TVNZ-RNZ merger called-off

The Government has announced today that plans for the new public media entity, Aotearoa New Zealand Public Media (ANZPM), have been called off.

“Work on the TVNZ-RNZ public media entity will stop entirely,” Prime Minister Chris Hipkins says. “Support for public media needs to be at a lower cost and without such significant structural change.”

The merger between Radio New Zealand and Television New Zealand had been expected to cost $ 370 million.

Instead, Radio New Zealand and New Zealand on Air will recieve additional funding with the remaining funding to be redirected.

Jodi O’Donnell, TVNZ’s Commercial Director, says although TVNZ had voiced its support for the merger they are “pleased to now have clarity from the government and a clear path forward for TVNZ”.

“We’re aware that some of the challenges local media faces that have been highlighted during the ANZPM process have not disappeared. Now, it’s our priority to tackle these head on as TVNZ and be laser focused on our digital transformation. Our intention is to think bigger and move faster with our pathway to a full digital media future, and you’ll hear more updates from us on this in the coming months.”

Mediaworks has welcomed the announcement with CEO Cam Wallace saying the merger could have had unintended consequences for commercial operators and the wider media ecosystem.

“We’re pleased the Government has decided to shelve this legislation and focus on the priorities which matter most to Kiwis.

“It’s a shame that so much has been spent on this proposal at a time when the industry as a whole in New Zealand is dealing with decreasing advertising revenues in the face of a likely recession.

“The proposed merger has created a degree of uncertainty for staff at both entities and in the wider industry and we’re pleased that everyone can now concentrate on delivering for New Zealanders.

“Both public and commercial media play important roles in creating a thriving, sustainable sector. MediaWorks remains committed to continuing to work closely with TVNZ and RNZ to reach New Zealand’s diverse audiences with quality local content.”

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