A South Korean film crew which visited Whakatāne last month had high praise for their experience.

The crew, from the South Korean Channel A network, spent two days filming aboard a charter fishing trip with Cascade Charters; followed by a cooking shoot at Ōhope Top Ten Holiday Park. The footage will be aired as part of television show, “The Fisherman”, which will screen to over 2.5 million viewers in South Korea and several other countries.

The film crew’s New Zealand-based coordinator, Kris Lee, said it was great experience for everyone involved.

“Everyone agreed it was one of the most beautiful places they had been to. It was a dream-come-true experience for the entire crew, including the celebrities, and they will be returning to Whakatane again for sure.”

Whakatāne District Council Events and Tourism Advisor Nicola Burgess said hosting the group had far-reaching positive effects.

“Showcasing our stunning district to a large and completely new international audience has the potential to bring many new visitors and business opportunities to Whakatāne.

“Their experience was also enhanced by the warm welcome shown by their hosts, Cascade Charters and Ōhope Top Ten Holiday Park.  They went all-out to ensure the crew had everything they needed and had a fantastic time,” she said.

The television show will go to air in South Korea later this month.