Jonathan Milne, an investigative journalist and head of Newsroom Pro, shares captivating insights from his podcast 'Powderkeg'. He discusses the media's mixed coverage of significant events in New Zealand, including a contentious haka and large-scale protests. The decline of local journalism is a major focus, especially the financial struggles and the rise of digital platforms. Milne emphasizes the importance of persistent journalism in uncovering hidden truths, such as the controversies surrounding the AG1 supplement and the call for greater transparency in media practices.
The media's contrasting portrayals of recent protests highlight bias in reporting and the complexities of public perception regarding socio-political movements.
The decline of local newspapers risks creating 'news deserts', emphasizing the critical need for financial support to sustain quality investigative journalism.
Deep dives
The Impact of Local Protests on Media Coverage
Recent protests in Auckland surrounding social justice issues have sparked significant media attention and criticism over coverage bias. The protests coincided with a highly anticipated Coldplay concert, leading to mixed reactions in the media regarding the economic benefits versus the disruption caused. Political editor Jason Walls highlighted the disjointed perception of the protests, as some media outlets lauded the event's peaceful nature while others criticized it for being a spectacle. The notable disparity in media framing raises questions about how various outlets interpret and present major socio-political movements.
Challenges Facing Local News Publications
The potential closure of local newspapers, like the Taupo Tūrangi Herald, highlights the dire state of local journalism in New Zealand. These closures can lead to so-called 'news deserts', where communities lose essential local news sources, reducing citizens' access to vital information. Experts emphasize that local councils could play a more active role in supporting these publications by investing in local journalism and advertising. As advertised revenue declines and competition from digital media rises, finding sustainable models for local news coverage has become increasingly urgent.
Investigative Journalism and Its Funding Challenges
Investigative journalism relies heavily on funding sources to pursue in-depth stories, as exemplified by the podcast 'Powder Keg'. This project, launched by journalists seeking to uncover the truth behind a Kiwi entrepreneur, benefited from the Brian Gaynor Business Journalism Initiative, which provided essential financial support. The pursuit of truth in journalism often requires considerable resources due to travel and research expenses, emphasizing the need for ongoing financial backing in investigative work. Creating more independent funding avenues is crucial to ensuring that high-quality journalism can continue to thrive.
The Evolving Landscape of Media Recognition
The public's perception of large protests, particularly those focused on political issues, is increasingly complex, as seen in reactions to recent demonstrations. Despite attracting tens of thousands of participants, some media commentators dismissed the protests as insignificant, illustrating a potential disconnect between grassroots movements and media narratives. Furthermore, the discussion on how different movements, both urban and rural, receive coverage underscores the role of media in shaping public discourse. As local grievances and national movements intertwine, journalists are tasked with accurately representing diverse voices within an evolving media landscape.
This week’s Hīkoi mō Te Tiriti harvested heaps of headlines, hours of airtime and piles of print and pixels - media copped plenty of criticism for the coverage. Also: a deep-dive podcast that needed deep pockets - and warnings of ‘news deserts’ here.
This week’s big Hīkoi harvested heaps of headlines, hours of airtime and piles of print and pixels - and media copped criticism for the coverage.
14 local papers in the north island are set to close by Christmas, prompting ex-editors and experts in media to warn that the ‘news deserts’ we’ve seen overseas could spring up here in the absence of local papers. And when local elections come round in a year some places may have nowhere to go for locals politicians to air local issues.
We ask a leading paper publisher about if local papers have a future - and what might help to sustain them.