A new report warns that Māori communities are being disproportionately affected by the rise of “news deserts” in Aotearoa – areas with little or no access to trusted local journalism.
The News Deserts: Local Journalism at Risk report by the Koi Tū Centre for Informed Futures highlights the closure of Whakaata Māori’s Te Ao Māori News and cuts to iwi radio newsrooms as key contributors to the growing crisis.
Author Dr Gavin Ellis says the disappearance of local news undermines social cohesion and weakens democracy – especially for communities already underserved by mainstream media.
The report notes that most iwi and community stations rely on syndicated bulletins, with few able to produce regular local news.
Ellis says while iwi radio stations continue to serve their regions, many lack the resources to maintain dedicated newsrooms.
The warning comes as Te Māngai Pāho prepares to announce decisions on its 2025/26 Māori News and Current Affairs funding round, which includes up to $10 million to support regional providers and a proposed national hub for Māori news content.
Ellis says Whakaata Māori’s shift to digital-only news following the closure of Te Ao Māori News – and the loss of 27 jobs – raises concerns about the future of te reo Māori journalism.
Koi Tū is calling for urgent government support to protect Māori media and iwi radio as essential pillars of local democracy.
