Nathan Rarere has been appointed the permanent host of RNZ's early morning show, First Up.
Photo: RNZ
A regular contributor to the 5-6am show since mid-2020, Rarere (Rongomaiwahine) has been acting host of the show since October, when RNZ farewelled Indira Stewart.
Multi-Media Programmes Editor at RNZ, Pip Keane, says Rarere's broadcasting experience in television and radio offers a refreshing take on early morning news and current affairs inside and outside the studio.
"Nathan is the ideal personality to host First Up - he's comfortable behind both a radio mic and camera, has a keen interest in news and current affairs along with the Pacific, and his experience in sports broadcasting will be a real boost for us in the Olympic year.
"His commitment to getting up at stupid o'clock combined with a seriously great sense of humour is a bonus that makes him an asset to the early morning team."
Ellie Jay has been named as back-up presenter of the show.