Midweek: The govt turns 1, RNZ's web surge, RIP BBC Hardtalk
Oct 16, 2024
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The government's first anniversary receives surprisingly little media attention, sparking discussions about 'anniversary journalism.' A critical analysis of a recent political poll reveals shifts in voter support and the rise of undecided voters. The growth of online media in New Zealand contrasts RNZ's success against TVNZ's struggles. Challenges facing traditional radio in the digital age are highlighted, alongside the impact of declining long-form programs due to changing public preferences and the rise of podcasts.
Media coverage of the government's one-year milestone was unexpectedly low, reflecting potential fatigue among both the public and media regarding constant milestones.
RNZ's significant online audience growth raises concerns about its content strategy and potential impacts on traditional private media companies.
Deep dives
Government's One-Year Anniversary Reflections
The discussion revolves around the government's one-year anniversary, highlighting that while there was media coverage reflecting on the past year of coalition rule, the volume was less than expected. The speaker notes that anniversary journalism can often become tedious and that there was a delayed formation of the government after the election, which may have contributed to the lack of significant media attention. The perspective is offered that perhaps both the media and public may be fatigued by constant milestones, suggesting a shift in focus towards quarterly action plans rather than just annual reflections. A future program is hinted at, which aims to delve deeper into the implications of the election campaign and media relationships closer to the actual anniversary date.
Political Poll Insights
A recent political poll marking the election anniversary reveals minor shifts in party support, with National dropping slightly but remaining strong overall. The focus in the media has been predominantly on the changes in leaders’ popularity rather than significant party numbers, leading to exaggerated narratives around the results. Discussions also raised concerns about the increasing number of respondents who are either undecided or unwilling to disclose their preferences, suggesting it's time to rethink the methodology of asking about party leaders. The reactions to the poll highlight the superficial nature of political spectacle and the need for more substantive inquiries into policy rather than perceptions of leaders.
RNZ's Digital Growth and Media Landscape
RNZ's website has seen significant growth in audience numbers, attributed to increased funding and a strategic push towards more online content, contrasting starkly with declining radio listenership. The growth has led to speculation about the impact on private media companies, which may feel threatened by RNZ's expanded reach into areas traditionally occupied by commercial outlets. Despite the rise in online engagement, there's concern about RNZ's content straying from its core values, with accusations of adopting clickbait strategies to attract audiences. The ongoing evolution of RNZ's programming and content strategy raises questions about the future of public broadcasters amidst changing consumer habits in the digital age.