Redemption Hill follows 10 out-of-control Kiwi teens when they are offered a taste of what could be waiting for them in the future - unless they accept help and change their ways.
In July 2005, 10 youths took their first steps on the road to Redemption Hill when they signed up for a 'tough love' programme based at Napier's former prison.
Redemption Hill is a timely wake-up call. The residential programme was created by Steve Boxer and his team of youth and social workers. The series follows his efforts to help the teens - who, along with their parents, consented to taking part in the programme - before the adult criminal system intervenes and puts them behind bars.
Can an intensive stretch behind bars change their bad behaviour? Is it too late to develop their self-esteem and encourage respect for others? Will their parents get back the sons and daughters they always hoped for, or the troubled teens they love but can't control?
Steve Boxer, the Warden, has a strong background in outdoor environment and recreation programming, providing services to a number of schools, youth groups, government agencies and private companies; and including the delivery of camps, crime prevention, youth at risk, alternate learning and outdoor education.
His success rates working with at-risk youth have been recognised by CYFS, New Zealand Police as well as by Youth Court Judges, Her Honour Judge H M Simpson, and Principal Youth Court Judge, Judge A J Beecroft.
Producer Glenn Sims says, 'When we originally put out the call for participants we had an overwhelming response from New Zealand parents struggling to deal with their children's issues. For many, Redemption Hill was their last ditch attempt to help their children before they reached the age of maturity.'
'Redemption Hill is the extraordinary journey of these 10 teenagers, as through a course of discipline and adventure activities they experience the ups and downs of getting their lives back on track. It is also a snapshot of a wider problem facing New Zealand in 2006...these are teenagers from a new generation, a generation faced head-on with issues around alcohol and drug abuse, lack of respect for authority, and anger-management problems.'
It is hoped that, by watching Redemption Hill, New Zealand families experiencing problems with teenagers will realise they are not alone, that there is help available, and that there are programmes for teens at risk.
Aaron Lambert - a tribute:
On Friday April 20, 2007, Aaron Lambert (aged 18) was fatally injured in a car crash in his home town of Hamilton whilst driving his girlfriend Erin Home.
Aaron's funeral took place on Thursday April 26, at The Hamilton Old Boy's Rugby Club and was attended by Aaron's family and hundreds of his friends.
TVNZ, the producers, cast, crew and kids of Redemption Hill all send their deepest sympathy to Aaron's family and loved ones.
With fond memories of Aaron, Redemption Hill producer Glenn Sims, said:
"Aaron was a kind-hearted, intelligent, funny and generous young man with so much unfulfilled potential. To have his life cut short is a terrible tragedy. He will be very much missed by everyone who had the pleasure to know him. Our thoughts are with the family."
Redemption Hill – 10 x 60' – TV2
Created by Glenn Sims for World Famous Films.
A World Famous Films / Screentime production for TV2.