Plot Summary
14 enterprising young New Zealanders compete for the chance of a lifetime.
Watch nowNew Zealand Television Awards
Nominated for ‘Best Format Reality Series’
Available on
TVNZ / MGM
About the show
Fighting for the title of
‘The Apprentice Aotearoa’
The Apprentice Aotearoa (2021) saw 14 enterprising young New Zealanders compete for the chance of a lifetime: investment and mentorship from one of Aotearoa’s leading entrepreneurs. Across 12 episodes, our ambitious, charismatic and bold contestants had to complete a series of business orientated challenges - from inventing ice cream flavours, to designing dressing gowns, to selling undesirable holiday destinations - as they fought for the title of ‘The Apprentice Aotearoa’.
The Cast
Fronted by a formidable
CEO Mike Pero
Called “the year’s best New Zealand comedy” (The SpinOff), The Apprentice Aotearoa was fronted by a formidable CEO - Mike Pero - and his two advisors: Justin Tomlinson and Cassie Roma (the first queer woman in Apprentice format history to act as advisor to the CEO). The Apprentice Aotearoa was a ratings success - growing the timeslot - and a favourite among critics.
What the critics said
"The year’s best NZ comedy might be a revived reality show about business“
“Well-crafted and tantalising, the plot and performances are compelling“
"An engrossing, evocative supernatural-tinged detective drama“
