Whakaata Māori Cuts 27 Roles, Shifts Focus to Digital News

By Daniel Perese, Te Ao News

Whakaata Māori, New Zealand’s largest Maori broadcaster, has announced significant restructuring measures aimed at cutting costs and shifting its focus towards digital news. The changes come after the broadcaster identified large financial shortfalls in the coming years.

Kaihautū (chief executive) Shane Taurima.
Photo: Te Ao Māori News

Whakaata Māori’s plans include cutting 27 roles, moving its Te Reo Channel from TV to online, and cancelling its uninterrupted news programme after 20 years. The changes are expected to save the broadcaster over $10 million by 2027.

The decisions were made in an effort to address financial shortfalls and ensure the long-term sustainability of the organisation. Despite efforts to secure funding from successive governments, Whakaata Māori has not had an inflation adjustment since 2008.

According to figures, if inflation adjustments had been made, the Crown-funded broadcaster’s budget would be 67 percent higher this year. The cuts are aimed at reducing costs and allowing Whakaata Māori to continue delivering meaningful content to its audiences.

Key Principles Guiding the Realignment

Chief executive Shane Taurima outlined the core principles driving the changes, including:

• digital enablement: expanding reach and accessibility through modern platforms;
• flexible operating models: adapting to the dynamic needs of the media landscape;
• audience engagement: deepening connections with diverse audiences;
• resource optimisation: directing efforts to areas of greatest impact;
• career development: nurturing and growing talent across the organisation;
• outcome-driven content: delivering storytelling that is meaningful and impactful; and
• partnership cultivation: strengthening collaborations to support te reo me ngā tikanga Māori.

“These decisions allow Whakaata Māori to continue leading with te reo Māori and tikanga Māori at the heart of everything we do, ensuring their relevance and vitality in a changing world,” said Taurima. “We extend our deepest gratitude to all kaihoe (staff) who have contributed to this journey.”

“To those who are leaving, your mahi has been invaluable in shaping Whakaata Māori and its kaupapa. To those staying, your dedication will carry us forward as we navigate this new chapter together,” he added.

Impact on Programming and Staff

Te Ao Māori News 4.30pm show will end next Friday, while Te Ao with Moana will be the last news/current affairs show on the channel in 2025. The changes come after a period of consideration for proposals across the company, with final decisions made in November.

No appointments to new roles in the newsroom have yet been made.

Conclusion

Whakaata Māori’s restructuring is part of its efforts to ensure long-term sustainability and relevance in a rapidly changing media landscape. While significant changes are underway, the broadcaster remains committed to delivering meaningful content that celebrates te reo Māori and tikanga Māori.

This story was originally published by Te Ao News