Celebrity Treasure Island is returning to our screens on September 9. If the newly released teaser trailer is anything to go by, you can bet the new season of the hit Kiwi will be reality gold.
Eighteen larger-than-life personalities, ranging from a top politician, a broadcaster, and comedians to sports starts, will battle it out against the stunning backdrop of Te Whanganui-o-Hei in the Coromandel in search of buried treasure — and take home a $100,000 cash prize for their chosen charity.
Among the big names to be featured are former Deputy Prime Minister Carmel Sepuloni, broadcaster Duncan Garner, and sports stars Casey Kopua and Christian Cullen.
From the world of acting comes James Rolleston, along with comedian Janaye Henry, and then there’s infomercial queen Suzanne Paul.
Bree Tomasel shares hosting duties with dancer, musician, and reality TV star Lance Savali.
‘But wait, there’s more’
In a sneak peek released today, Tomasel is seen on a remote beach, reading a text from the show’s regular host, Jordan Daniels. Daniels was otherwise engaged with an acting commitment when filming took place earlier this year.
“Sorry, Bree, can’t make it this season,” reads his text.
Tomasel says she knows “just the guy” to take on the co-hosting co-hosting reins. After screaming out his name, Savali joins Tomasel to set the scene for what Celebrity Treasure Island season six has in store.
The four-minute trailer introduces this year’s cast of competitors, split into two teams of nine — Team Aihe and Team Wētā. Among them is media maven Paul, who declares with aplomb that she’s there “to make a good TV show”.
It’s not long before she utters the immortal infomercial line: “But wait, there’s more.”
And, of course, there’s plenty more.
There are tears. Garner stares wistfully into the distance and weeps. “I feel like I’ve let everybody down,” he says.
Comedian, writer, and actor Henry also has a moment. “Normally, I’d love to just go and cry privately,” she says.
‘Never trust a politician’
Meanwhile, through faux tears, former Silver Ferns captain Kopua says she “wants to go home”.
Less of an emotional moment, more of a game plan.
“Never trust a politician,” shares former politician Tāmati Coffey. “Especially a former one,” quips Sepuloni.
Elsewhere, things appear to be business as usual, with various shots of the castaways competing in strenuous-looking, oxygen-thieving challenges — with varying degrees of success.
All Blacks legend Cullen has had better days. Breathing deeply with a grimace on his face, he holds his hand on his chest while Savali shouts, “Medic, medic!”.
Celebrity Treasure Island drama, indeed.
Who will be out first? Who will solve the ancient family mystery? And who will be crowned this year’s winner? All will soon be revealed.
Celebrity Treasure Island premieres on Monday, September 9 and continues Tuesday and Wednesday, 7.30pm, on TVNZ 2 and TVNZ+
