New Zealand made reality television at it’s best; this series was based around an intense cooking competition and was created exclusively using Apple hardware and software. What resulted was a brilliant show that attracted thousands of viewers and proved once again that when it comes to the creative fields, such as television, Apple is second to none.

Apple Gear Used
Essential Productions not only used Apple Hardware and Software in the editing process, but also onscreen to represent the ‘behind-the-scenes’ area where host and chef Rick Rutledge-Manning talked candidly to the camera. Five iMac G4 computers were used onscreen to create a stylish ‘backroom’ environment, away from the reality of the kitchen, which created a ‘cutting edge’ look and feel.

For editing a Power Mac G4 SuperDrive, PowerBook G4 SuperDrive and two 17” Displays were used. The software used was Final Cut Pro. Final Cut Pro is Apple’s Emmy Award–winning software that is one of the most sophisticated and scalable digital nonlinear editing systems available; great for film and television work. Whether the work is HD or SD, online or offline, Final Cut Pro has the creative tools, professional features and flexibility to meet the grueling demands of the post-production industry.

In Hell
The Hell’s Kitchen series was screened on TV2 from February to May 2003. The show was a great success; it received fantastic ratings within the “all New Zealanders 18 – 49yrs” audience range, and was awarded third place in the ‘Best Reality Competition’ category of the TV Guide Best of the Box Awards in December 2003.

The show was about finding the best and most innovative chefs in the country and testing their skills under pressure. Contestants were expected to prepare menus and meals, which came under the scrutiny of the three judges and the Hell’s Kitchen diners.

Bella Restaurant on Auckland’s Ponsonby Road was transformed into Hell’s Kitchen for the duration of the television series. Hosting the show was experienced chef Rick Rutledge-Manning, who throughout the series trained and assessed the contestant’s culinary expertise.

Adding to the pressure was the knowledge that the victorious chef would win his or her own restaurant!

The eventual winner was Chris Fortune, whose laidback yet passionate approach to food won him the finale in May 2003.

This television series by Essential productions was directed by Peter Barrett and produced by Jonathon Dowling.