

The Other New Zealand · the Rivers of Taupō & the Central North Island
Premiering 2027 · Fly Fishing Film Tour
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The Project

The original fishing destination

Deep in New Zealand’s Central North Island, the rivers of Taupō have shaped a way of life for generations — and a story the rest of the world has yet to discover.

The Forgotten River follows anglers April Vokey and Simon Jolly across the storied waters of Lake Taupō and its tributaries — alongside the local guides, iwi members, and historians who know this country best. Made in partnership with Air New Zealand, it is more than a film. It is an invitation to the other New Zealand.

This is an integrated film and travel campaign, built to carry audiences from the theater to the trip of a lifetime: discover the North Island, become inspired by the story, and begin planning a journey of your own. We’re in the field now — the story below will keep growing as the film does.

“The other New Zealand — where the rivers still run quiet, and wild.”
The Roadmap

Where it’s headed

A living timeline — where the film is now, and the road ahead.

2025
Development
Story, access, and partners secured.
2026
Filming · New Zealand
Shot on the water in Taupō.
Mid 2026
Post-Production
Edit, score, and color.
We are here
2027
World Premiere
Fly Fishing Film Tour debut.
2028
Digital Premiere
Global digital launch.
Distribution

From a hidden river to screens around the world

A global rollout built to reach anglers, travelers, and dreamers — on five continents, in the air, and in living rooms across the country.

01
Theatrical Premiere

2027 Fly Fishing Film Tour

Premiering on one of the world’s leading fly-fishing showcases — screening across North America, Europe, Australia, South America, and Africa. A year-long tour spanning five continents.

02
In-Flight Feature

Air New Zealand

Featured on Air New Zealand’s in-flight entertainment — reaching travelers already dreaming of their next destination, and pointing them straight to the rivers on screen.

03
Digital Launch

Field & Stream TV

A full digital release landing in an estimated 80–100 million homes on Field & Stream TV — plus short-form edits, editorial features, and partner channels worldwide.

80–100M
Homes reached
Field & Stream TV
5
Continents
on the film tour
In-Flight
Air New Zealand
entertainment
2027
World premiere
Fly Fishing Film Tour
A global film & travel campaign, made with
Air New Zealand
With support from
Skwala Love Taupō Chris Jolly Outdoors Thomas & Thomas Airflo Abel
Win the Trip · Plan Your Journey

Plan your own North Island journey

The trip of a lifetime doesn’t have to stay a dream. Watch for our giveaway — a trip for two to Taupō — or reach out now, and our team and partners will help you connect the flights, lodging, guides, and water. We’ll help you get there.

Get in touch →
Flights · Lodging · Guides · The whole trip
Follow the Story

Be the first to know

Join the list for the making-of, tour dates, the giveaway, and the premiere — sent straight from the field. No noise, just the story as it happens.

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