April 01, 2026

#TeReo: loss of a national te reo Māori radio news service

Dale Husband Posted On April 1, 2026

Dale Husband #TeReo: loss of a national te reo Māori radio news service

Concerns are growing over the loss of a national te reo Māori radio news service, with questions being raised about how iwi radio stations will continue to access regular, up-to-date news content.

While Māori audiences still have access to television programmes and regional news services, there is no longer a consistent, hourly te reo Māori news bulletin available across the iwi radio network. For many, that service has been a cornerstone of daily broadcasting, ensuring reo Māori news reaches whānau throughout the day.

The gap highlights a wider issue about equity in media, with critics questioning why Māori news services are expected to be reduced or restructured when other national news services continue without interruption.

Iwi radio stations have long relied on a shared national bulletin to provide timely, accessible information in te reo Māori, particularly for communities where radio remains a primary source of news.

The timing is also raising concern, with the country heading into an election year. Without a regular national reo Māori news service, there are fears Māori communities may have reduced access to consistent, real-time political and public interest information in their own language.

Advocates say the situation underscores the importance of ensuring Māori media is properly supported, not only as a platform for information, but as a key driver of language revitalisation and democratic participation.

The debate is now turning to what comes next, and whether a sustainable solution can be found to restore a national te reo Māori news presence on iwi radio.