Two dramatisations of major New Zealand historical events are also being funded.
Written by John Banas, Bombshell - The Sinking Of The Rainbow Warrior tells the story of the nation-defining moment the Rainbow Warrior was sunk by terrorists sanctioned by the French Government.
A second tele-feature explores the world of New Zealand aviatrix pioneer Jean Batten.
Jean will be written and produced by Paula Boock and Donna Malane, makers of Field Punishment No. 1 and Tangiwai.
Both dramatisations will be screened on TV One.
"Each of these stories is unique to New Zealand. Seeing our own stories on screen, whether they are fictional or bring our history to life, is crucial to our culture. Amid a sea of foreign content, this is New Zealand on air," said NZ On Air Chief Executive Jane Wrightson.
Wrightson also acknowledged recent discussions about rumours of a new soap opera for TV3, but said there had not been an application for funding.
- nzherald.co.nz