PHOTO: The Block NZ 2021. FILE. 3NOW
The producers of The Block New Zealand shelled out over $6 million for the Auckland property, now up for sale after the cancellation of the reality TV show according to ONEROOF. In April 2022, Warner Bros International Television Production NZ purchased the property at 850 Beach Road, Browns Bay, for $6.25 million. Prior to this, Westmoreland Homes bought the 1042sqm corner property for $2.575 million intending to replace the existing four-bedroom home with four luxury townhouses.
Although Warner Bros International Television Production NZ had initially planned for The Block contestants to complete the townhouses, the show’s 11th season got scrapped. Media Insider reported the cancellation by Three’s parent company, Warner Bros Discovery, citing internal deliberations.
Mike Molloy, co-managing director of Warner Bros International Television Production NZ, confirmed the $6.25 million purchase, stating it included semi-completed buildings. While negotiations are underway with another party to finish the interiors, Molloy aims to get the properties on the market by spring. However, uncertainties remain regarding real estate agents and design decisions, formerly handled by show talent and sponsors.
The Auckland site Warner Bros International Television Production New Zealand Limited was given consent to buy in 2022. Photo / Supplied
An artist’s impression of the properties planned for the site when it was listed at the end of 2021. Photo / Supplied
The company faces the challenge of selling completed houses without the show’s promotion. Molloy dismissed the idea of selling the project to another developer but remained open to lucrative offers. The cancellation of The Block NZ disappointed local production workers, as the show had been a TV staple since 2012. Despite its popularity, the last season’s profits dwindled amid market shifts, leading to the show’s postponement to 2024. Budget cuts across the channel resulted in the cancellation of several locally produced shows, including Newshub.
The cast of The Block NZ 2022. The show has now been axed. Photo / Warner Bros Discovery