Podcasts about TVNZ

This week our tv critic Philippa Rennie reviews Task (Neon) and the latest investigation by John Campbell, Under His Command - Season 2. (TVNZ)

The second of the investigative series into Destiny Church, 'Under His Command', is out today on TVNZ+.

Nights' resident screen critic joins Emile Donovan to review comedy-thriller Fight or Flight (2024) in cinemas now, documentary My Mom Jayne (2025) streaming on Neon, and sci-fi Ad Astra (2019) streaming for free on TVNZ+.

The Paper Following up on the story from "The Office," the documentary crew that immortalized Dunder Mifflin's Scranton branch discovers a disappearing Midwestern newspaper and the publisher trying to revive it with volunteer reporters. This mockumentary follows the daily lives and struggles of dreamers in love with journalism, and their less-than-competent co-workers, trying to deliver accurate news without the resources or training to do a great job (TVNZ+). In Flight Jo Conran's son is imprisoned for a murder he denies. A gang blackmails her into smuggling, pushing her into a world of corruption and violence to save her child's life (TVNZ+). Bay of Fires Betrayed and in immediate danger, Stella is forced to move her family to the last place on Earth anyone would expect, a place where the locals hide secrets and outsiders are viewed with suspicion bordering on the murderous (TVNZ+). LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Glen Kyne returns to The Fold to analyse the annual or half-yearly results from TVNZ, Sky and NZME. TVNZ surprised with an unexpectedly healthy profit, NZME emerged from a bruising board battle and Sky (finally) got its rugby deal. Kyne has it all covered – and picks a clear winner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fans of the Thursday Murder Club books are in for a treat, the movie of the first story has just been released on Netflix. It features a star studded cast Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Celia Imrie and Ben Kinglsey but does it live up to the books? Our TV critic Linda Burgess reviews that and Love it or List it NZ on TVNZ and TVNZ+.

There are questions over whether TVNZ cut too many jobs as it turns a surprisingly strong profit. The broadcaster's reported an after-tax profit of nearly $26million dollars - after an $85million dollar loss last year. But it comes after the broadcaster cut jobs - including canning production of programmes like Fair Go, Sunday and the midday and night-time news bulletins. Talking to Heather Du-Plessis Allan, CEO Jodi O'Donnell denied that the cuts were excessive. She says the company had to make decisions to ensure the business remained sustainable into the future. LISTEN ABOVE OR WATCH BELOW See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether it's the government, international organisations, higher education, or the media, one of the defining dynamics of the social media age is the deteriorating trust in public institutions. It's extraordinary, really. At a time when humans are on the whole wealthier, healthier, and more dominant than at any other time in our species' history, we're more distrustful of the institutions that are supposed to serve us. Saturday Mornings is usually a monetary policy-free zone, and I promise to mostly keep it that way for now. But it was pretty remarkable at the close of play last night to see an announcement from the Finance Minister about the Chair of the Reserve Bank. Neil Quigley had resigned, effective immediately, following further revelations about his handling of former Governor Adrian Orr's departure. Nicola Willis confirmed to Newstalk ZB that if Quigley hadn't offered his resignation, she'd have asked for it. I don't expect everyone to follow all of the Reserve Bank dramas. But the long and short of it is that former Governor Adrian Orr got in a dispute with the government over the bank's funding. It turned into a showdown of sorts, the Reserve Bank Board raised concerns with him about his conduct (some of which he disputed), and after taking leave for a few days he ultimately resigned. But instead of being absolutely transparent about the dispute and what had actually happened, the RBNZ Chair Neil Quigley told media that Orr had resigned for “personal reasons”. If this was just some rando then no harm no foul. But Adrian Orr was the Governor of the Reserve Bank, one of the most powerful public servants in the country. His pen stroke and the decisions of his Monetary Policy Committee could be the difference between thousands or hundreds of thousands of people losing their jobs or homes. Like many journalists, I didn't buy the “personal reasons” explanation and felt we all deserved to know more detail about what had actually happened. Ater all, this wasn't a private company. The Reserve Bank serves us. After Neil Quigley's explanation, and after the Reserve Bank declined for Adrian Orr to be interviewed, I even went to the extreme length of sending him a letter at his home asking him to front. It's something I'd almost never do, but the public deserved an explanation. And it's taken until now and a ruling from the ombudsman for us to get the full story. I think there are lessons in this for all of us who work in jobs that purport to serve the public. In my role, I think about trust a lot. And look, I know this is very different to the Reserve Bank, much lower stakes, but I had the chance to reflect on my own work this week, and tried to lean into the spirit of introspection and openness. I was on a podcast, re_covering, in which Newstalk ZB's Frank Ritchie asks journalists to reflect on a story they covered. I didn't choose one which I'd absolutely nailed. Instead, I reflected on my five years as TVNZ's US Correspondent, and on my surprise at the first election of Donald Trump. As I said on re_covering, the fact so many of us were so shocked by the result (including Trump!) shows I and the rest of the news media covering that election had done a massively insufficient job of reflecting the scale of the anger and dissatisfaction with the status quo in the US. That election changed the world. Ultimately, I hope reflecting on my surprise will make me more sceptical of conventional wisdom, and better at my job today. Humans are fallible. We all make mistakes. But the Reserve Bank episode demonstrates the best thing a public institution can do to protect its reputation is not try and protect its reputation. Just admit when you got things wrong. Admit things that make you look bad. Learn lessons the hard way. Convince the public you have nothing to hide by showing us you have nothing to hide. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Atomic Two civilians get caught up in a cartel's uranium smuggling across North Africa. Facing a nuclear threat, they must decide whether to save themselves or stop the bomb delivery while evading agencies and traffickers (TVNZ+). King & Conqueror In the mid-11th century, noblemen Harold of Wessex and William of Normandy are exploited as pawns in royal plots on both side of the Channel. The coronation of King Edward in England leads to the pair's first encounter. Harold warns his father, Earl Godwin, of a rival's treachery - but he is ignored (Neon). Hostage When the British prime minister's husband is kidnapped and the French president starts receiving threats, both leaders must face an impossible choice (Netflix). LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are questions over whether TVNZ cut too many jobs as it turns a surprisingly strong profit. The broadcaster's reported an after-tax profit of nearly $26million dollars - after an $85million dollar loss last year. But it comes after the broadcaster cut jobs - including canning production of programmes like Fair Go, Sunday and the midday and night-time news bulletins. Talking to Heather Du-Plessis Allan, CEO Jodi O'Donnell denied that the cuts were excessive. She says the company had to make decisions to ensure the business remained sustainable into the future. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sophie Moloney has been CEO of Sky NZ for five years. For much of that time she's been dealing with downsides – a failed acquisition of Mediaworks, Spark Sports gifting their rights to TVNZ and prolonged satellite issues. But lately, things have been looking up. They successfully brought NZ Cricket rights back, scooped up Three's assets for $1, and just last week lengthened their rugby deal under very buyer-friendly terms. She joins Duncan Greive on the Fold to dig into all those issues and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

TVNZ launches its first paid-for product, NZME announces a $400k loss and the composition of its new editorial board - and RNZ's listenership snakes upward for the first time since 2022.Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

On today's episode of The Agenda, Webmaster Joe Durie joins Finn Caddie to discuss the insane amount of money Scottie Scheffler has made this year (00:00)...Then the fellas discuss the biggest news in the world... Taylor Swift has created some new promo for her upcoming album release (06:30).... Also, the new F1 Cadillac team have announced their drivers (13:30), and TVNZ has a new pay-TV product (11:15)...Finally, they get to your feedback in 'Yours Please' (21:30)...Did you know that we've launched a new Facebook Group called 'The Caravan' JOIN HERE!Brought to you by Export Ultra! Follow The ACC on Instagram or Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to The Agenda Podcast now on iHeartRadio, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! iHeartRadio Apple Spotify YouTube THANKS MATE! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TVNZ has opened a new 'game-changer' battleground with Sky TV - it will launch a pay-TV offering, starting with next year's FIFA World Cup. TVNZ recently confirmed it had successfully won the rights to the world's biggest sports tournament, starting next June in the United States, Canada and Mexico. It confirmed it will screen All Whites matches and other selected games free - but for access to the full schedule of matches, people will need to pay for an event pass on TVNZ+. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The FIFA World Cup broadcast rights are on the move. TVNZ have picked up the exclusive rights for the 2026 edition of the tournament, with All Whites matches and select fixtures free to air. However, in order to watch all 104 games across the tournament, consumers will need to purchase an event pass on TVNZ+, a first-time offer for the broadcaster. D'Arcy spoke to current NZ Golf CEO and former Spark Sport CEO Jeff Latch to ask if TVNZ can make this work, what this could mean for the future of TVNZ and what he thinks they may have paid for these rights. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TVNZ will be charging its viewers for content for the first time after securing the rights to broadcast next year's Fifa World Cup. Viewers will be able to stream 104 football games over the tournament's 39 days, including replays and highlights, if an event pass is purchased. All of New Zealand's games will be free-to-air, alongside a handful of others. TVNZ CEO Jodi O'Donnell told Mike Hosking data was collected on how many people are actually prepared to pay for additional sport. She says the number of people that watched the Euros tournament with TVNZ gave them confidence. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast for Tuesday 26th of August, the Reserve Bank is opening consultation on banks' capital requirements – Chair Neil Quigley discusses the situation. TVNZ will be introducing a paid event pass for the first time ever after securing the broadcasting rights for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mark 'Frosty' Winterbottom has a new memoir out about his time as a full time Supercars driver, so we had to catch up with him. Get the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast every weekday morning on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jason Pine and Andrew Saville join Mike Hosking this morning to discuss the weekend's sports. On the table today: The All Blacks suffered a defeat at the hands of Los Pumas in Argentina, is the criticism they're receiving justified? TVNZ is set to broadcast the NPC through the year, hopefully bringing attention to the local games. And the Warriors defeated the Titans in Queensland to secure an important victory in the NRL. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TVNZ Presenter Chris Chang joins the show to talk about TVNZ securing the rights to the worlds biggest sports tournament the FIFA Men's World Cup 2026. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kennedy discusses the short film Think Like a Forest, screening on TVNZ+. The film expresses the vision of Recloaking Papatuanuku, an ambitious environmental restoration proposition aimed at restoring our indigenous forests and wetlands.

New Zealand Rugby has committed to Sky for another five years. Nearly every All Blacks match, including the 2029 Lions Tour, the new Nations Cup, and all matches in the Sanzaar countries will broadcast on Sky Sport. TVNZ has also secured NPC rights, along with a few Farah Palmer Cup games, which will be broadcast free-to-air on TVNZ+. However, the deal doesn't include five future All Blacks tests, yet to be named, which will be open to bidding when they are announced. Chair of New Zealand Rugby David Kirk joined the show to discuss the ins and outs of the deal. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SkyTV is set to broadcast every All Blacks' game for the next 5 years, and TVNZ will broadcast all 93 of the National Provincial Championship (NPC) matches. Chair of NZ Rugby David Kirk told Heather duPlessis-Allan that reaching this deal has been a ‘long, long journey.' ‘Both parties have worked hard, and I think we've got to a place which works for both of us.' LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is the devil in the detail? Yesterday NZR proudly released the news that they have finally got their long-negotiated broadcast deal with Sky TV across the line. On the face of it, the deal looks good for all concerned. The All Blacks, Super Rugby, and the Black Ferns are all tied up for five years, driving subscription numbers for the pay TV behemoth. Those products are what Sky, and realistically the subscribers, really desire. The free-to-air deal provides those unwilling or unable to pay for satellite TV a taste of domestic rugby through the exploits of the teams in the NPC, with some Farah Palmer Cup and Heartland Championship games thrown in. The vehicle for this is TVNZ, which in lieu of Sky TV's recent purchase of the Three network, appears out of alignment with the pay TV monster's trajectory. The Three deal not only arrived too late for consideration (I presume), and in eyeball terms, TVNZ has a greater reach, with a larger and less complex method for New Zealanders who aren't tech savvy or have no interest in multiple platforms. The ointment fly is the additional All Black matches that fall outside of the World Rugby test requirements. As yet unscheduled but more than likely to occur, these ‘extra' matches involve the revenue generating fixtures such as the American-based games. This is where more ‘fat' for NZR lives. These matches will likely be sold off to the highest bidder, think DAZN or Netflix, so if we want to watch, we'll be paying. Again. I will. I have to. I want to. But is this the thin end of the future pay wedge for AB fans? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chloe Swarbrick has been ejected from ejected Parliament "for the rest of the week" after refusing to withdraw and apologise a comment about ACT vetoing the recognition of Gaza. We also see that Helen Clark, with the group 'The Elders' visited the border between Israel and Gaza, saw first hand aid trucks being turned around by Israel in a situation she called "heart breaking"Jack McDonald joins us tonight to talk over the above issues. McDonald is a campaigner and political commentator who has worked for Te Pāti Māori and the Green Party, and works for the Council of Trade Unions.Chris Hipkins was on the NZ Herald this morning talking about bi-partisanship and was asked why Willow Jean Prime didn't interact with the Minister of Education. He also spoke about who would be in this cabinet, as in are his current front bench be who is there post election.TVNZ will have more polling out tonight which as of the publishing of these show notes we do not have confirmation what they are looking at.Staff shortages, nurses 'afraid to come to work' at Canterbury's Mental Health Services, review finds+++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++Please be aware that the flow of information and news is very changeable at the moment so the live show tonight may include other stories not listed, or the removal of some of these stories should more important ones supersede them.+++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++=================================Come support the work we're doing by becoming a Patron of ⁠⁠#BHN⁠⁠ www.patreon.com/BigHairyNews⁠=================================Merch available at www.BHNShop.nz Like us on Facebookwww.facebook.com/BigHairyNews Follow us on Twitter.@patbrittenden @Chewie_NZFollow us on BlueskyPat @patbrittenden.bsky.socialChewie @chewienz.bsky.socialEmily @iamprettyawesome.bsky.socialMagenta @xkaosmagex.bsky.social

The stark reality of linear TV in New Zealand, if Irene Gardiner was right on yesterday's show, is fairly simple. Here is how the calculation works: you make a product, you stick it on air, you get an audience, and you sell advertising based on that audience. Some programs can never hope to get the sort of audience to pay for the cost of the show. Enter Government support or brand sponsorship – in other words, a financial support mechanism to make a show that would not have otherwise been made. I made a show called ‘Sunday' years back. It was on TV3 on the weekend off peak. It didn't rate very well, but it was never going to, but it rated fairly well for what it was, which was a niche program talking about the arts. It was made with NZ On Air money. Now, does Treasure Island attract more viewers than that? Yes. So if you are going to toss money at something why not that? You get more bang for buck. But the money tree hasn't got more money, so someone loses. Maybe it's an arts program. The really scary thing is the calculation around peak time i.e. prime time. This show makes money and quite a lot of it. Newstalk ZB is profitable. TVNZ and TV3 are not. So what about pay-per-view? SkyTV is profitable, but they have sport. What does TV3 or TVNZ have that you would pay for? Would you pay to watch Treasure Island? Of course you wouldn't. So prime time linear TV is not profitable because the advertising dollars have vanished to Google and TikTok and Meta. That is not changing and that's the problem, because all that's left is the taxpayer. The big question is to what extent should the taxpayer fund your evening's entertainment? And when I say you, I mean those who are left watching the TV as opposed to YouTube or Netflix. If linear TV can't make a buck at 7.30pm on a Wednesday, how long before the lights get switched off? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Assassin A retired assassin reunites with her estranged son, but her dangerous past catches up with them, forcing them to go on the run together while uncovering a dark conspiracy that threatens their relationship (ThreeNow). Outrageous In the 1930s, 6 sisters refuse to play by the rules, and their often-scandalous lives make headlines around the world. Their tales involve betrayal, scandal, heartache, and even imprisonment (Neon). Murder in a Small Town Karl Alberg moves to the idyllic coastal town of Gibsons to become the new police chief and soothe a psyche that has been battered by big-city police work. Unfortunately, the gentle paradise has more than its share of secrets, and Karl needs to call upon all the skills that made him a world-class detective in solving the murders that, even in this seemingly idyllic setting, continue to wash up on his shore (TVNZ+). LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NZ on Air has its fingers crossed its financial support of Shortland St won't be forever. New Zealand's longest-running drama's been granted 2.5 million in funding for its 2026 season, to help the show transition to the audience's preference of online viewing. NZ on Air CEO Cam Harland told Heather du Plessis-Allan that they also provided funding last year, but hoped it would assist the show moving to a more financially sustainable place. But he says the economic environment for ad funded media hasn't improved. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonight on The Huddle, journalist Clare de Lore and Jack Tame from ZB's Saturday Mornings and Q&A joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! The UK is threatening Israel with recognising the state of Palestine if it doesn't agree to a ceasefire deal in Gaza. Is this a terrible bargaining chip - or you do what you've got to do? Australia wants to ban under-16s from using YouTube off the back of their social media ban for teenagers. Do we think this is a good idea? Netball NZ has just signed a new broadcasting deal with TVNZ - will this help netball turn its viewership around? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After many years on Sky, the ANZ Premiership is set to return to TVNZ for the 2026 season. A one-season broadcast deal has officially been confirmed, with the competition to remain in the current two-round format. Sports, Events and Partnerships Head at TVNZ, Melodie Robinson, says this is good news - as there's still a massive fanbase for netball. "We're really excited that all of the ANZ championship's going to be with us next year." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Netball New Zealand will dip into its own pocket to keep the ANZ Premiership afloat next year. A one-season broadcast deal with TVNZ was recently confirmed, with the 2026 ANZ Premiership being exclusively free-to-air. Chief executive Jennie Wyllie has not revealed whether players will take a pay cut, but says the governing body must invest. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Wednesday, 30 July 2025, Finance Minister Nicola Willis explains why she's given the green light for a partial privatisation of Kiwibank. Air NZ has a new CEO. His name is Nikhil Ravishankar and Forsyth Barr's Andy Bowley tells Heather what we can read into the appointment. Australia will include YouTube in its social media ban for under 16s - is that going too far, or should NZ do the same? TVNZ's Melodie Robinson spills the beans on the new broadcast deal with Netball NZ - and whether money will actually change hands. Plus, the Huddle debates whether the UK made a mistake threatening Israel with recognising Palestine as a state. Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast for Wednesday 30th July, nurses are on strike today and gang numbers are up – a double blow for the Government. Netball NZ has secured its broadcast deal – a one year deal with TVNZ. Is it the solution, or just a band aid? Ginny Andersen and Mark Mitchell talk gang numbers, the House performances, and Brooke van Velden and eggs on Politics Wednesday. Get the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast every weekday morning on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Netball New Zealand will dip into its own pocket to keep the ANZ Premiership afloat in 2026. A one-year broadcast deal with TVNZ has been confirmed, with the competition to remain in the current two-round format. Chief executive Jennie Wyllie has not revealed how much the deal is worth or whether players will take a pay cut. She told Mike Hosking there is a change in economics, but they feel it's the new deal is aligned with the vision they have for the game – that Kiwis can see it with ease. Wyllie says the broadcast is different and there's more risk in the market, but they're willing to step into it as they know the game has a future. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The bitter battle over butter prices topped the news agenda this week, prompting a ‘please explain' from the finance minister to Fonterra. Are media are missing the main point? Also: pundits say Sky buying Three for $1 strengthens its on-screen sport play - but the cash Saudi Arabia's suddenly splashing could change the big picture.Read more about this episode of Mediawatch on the RNZ websiteIn this episode:01:00 The price has been rising for months, but all of a sudden the bitter political battle over butter became bulletin-leading stuff this week. Did the media miss the point by zeroing in on this - and the political posturing?17:25 Pundits reckon Sky buying Three strengthens Sky's stranglehold on the top sport it sells to subscribers. But this week The Herald reported TVNZ bidding for next year's FIFA World Cup and the upcoming Olympics as well. But globally, Saudi Arabia's sticking stacks of cash into sport and broadcasting right now. A journalist who's just seen that play out in the US says that could change the picture worldwide - and here:Learn more:Guests: Liam Dann, Adam LeventhalIf you have any thoughts for us - or ideas for us to follow up - get in touch. E-mail mediawatch@rnz.co.nz. You'll also find us @MediawatchNZ on X.Follow Mediawatch and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or any podcast app to make sure you never miss an episode.Find more RNZ Podcasts at the new section of the RNZ website at rnz.co.nz/podcastsGo to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Washington Black Follows the 19th century adventures of George Washington "Wash" Black, an 11-year-old boy on a Barbados sugar plantation who must flee after a gruesome death threatens to turn his life upside down (Disney+). The Game Detective Huw Miller is haunted by one case he failed to solve. As he settles into retirement, he suddenly thinks he has found the elusive killer in the shape of his new neighbour Patrick Harbottle (ThreeNow). The Hunting Wives Sophie trades city life for East Texas and falls into a wealthy socialite's magnetic orbit - where a clique of housewives hide deadly secrets (TVNZ+). LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sky TV's purchase of TV3 could lead to a change in sports viewing, but not for a while. Sky New Zealand Chief Executive Sophie Moloney says for the next 12 months programming on TV3 will stay largely the same. She says she expects TVNZ to put up a good fight for free-to-air rights for different sports, including rugby. Moloney told Mike Hosking they'd also like to try to acquire them. She says it will ultimately be up to New Zealand Rugby. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sky TV is promising it won't shake the boat too soon after buying TV3 and ThreeNow - for a dollar. Warner Brothers Discovery has sold its Kiwi TV arm, including a range of linear and streaming channels. Sky TV says, for now, Sky Open will continue operations as normal and Three News will be kept at the six o'clock slot. Chief executive Sophie Moloney says they might even still negotiate with TVNZ on sports. "I think it's actually really important for the local media ecosystem that you do have two vibrant opportunities for sport partners and beyond." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Glen Kyne joins Duncan Greive on an emergency edition of The Fold to discuss Sky's move to buy the New Zealand assets of Discovery NZ, including Three and ThreeNow. They discuss the price, what it does for Sky, how Three will evolve and how it changes the game for TVNZ. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The big news of the day is another $1 deal in the media, which probably tells you everything you need to know about the state of the industry. But this is, on balance, good news for everyone - I would have thought. It's good for you, for viewers, good for Sky, and good for Three. And I'm gonna work backwards on that - Let's start with TV3. It's good news for Three and for the people who work there, because Three continues to exist. A very real alternative must have been for Warner Brothers Discovery, the owners, to shut Three down completely. Now that they've sold it for $1 to Sky, it continues. It's good news for Sky, because it gives Sky TV a chance to make money again off stuff that they already own. For example, and I'm just picking this randomly, let's say White Lotus. Sky TV buys the broadcast rights for the country to White Lotus, they earn the money off White Lotus by sticking it on Sky TV, sticking it on Neon, and we pay a subscription to watch it. Now, they can wait a few months, maybe until all of us who've paid for it have watched it, and then they can dump White Lotus for free on TV3 and Freeview - which is TV3's app - and then they can make money off White Lotus all over again through advertising around the free content. Now, they can already do this with their Sky Open channel, which is a free-to-air channel they already have, but who even knows where on the TV Sky Open is? I have no bloody idea what number it is. Never even watched it before in my life. And does it have an app? Wouldn't know. I know everything you need to know about TV3, I've got the TV3 app, I know where to find it. There is a very strong brand attached to Three. More importantly, I would have thought for Sky TV - this strengthens its arm for sports, right? Sky TV has now got to be the only real choice in town for sports content. Beforehand at least domestically, TVNZ was a real competitor, at least for the free-to-air portion, given so many people watch TVNZ - both its on-air channels and its app. But now, Sky TV's got Three - same same. It doesn't need to have anything to do with TVNZ. Finally, it's good for you and me that this deal was struck today, because who doesn't want excellent free content landing on an app that you already have or a TV channel that you already watch? So good day all round, I would say. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a bird, it's a plane, it's a new Superman. This week we're talking about the new take on Superman, we discuss the James Gunn of it all, hope and optimism, defending Jor-El, and the impossibility of the perfect Jimmy Olsen. Host Andrew Ivimey will be performing in Vancouver July 19, 2025 with special guests Sophia Johnson (JFL, CBC, TVNZ) and Juno award-winner Ivan Decker (Netflix, The Debaters, Conan). Get tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/comedy-show-andrew-ivimey-special-guests-vancouver-july-19th-tickets-1374966575039

The backers of the second official inquiry into the Covid response say it's crucial for preparing us for the next pandemic - but the media mostly zeroed in on whether big-name politicians would show up. Also: TVNZ checking itself for bias, a fresh flurry of media French-ification; and do we need to brace for more ‘fiscal hole' fury in Election 2026? Read more about this episode of Mediawatch on the RNZ websiteIn this episode:1:22 The backers of the second Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Covid-19 response said it was crucial to learning lessons for the future, as well as allowing people to have a say. But the media mostly zeroed in on whether big-name politicians would show up at hearings that are still six weeks away.17:03 Remember in the campaign for the last election - and the one before that - how the big political parties made big claims in the media about billion dollar-deep holes in each others' policies? We might have to brace for more in 2026.32:50 TVNZ says it's planning to check itself for bias. But why - and why now?37:21 A fresh flurry of French-ification in our media inspired by Les Bleus on tour.Learn more:https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/mediawatch/566737/mediawatch-pandemic-probe-media-focus-flipped-to-politiciansGuests: Dan Brunskill, economics reporter for Interest.co.nzIf you have any thoughts for us - or ideas for us to follow up - get in touch. E-mail mediawatch@rnz.co.nz. You'll also find us @MediawatchNZ on X.Follow Mediawatch and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or any podcast app to make sure you never miss an episode.Find more RNZ Podcasts at the new section of the RNZ website at rnz.co.nz/podcastsGo to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Too Much Jessica, a New York workaholic is reeling from a broken relationship. She takes a job in London, where she plans to live like a Bronte sister. When she meets Felix, a walking series of red flags, their unusual connection is impossible to ignore (Netflix). Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story Interviews, outtakes and never-before-seen footage provide insight into the chaos and creativity behind the making of Steven Spielberg's legendary blockbuster “Jaws” (Disney+). Outrageous Fortune It's 20 years this week since the classic New Zealand comedy-drama stormed onto our screens - and the series remains as entertaining as ever. The Wests are a one-family crime wave with a proud tradition in thievery, larceny and petty crime, until now... When patriarch Wolf is sent to jail, his wife Cheryl decides it's time for the family to go straight (TVNZ+, YouTube). LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TVNZ is set to launch an independent review of its news content to check for balance and bias. This follows Media Minister Paul Goldsmith expressing interest in seeing trust in media improve - particularly for the state broadcasters. NZME Editor-at-Large Shayne Currie says viewers have taken issue with the 'editorialising' of the news. "The reporter comes in at the end and gives an opinion or analysis that the viewer might take issue with. The feedback that we get a lot of is - just report the news." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Heather Du Plessis-Allan Drive with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast Tuesday 8th of July 2025, Brooke van Velden responds to Chris Hipkins saying the Covid inquiry terms of reference provides a platform for conspiracy theorists. Donald Trump has met with Benjamin Netanyahu in the White House, Managing partner of Firehouse strategies & Former Chief of staff for Marco Rubio's 2016 campaign, Matt Terrill provides some analysis. Rich-listers who planned to fully fund a new arena at Western Springs Stadium have removed their bid, rival Western Springs Stadium bidder Brent Eccles tells Ryan Bridge what happens next. Plus, TVNZ is launching a independent review to check its news for balance, Ryan asks the Huddle if TVNZ is too biased. Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonight on The Huddle Ali Jones from Red PR and former National ministerial advisor Brigitte Morton joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! The second stage of the Covid-19 inquiry is still going on - and Labour's Chris Hipkins has suggested this gives conspiratorial views a platform. Do we think these comments are out of line? TVNZ is set to launch an independent review of its news content to check for balance and bias. Is this a serious enough problem? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we're going back to YET ANOTHER ISLA with Jurassic World Rebirth. We talk about about a family that wasn't in the marketing, visual competency, everyone's favourite character Dr. Sexy, and how dinosaurs aren't boring you guys. Host Andrew Ivimey will be performing in Vancouver July 19, 2025 with special guests Sophia Johnson (JFL, CBC, TVNZ) and Juno award-winner Ivan Decker (Netflix, The Debaters, Conan). Get tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/comedy-show-andrew-ivimey-special-guests-vancouver-july-19th-tickets-1374966575039?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl

Former broadcaster and journalist Oriini Kaipara is putting her name forward to be Te Pāti Māori's Tāmaki Makaurau candidate after Takutai Tarsh Kemp died, triggering a by-election. Kaipara has an extensive broadcasting background and has worked for Mai FM, TVNZ, Māori TV and Newshub - where she presented the Saturday morning politics-heavy show The Nation. NZ Herald political editor Thomas Coughlan says nominations close this afternoon, with more to be revealed in the coming days. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we're talking about a movie that despite groundbreaking visual effects may be most famous for a weird scream-to-yawn match cut, it's The Lost World: Jurassic Park. We talk about how everyone is Jeff Goldblum, a villain who casually walks away, why everybody loves Nick, and why it's weird to gymnastics kick a velociraptor. Host Andrew Ivimey will be performing in Vancouver July 19, 2025 with special guests Sophia Johnson (JFL, CBC, TVNZ) and Juno award-winner Ivan Decker (Netflix, The Debaters, Conan). Get tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/comedy-show-andrew-ivimey-special-guests-vancouver-july-19th-tickets-1374966575039?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl

When it hasn't been your day, week, or even your 28 years *clap clap clap*. This week we're talking about 28 Years Later. We talk about the return of Boyle and Garland, movies that switch tones midway, and potential themes framed as a question. Host Andrew Ivimey will be performing in Vancouver July 19, 2025 with special guests Sophia Johnson (JFL, CBC, TVNZ) and Juno award-winner Ivan Decker (Netflix, The Debaters, Conan). Get tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/comedy-show-andrew-ivimey-special-guests-vancouver-july-19th-tickets-1374966575039?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl

No it's not Groundhog day, this week we're talking again about How To Train Your Dragon but this time it's the 2025 live action (ish) version. We talk about what the point of this type of re-make is, losing comedy but gaining drama, Gerard Butler still being in top form, and how othering it is to point at people. Host Andrew Ivimey will be performing in Vancouver July 19, 2025 with special guests Sophia Johnson (JFL, CBC, TVNZ) and Juno award-winner Ivan Decker (Netflix, The Debaters, Conan). Get tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/comedy-show-andrew-ivimey-special-guests-vancouver-july-19th-tickets-1374966575039?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl