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Dave Mason is a well-established television producer and photographer, with an extensive career spanning across several countries, including the UK, Germany, and New Zealand.

 

Early Career and Work in the UK and Germany

 

Mason began his career in television in the early 1980s with Thames Television in London. Initially working in technical roles, such as video tape editing and sound engineering, he soon transitioned into programme production. During his 22 years at Thames TV, Mason contributed to a variety of popular shows, including This is Your Life, The Des O’Connor Show, and Strike it Lucky. He also worked on the beloved children’s series The Sooty Show. These experiences honed his production skills, setting the foundation for his later work as a producer.

 

In the 1990s, Mason expanded his career to Germany, where he worked as the Head of Game Shows at JE Entertainment. His role required him to adapt his British sensibility to German television, producing successful programming for RTL, a major broadcaster. This period saw Mason grow as a versatile producer capable of creating content for international audiences.

 

Upon returning to the UK, he ventured into radio by establishing Thames FM, his own station in West London. Alongside his radio endeavors, Mason continued developing TV programmes at Thames Television.

 

Transition to New Zealand and Work with TVNZ

 

In 1999, Mason made a significant move to New Zealand, where his career took on new dimensions. His first major role in New Zealand television came when he joined Touchdown Productions, where he worked alongside Julie Christie to produce Ready Steady Cook, a highly popular cooking show. His success on this show opened doors to more significant opportunities with TVNZ, New Zealand’s national broadcaster.

 

Mason soon became one of the producers of the 2000 Millennium Show, a worldwide event produced in conjunction with the BBC in London. This event marked a milestone in his career, showcasing his ability to manage large-scale productions on a global stage.

 

Following this, Mason collaborated with Jim Hickey, a well-known New Zealand weather presenter, to create Jim’s Car Show, which aired on TVNZ. This partnership extended into the creation of several other shows, including A Flying Visit, The Real Middle Earth, and How’s the Weather, Jim?. In 2004, Mason and Hickey, along with Hickey’s wife Sue, established Rustic Road Productions, through which they continued producing popular television content in New Zealand.

 

Formation of Dave Mason Productions and Notable Achievements

 

In 2004, Mason founded his own production company, Dave Mason Productions, which became known for creating a variety of television and educational content. In 2007, the company launched the career-focused programme Just the Job, which has since become one of Mason’s most successful projects. The show aimed to guide young people through different career options, offering practical insights and advice. Just the Job ran for nine series and produced over 90 episodes, cementing Mason’s reputation as a leading figure in educational television. Mason has expressed immense pride in the show, noting its lasting impact on career seekers and changers in New Zealand.

 

Mason’s work continued to expand beyond Just the Job. He directed and produced Maggie’s Garden Show for TVNZ, a popular gardening series, as well as the fly-on-the-wall documentary Ellerslie, which explored the inner workings of the famous Auckland Racing Club. Additionally, he produced and directed episodes of Police Ten 7, a long-running reality crime show in New Zealand. His portfolio showcases his versatility, ranging from cooking and gardening shows to crime documentaries and career-oriented programmes.

 

Photography Career

 

Aside from his accomplishments in television, Mason is an avid photographer. His work spans various genres, including wildlife, fashion, street photography, and landscapes. His love for the art form is evident in his personal photography projects, where he often captures humorous and candid moments, reflecting his playful and creative personality. Photography is an integral part of Mason’s life, and he continues to pursue it alongside his television production work.

 

Legacy and Influence

 

Mason’s career is marked by his ability to adapt and succeed in various media environments. From his early days at Thames TV to his pioneering work in New Zealand, Mason has demonstrated a deep understanding of production and storytelling. His educational contributions through Just the Job have had a lasting impact on New Zealand’s youth, and his diverse array of television programmes has made him a respected figure in the industry.

 

Through Dave Mason Productions, he continues to influence New Zealand television, blending entertainment with education, and contributing to the country’s media landscape in significant ways. His dual expertise in television production and photography ensures that his creative legacy will endure for years to come   .