Mediawatch

The podcast dives into the media's handling of the Polkinghorne trial, questioning the use of terms like 'cleared' versus 'not guilty.' It critiques ethics in reporting high-profile cases and the tension between sensationalism and responsibility. The challenges of navigating legal threats in media coverage are also explored. There's a heated discussion on the fallout from controversial podcast remarks and their implications for free speech, as well as a look at RNZ's decision to pull a podcast episode over editorial concerns.

This discussion dives into the frustrating trend of politicians dodging interviews, particularly spotlighting Prime Minister Luxon's media avoidance. The podcast also sheds light on the media's struggle for accountability and the sensationalism that often masks critical issues. Meanwhile, an inspiring tale unfolds as the local iwi revitalizes the Wairoa Star, emphasizing the importance of community journalism and indigenous voices in keeping local news alive. These topics underscore challenges and hopeful innovations in the media landscape.

Another threat to Trump's life as sad Springfield squirms under unwanted media spotlight. Also: pushbike pushback; big-money mistake on a new artwork; a fond farewell for pioneer of political broadcasting - and an MMA quiz fail. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Bad news about bad vibes in our big cities right now - and Wellington's woes in particular. Also: new research for the broadcasting watchdog says some minorities say discriminatory stuff is turning them off our media. But where is it coming from? And - fact checking claims about the legality of peeing in public. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

How the epic broadcast to mark a new epoch in te ao Māori was made at Tūrangawaewae Marae, media focus on small stuff in big bucks plan for roads; 'Toast-gate' prompts a backlash and a u-turn on maternity ward snacks. As one Māori monarch was farewelled and a new one appointed this week, it was all aired in the longest multimedia coverage of any event in this country’s history. Mediawatch looks at how this was done - and asks if the Kiingitanga’s relationship with digital-age media might change under new management.Read all about it on rnz.co.nz here As billions were rolled out for roads in a new national transport plan - which also rolls back the sums spent on other transport - some journalists questioned how this will work and who will bear the high costs, But other coverage followed the lead of the minister, highlighting stuff that hardly makes a dent in the billion dollar budget.Read all about it on rnz.co.nz hereAlso this week: how reported penny-pinchning cuts to post-birth snacks in maternity wards forced a backlash - and two minsters declared the move toast within hours.Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Holding ministers to account - but also amplifying their spending statements without scrutiny; two editors in Asia holding the line on media freedom; update on advocacy ad angst.Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Colin Peacock talks to Emile Donovan about a lid-lifting Sunday paper scoop about gun crime - and a minister in the spotlight over gun law reform. Also - Australian media go rogue on Raygun, and more Newshub TV talent scooped up by Stuff. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Mediawatch looks at how the news media are using artificial intelligence these days. What is AI technology good for? What is it bad at? And do media need to be ready for the fake AI content that's undermining news? Also: further fallout from a controversial advert run by The New Zealand Herald.Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Hayden Donnell talks to Emile Donovan about the Herald backing away from running another ad from Hobson's Pledge, a question going begging in the coverage of the government's benefit sanctions announcement - and a cynical PR move by the All Blacks.Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Mediawatch looks back at the media in the middle of political rows about race relations - and why Maori journalists want an apology over a controversial advocacy ad in the Herald. Also: how social media amplified anger over the riots in the UK - and boxing at the Olympics. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details