If Air New Zealand’s ‘Hobbit’ safety videos taught us one thing (aside from what to do in an emergency situation of course), it’s that the carrier doesn’t need to look too far for internationally recognised local talent.
So when it came time for a follow-up to the Hollywood safety video starring Anna Farris, Air New Zealand decided to cast an all-star lineup of homegrown talent.
Shortland Street’s Jayden Daniels opens the clip as he sets off on a trip around Northland’s Bay of Islands and Hokianga in a red convertible with three Air New Zealand crew members.
Supermodel, Rachel Hunter, tempts Daniels over to her vehicle with “ice creams” but she’s quickly ditched in the ‘Summer of Safety’ clip for roadside fritters.
Daniels’ getaway continues, during which he meets other famous Kiwis such as Joe Naufahu, who played Khal Moro (equally as cute as Khal Drago, let’s be honest) in Game of Thrones, stuntwoman Zoe Bell and canine sidekick Blossom the British Bulldog, IndyCar legend Scott Dixon and Olympic bronze-medallist Eliza McCartney also jump on board the light-hearted road trip, which was filmed at ten locations across Northland.
Air New Zealand General Manager of Global Brand and Content Marketing Jodi Williams said the video will put the Bay of Islands and the wider Northland region on the wish list for millions worldwide.
“One of our goals at Air New Zealand is to inspire visitors to travel beyond the traditional gateways to discover the warm welcome and breathtaking landscapes on offer in our regional destinations.”
Jodi Williams, Air New Zealand General Manager of Global Brand and Content Marketing
“Our safety videos have an impressive global following, collectively attracting more than 100 million views and gaining significant international media exposure.
“This latest edition is a great opportunity to not only deliver a safety message, but also to showcase the very best of the North to help drive economic benefit for the region.”
Game of Thrones Dothraki warrior Joe Naufahu talked about his experience, saying it was exciting to be part of the safety video and spending time in Hokianga was a bonus.
“I join the road trip in Hokianga and travel down to check out New Zealand’s largest living Kauri tree Tane Mahuta in the Waipoua Forest, before cooling off with a swim at Opononi.”
Joe Naufahu
“With dolphins swimming around the set and awe inspiring sights like Tane Mahuta, Northland is certainly a special place to be – and a world away from Westeros.”
Check out the safety video below.