TVNZ Encouraged To Ditch “Naked Attraction”

Family First is welcoming the conclusion of the series of Naked Attraction on TV2, but is warning that if the programme returns for another season, another campaign will be launched calling on advertisers to withdraw their advertising or be boycotted by families concerned with declining broadcasting standards.

“Almost 30 companies withdrew their advertising from this objectionable programme, and as a result, the programme became a financial disaster for TVNZ with only two or three adverts during a 60-minute programme – an all-time low. It was also interesting to note that TVNZ broadcast adverts during the programme without express authorisation, and with the knowledge that so many businesses had already boycotted the program,” says Bob McCoskrie, National Director of Family First NZ.

“Thank you to the many companies who have a social conscience – unlike TVNZ or the Broadcasting Standards Authority.”

Companies which withdrew their advertising after being contacted by families included:
New World - Electrolux - Lighting Direct - Carpet Court - Kitchen Things - Pak'n'Save - Warehouse Stationery - KFC - House Of Travel - Heineken - Proactiv.co.nz - Monteiths - Supercheap Autos - Auckland City Mission - Strepsils Plus - The Warehouse - Fonterra - Lotto - Emirates - Rebel Sport - Wondermins - Beds R Us - Haval Motors - Lemsip - Finish - Subway - 2 Degrees – Gatorade – 2CheapCars

The BSA in their decision admitted that the programme went “a step further than where broadcasters have trodden before…” and that “Each programme was visually explicit to a level not in our experience seen on New Zealand free-to-air television before. Verbal discussions and descriptions were also explicit…”

They also admitted that “Some viewers may have found the more detailed descriptions of sexual preferences and activity by the participants unduly confronting.” Yet they approved its broadcast.

“Unlike the Broadcasting Standards Authority, many businesses agreed with families that this programme is completely unacceptable. This is what happens when families speak up. It also highlights that the current BSA should be completely restructured as it is no longer fit for purpose and can no longer be relied upon to enforce appropriate community standards.”

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