One of the most beloved New Zealand books of the century has been turned into a glossy new period drama. 

The Luminaries, an epic six-part miniseries based on Eleanor Catton's 2013 Man Booker Prize-winning novel, and adapted for the screen by Catton herself, premieres tonight in New Zealand.

Set in New Zealand's Hokitika in the South Island during the 19th-century gold rush, the story follows a large cast of characters as men and women descend on the small town to make their fortunes - but are swept into an epic tale of love, murder and revenge.

Flicks editor Steve Newall joined Andrew Dickens to give him the rundown.

LISTEN ABOVE