The teenage quiz show is making a comeback as part of a $10 million-plus spending package on children's television by New Zealand On Air.
The popular format of 1980s shows like It's Academic and W-Three will live again in the form of The Machine, in which teams of 15-year-olds will test their knowledge, creativity and athletic ability.
The 13-part, studio-based show will screen on TV2. NZ On Air has subsidised the production with $633,333.
The funding agency announced a $9.1 million handout yesterday and has a further $1.2 million to allocate.
It had an extra $600,000 from the Government to spend on young children's and youth programmes in 2001.
TV2, which reviewed children's programming, will also introduce a new preschool programme.
John Wright, TVNZ commissioner of children's programmes, said The Machine would have a modern look but the idea was drawn from earlier quiz show successes. "I think it's a welcome return. We're quite excited about it."
Teen quiz show comeback
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.