Radio New Zealand has rejected an audit showing its coverage of Maori content has dropped to just 0.1 percent of its output, but says it must do a much better job of reporting, analyzing, explaining and celebrating topics that concern Maori.
The state broadcaster has rejected invitations to come on Radio Waatea in the two weeks since broadcaster Willie Jackson released the audit.
In a column posted on the Radio NZ website yesterday, CEO Paul Thompson says the audit was not credible or scientific.
But he says the main thrust of Mr Jackson’s argument had merit, as RNZ has a specific obligation under its charter to reflect New Zealand's cultural diversity, including Maori language and culture.
Mr Thompson said it has a new long-term strategy to create high-quality Maori content, support te reo Maori and foster Maori journalism.
It means credible Maori journalism and journalists must be prominent within primetime news and current affairs shows and bulletins, not side-lined into a short Maori bulletin.
Key elements of the strategy include:
– Personalised language plans for key executives, presenters and journalists.
– An annual Maori journalism internship that will provide an opportunity for a promising individual to work at RNZ and receive training and support.
– The opportunity for two staff from iwi radio to spend time working with the RNZ Digital team in either Auckland or Wellington.
– Continuing to employ outstanding Maori staff who are leaders in their field and who play an influential role in the organisation.
– Promoting more Maori language, culture and stories on the RNZ website.
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