NZ On Air Sets Direction

NZ On Air Sets Direction

Powerful stories, world-class production and vivid expressions of New Zealand identity and culture will greet audiences across a range of television channels and radio stations in the next five years as NZ On Air follows through on its intention to take a leading role in the promotion of local content and diversity in broadcasting. The agency's Five Year Strategic Plan 2003 – 2008 has just been released.

"The five year plan has come as a result of our analysis of the changing broadcasting environment. We've concluded that a new approach to NZ On Air's role in the increasingly diverse and complex broadcasting sector is needed," said NZ On Air Chairman, Don Hunn.

"The plan will give us our strategic direction for the next five years. It's been developed in a way that enables us to review it in the light of changes in Government policies, or the broadcasting landscape generally. It's a 'living' document.

"In it, we've tried to address issues facing public service broadcasting in the 21st century - including its continued relevance - while still holding firm to the objectives of the Broadcasting Act. It gives us a platform to address such things as the impact of digital broadcasting, and other technological changes, so we can propose solutions that could be considered as part of the 'first principles' broadcasting strategy the Minister of Broadcasting has set in motion.

"We'll be looking to Government to continue its strong support for public broadcasting in New Zealand through strengthening NZ On Air's ability to deliver quality outcomes on radio and television," he said. "That means determining long-term funding goals and finding ways to achieve them."

"One of the keys to successful public broadcasting outcomes is in the encouragement of risk-taking and innovation in local content, right across the broadcasting spectrum. It recognises the importance of the broadcasting sector in the promotion of creativity, cultural identity and the potential for economic growth.

"Research and consultation are at the heart of this strategic plan, to guide our thinking, and to feed into the wider broadcasting sector in the years ahead. NZ On Air intends to consult widely and publish quality research information. Alongside that, we aim to strengthen strategic partnerships throughout the industry so we can deliver superior outcomes to all New Zealand audiences, where they're watching or listening," Mr Hunn said. Ends

More information on NZ On Air’s Five Year Plan and other policies are available on the NZ On Air website at http:// http://www.nzonair.govt.nz

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