Jude
Dobson ONZM

Jude Dobson is a celebrated television personality, award-winning documentarian, and best-selling author whose career has spanned decades in the public eye.

She first captured the nation’s attention in 1989 as the prime-time co-host of Sale of the Century, a role that catapulted her to fame during a time when New Zealand had only two television channels. The quintessential girl-next-door, Jude became a household name throughout the 1990s, hosting multiple prime-time shows, including her own popular programme, 5.30 with Jude.

Married with three children, Jude’s life unfolded under the public spotlight before she transitioned behind the camera to explore her passion for storytelling and production. Her early work focused on parenting and child development, creating relatable and insightful television for New Zealand audiences. Over time, her interests evolved toward uncovering the human stories behind historical events, producing compelling documentaries that explore the personal dimensions of conflict.

Jude’s recent work has earned international acclaim, particularly her documentaries on World War I and World War II. In 2023, she was honoured with the prestigious New York Times Radio Award for Best Historical Documentary for her powerful interviews with WWII aviators, capturing their harrowing and heroic experiences with authenticity and care.

In addition to her success in television and documentary filmmaking, Jude is a best-selling author. Her memoir of WW II British secret agent Pippa Latour, The Last Secret Agent, has been widely praised, with the book also published in the UK and the US. She is now working on the screenplay with a US based global film company.

Jude was also involved in establishing Te Arawhata - the New Zealand Liberation Museum in Le Quesnoy, France. She was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2025 for services to the community, broadcasting and historical preservation. Jude Dobson’s remarkable career is a testament to her enduring curiosity, creative vision, and ability to connect with audiences through heartfelt storytelling.