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Maori TV Faces Funding Crisis: MPs Demand Action

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Friday, February 27th 2026 at 0:04 GMT by The New Zealand Herald
      Locale: NEW ZEALAND

Wellington, New Zealand - February 27th, 2026 - A rare and unified voice from across the political spectrum is urging the New Zealand Government to urgently address the escalating financial pressures facing Whakaata Maori, the country's dedicated Maori television channel. A cross-party group of Members of Parliament, representing National, Labour, ACT, and Te Pati Maori, have jointly penned a letter to Broadcasting Minister Willie Jackson, imploring him to significantly increase the broadcaster's annual funding.

Whakaata Maori, formerly known as Maori Television (Maori TV), has been a cornerstone of New Zealand's cultural landscape since its inception. Established to revitalize te reo Maori (the Maori language) and promote Maori culture, the channel provides unique programming unavailable elsewhere, including news, current affairs, drama, documentaries, and entertainment - all delivered primarily through a Maori lens. However, the broadcaster is currently operating under a capped annual budget of $21.7 million, a figure MPs say is demonstrably insufficient to secure its long-term viability.

The letter, details of which were released today, emphasizes the pivotal role Whakaata Maori plays in preserving and promoting Maori language, culture, and identity. It argues that the broadcaster's services are not merely beneficial to Maori communities, but represent a valuable national asset, enriching the cultural life of all New Zealanders. The MPs highlight the growing threat that current funding levels pose to the channel's ability to fulfil its statutory mandate - a mandate deeply rooted in the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi.

"Whakaata Maori is more than just a television channel; it's a vital taonga [treasure]," stated National MP for Te Tai Tokerau, Karen Horne, one of the signatories of the letter. "It's a place where te reo Maori thrives, where our stories are told, and where future generations can connect with their heritage. To allow it to wither through underfunding would be a national tragedy."

The concerns extend beyond simply maintaining current programming levels. Whakaata Maori is facing increasing competition from global streaming services and the growing demands for high-quality, digital content. To remain relevant and competitive, the broadcaster needs to invest in modern infrastructure, develop new programming formats, and expand its online presence - all of which require substantial financial investment.

Labour MP for Ikaroa-Rawhiti, Meka Whaitiri, echoed these sentiments, adding that consistent funding is crucial for fostering Maori media talent. "We need to invest in our rangatahi [youth] and provide them with the opportunities to create content that reflects their experiences and aspirations. Whakaata Maori is a key platform for developing the next generation of Maori filmmakers, journalists, and storytellers."

Broadcasting Minister Willie Jackson acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, stating, "We're aware of the funding issues and are looking at options, but it's a matter of priorities and budget cycles." He stopped short of committing to a specific funding increase or timeline for a decision, citing the pressures of the current economic climate and competing demands on the national budget.

However, critics argue that investing in Whakaata Maori isn't simply an expenditure, but a strategic investment in New Zealand's social and cultural capital. The revitalisation of te reo Maori is a key priority for the government, and Whakaata Maori is arguably the most effective vehicle for achieving this goal. Furthermore, a thriving Maori media sector can contribute significantly to the country's tourism industry and enhance New Zealand's international reputation as a culturally vibrant nation.

The situation also mirrors broader debates about equitable funding models for public service media in the digital age. While commercial broadcasters are increasingly reliant on advertising revenue, public service broadcasters like Whakaata Maori rely heavily on government funding. This raises questions about the long-term sustainability of these models and the need for innovative funding solutions that can ensure the continued provision of high-quality, locally-produced content.

The cross-party appeal represents a significant moment in the ongoing struggle to secure the future of Whakaata Maori. Whether the Government will heed the call and provide the necessary funding remains to be seen, but the stakes are high - not just for the broadcaster itself, but for the preservation of Maori language, culture, and identity for generations to come.