Te Māngai Pāho has confirmed funding recipients for Māori News and Current Affairs, signalling a major shift in how Māori news will be delivered into the future.
The announcement includes up to $1.5 million for the establishment of Te Iho – He Pātaka Kōrero, a National News Hub led by Whakaata Māori, designed to centralise Māori news content and make it accessible to approved platforms and publishers.
TVNZ’s Te Karere and production company ManiaTai Limited have also received nearly $1.5 million in supplementary roles, despite earlier concerns about funding cuts.
Six regional news providers will contribute weekly stories, articles, audio, and live events to the hub, supported by a total pool of $4.9 million.
Only four Māori current affairs programmes have been funded for 2026:
- Marae (TVNZ)
- Te Ao with Moana (Whakaata Māori)
- Ruku (Whakaata Māori)
- Mata (RNZ)
Te Māngai Pāho Kaihautū Larry Parr says the funding provides stability at a time when mainstream broadcasters are reducing local content, and ensures Māori perspectives continue to be represented in national media.
All funding decisions are subject to final negotiations between Te Māngai Pāhō and the applicants.
