A magazine created specifically to inspire and empower New Zealand’s emerging indie film and video making talent relaunched this month. 

Viewfinder magazine originally launched back in 2009 with publisher Steve Hart. Last year editor and publisher, Fiona Powell (founder and past-publisher of Her Business magazine) took over Viewfinder and has rebranded and refocused the magazine and membership.

Viewfinder is aimed at the indie, new, emerging, student, semi-pro, established or passion fuelled filmmaker or video creator; whether they’re shooting on a Red or an iphone; whether their project is a short or feature film, company video, web series or doco for the big screen or for an online audience.
The Viewfinder website has been redeveloped to include production listings and updates, and film/video events and opportunities; a membership network has been established for members to connect and learn from a webinar series, and the bi-monthly magazine (print and digital) offers articles from kiwi filmmakers who share insights into various areas of film and video creation.

“It’s an incredibly exciting time to be in both publishing and independent filmmaking,” says Fiona Powell, a digital filmmaking student herself. “With the explosion of mobile device ownership, magazine readers can now access their reading material on their mobile devices on the go; on the bus, on the beach or in bed. This also means audiences are crying out for more video content to watch on these devices; which is a very good thing for innovative film and video creators.”

The first issue of the relaunched Viewfinder magazine was distributed mid-May to an enthusiastic audience, including Viewfinders current 1000 members. Articles included interviews with Roseanne Liang, director and co-writer of the self-funded hit web series Flat3; Giles McNeil, last year’s 48HOURS winning director; James Holman, the only New Zealander invited to compete in the International GoPro Film Challenge, as well as the voices of other emerging and award winning indie filmmakers and video creators. Interviewees offer a unique kiwi filmmaking voice as they share their practical film and video lessons, insights and journeys for readers to be inspired and learn from.

Viewfinder welcomes enquiries from filmmakers and video creators who wish to share their stories and experiences with readers. Email fiona@viewfinder.co.nz.

The Ride To Conquer Cancer celebrated its first annual “Epic Impact Day” in New Zealand on Wednesday.  The national fundraising initiative by The Ride participants surged donations in support of life-saving cancer research and clinical trials at Cancer Society Auckland.

“Funds raised through The Ride are put to use immediately right here in Auckland supporting world-leading research programmes and clinical trials at Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre,” said John Loof, CEO of Cancer Society Auckland.

“Cancer is the leading cause of death in New Zealand and accounts for 29% of all deaths.  As one of the world’s most productive academic cancer drug development groups, we have brought 12 new drugs to clinical trials in New Zealand and around the world, and are on a mission to conquer this disease. Epic Impact Day enables The Ride community to come together and make a substantial impact to advance this mission, so we are asking all Kiwis to support our Riders and make a donation today calling 09 887 RIDE (7433) or by visiting www.conquercancer.org.nz,”  Mr. Loof added.

In three years, The Ride To Conquer Cancer raised over $26.4 million for cancer research, treatment and care initiatives across Australia and became the largest single fundraising event series in the country’s history.  The annual two day, 200 km Ride bring together communities of people who have been through cancer, cyclists and supporters who train and fundraise for months in order to participate.

“In 2012 I was diagnosed with an incurable form of Non Hodgkins Lymphoma,” said Eleanor Kinley of Auckland.

“When my cancer returns, I hope to be fit to fight it again but more importantly, it’s my hope that the funds we raise will help lead to a breakthrough discovery that may help those of us who have to live with cancer in its many forms,” Mrs Kinley added.

The 2013 Ride will take place November 16th & 17th through the beautiful New Zealand landscape and will start and finish in Auckland.  There will be an overnight camp in Pukehohe where participants will enjoy pre-pitched tents, hot meals, hot showers, massages, entertainment and other festive activities.

To donate, register or access additional information, visit www.conquercancer.org.nz or call 09 887 RIDE (7433).

Fuelling the excitement from the Xbox One reveal on May 21, Microsoft Corp. today announced launch details for the highly anticipated next Xbox gaming and entertainment system. Launching in New Zealand in November 2013, Xbox One is the ultimate all-in-one entertainment system built for the 21st century living room — introducing a new world of games, music, live TV, movies, sports, apps and Skype, all personalized to your interests and accessible with the sound of your voice.

Every Xbox One system sold will include the new Xbox One console — which features a 500GB hard drive,1 Blu-ray player and built-in Wi-Fi — the new Kinect, one Xbox One Wireless Controller and a free 14-day trial of Xbox Live6 Gold for new members. The Xbox One launch bundle will be available for $749 RRP in New Zealand2. 

To celebrate the launch of Xbox One, Microsoft is also introducing a limited-edition commemorative bundle to fans that reserve the system at major retailers, available in limited quantities, while supplies last2.

Reserving the commemorative bundle will guarantee that you’ll be able to purchase the new system on day one. Each commemorative bundle will include an Xbox One system that comes in premium black packaging with a limited edition Xbox One Day One wireless controller, as well as a unique commemorative Day One Achievement.

Gamers who reserve the following exclusive Xbox One Day One edition launch titles, available in limited quantities at major retailers while supplies last, will receive special bonus content:

·         “Ryse: Son of Rome.5” Exclusive multiplayer map and sword with bonus attributes.
·         “Forza Motorsport 5.5” Access to four cars tuned to the top of their class.
·         “Kinect Sports Rivals.5” Exclusive sporting equipment that separates your Champion from the rest of the world.
·         “Dead Rising 3.5” Exclusive Frank West and Chuck Greene Tribute Packs with bonus attributes.

In addition, as a message of thanks to the millions of Xbox fans around the world for their passion and loyalty, Microsoft announced that every qualifying Xbox Live Gold member — new or existing — will receive two free3 Xbox 360 game downloads per month starting July 1 until Dec. 31, 2013, including popular titles such as “Halo 3” and “Assassin’s Creed II.” And to celebrate E3 in the month of June, Xbox Live Gold members will receive a free download of “Fable III.”3 For a limited time gamers can also get a Day One 12-month Xbox Live Gold membership and play “Killer Instinct: Round One,” with the exclusive Shadow Jago character, on Xbox One. Players will also receive a commemorative Day One membership card.

To reserve your Xbox One system today, and for a list of additional launch countries and prices, visit http://www.xbox.com/reserve for participating retailers.

All-new accessories to fuel the new generation of gaming

            Launching alongside Xbox One this November, a new line up of best-in-class accessories will make your new-generation gaming experiences more immersive, precise and accessible:

·         Xbox One Wireless Controller. The Xbox controller is refreshed with more than 40 technical and design innovations. Updated directional pad, thumb sticks and contours deliver greater precision and control, while new vibrating impulse triggers offer precise fingertip feedback, bringing an unprecedented level of gameplay immersion.4 The Xbox One Wireless Controller is designed to work in concert with the new Kinect, allowing the two to be paired automatically to create seamless player syncing.

·         Xbox One Play & Charge Kit. This kit includes a lithium ion rechargeable battery pack that fits inside the Wireless Controller as well as a charging cable that connects from the Controller to the console. Gamers can play on and on without having to buy a single disposable battery. The new Play & Charge Kit charges twice as fast as its Xbox 360 counterpart and charges during gameplay or when the console is in standby mode. The Kit is available for standalone purchase or as part of the Wireless Controller with Play & Charge Kit bundle

·         Xbox One Chat Headset. A must-have for fans of online gaming, the new Xbox One Chat Headset, wired to the controller, is designed for long gaming sessions and clear voice chat. With a lightweight and comfortable new design, the mono chat headset features wideband digital audio and a unidirectional microphone. Gamers will love not having to take their hands off the controller to access the microphone mute and volume controls.

For more details about all the exciting Xbox One news at E3, including the full games line up, visit news.xbox.com. For press releases and media assets, visit news.xbox.com/media (select “Choose a Category” to find relevant content). More details about the Xbox One accessories are available at www.xbox.com/xboxone/accessories.

_________

1 Xbox One system software uses a significant amount of storage; less internal storage will be available to users. 500 GB = 500 billion bytes.
2 Recommended retail prices; actual retail prices may vary.
3 “Games with Gold” free games offer available June 10 through Dec. 31, 2013, for qualifying paid Gold members only. Xbox 360 games (selected by Xbox) available for free download from Marketplace only during specified half-month window; available games may vary by country. Some titles may only be available for download by account holders 18 or older. Kinect and/or hard drive required for some games. See xbox.com/live. Internet service fees may apply.
4 In supported games.
5 Not yet classified
6 In New Zealand, only adult accounts (18+) can download or stream content over Xbox Live.

Microsoft Corp. Today at E3 offered everyone who has yet to own an Xbox 360 or wants to update their existing console an irresistible new reason to jump in. Alongside the spectacular lineup of titles for its highly anticipated next Xbox entertainment system, Xbox One, Microsoft unveiled a fresh and exciting new design for Xbox 360. Launching in New Zealand at a yet to be announced date,, the new Xbox 360 will continue to roll out worldwide across all Xbox regions over the coming months, extending the life cycle and legacy of the celebrated console that has already sold 76 million units worldwide and has been the best-selling console in the U.S. for the past 28 months.

Sporting a sleek and stylish new design that resembles the Xbox One brand elements, the new Xbox 360 brings together a similar look and feel across the entire family of Xbox products. The new Xbox 360 appears stunning wherever it fits in the home and offers great performance. It is available in multiple value-packed editions for the same great prices as the existing console: $279.00 estimated retail price (RRP1) for the 4GB console, $399.00 RRP for the 250GB edition and $399.00 RRP for the 4GB Kinect Bundle.

            “Xbox 360 offers unrivaled value — with more great games, an Xbox Live community with 48 million members, and a compelling lineup of apps, sports, movies, TV shows and music,” said Yusuf Mehdi, chief marketing and strategy officer, Interactive Entertainment Business, Microsoft. “We’ve taken all we have learned these past eight years and engineered a new Xbox 360 console that is elegant and accessible to anyone. There’s never been a better time to experience everything Xbox 360 has to offer.”

As a message of thanks to the millions of Xbox fans around the world for their passion and loyalty, Microsoft announced that every qualifying Xbox Live Gold member — new or existing — will receive, at no additional charge, two Xbox 360 games per month starting July 1 until the release of Xbox One. These will include popular titles like “Halo 3” and “Assassin’s Creed II.” And to celebrate E3 in the month of June, Xbox Live Gold subscribers will have access to “Fable III” at no additional charge. 3 In addition, for a limited time gamers can get a Day One 12-month Xbox Live Gold membership and play “Killer Instinct: Round One,” with the exclusive Shadow Jago character, on Xbox One. Players will also receive a commemorative Day One membership card.

The world’s brightest creators are continuing to bring imaginative new titles to Xbox 360, which leads the games industry with more than 4,500 titles and 48 million Xbox Live members. At Microsoft’s E3 press briefing, acclaimed developer Wargaming.net announced that a new installment of one of the world’s most popular action games, “World of Tanks: Xbox 360 Edition,” is coming exclusively to Xbox 360 later this year, bringing the franchise to a console platform for the first time. Custom-built for Xbox 360, “World of Tanks: Xbox 360 Edition” is a global online multiplayer phenomenon dedicated to tank warfare in the mid-20th century. Players will command some of history’s most powerful tanks and experience intense combat where the excitement of battle is enhanced by working together with their tank platoons to win the fight.

“World of Tanks: Xbox 360 Edition” will be available as a Free-to-Play with Gold title for Xbox Live members and a limited-time trial for all Xbox Live account holders. Register for the beta at http://www.worldoftanks.com/xbox.2

Microsoft also showcased “Max: The Curse of Brotherhood,” a follow-up to the popular game “Max and the Magic Marker,” coming exclusively to Xbox 360 later this year. The game tells the story of a boy named Max who embarks on a journey to find his little brother, Felix, after a giant monster steals him away. With the power of Kinect, players will guide Max through a mystical, blighted fantasy world, using powerful magical abilities to overcome puzzles and enemies and save Felix before it’s too late.

Fans of action games can wage war for their god as a brutal Caos warrior in “Ascend: Hand of Kul,” a Free-to-Play with Gold third-person action-RPG featuring innovative single and multiplayer gameplay. In addition, poker fans will be able to take their game to a whole new level with “World Series of Poker®: Full House Pro,” which lets players build their in-game bankrolls as they compete against opponents from around the world.

In its sixth year, Summer of Arcade continues to deliver the most anticipated, premier collection of the best downloadable games available on Xbox Live. Coming later this summer, fans will have access to fun, quality games including “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles™: Out of the Shadows” from Activision, “Flashback” by Ubisoft, “Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons” by 505 Games and “Charlie Murder” from Microsoft Studios.
In addition to these exclusive premieres, Xbox 360 will continue to deliver a staggering line-up of the most anticipated games from the world’s best studios, including “Call of Duty®: Ghosts,” “Grand Theft Auto V,” “Battlefield 4™,” “Madden NFL 25,” “FIFA 14,” “Assassin’s Creed® IV: Black Flag,” “Watch Dogs™,” “Batman: Arkham Origins” and “Fable Anniversary.” The line-up reaffirms that Xbox 360 remains the best place to enjoy this generation’s must-have blockbusters.

For more details about the Xbox One games line-up and all the exciting Xbox news at E3, visit news.xbox.com. For press releases and media assets, please visit news.xbox.com/media (select “Choose a Category” to find relevant content).

______________

1 Recommended retail prices; actual retail prices may vary
2 Free-to-Play with Xbox Live Gold membership (sold separately); additional in-game content available and sold separately. In New Zealand, only adult accounts (18+) can download or stream content over the Xbox LIVE marketplace. Internet service fees apply for all free content downloaded.
3 Xbox Live Gold subscription required. Offer is valid until November 2013. Games offered as part of this promotion are on a ‘download to own’ basis (ie. no expiry on usage).”

Embark on a heroic adventure to seek vengeance across the battlefields of ancient Rome. Fire up the engines in the exhilarating return of the highest-rated racing franchise of the past 10 years.1 Fight for survival in an immersive open world teeming with thousands of undead. Today, on the eve of the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), Microsoft Corp. kick-started a new era of games and entertainment with a stunning line up of blockbusters for the highly anticipated Xbox One gaming and entertainment system, showcasing why it will be the premier platform to experience the future of games when it launches in New Zealand come November.

Home to the biggest next-generation exclusives

At its E3 press briefing, Microsoft unveiled an unprecedented line up of world-premiere Xbox One blockbusters from some of the most innovative and celebrated studios on the planet, including 343 Industries, Crytek, Turn 10 Studios, Remedy, DICE, Capcom and Insomniac Games, along with support from virtually every major publisher in the industry.

“Microsoft Studios is committed to making Xbox One the best place to play games, with more titles in development and more exclusives coming than at any time in the history of Xbox,” said Phil Spencer, corporate vice president, Microsoft Studios. “With amazing games such as ‘Forza Motorsport 5,’ ‘Ryse: Son of Rome,’ ‘Dead Rising 3,’ ‘Halo Xbox One,’ ‘Kinect Sports Rivals,’ ‘Project Spark’ and ‘Quantum Break,’ Xbox will continue to lead the industry with the biggest exclusives, new IP and blockbuster franchises that will delight gamers for the next decade and beyond.”

The world’s most visionary developers showcased how they’re leveraging the unrivalled power and performance of Xbox One to bring a new generation of games to life that look and feel like nothing else — fuelled by the power of Xbox One, the fidelity of the new Kinect and the expansive power of Xbox Live4.

Renowned studio Crytek unveiled “Ryse: Son of Rome,” an epic action-adventure story that immerses you in the brutality and intensity of Roman warfare. “Ryse: Son of Rome” extends the gameplay experience with Xbox SmartGlass and Game DVR and lets you command legions with the sound of your voice using Kinect.

Award-winning developer Turn 10 Studios showcased the breath-taking visuals and adrenaline-filled action of “Forza Motorsport 5,” the next instalment of the genre-defining racing franchise. Built from the ground up to take advantage of Xbox One and the vast power of the cloud, “Forza Motorsport 5” features revolutionary Drivatar technology that learns how you and your friends drive, delivering real human behaviour and an ever-evolving network of opponents always ready to race — even when they’re not online. Real tendencies, real mistakes.

In addition, Microsoft delighted gamers with the world premiere teaser trailer for “Halo Xbox One,” the next chapter of the award-winning Xbox franchise developed by 343 Industries that will take you on a new journey in the “Halo” universe beginning in 2014.

Other highlights at Microsoft’s briefing included “Dead Rising 3,” the next instalment of Capcom’s massively popular zombie franchise coming exclusively to Xbox One that takes open-world action to a whole new level; “Project Spark,” an open-world digital canvas that enables anyone to build, play and share their own worlds, games and stories with millions of others online; and “Sunset Overdrive,” a high-energy open-world shooter set in the not-so-distant future from Insomniac Games that delivers an always-changing gameplay experience with an arsenal of explosive and overpowered weapons.

Home to the best multiplayer and entertainment experiences through Xbox Live Gold
Xbox Live Gold membership offers Xbox One owners a premium service that unlocks a new generation of online gaming and entertainment experiences, including an expanded list of friends that lets you stay connected and play with more people through Xbox Live. Not only does an existing Xbox Live Gold membership for Xbox 360 carry over to Xbox One, and now anyone in your home can access most Gold member benefits on your Xbox One at no additional cost.2 Your Gold membership also travels with you wherever you go, turning any console into your own.

For gamers, Xbox Live Gold on Xbox One delivers new benefits that make online gaming with your friends easier and more enjoyable than ever. Xbox Live Gold unlocks Twitch as a built-in experience on Xbox One, allowing gamers to seamlessly broadcast their gameplay as well as view and interact with other live gaming broadcasts.3 Twitch on Xbox One also includes the ability to discover tailored, relevant and inherently social video content that spans everything from e-sports events to user-generated original shows and game walk-throughs. Other benefits of Xbox Live Gold on Xbox One include the following:

·         Access to the premier multiplayer community. All of your friends can come together on Xbox Live to play the best games for the ultimate bragging rights. Backed by a powerful cloud service, matches are now bigger for games across Xbox One.

·         No more waiting for matchmaking. Smart Match on Xbox One allows for asynchronous matchmaking, where the system begins looking for your next match while you continue to game, watch TV or listen to music. Smart Match also instantly finds people you want to play with, where your reputation also plays an important role.

·         Rewards for good reputation. Your new Xbox Live reputation plays a prominent and valuable role by rewarding healthy participation while reducing troublemakers and cheaters. A unified system across Xbox Live and all of your games allows for you to have much more control over who you play with while giving you new and exciting ways to get even more involved in your community.

·         Ability to record, edit, share and broadcast. With Game DVR and Upload Studio,3 gamers can instantly capture their favourite moments and edit and share them with their friends around the world. With Twitch on Xbox One, a single voice command starts live broadcasting.

Home to the most complete portfolio of world-class blockbusters

The full line up of Xbox One games unveiled by Microsoft at E3 that showcased the fun, colour and immersion of the future of gaming includes the following:

·         “Battlefield 4” (DICE, Electronic Arts)5. DICE ushers in the next era of world-class gaming with “Battlefield 4.” The chaos of all-out war explodes, now with ground-breaking new innovations all running at a smooth 60 frames-per-second on Xbox One. “With Battlefield 4,” the intensity of combat will never be the same.

·         “Below” (Capy Games, Microsoft Studios)5. “Below” is a classic rogue tale with moody graphics and Kinect technology. You’ll scour the open world in search of rare and special loot while battling the malevolent Darkness, an artificial intelligence-controlled character that uses Kinect to sense and change level progression based on the room’s surroundings.

·         “Crimson Dragon” (Grounding/Land Ho!, Microsoft Studios)5. Humanity has been driven to the brink of extinction on a colonized planet ruled by dragons. It’s up to you to take control of a powerful dragon and battle for control of the skies in this thrilling flight-based shooter.

·         “D4” (Access Games, Microsoft Studios)5. An episodic noir adventure, “D4” follows the story of a detective with the curious ability to dive back in time. He must use this power to solve his wife’s murder and then try to prevent it from occurring.

·         “Dead Rising 3” (Capcom Vancouver, Microsoft)5. Launching in November exclusively for Xbox One, “Dead Rising 3” marks the return of the wildly popular zombie franchise and introduces a blockbuster open-world action experience that will define a new generation of zombie-slaying mayhem. With intense action, an unmatched level of weapon and character customization, and immersive Xbox SmartGlass and Kinect integration, “Dead Rising 3” delivers a heart-pounding experience unlike any other as players fight for survival in a massive, open world teeming with thousands of undead.

·         “Forza Motorsport 5” (Turn 10 Studios, Microsoft Studios)5. Launching in November, “Forza Motorsport 5” is a cinematic automotive journey starring the world’s greatest cars and tracks. Built from the ground up to take advantage of Xbox One and the vast power of the cloud, no game better delivers the wide-eyed thrill of racing.

·         “Halo Xbox One” – working title (343 Industries, Microsoft Studios)5. The award-winning franchise continues on Xbox One, beginning in 2014.

·         “Killer Instinct” (Double Helix, Microsoft Studios)5. After nearly a decade, the popular fighting franchise returns to Xbox One with the “Killer Instinct” characters and combos that revolutionized fighting games. “Killer Instinct” is enabled with robust progression and rewards, dynamic challenges customized to player behaviour, and predictive matchmaking for seamless competitive fights.

·         “Kinect Sports Rivals” (Rare, Microsoft Studios)5. Launching in November, “Kinect Sports Rivals” is the next generation of the best-selling Kinect franchise, “Kinect Sports,” that brings your favourite sports back in re-imagined ways, and delivers new sports, made possible only with Xbox One’s all-new re-engineered Kinect. “Kinect Sports Rivals” puts you in the game like never before, tracks your movements and expressions with incredible accuracy, and offers never-ending competition with your friends and competitors.

·         “LocoCycle” (Twisted Pixel, Microsoft Studios)5. “LocoCycle” takes you on an action-packed adventure only seen on Xbox One with a sentient motorcycle named I.R.I.S and her mechanic, Pablo (who, against his will, is literally being dragged along for the ride). Together, I.R.I.S and Pablo fight for their freedom while facing the Big Arms agents and their secret sentient motorcycle weapon, Spike.

·         “Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain” (Kojima Productions, Konami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd.)5. The concept of this title is “Realistic Espionage Action in an Open World Environment.” Environmental elements like weather and wildlife, and enemies that adapt their strategy to the player’s actions, let players experience a more realistic world. The vast open world environment enhances the thrill and freedom of stealth. Aside from numerous optional missions, there are a variety of gameplay elements that encourage exploration and item-collection outside the main missions.

·         “Minecraft: Xbox One Edition” (4J/Mojang, Microsoft Studios)5. “Minecraft: Xbox One Edition” will deliver the “Minecraft” experience to Xbox One. Building off the hugely successful “Minecraft: Xbox 360 Edition,” the edition on Xbox One will include larger maps for more complex structures, expanded multiplayer features and enhanced gameplay powered by the Xbox One platform. “Minecraft: Xbox One Edition” will be available within the Xbox One launch window.

·         “Powerstar Golf” (Zoe Mode, Microsoft Studios)5. Tee up for fun with “Powerstar Golf” for Xbox One. Whether you’re playing a round to unwind and admire the amazing vistas or a pro trying to climb the leader boards for bragging rights, it’s time to load up the cart and aim for the green.

·         “Project Spark” (Team Dakota, Microsoft Studios)5. “Project Spark” is an open-world digital canvas that enables anyone to build, play and share whatever they can imagine and create in the game. It’s a powerful, yet simple way to build and play your own worlds, stories and games. Share all of your creations with a dynamic community and play what the community makes. “Project Spark” brings creation to life and presents endless opportunities for play across Xbox One, Windows 8 and Xbox 360.

·         “Quantum Break” (Remedy, Microsoft Studios)5. From the creators of “Alan Wake” and “Max Payne” comes a revolutionary entertainment experience that blurs the line between gaming and TV by integrating drama and gameplay into one seamless, uniquely immersive experience. How you play the game impacts the show, and the show informs how you play the game.

·         “Ryse: Son of Rome” (Crytek, Microsoft Studios)5. Coming exclusively to Xbox One in November, “Ryse: Son of Rome” is an immersive action-adventure story of struggle, brutality and heroism, following a fearless Roman soldier named Marius Titus as he seeks to avenge the death of his family and leads an army to save the Roman Empire. “Ryse: Son of Rome” presents a cinematic re-creation of ancient Rome and brings the brutality and intensity of Roman warfare to life in visceral detail, thrusting you into the chaos of close-combat and epic-scale battles.

·         “Sunset Overdrive” (Insomniac Games, Microsoft Studios)5. “Sunset Overdrive” is an always-changing, open-world shooter set in the not-so-distant future. A catastrophic event has left your city overrun by mutants. While the majority perish or transform, you flourish. It turns out your calling isn’t picking up trash or serving food, its mutant destruction. With an arsenal of explosive, overpowered weapons and a knack for traversing the city with hyper agility, it’s not the end of days for you. Available for future release, your story is just starting.

·         “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” (CD Projekt RED)5. “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” is a unique combination of a non-linear story and an open world – a fantasy RPG focused on player choice, tactical combat and an immersive environment. Spinning the tale of Geralt of Rivia, a professional monster hunter, “The Witcher 3” aims to attract gamers with a mature and compelling narrative told as no other game has before. With over 100 hours of hand-crafted core and side quest gameplay, “The Witcher 3” redefines the genre and shapes RPGs of the next generation.

·         “Zoo Tycoon” (Frontier Developments Ltd., Microsoft Studios)5. The wildly popular “Zoo Tycoon” franchise is coming to Xbox One and Xbox 360 worldwide later this year. Fully re-imagined and featuring a menagerie of beautiful species, reactive gameplay and real calendar tie-in, this zoo simulation will charm “Zoo Tycoon” fans and new players alike.

For more details about the Xbox One games line up and all the exciting Xbox news at E3, visit news.xbox.com. For press releases and media assets, please visit news.xbox.com/media (select “Choose a Category” to find relevant content).

_________________________

1 Source: Metacritic, May 2003–May 2013
2 Available Xbox Live features vary across systems. Some Gold benefits cannot be shared on Xbox One; restrictions apply.
3 Upload Studio and Twitch features available with supported games.
4 In New Zealand, only adult accounts (18+) can download or stream content over Xbox Live.
5 Game is yet to be classified.

Comedy musical ONE MAN GUY: DIRTY AMERICAN DECADE is coming to Wellington’s BATS Theatre following a successful Auckland season.

Described by critics as “compelling, witty and perceptive”, ONE MAN GUY: DIRTY AMERICAN DECADE features actor / songwriter Jon Pheloung who occupies the stage alone for the entire show, armed only with an acoustic guitar.

Pheloung’s fourteen original songs form the basis of the show retelling a musician’s tale of ten years on the road in the USA.

Theatre Scenes praised his performance as “commanding and engaging”; Theatreview found him “incredibly likeable” and the music has been praised as “rollicking, humorous and varied.” 

ONE MAN GUY: DIRTY AMERICAN DECADE is written, directed, and performed by Pheloung who describes his performance as a bit of a high-wire act.

“There are no accomplices, no partners-in-crime. It’s very different from performing with a band, or a theatre ensemble,” he says.

Pheloung is currently appearing in MIDNIGHT IN MOSCOW at Circa Theatre following his Christmas stint at the theatre as an Ugly Sister in ROGER HALL’S CINDERELLA.

For almost twenty years Pheloung has had a second career in the USA. His work there as a songwriter and bandleader inspired the songs (and jokes) in ONE MAN GUY: DIRTY AMERICAN DECADE.

In the 1990s he formed Chicago-based band, The Bludgers, part of the popular alt-country scene that included Wilco. The Bludgers’ three albums (all available on iTunes) will soon be joined by a fourth (‘Cathedral of Bad Decisions’), already recorded and due at the end of the year. New single, “Wherever She Stays” is featured in the just released film ‘Bottled Up,’ starring Oscar winner Melissa Leo.

Pheloung says, “We’re one of those not-very-well-known but happy bands that ends up in the right place at the right time more often than we deserve. And American audiences have a lot of time for what they call my ‘Kiwi twang.’”

“The ONE MAN GUY show brings different aspects of live performing together. It’s something that I personally would love to see: live music, stand-up comedy, and theatre rolled into one. The solo music is fun – songs really breathe when you play them alone. The theatre setting gives the character and humour in the lyrics much more emphasis. And the comedy… well, if you can’t find laughs in being a struggling musician, you’ve done it wrong.”

A very early version of ONE MAN GUY debuted at BATS in 1991, when the theatre itself was starting out. “I don’t think those early songs were very good,” Pheloung laughs, “although one of them - ‘3 Minute 3 Chord Pop Song’ - has become an anthem of sorts.”

That song is the sole survivor from the early days and features prominently in the new show.

“The main thing I have in common with the “One Man Guy” character - apart from us
looking alike – is we both would love to write the perfect pop song one day.”

Jon Pheloung is available for phone and Wellington-area interviews.

ONE MAN GUY:DIRTY AMERICAN DECADE runs from Tuesday 11th June to Saturday 15th June.

ENDS

CONTACT: JON PHELOUNG (SHIRLEY GENTLEMEN PRODUCTIONS)
jpheloung@gmail.com                                                                                                                                                                    Where: BATS Theatre Studio, corner Cuba and Dixon Streets
Dates: Tuesday 11th June – Saturday 15th June
Show time: 6:30pm
Running time: 65 minutes (no interval)
STANDARD - ADULT $18.00
STANDARD - CONCESSION $15.00 Seniors 65+ and Students with ID
BOOKINGS:
http://bats.co.nz/shows/one-man-guy/
MORE SHOW DETAILS, PICTURES, VIDEO:
https://www.facebook.com/events/459627164132322/

BATS THEATRE on the corner of Cuba and Dixon Streets for 2013

National hip hop champions Identity dance crew have teamed up with Primal Youth and ‘The Movement’ to positively impact young people in New Zealand.

Primal Youth launched ‘The Movement’ last Thursday. It consisted of heats all across the nation with a semi final live now for public voting via the Primal Youth facebook page ‘Vote’ tab. It’s the only hip hop competition in NZ that holds it’s final on a social media platform.

Primal Youth is a network of youth communities meeting in cities and towns throughout NZ and the Pacific Islands that exists to empower young people and give them an alternative to drugs and alcohol.

Street Dance NZ Director Bev Adair-Beets, says, “The NZ Street Dance Community is excited and fully supports this amazing initiative called 'The Movement'. It is an awesome grassroots hip hop competition and we are looking forward to seeing some unique styles, and the choreography that will emerge from it.

NOW it’s your turn NZ to go online and support! Get behind your favourite Crew and VOTE. $1000 prize money is up for the winning Crew!

Street Dance NZ is also very pumped about the upcoming 'Identity High School Tour’ set for July. New Zealand's very own National Adult Hip Hop Champions 2013, heading to the WORLD stage in Las Vegas to represent NZ, at the Hip Hop International Championships is coming to YOUR local high school to perform is going to be epic.”

As part of the ‘The Movement’ Primal Youth and Identity dance crew have launched a new fundraising online campaign to give the community an opportunity to donate to the Identity high school tour. Donations can be given online at www.themovement.org.nz/identity.

“We are honoured to represent New Zealand on the World stage. We are stoked to partner with Primal Youth and have the opportunity to give back to the youth in our community and encourage them to never give up and to find their identity. We are training hard and want to make NZ proud” says crew leader Josh Cesan.

The tour will consist of a free hip hop showcase with an inspirational message. The pilot project for the tour was a huge success at Selwyn College with a positive response from approximately 400 students.

In August, the crew will go up against 47 other countries. The backbone of the crew consists of the talented Cesan brothers who are well known for their unique style of dance and aerial stunts. The brothers have grown up dancing and their mother Jacqui Cesan runs the reputable ‘The Dance Studio’ & ‘Boys Dance 2’. This is the first time that all three brothers have competed in force together.

IDENTITY will now start training for their worlds campaign but will have to fit this around a vigorous fundraising effort, as they must raise $35,000 to get to Las Vegas.

The Crew consists of Andrew, Richard and Joshua Cesan, James Tautuku, Taniora Motutere, Ahutoa Lanefale, Cameron Cranston and Chevy Mikaere.

Thank you to the sponsors of ‘The Movement’ 2013, Street Dance New Zealand and Mai FM.

Watch - SDNZ Nationals 2012 (featuring the Identity)

A regular trip to Botany Town Centre provided Auckland mother Michelle Sutton, with more than she bargained for and a pleasant surprise. While Michelle’s husband and three children shopped for her fortieth birthday present, Michelle was spotted for her fashionable style as she perused the shops.

Botany Town Centre and More FM recently held a campaign to find Auckland’s Funkiest Mum and Michelle proved she had the funk! Fashionable mothers seen at the centre between 29 April and 5 May had their photo taken by Botany Town Centre’s resident blogger Britney Hazeldine and the More FM team. The photos were then uploaded to the More FM website, giving public the opportunity to vote for the most fashionable mum.

“I’ve never won anything in my life, so this is really exciting,” says Auckland’s Funkiest Mum, Michelle. “As this was the day before my fortieth birthday, it felt very timely. I’m thinking of using the gift cards I won to get a special piece of jewellery to remember my fortieth and this special and unexpected recognition by.”

Michelle has not only won the title of Auckland’s Funkiest Mum, but also $2,000 worth of gift cards to spend at Botany Town Centre. More FM said the campaign received a lot of interaction, with more than 2,500 visits to the voting pages.

Botany Town Centre senior marketing manager Desiree Clark says it was no easy task picking the funkiest mum.

“There are a lot of very stylish mothers that visit Botany Town Centre, so we had a lot of fun with this campaign,” she says. “Michelle’s style jumped out at us and the public agreed she has a great sense of fashion. Botany Town Centre is the home for fashion and we love being able to provide such a great range of stores to our shoppers.”

Andy Phillips who grew up in Cambridge NZ (now living in Melbourne, Australia) was a headline act at the Rotorua Blues Festival on the Queens Birthday weekend. His band, The Cadillac Walk travelled with him to rip up the festival along with other talented international guests and local artists. Born in Paraparaumu and growing up in Cambridge, Andy soon headed to London to explore the music scene. Deciding it was far too cold he headed back to NZ then finally settling, for now, in Australia. Andy's love of playing guitar started at age 13 where ironically he was teased at school for having a cheap guitar. He has been a dedicated player for the last 23 years becoming one of the most talented and dynamic guitarists of his time. He now plays both locally and internationally including a recent visit to the Austin, Texas blues scene where he jammed at legendary venues such as Antones, Maggie Mays and Friends on 6th street - at one point being offered the honour of playing on a guitar owned by his idol Stevie Ray Vaughan. A regular on the Blues scene, Andy enjoys visiting to play in NZ and is planning a tour of NZ early 2014. Please check out Andy Phillips & The Cadillac Walk at their website www.andyphillipsandthecadillacwalk.com

Porirua songstress Aaradhna has made a clean sweep at tonight’s Pasefika Proud Pacific Music Awards winning all five categories she was a finalist in as well as the NZ On Air Radio Airplay Award.

The haul represents the most awards won in a night by any single artist in the nine-year history of the Pacific Music Awards and comes off the back of her highly acclaimed album ‘Treble & Reverb’ released in November 2012.

Aaradhna’s domination of the awards was fitting on a night themed around recognising Pacific women.

Aaradhna’s wins are:
1.     Nautilus Foundation Best Pacific Female Artist
2.     Niu FM Best Pacific Urban Artist
3.     APRA Best Pacific Song – ‘Wake Up’
4.     NZ On Air Best Pacific Video – ‘Lorena Bobbit’, director Tom Gould
5.     Pasefika Proud Best Pacific Music Album
6.     NZ On Air Radio Airplay Award – ‘Wake Up’

‘Treble & Reverb’ was entirely written by Aaradhna and produced by P-Money and Evan Short. Its success comes after an almost four-year break from recording her sophomore album, ‘Sweet Soul Music’.

Hit single ‘Wake Up’ spent three weeks at number one in the New Zealand Singles charts in November and early December 2012. Aaradhna says the track is a plea to herself to get back into the music industry.

“At the time I was listening to Amy Winehouse,” she says. “I used to go to her Back to Black album; I’d repeat it all day because I connected with all her music.

“The thing I liked about it was that she didn’t care about what other people said, and she really spoke her mind…that’s what I wanted to do, I wanted to make music that I could really say what I wanted to say.

“I am so humbled and honoured to have been recognised by the Pasefika Proud Pacific Music Awards for doing something which I love,” she says.

The only other artist to win multiple awards was Wellington’s Swiss. He took home NZ Music Commission Best Pacific Male Artist and the Auckland Council People’s Choice Award – Best Pacific Artist for his debut EP ‘Slow Wind’.

Pasefika Proud Pacific Music Awards Trust chairperson Rev. Mua Strickson-Pua says the awards are a celebration of Pacific music and culture.

“This year we welcome Pasefika Proud to the family and thank them for their support of Pacific music and culture. The awards themselves are a great example of Pacific unity and we acknowledge all those who were nominated, performed or took part in some away in the evening.”

RIANZ chief executive Chris Caddick says; “The Pacific Music Awards showcase a burgeoning musical community that RIANZ is proud to support with a Tui for Best Pacific Music Album. Congratulations to the PMA Trust for a successful event and especially to the 2013 award winners.”

Other winners include:
·         Radio 531pi Best Pacific Group – Tomorrow People – ‘One’
·         Tagata Pasifika Best Pacific Language – Vaniah Toloa – ‘Tofi O Tamatane’
·         Phillip Fuemana Award, Most Promising Artist – Cilla
·         Manukau Institute of Technology Lifetime Achievement Award – Mavis Rivers

The Tangaroa College Niuean Group opened the night, with an amazing welcome, which was also very stirring tribute to the late Tom Etuata. The audience was also treated to live performances by both established and rising Pacific music stars including finalists The Hypnotics, Swiss, Vaniah Toloa and Tomorrow People along with Bella Moore and Joel Amosa. There was also a tribute to Lifetime Achievement recipient Mavis Rivers under the direction of Lance Su’a.

‘90s girl group Ma-V-Elle turned back the clock with a surprise performance at the awards - the first time they’ve performed together as a group in 14 years. The performance served as a re-launch for the trio who are now set to work on new material together.

The ninth annual Pasefika Proud Pacific Music Awards were announced at Manukau City’s Vodafone Events Centre to celebrate Pacific music and artists, promote excellence in Pacific music and encourage young Pacific musicians to aim high.

The Rocky road trip is on -- after two years of uninvited residence in a Heathcote Valley home, ‘Rocky’ has today (Thursday May 30) embarked on the first leg of his journey ‘home’ to Mt Hutt under the watchful eye of new owners NZSki.

After a three-hour operation to partially demolish the house to reach him, bystanders clapped and cheered as Rocky finally saw the light of day.

Officially weighing in at 15 tonnes, Rocky was loaded onto a truck to start a two day ‘Rocky road trip’ through Christchurch, out to Methven and finally up to Mt Hutt ski area.

Rocky gained national media attention in the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes after crashing into the home of Phil Johnson. Mr Johnson auctioned Rocky on Trade Me to raise earthquake relief funds, along the way amassing 3,000 Facebook followers, many of whom came today to witness the dislodging, craning and transportation of the volcanic basalt rock.

NZSki bought Rocky for $50,000, which was donated to the Red Cross earthquake appeal, and have been waiting for two years for the all-clear from CERA to take Rocky to his new mountain home at Mt Hutt. 

Rocky is scheduled to stop off for a beer tonight, in the tradition of all great road trips, at the iconic Blue Pub in Methven. A dollar from each handle sold will be donated to the Red Cross, and limited edition numbered copies of a book recounting Rocky’s most famous Facebook ‘sayings’ and special commemorative T-shirts will also be on sale, with all those proceeds also going to the Red Cross.

Weather and road conditions permitting, he’ll head to his final resting place on the snow at Mt Hutt near the base building tomorrow (Friday May 31).

Arguably the most famous rock in New Zealand – Rocky the rock that tore into a Christchurch home during the February 2011 earthquake – is heading ‘home’ to Mt Hutt ski area.

Following the earthquake, homeowner Phil Johnson listed Rocky on TradeMe in a charity auction to raise earthquake relief funds and bring some fun into the lives of stressed Cantabrians.

A thousand Facebook postings, 300,000 TradeMe page views and a whole lot of laughter later, the huge rock was in the hands of NZSki, owner of Canterbury’s Mt Hutt ski area.

NZSki became Rocky’s ‘legal guardian’ after successfully bidding $50,000 for him, and in total, the on-line auction became the third biggest Trade Me ever had, raising over $60,000 for the Red Cross relief fund.

Now two years later the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA) has confirmed that Rocky can be removed on Thursday (May 30).

Contracting company SICON Ltd has been charged with getting Rocky on the move and taking him on a two-day ‘Rocky road trip’ to Methven and Mt Hutt with stops at the Ferrymead business area in Ferry Road at around 10:30am, then Burwood Park, Moorhouse Avenue, Yaldhurst Road, Main South Road and stopping overnight at the iconic Blue Pub in Methven from 6pm.

SICON spokesperson Dave Wilson said preparation for the move and demolition of Phil’s former home in Christchurch’s Heathcote Valley had been extensive, with the normal safety plans for the demolition, traffic management plans and site safety plans as well as additional safety plans to deal with the possibility of rockfall during the demolition.

“This has involved providing an additional shelter onsite if a rock starts to fall and roll towards the house, a spotter with an air horn who can see the hills and the site, and changes to our methodology to ensure the minimal amount of people are on site at any one time,” he said.

“There’s been a lot of speculation about how heavy Rocky is.

“The crane we’re using is a 50-tonne crane and we’re estimating he’s between 15and 25 tonne. Rocky is Basalt rock which usually has a high density as it’s volcanic and has been created under pressure. The only rock that has a higher density is a meteor.”

Mt Hutt ski area manager James McKenzie said word that Rocky was on the move had already re-ignited the rock’s Facebook page and his 3,000 fans.

“We’re anticipating a fair few people will turn out to see him on his long-awaited road trip and maybe even join us for a beer at the Blue Pub in Methven where $1 from each handle sold will go to the Red Cross,” he said.

“On the trip through Christchurch we’re also going to be selling limited edition numbered copies of a book written to recount Rocky’s most famous Facebook ‘sayings’, which I think will become collectors’ items, and special commemorative T-shirts, with all those proceeds too going to the Red Cross.”

Weather and road conditions permitting, Rocky will head to his final resting place on the snow at Mt Hutt near the base building on Friday (May 31).

Rocky Road Trip details – with The Rock Roadies

·         Ferrymead Business Area – Ferry Road 10:30am

·         Burwood Park 11:30am

·         Moorhouse Avenue 1:30pm

·         Yaldhurst Road 2:30pm

·         Main South Road 3:30pm

·         Blue Pub, Methven – from 6pm

·         Mt Hutt Ski Area – (Friday May 31 or as weather/road conditions allow)