Coronavirus: Shortland Street filming shuts down, cuts episodes

South Pacific Pictures confirmed they've closed all TV productions effective immediately. Photo / Supplied

Due to the Government's current restrictions in regards to the closure of non-essential services, South Pacific Pictures will close all of their productions effective immediately.

This includes the postponement of filming on Shortland Street, Westside, Educators and Mean Mums.

"It is our priority to follow the practices and procedures set out by the Ministry of Health to ensure the safety of everyone involved," said Kelly Martin, South Pacific Pictures CEO.

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"We will continue to evaluate the situation over the coming days and hope to resume the production of all of our shows as soon as it is deemed safe."

All broadcasters who currently have productions in commission with South Pacific Pictures have been informed of this situation and understand the necessity behind it.

TVNZ has also announced that in light of the Prime Minister's announcement raising New Zealand's COVID-19 alert level, Shortland Street will now only air Monday - Wednesday, effective immediately.

"This move allows us to continue to air the programme while it is not in production in a consistent way throughout the lock-down period," said spokesperson Rachel Howard.

Due to the Government's current restrictions on non-essential services, Warner Bros has also suspended filming on The Block NZ.

According to a Mediaworks spokesperson, it is working in accordance with Government advice and is looking forward to resuming production as soon as it is deemed safe.