A new character enters the scene at NZ on Air, and what Matt Heath says about ZB's future
Oct 21, 2024
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Toby Manhire, Editor-at-large of The Spinoff, joins Duncan Greive to delve into the vibrant media landscapes in New Zealand and Australia. They discuss SXSW's shift from music to technology and the looming impact of AI on creativity. The launch of Auckland FC sparks excitement about sports’ role in city culture. They also navigate New Zealand's challenging production landscape and the emotional farewells to popular radio shows, all while envisioning a dynamic future for New Zealand radio.
The evolving media landscape is marked by ongoing digital transformations, reflecting persistent existential challenges within the industry as discussed at SXSW.
The appointment of Philip Crump to the NZ On Air board may influence content funding decisions, raising concerns about media impartiality and diversity.
Deep dives
Weekend Reflections and South by Southwest Insights
The hosts share personal experiences from their weekends, initiating a conversation that leads to a deeper analysis of the media landscape. One host attended the South by Southwest festival in Sydney, participating in discussions about digital media transformations. They highlight the evolving nature of media, suggesting that digital transformation is not a final destination but an ongoing process influenced by fast-paced internet changes. The festival served as a platform to candidly address the existential challenges faced by the media industry while also showcasing innovative ideas from global creators.
The Evolving State of New Zealand's Production Sector
The conversation shifts to the current challenges within New Zealand's production sector, emphasizing the pressures faced by major production companies. With recent restructuring and losses, the sector has contracted, leaving fewer key players and restricting local commissioning opportunities. The hosts discuss the implications of a reduced budget for commissioning local content, which impacts the broader creative economy that relies on such projects for sustainability. Despite these challenges, there are still success stories, like innovative companies emerging to create new programming formats.
Political Implications of Board Appointments
The recent appointment of Philip Crump to the New Zealand On Air board brings political dimensions to the discussion regarding media oversight and content commissioning. The hosts speculate on the potential changes this may bring to the types of programs funded by New Zealand On Air, given Crump's conservative stance. They highlight the responsibilities of board members to remain impartial in their funding decisions while acknowledging that personal beliefs can influence media direction. The conversation underscores the importance of diverse perspectives in media governance as the existing landscape undergoes significant shifts.
End of an Era for Iconic Radio Shows
The hosts discuss the conclusion of the long-running Matt and Jerry show on Radio Hauraki, reflecting on the emotional farewell shared by the duo after years of broadcasting. They note the unique nature of the show's finale, which contrasted with the usual comedic tone, revealing a more sincere side of the hosts. Following the show’s end, they contemplate Matt Heath's transition to Newstalk ZB and the potential futures for Jeremy Wells within the radio landscape. The discussion highlights the shifting dynamics within New Zealand media and how evolving formats may shape the roles of popular hosts in the future.
The Spinoff’s editor-at-large Toby Manhire joins Duncan Greive to discuss SXSW and the launch of Auckland FC, and what each says about the vitality of Sydney and Auckland. Duncan toplines the Campaign Brief and Nine drama in Australia, which shows where that country is (still) at, in some ways. Next, they hit SPADA’s warnings about the future of screen production in New Zealand, and what that industry should understand about new NZ on Air board member Philip Crump. Finally, they talk about the end of Matt and Jerry on Hauraki, and the optionality Heath gives to Newstalk ZB.