
Mediawatch
There's never a shortage of opinions on the media but Mediawatch looks at it all in detail for those keen to know more about the news - as well as those who work in media.
Latest episodes

Oct 12, 2024 • 32min
Online NZ news on the outer at TVNZ and Google
TVNZ’s signaled more cost-saving cuts and started by scrapping its online news site next year. Meanwhile Google’s threatening to cut ties with local news altogther. What’s going on?
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Oct 9, 2024 • 25min
Midweek: Cuts, checks & a rude front page
TVNZ's controversial plan to close its news website sparks heated debate among media experts. One News faces challenges connecting with a digital audience amid stiff competition. The podcast also critiques erratic strategies from media management in today's evolving landscape. Additionally, a fiery interview about gun laws reveals public concerns over loopholes. Lastly, a humorous mishap on the Christchurch Press front page highlights the complexities of reporting on sensitive issues and the dangers of misinformation.

Oct 5, 2024 • 36min
Hospital ‘blowout’ sparks big backlash; feel-good news for bad times
Join Patrick Gower, a journalist celebrated for his feel-good weekly show TFN, alongside Hayden Donnell, who tackles the challenges of presenting positive news, and Paul McIntyre, editor of the Otago Daily Times. They dive into the uproar over Dunedin Hospital's funding cuts, uncovering community protests and media's pivotal role in holding the government accountable. The conversation shifts to the struggle for positive news amidst negativity, exploring why audiences gravitate towards bad news despite a desire for uplifting stories.

Oct 2, 2024 • 24min
Midweek: More TV cuts & a crime against broadcasting
The hosts dive into the nostalgia of traditional TV and the stark realities of modern broadcasting challenges. They discuss alarming funding cuts affecting local news programs and the broader implications for quality journalism. The conversation also touches on Pink Floyd's massive record deal, revealing industry clichés and financial dynamics. With strategic shifts away from daily content and digital formats, they reflect on how these changes impact audience engagement and storytelling in today's media landscape.

Sep 28, 2024 • 44min
Trial trauma & mental health on-air, ABC boss on public media pressures
In this discussion, the ABC's head highlights the challenges of providing public media amid competition and scrutiny. A veteran producer of a mental health show shares insights from 15 years of tackling tough topics. They dive into the media's intense coverage of the Philip Palkinghorn trial and its implications for mental health narratives. The importance of open discussions around grief and mental well-being is emphasized, showcasing the vital role dedicated programs like 'The Nutters Club' play in reshaping mental health conversations.

Sep 28, 2024 • 34min
Bonus: Turning point for Australia’s ABC
A year ago our former government torched its plan for a joined-up public broadcaster more like Australia’s one. But the ABC is a billion-dollar beast that’s also been a political football. Mediawatch asks its outgoing boss where it - and David Anderson himself - is heading. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Sep 25, 2024 • 25min
Midweek: Polkinghorne preoccupation & problem podcasts
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.

Sep 21, 2024 • 32min
Politicians dodge interviews, local iwi revives local paper
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.

Sep 18, 2024 • 24min
Midweek: Trump targeted as Springfield suffers, pushbike pushback, sculpture snafu
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

Sep 14, 2024 • 35min
Big city bad vibes & are media harming minorities?
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