29 Oct 2014

Plea for programmes to stay on TVNZ

7:33 am on 29 October 2014

A Maori film and television group says it wants Te Mangai Paho - the Maori Broadcasting Funding Agency - to reconsider ring-fencing $3 million for Television New Zealand shows.

Nga Aho Whakaari said TVNZ's plans to outsource programmes including Marae Investigates and Waka Huia demonstrates a lack of real commitment to Maori programming.

Last week, TVNZ announced that their Maori and Pasifika shows would be produced by private companies from next year, with the exception of news bulletin Te Karere.

But Nga Aho Whakaari said as a state entity, the broadcaster has a responsibility to ensure that a strong Maori voice and presence is prioritised on a mainstream programming platform now and in the future.

The group's board said the behaviour of TVNZ has shown its contempt for viewers, Maori department staff and its funders - Te Mangai Paho and New Zealand On Air.

It wants Te Mangai Paho to reconsider putting aside $3 million for TVNZ productions to best reach Maori language audience needs.

Get the RNZ app

for ad-free news and current affairs