Pacific

Pacific media watchdog labels TVNZ decision a 'threat to democracy'

20:21 pm on 27 October 2014

Regional media watchdog, the Pacific Freedom Forum, says the decision by Television New Zealand to outsource Maori and Pacific Island production is a threat to democracy.

Last week TVNZ announced that their Maori and Pacific Islands production will be handled by private companies from next year onwards.

Titi Gabi says the decision follows years of cutbacks.

Ms Gabi says New Zealand is placing little value on independent journalism.

The PFF's co-chair Monica Miller says the New Zealand government needs to remind itself that it is founded on a partnership with Pacific people, with TVNZ headquartered in the world's biggest Polynesian city.

More than 30 jobs could be lost in the outsourcing move.