Alone Australia returns - this time to wild, treacherous New Zealand: 'The dangers are upscaled'

Applications to be on the gruelling reality TV hit doubled - but the 10 contestants face all new threats including avalanches and earthquakesGet our weekend culture and lifestyle emailThe second season of Alone Australia - despite the nation named in its title - opens with 10 new contestants being dropped by boat into the stark majesty of Te Waipounamu, or New Zealand's South Island. "It's like a lost world," marvels one contestant as the boat drives away, leaving him stranded ashore. "There's an ancient feel to it," says another, taking in the tall snow-capped mountains and the smooth expanse of water rippled only by gusts of wind before adding: "It's kinda scary."The first season of Alone Australia was a massive hit for the SBS last year, taking place in the beautiful wilderness of Iutruwita, Tasmania; a setting defined by stumps of trees sticking out from swamps like witches fingers, mossy boulders and hidden Tasmanian devil lairs.Sign up for the fun stuff with our rundown of must-reads, pop culture and tips for the weekend, every Saturday morning Continue reading...