Best Family Movies on BBC iPlayer in New Zealand [2023 Collection]
If you’re looking for the best family movies on BBC iPlayer in New Zealand, you’re in the right spot! Unfortunately, To watch BBC iPlayer NZ, you must use a VPN since the service is geo-blocked in NZ. We advocate using ExpressVPN since its regarded as the best VPN for BBC iPlayer, to access the platform.
BBC iPlayer is a great platform for families to enjoy a variety of movies, especially during the holiday season when Christmas movies air on all channels of BBC. With its family-friendly focus, BBC iPlayer is a great source of entertainment for families in New Zealand.
Family movies are a genre of films suitable for viewing by the entire family, including children and adults. These movies are often light-hearted, heartwarming, and educational, with themes that can be enjoyed by all ages. You can enjoy Doctor Who and Superman & Lois on iPlayer with your family over the weekend.
15 Best Family Films to Watch on BBC iPlayer in NZ
You can watch the best movies on BBC iPlayer by availing of its free trial, all you need to do is create an account and enjoy your favorites hassle-free. Check out the best children’s films on iPlayer to make your every day enjoyable;
Mr. Stink (2012)
Director: Declan Lowney
Writer: Mark Burton
Cast: Hugh Bonneville, Sheridan Smith, Nell Tiger Free, and Johnny Vegas
Genre: Comedy, Drama
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Run Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes.
Release date: October 29, 2009.
“Mr. Stink” is a children’s novel by David Walliams. It is about a homeless man named Mr. Stink who takes refuge in a family’s garden shed and eventually befriends a young girl named Chloe.
Through their interactions, Chloe learns about Mr. Stink’s life story and the importance of treating people with kindness and understanding. The book has been well received by both children and adults and has been adapted into several stage productions.
You can also watch more drama films by getting BBC iPlayer on Roku and enjoying this movie.
2. Stick Man (2015)
Director: Jeroen Jaspaert
Writer: Julia Donaldson
Major Cast: Martin Freeman (voice), Hugh Bonneville (voice), Rob Brydon (voice), Sally Hawkins (voice), Jennifer Saunders (voice), Russell Tovey (voice), and others.
Genre: Animation, Family, Adventure
IMDb rating: 7.3/10
Runtime: 25 minutes
Release date: December 25, 2015
Stick Man” is a children’s picture book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. The story is about a stick man who becomes separated from his family and embarks on a journey to return home. Along the way, he encounters various animals and experiences various adventures, facing challenges and overcoming obstacles. “Stick Man” is known for its rhyming text and charming illustrations and has become a beloved classic of children’s literature. It has also been adapted into a play, an animated film, and a TV series.
3. The Gruffalo (2010)
Director: Jakob Schuh and Max Lang
Writer: Julia Donaldson
Major Cast: Helena Bonham Carter (voice), Robbie Coltrane (voice), James Corden (voice), John Hurt (voice), Tom Wilkinson (voice), and others.
Genre: Animation, Family, Adventure
IMDb rating: 7.5/10
Runtime: 27 minutes
Release date: December 25, 2010.
“The Gruffalo” is a children’s picture book. The story is about a clever mouse who outwits a series of predators in a forest by pretending that he is friends with a fearsome monster known as the Gruffalo. The book has become a classic of children’s literature, known for its rhyming text and vivid illustrations, and has been translated into over 80 languages. “The Gruffalo” has also been adapted into several stage productions, an animated film, and a TV series, and has become a beloved character in children’s popular culture.
With family, you can also watch some horror movies o BBC iPlayer to enjoy more family time together.
4. Olympians at Heart (2021)
Director: Amy Force
Writer: James Foti
Major Cast: Felipe Aukai, Chiara Diberto, and Patrick Dussault.
Genre: Family
IMDb rating: 5.1/10
Runtime: 1 hour 24 minutes
Release date: July 17, 2021
Competing against each other can be difficult for close friends, especially in a sport they both enjoy and have worked hard in. Essie and Ella need to find a way to support each other and maintain their friendship, even if one of them doesn’t win the event.
Communication, fairness, and mutual respect can help them navigate this challenging situation and come out stronger on the other side. To watch Olympians At Heart you need a reliable VPN to enjoy your favorite hassle-free.
5. The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse (2022)
Director: Charlie Mackesy and Peter Baynton
Writer: Charlie Mackesy
Cast: Tom Hollander, Idris Elba, and Gabriel Byrne.
IMDb rating: 8 out of 10
Runtime: 30 minutes
Release date: December 24, 2022.
“The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse” is one of the best BBC iPlayer films. The book features a series of conversations and illustrations between a young boy, a mole, a fox, and a horse, as they explore life’s big questions and the meaning of friendship, kindness, and courage.
“The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse” has received widespread praise for its beautiful illustrations and thought-provoking text and has been hailed as a modern classic of children’s literature. The book has been published in several languages and has become a bestseller around the world.
6. Opal Dreams (2006)
Director: Peter Cattaneo
Writer: Michael Lowery
Cast: Sapphire Boyce, Christian Byers, and Jacqueline Mckenzie
IMDb rating: 6.5/10
Runtime: 1 hour 25 minutes
Release date: September 28, 2006
“Opal Dreams” is a novel written by Michael Lowery. The book follows the story of a young girl named Opal who is faced with a difficult loss. The story explores themes of grief, healing, and the importance of family and friendship. Information about the publication date, plot details, and reception of the book is not readily available, as it appears to be a lesser-known work..
7. All Stars (2013)
Director: Ben Gregor
Writer: Ben Gregor and Jamie Graham
Cast: Toby Regbo, Femi Oyeniran, Dempsey Bovell, Ashley Walters, JJ Feild, and others.
Genre: Children, Comedy, Sports
IMDb rating: 5.4/10
Runtime: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Release date: May 3rd, 2013.
All Stars” was released on May 3rd, 2013. British children’s sports comedy film directed by Ben Gregor. The movie follows the story of a group of friends who play for their local football team and their journey to winning the national championship. The film features a cast of young actors and showcases the importance of teamwork, determination, and perseverance. “All Stars” is a lighthearted and fun movie that is popular with children and families. All-Star is one of the best BBC family shows.
8. I Remember Mama (1948)
Director: George Stevens.
Writer: Devery Freeman, based on the play by John van Druten.
Major Cast: Irene Dunne, Barbara Bel Geddes, Oscar Homolka, Philip Dorn, and others.
Genre: Drama, Family
IMDb rating: 7.8/10
Runtime: 1 hour, 53 minutes
Release date: March 9, 1948.
“I Remember Mama” is one of the best drama movies on BBC iPlayer. The play is a sentimental and nostalgic portrayal of family life in Norway at the turn of the 20th century. The story is told from the perspective of the youngest daughter in a close-knit family and follows the ups and downs of their daily life, as well as the struggles and joys of growing up.
“I Remember Mama” is a classic play that is widely considered to be one of the great theatrical masterpieces of the 20th century and is often performed on stage and in adapted film versions. The play has been widely praised for its timeless themes of family, love, and the power of memories. Similar to this, watch the best dramas on BBC iPlayer and double your entertainment.
9. Dumping Ground Island (2017)
Director: David Innes Edwards
Writer: Unknown
Major Cast: Eleanor Watts, Sula Rae, Shannon Flynn, Amy-Leigh Hickman, and others.
Genre: Children, Drama
IMDb rating: 5.6/10
Runtime: 25 minutes per episode.
Release date: December 22, 2017.
“The Dumping Ground.” The series deals with a range of themes, including poverty, neglect, and the challenges faced by young people in care. The show is known for its realistic and often emotional portrayal of life in care and has been praised for its ability to tackle complex and sensitive issues in a way that is both engaging and accessible for young audiences.
Similar to this, don’t miss other adventure plus action movies on BBC iPlayer.
10. Borrowed Pasture (1960)
Director: John Ormond
Writer: John Ormond (narrative script)
Major Cast: Richard Burton, Eugeniusz Okołowicz, and Włodzimierz Bułaj Wlodek.
IMDb rating: 7.7/10
Runtime: 30 minutes
Release date: May 18, 1960.
“Borrowed Pasture” is likely a reference to the documentary, which tells the story of the experiences of Eugeniusz Okołowicz and Włodzimierz Bułaj as well as other Polish soldiers who were interned in Lithuania during WWII and later transferred to Russian camps. The film highlights their struggles and the difficulties they faced while in captivity.
11. Grandpa’s Great Escape (2018)
Director: Elliot Hegarty
Writer: David Walliams (based on a book by)
Major Cast: Tom Courtenay, David Walliams, and Kit Connor.
Genre: Fiction-Humor
IMDb Ratings: 6.5/10
Runtime: 1 hour 12 minutes
Release date: September 24, 2015
Grandpa’s Great Escape is a movie about a schoolboy named Jack who helps his grandpa, a former World War II flying ace, escape from an old folks’ home run by a cruel manager named Miss Dandy.
Jack is motivated to help his grandpa after discovering Miss Dandy’s plan to swindle the residents. With the help of his sister and her boyfriend, Jack sets out to free Grandpa and the other residents.
If you want to watch war movies on BBC iPlayer, we have compiled a list for you to stream.
12. The Midnight Gang (2018)
Director: Elliot Hegarty
Writer: David Williams
Major Cast: Oliver Zetterstrom, India Brown, and Mark Heap.
Genre: Friendship
IMDb Ratings: 6.2/10
Runtime: 1 hour 6 minutes
Release date: November 3, 2016
“The Midnight Gang” is a children’s book and is a heartwarming and humorous story about a group of children who meet in a hospital ward and go on a series of adventures and misadventures together. The book has received positive reviews for its whimsical storytelling and its depiction of the power of friendship and the importance of kindness.
Walliams is a popular British children’s author known for his irreverent humor and quirky characters, and “The Midnight Gang” is one of his many beloved books that has been enjoyed by children and adults alike. You can also get BBC iPlayer on your iPhone and enjoy this movie.
13. Elizabeth at 90: A Family Tribute (2016)
Director: John Bridcut
Writer: Charles, Prince of Wales
Major Cast: King Charles, Princess Alexandra, Sarah Armstrong-Jones, and Clementine Churchill
Genre: Documentary
IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
Runtime: 1 hour 30 minutes
Release date: April 21, 2016
“Elizabeth at 90: A Family Tribute” is one of the best iPlayer documentaries. The special is a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, who was celebrating her 90th birthday, and features interviews with members of the royal family and other celebrities.
The special provides a behind-the-scenes look at the life and work of the Queen, including her role as head of state, her humanitarian efforts, and her relationships with her family. The special also features previously unseen footage of the Queen and her family, as well as personal reflections and memories from those who know her best.
14. Bill (2015)
Directed: Richard Bracewell
Writer: Laurence Rickard, Ben Willbond
Major Cast: Matthew Baynton, Laurence Rickard, and Jim Howick
Genre: Comedy and Adventure
IMDb rating: 6.5/10
Runtime: 1 hour and 34 minutes.
Release date: September 18, 2015
“Bill” is a British comedy film. The film stars Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, and Bill Nighy and follows the story of a young man who becomes involved with a group of aging rock stars who are trying to make a comeback.
The film is a lighthearted comedy with a strong musical component and features several original songs as well as classic rock and pop hits. “Bill” was generally well received by audiences and critics, who praised the film’s humor and its nostalgic portrayal of the music of the 1960s and 1970s.
15. Horrible Histories: The Movie – Rotten Romans (2019)
Director: Dominic Brigstocke
Writer: Caroline Norris, Giles Pilbro, and Jessica Swale.
Major Cast: Emilia Jones, Sebastian Croft, Nick Frost, and Craig Roberts.
Genre: Comedy
IMDb rating: 5.3/10
Runtime: 1 hour and 32 minutes.
Release date: July 26, 2019
“Horrible Histories: The Movie – Rotten Romans” is a historical film. It is based on the popular book series and television show of the same name, which explores history in a comedic and irreverent manner.
The film is set in ancient Rome and follows the story of Roman teenager Atti, who is drafted to serve in the Roman army and sent to Britannia, where he meets a tribe of Celt warriors and uncovers a plot to overthrow Emperor Nero.
We also recommend you watch the best romance movies on BBC iPlayer which are full of action, adventure drama, and revenge.
Wrapping Up!
BBC iPlayer is a popular streaming service available in New Zealand, so In this article, we have discussed the best BBC movies. To watch the “best family movies” on BBC iPlayer in New Zealand, you may need to use a VPN, such as ExpressVPN, to access the service.
Moreover, you can also cast BBC iPlayer on Chromecast because it’s a user-friendly device and a VPN makes it easy to cast. Apart from this, you can also watch all the best shows from BBC on PS4/PS5 because of the platform’s compatibility with multiple devices.
You can also delete your BBC iPlayer account anytime if you are not satisfied with the service or if BBC iPlayer isn’t working, but we suggest looking for the fixes before making a cancellation decision.
Since you now know how to watch your favorite movie on iPlayer, why not grab a cup of hot cocoa, snuggle up on the couch, and start streaming your favorite holiday family movie on BBC iPlayer today?
Happy viewing!