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New Zealand Media and Entertainment
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New Zealand Media and Entertainment (abbreviated NZME) is a New Zealand newspaper, radio and digital media business. It was launched in 2014 as the merger of APN New Zealand (a division of APN News & Media), the Radio Network (formerly part of the Australian Radio Network) and GrabOne, one of New Zealand's biggest ecommerce websites.
Key Information
NZME brands include flagship national newspaper The New Zealand Herald, and regional newspapers Bay of Plenty Times, Rotorua Daily Post, Hawke's Bay Today, Northern Advocate and Gisborne Herald. Its radio division operates multiple networks, including the country's largest commercial station Newstalk ZB, The Hits, ZM, Radio Hauraki, Flava, Coast, and Gold. The company owns the New Zealand rights to the iHeartRadio service.[3][4][5] It also owns the Tauranga-based SunMedia company.[6]
History
[edit]Formation
[edit]NZME was formed in September 2014 through the merger of the New Zealand division of APN News & Media, APN New Zealand, The Radio Network, part of the Australian Radio Network,[7] and GrabOne, one of New Zealand's largest ecommerce websites.[8] The launch of the business fuelled speculation APN News and Media could be planning to fully separate its New Zealand operations, or issue an initial public offering for up to 60 percent of its New Zealand assets on the NZX. Fairfax Media declined to confirm speculation in The Australian Financial Review that it could buy some or all of those assets.[9][10][11]
In June 2016, APN News & Media completed the demerger of NZME, and NZME was listed on the New Zealand Exchange on 27 June 2016.[12][13][14]
Attempted acquisition of Stuff
[edit]In 2016, NZME and Stuff Ltd. proposed merging their operations in New Zealand, with Stuff's Australian parent company Fairfax Media receiving a 41% stake in the combine business plus $55 million cash. On 2 May 2017, the Commerce Commission declined to approve the proposed merger. The two companies appealed the Commissions' decision at the Wellington High Court, which upheld the commission's decision on 18 December 2017. In June 2018, the companies appealed the commission's decision at the New Zealand Court of Appeal, which rejected their merger bid on 25 September 2018.[15][16] In October 2018, NZME and Stuff abandoned their first merger attempt.[17]
In November 2019, NZME confirmed that it had entered into negotiations with Stuff's new Australian owners, Nine Entertainment, to purchase Stuff. As part of the second merger proposal, NZME proposed a "Kiwishare" arrangement that would ringfence Stuff's editorial operations and protect local journalism.[18][19]
On 11 May 2020, NZME made a second attempt to purchase Stuff for NZ$1 under the pretext of saving jobs during the pandemic. In response, Nine Entertainment terminated further negotiations with NZME.[20][21][22] In response, NZME filed an emergency injunction at the Auckland High Court to force Nine Entertainment back into negotiations.[23] On 19 May, the Auckland High Court ruled against NZME's bid for an interim injunction against Nine Entertainment.[24][25] On 25 May, Nine Entertainment sold Stuff to Stuff CEO Sinead Boucher.[26]
2020s job cuts
[edit]On 14 April 2020, NZME announced that they were making 15% of their workforce redundant (a loss of roughly 200 jobs) as a result of the economic fallout caused by the coronavirus pandemic.[27][28]
In early June 2024, NZME proposed cutting 10 to 12 regional and community vacant roles across the country in order to reinvest in new regional roles.[29]
In November 2024, NZME announced plans to eliminate 30 jobs and close 14 community newspapers, including Hauraki-Coromandel Post, Katikati Advertiser, Te Puke Times, Taupō & Tūrangi Herald, Napier Courier, Hastings Leader, CHB Mail, Stratford Press, Bush Telegraph, Whanganui Midweek, Manawatū Guardian, Horowhenua Chronicle and Kāpiti News.[30][31]
In January 2025, NZME announced plans to eliminate 14 reporting and 24 production jobs as part of a restructuring process. These restructuring measures included merging news desks, producing fewer but more focused stories and developing a specialist print team.[32] On 20 February, NZME confirmed plans to layoff several senior reporters and create a new Free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channel. Notable staff members affected by the restructuring include political editor Claire Trevett, deputy business editor Grant Bradley, senior sports reporter Chris Rattue, science reporter Jamie Morton, investigative journalist Nicholas Jones, reporter Kirsty Wynn and social media head Mitch Powell.[33] In late February 2025, NZME reported a net loss of NZ$16 million for the 2024 financial year after taking a non-cash write-down of NZ$24 million on its publishing assets.[34]
2024 acquisitions
[edit]On 5 March 2024, NZME acquired the Tauranga–based regional media company SunMedia for an undisclosed confidential sum. SunMedia was founded by Claire and Brian Rogers in 2001 and owned the SunLive website, the Weekend Sun, Coast & Country News and New Farm Dairies publications.[6] On 12 March, the company acquired the Gisborne Herald and its website from the Muir family. NZME previously owned a 49% minority stake in the Gisborne Herald through the former New Zealand Herald publisher Wilson and Horton Ltd in 1987.[5]
Use of artificial intelligence
[edit]In early August 2024, NZME admitted that it had used artificial intelligence to create editorials that appeared in the Weekend Herald and other publications as well as an editorial on MMA boxer Israel Adesanya. Following criticism, NZME's editor-in-chief Murray Kirkness stated that AI "was used in a way that fell short of its standards and more journalistic rigour would have been beneficial".[35]
2025 leadership changes
[edit]On 3 March 2025, Canadian private equity billionaire Jim Grenon, the founder of TOM Capital, acquired a 9.3 percent stake in NZME.[36] Grenon owns the alternative media publications The Centrist and NZ News Essentials (NZNE).[36][37] On 6 March, Grenon wrote to NZME proposing to remove all the directors from the board and to replace them with new directors, including himself.[38] On 21 March, NZME said that it had been in talks with Stuff since late 2024 to purchase several of its Wellington and South Island newspapers to try to boost its OneRoof business revenue and audience. However, these talks had been paused due to Grenon's takeover bid.[39]
On 26 March, Grenon said that he was willing to compromise to appease shareholders opposing his plans, including appointing NZME CEO Michael Boggs to the company's new board, as long as Grenon himself became chair. Grenon had also nominated Des Gittings, Philip Crump, and Simon West as the three other new directors.[40]
In early May 2025, former National Party MP and cabinet minister Steven Joyce was nominated to become a director and expressed willingness to replace Barbara Chapman as chair, ahead of NZME's annual shareholders meeting scheduled for 3 June 2025.[41] On 2 June, Joyce succeeded Chapman as chair of NZME during a board meeting. Grenon was also appointed as the company's director during that same meeting.[1]
Publishing
[edit]The publishing division of NZME reaches an estimated 2.1 million people each week by print, desktop computer and mobile. It includes national New Zealand Herald titles, six other daily newspapers, 23 non-daily newspapers and over 20 websites, mobile sites and apps.[42]
New Zealand Herald
[edit]The New Zealand Herald is the flagship title of NZME and is the daily newspaper of Auckland. It has the largest circulation of any newspaper in New Zealand, peaking at over 200,000 copies in 2006, with numbers down to 162,181 by December 2012.[43] Auckland is its main delivery area, but it is also delivered to much of the north of the North Island including Northland, Waikato and King Country.[44]
The Herald's main book publications include New Zealand Herald, Weekend Herald and Herald on Sunday. Its supplements include Be Well on Monday, Travel on Tuesday, Viva, Driven and Herald Homes on Wednesday, TimeOut on Thursday, Canvas on Saturday, and Spy on Sunday.[45]
Regional newspapers
[edit]NZME's flagship daily regional papers include The Northern Advocate, Bay of Plenty Times, Rotorua Daily Post, Hawke's Bay Today and the Whanganui Chronicle – New Zealand's oldest newspaper, founded in 1856.[46]
The company also publishes multiple weekly community papers, such as the Bay News, Katikati Advertiser, Te Puke Times, Coastal News, Waihi Leader, Hamilton News, Country News, Taupo & Turangi Weekender, Manawatū Guardian, Whanganui Midweek, and Horowhenua Chronicle[47]
In March 2024, NZME acquired SunMedia and its assets including the SunLive website, the Weekend Sun, Coast & Country News and New Farm Dairies publications.[6] That same month, the company acquired full ownership of the Gisborne Herald and its website.[5]
Joint publications
[edit]NZME co-owns the Chinese New Zealand Herald. In 2019, it was reported that the website and content of the Chinese New Zealand Herald is under the operational and editorial control of the state-run China News Service, controlled by Chinese Communist Party's United Front Work Department and subject to state censorship and government propaganda.[48]
In late June 2023, NZME partnered with Australian media company Are Media to launch an online digital exclusive version of the New Zealand Listener. The website is hosted on The New Zealand Herald's website.[49]
Radio
[edit]NZME Radio began as The Radio Network in 1996 when the commercial radio activities of Radio New Zealand were divested by the fourth National government as part of the Ruthanasia free market economic policies of that government.[50] Radio New Zealand Commercial, which included talk networks Newstalk ZB and Radio Sport and music networks Classic Hits and ZM, became privately owned and was renamed The Radio Network. In 2014, it became part of NZME and was rebranded again as NZME Radio.
The majority of the programming on stations is networked from the main studios on Graham Street in Auckland Central. However, Newstalk ZB run local programmes in Wellington, Nelson, Christchurch and Dunedin. The Hits run local breakfast and morning programmes. Auckland station Mix 98.2 was relaunched in 2014, based on stations previously known as Radio i, Easy Listening i, Viva and Easy Mix, later being rebranded in 2020 as Gold. Privately owned Gore station Hokonui Gold is operated by NZME under a long-term lease contract.
History
[edit]Publicly owned Radio New Zealand Commercial became privately owned The Radio Network in 1996, and later that year it also purchased Prospect Media Limited and its eleven Auckland and Hamilton stations. The brands of Auckland's Radio Hauraki and Easy Listening i were retained and launched as nationwide networks, while Hamilton's Easy Listening i, Auckland's The Breeze on 91, Hamilton's The Breeze on 89.8 and the other stations were converted to the former Radio New Zealand brands.
The company was bought out by a syndicate that included United States radio company Clear Channel Communications and publisher Wilson & Horton. Wilson & Horton was then purchased by Ireland-based media conglomerate Independent News & Media, and on-sold to Independent's Australian subsidiary APN. The Radio Network became an APN and Clear Channel networked commercial radio joint venture, like the Australian Radio Network already was, and as a result The Radio Network became part of the Australian Radio Network.
Radio Network House in Christchurch was damaged in the February 2011 Christchurch earthquake beyond repair. The building became infamous for being the first New Zealand demolition by implosion in August 2012.[51] The implosion was conducted by US specialists and went without problems, providing reassurance for contractors planning to carry out similar operations.
Community Radio Network
[edit]The Radio Network previously ran a group of provincial radio stations known as the Community Radio Network. Established in June 1998, the network retained the local names and live breakfast shows of each station but began broadcasting a network feed from Taupō for other times of the day. The line-up included Mark Bramley (10a – 2p), Aaron Gillions, Scott Armstrong and Brian Gentill (2p – 7p), and Peter Gosney, Corey K and Duncan Allen (7p – 12a). Other voices heard on the network included Geoff Bargas, Rebecca Ali, Nadine Christiansen, Sarah McMullan, Chris Auer, Marke Dickson and Paul Frost.
On 1 December 2000 CRN stations joined the Classic Hits programme fed from Cook Street Auckland, also operated by TRN. Where the station had both an FM and AM frequency the FM frequency was usually used to broadcast a localised version of Classic Hits while the AM frequency was used to broadcast Newstalk ZB. Two stations, Radio Waitomo 1ZW and King Country Radio closed down. Classic Hits was rebranded as The Hits in April 2014. Stations continuing to operate as The Hits include Tokoroa's Radio Forestland, Taupō's Lakeland FM, Gisborne's 2ZG, Masterton's Radio Wairarapa and Wanganui's River City FM. It also included South Island stations Radio Marlborough in Blenheim, Scenicland FM on the West Coast, 3ZE in Ashburton, Radio Caroline in Timaru and Radio Waitaki in Oamaru.
Current networks
[edit]The NZME radio networks are the result of the re-branding of the Community Radio Network and several further years of brand consolidation. In 2004, Cool Blue 96.1FM in Auckland became the first Flava station and Jammin' Oldies in Hawke's Bay became the first Coast station. Original stations of The Breeze in Auckland and Hamilton, 2QQ in Palmerston North and The Planet 97FM in Nelson became ZM. Classic Rock 96FM in Hawke's Bay was replaced with Radio Hauraki. The station once known as Easy Listening i has subsequently been rebranded as Viva FM, Easy Mix, Mix 98.2 and now Gold (on 105.4FM, replaced by iHeart Country).
In 2014, the entire Classic Hits network was rebranded as The Hits. Newstalk ZB and The Hits now reach 25 markets, and ZM and Gold AM reach 19 markets. Radio Hauraki reaches 16, Coast reaches 12, and Flava reaches 8.[52]
References
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External links
[edit]New Zealand Media and Entertainment
View on GrokipediaCompany Background
Formation and Corporate Evolution
New Zealand Media and Entertainment (NZME) traces its corporate origins to Wilson & Horton Limited, which had operated as the publisher of the New Zealand Herald since the late 19th century before undergoing significant ownership changes in the modern era.[12] In December 2001, APN News & Media acquired full ownership of Wilson & Horton from Independent News & Media for A$809 million in cash, integrating it into APN's New Zealand operations alongside radio assets such as The Radio Network.[13] This acquisition consolidated APN's control over key publishing titles including the NZ Herald and regional newspapers, as well as a growing radio portfolio, forming the foundation for a multi-platform media presence in New Zealand.[14] The formal formation of NZME occurred in 2014 through an internal restructuring and merger of APN's New Zealand publishing division—still operating under the Wilson & Horton name—and its radio businesses, including full acquisition of the remaining 50% stake in Clear Channel Independent Radio for complete ownership of stations like Newstalk ZB.[15] This integration, announced as part of APN's strategy to streamline its Australasian assets, rebranded the entity as NZME to reflect its combined publishing, audio, and emerging digital operations, with Wilson & Horton Ltd officially renamed NZME Limited.[16] The move positioned NZME as an integrated media company, emphasizing synergies between print, broadcast, and online platforms amid declining traditional revenue models.[17] Corporate evolution accelerated with APN's demerger of its New Zealand business in 2016, approved by shareholders on June 15 and implemented on June 29, distributing one NZME share for each APN share held.[18] This separation established NZME as an independent, dual-listed company on the NZX and ASX, free from APN's Australian-focused operations, with initial market capitalization reflecting its core assets in newspapers, radio stations, and digital properties.[19] Post-demerger, NZME focused on digital transformation and cost efficiencies, though it faced challenges from industry-wide shifts toward online media consumption.[20]Core Business Model and Revenue Streams
NZME employs an integrated multi-platform media business model that leverages content production in news, sports, and entertainment to drive audience engagement across print publications, radio broadcasting, digital websites, apps, and specialized platforms like OneRoof for real estate. This model prioritizes audience scale—reaching over 3 million unique users monthly in recent years—to attract advertisers while transitioning from print-centric operations to digital-first strategies, including subscriptions and data-driven targeted advertising.[21][22] The company's operations are structured into three primary segments: Publishing, which handles metropolitan and regional newspapers alongside digital news portals such as nzherald.co.nz; Audio, encompassing terrestrial radio stations (e.g., Newstalk ZB, ZM), digital streaming via iHeartRadio, and podcasts; and OneRoof, a digital property listings and insights platform. Revenue generation relies heavily on advertising, which forms the core monetization mechanism, supplemented by circulation fees, digital subscriptions, and ancillary services like events and external printing. In 2024, digital channels accounted for 31% of total revenue, reflecting ongoing diversification amid print declines.[23][24] For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, NZME generated total revenue of NZ$345.92 million, a 1.52% increase year-over-year. The Publishing segment contributed approximately NZ$200.32 million, primarily from advertising in print and digital formats alongside subscription growth; Audio delivered NZ$116.28 million, supported by stable radio ad revenues despite a 6% market contraction and rising digital audio at NZ$10.8 million (up 32%); OneRoof added NZ$27.16 million through property listings and premium features. Digital subscription revenue specifically rose 10% to NZ$22.6 million, driven by premium news access, while podcast revenues increased 67% year-on-year, underscoring the shift toward high-margin digital audio streams. Advertising overall remains dominant, with digital advertising showing resilience (e.g., 26% growth to NZ$56.1 million in 2021 as a benchmark for trends), though total operating revenue faced pressures from community newspaper closures.[25][26][27][28]Ownership and Shareholder Structure
NZME Limited, known as New Zealand Media and Entertainment, is a publicly listed company on the New Zealand Exchange (NZX) Main Board and the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) under the ticker symbol NZM, having listed in June 2016 following its formation from the 2014 merger of APN New Zealand and The Radio Network.[4][29] The ownership structure is dispersed, with no single entity holding a controlling interest, reflecting a typical profile for a mid-cap media stock traded across trans-Tasman exchanges.[30] This dispersion has enabled activist interventions, such as substantial shareholder James Grenon's board nomination and appointment in April 2025 alongside Steven Joyce as chair, amid efforts to address operational challenges.[31][32] Institutional investors collectively hold around 45% of NZME's shares, exerting significant influence through diversified funds and asset managers, while the remainder is split among individual investors, nominees, and other entities.[33] Beneficial ownership data from substantial holder disclosures reveal concentrated stakes among a few key players, updated via regulatory filings to the NZX and ASX. As of September 2025, Canadian investor James Grenon held just under 18% after incremental increases, positioning him as a pivotal voice in governance.[34] The following table summarizes major beneficial shareholders based on mid-2025 disclosures:| Shareholder | Ownership Percentage | Shares Held |
|---|---|---|
| Spheria Asset Management Pty Ltd | 19% | 35,702,300 |
| James Grenon | 18.46% | 34,694,802 |
| Pinnacle Investment Management Group | 9.7% | 18,234,168 |
| Osmium Partners, LLC | ~6.5% | Not specified |
Historical Milestones
Pre-Merger Developments (Pre-2014)
Wilson & Horton Limited, a key predecessor to New Zealand Media and Entertainment (NZME), was established in 1876 through a partnership between the Wilson brothers—publishers of the New Zealand Herald (founded in 1863)—and Alfred George Horton, owner of the Daily Southern Cross.[38] This union produced the New Zealand Herald and Daily Southern Cross, which shortened its name to the New Zealand Herald by 1879 and expanded to include regional titles and the Auckland Weekly News.[39] The firm operated as a family-dominated enterprise, incorporating as a public company in 1925 while the Wilson and Horton families retained majority shares and board control until the late 20th century.[39] By the 1990s, Independent News & Media (INM), an Irish conglomerate, acquired majority ownership, shifting management toward international media strategies amid rising competition from free newspapers and early digital platforms.[40] APN News & Media, an Australian-based group, entered New Zealand's media landscape primarily through radio broadcasting via The Radio Network (TRN), established in the 1930s but expanded under APN's influence from the 1990s onward following deregulation of the sector.[41] TRN operated key commercial stations including Newstalk ZB (launched 1936, acquired by APN interests in the 1990s), Classic Hits, and ZM, achieving a combined audience reach of over 1 million listeners weekly by the early 2000s through acquisitions and frequency expansions post-1980s liberalization.[19] APN also developed digital and specialist publishing arms, including APN Specialist Publications, which by 2014 handled eight magazine titles such as NZ Woman's Weekly and The Listener, generating revenue from advertising and subscriptions amid print circulation declines.[42] A pivotal pre-2014 development occurred on October 31, 2001, when APN acquired Wilson & Horton from INM for A$809 million (approximately NZ$1.02 billion at the time), assuming an additional A$429 million in debt.[43] [44] This transaction integrated major newspaper assets—including the New Zealand Herald (circulation exceeding 200,000 daily in 2001), nine regional dailies, and community titles—into APN's portfolio, creating a diversified NZ operation with publishing revenue of around A$250 million annually post-acquisition.[45] The deal, financed via equity, convertible notes, and debt, positioned APN as New Zealand's largest print media owner but exposed it to challenges like falling ad revenues (down 5-10% yearly by mid-2000s due to classifieds migration online) and regulatory scrutiny over market concentration.[46] By the early 2010s, APN New Zealand faced intensifying pressures from digital disruption, with print ad share dropping from 40% of total media spend in 2000 to under 20% by 2013, prompting investments in online platforms like nzherald.co.nz (launched 1997, reaching 1.5 million unique monthly users by 2013) and acquisitions such as GrabOne, a daily deals site launched in 2010 and integrated into APN's digital strategy by 2011 for e-commerce revenue diversification.[47] Radio remained resilient, with TRN's EBITDA stable at around NZ$30-40 million annually through audience growth in talk and music formats, though overall NZ operations reported combined revenues of NZ$400 million by 2013 amid calls for structural separation from APN's Australian assets to address underperformance.[48] These developments set the stage for internal restructuring, highlighting the need for unified print, radio, and digital operations to combat fragmented competition from global tech platforms.[49]2014 Merger and Early Expansion
In September 2014, New Zealand Media and Entertainment (NZME) was established via the merger of APN New Zealand's publishing operations, The Radio Network's broadcasting assets, and the GrabOne e-commerce platform, all previously under the APN News & Media umbrella.[50][51] This integration consolidated New Zealand's leading newspaper titles, such as the New Zealand Herald, with commercial radio networks including Newstalk ZB and ZM, alongside digital deal-finding services, forming a diversified media entity separate from APN's Australian interests.[50] The combined operations reached approximately 2.9 million New Zealanders weekly across print, audio, and online channels, enabling cross-platform content sharing and unified advertising sales.[50] The merger facilitated operational synergies, including cost savings from shared infrastructure and revenue growth from integrated marketing opportunities, as APN reported progress in these areas by early 2015.[52] It marked a strategic shift toward multi-platform delivery amid declining print circulation, with initial efforts emphasizing digital content aggregation from radio and newspapers to bolster online audience engagement.[50] Cultural integration posed challenges, as the traditionally siloed print and radio divisions adapted to collaborative workflows, but this laid groundwork for a "digital first" newsroom restructure implemented in 2015.[50][53] Early post-merger expansion included enhanced e-commerce integration via GrabOne, which complemented media-driven promotions, and exploratory investments in data analytics for targeted advertising, contributing to APN's overall profit uplift from radio segments in fiscal 2015.[52] By mid-2016, NZME pursued independence through a demerger from APN, listing on the NZX and ASX to fund further digital and content investments, signaling confidence in the merged entity's growth trajectory.[14] These steps positioned NZME to navigate competitive pressures from global digital platforms, though sustained print revenue declines underscored the need for ongoing adaptation.[52]Major Events in the 2010s
In June 2016, NZME completed its demerger from APN News & Media Limited, transitioning to a standalone publicly listed entity on the New Zealand Exchange (NZX) and Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). This separation enabled focused management of its core assets, including newspapers like the New Zealand Herald, radio networks such as Newstalk ZB and Radio Sport, and digital platforms, with shares distributed in-specie to APN shareholders on June 29.[54][55] In May 2016, NZME announced a proposed merger with Fairfax Media's New Zealand operations, which included Stuff.co.nz, Dominion Post, and regional titles, valuing the combined entity at around NZ$1 billion and aiming to consolidate resources amid declining print revenues and rising digital competition. The deal received shareholder approval but faced regulatory scrutiny over potential reductions in media diversity and advertising competition.[56] The New Zealand Commerce Commission declined to authorize the merger on May 3, 2017, determining it would substantially lessen competition in classified advertising and pose risks to independent journalism plurality, given the duo's control of over 80% of daily newspapers. NZME and Fairfax appealed to the High Court, which upheld the block on December 18, 2017, affirming the Commission's analysis that the merger could lead to higher advertising rates and reduced investigative reporting incentives. A further appeal to the Court of Appeal was dismissed on September 25, 2018, solidifying the regulatory barrier.[57][58][59] Concurrently, NZME pursued digital diversification, launching the iHeartRadio app in fiscal year 2016 to expand audio streaming and hosting 25 events including the Live Well Festival and PwC Herald Talks series. In 2018, it introduced OneRoof, a property data platform, and YUDU for job listings, targeting vertical ad revenues amid print circulation declines from 1.2 million daily in 2014 to under 800,000 by 2019. The decade closed with the April 2019 rollout of premium paywalls for NZ Herald digital content, aiming to monetize 1.5 million monthly unique users while sustaining journalism investments.[17][60][61]Adaptations and Challenges in the 2020s
The COVID-19 pandemic severely disrupted NZME's operations in 2020, with advertising revenues across its businesses plummeting by nearly 50% in the initial shock period due to lockdowns and economic contraction.[62] This exacerbated pre-existing pressures from declining print circulation and competition from digital platforms like Google and Meta, which captured significant shares of advertising spend, contributing to structural revenue erosion in the publishing division.[20] By 2024, these challenges culminated in a statutory net loss after tax of $16.0 million, driven by a $24 million non-cash impairment on publishing assets amid weaker advertising demand and broader economic headwinds.[27] [63] Workforce reductions became a recurring response to cost pressures, with NZME announcing multiple rounds of redundancies. In early 2025, the company proposed cutting nearly 40 roles from the New Zealand Herald, BusinessDesk, and Newstalk ZB news operations, primarily affecting reporters, sub-editors, and production staff, as part of a restructure to streamline operations.[64] [65] Earlier cuts in 2020 reflected pandemic-induced market conditions, while 2025 also saw proposals to close 14 community newspapers, eliminating about 30 jobs and reducing local coverage capacity.[66] These measures highlighted ongoing difficulties in sustaining print-centric models amid falling industry revenues, projected to decline at an average annual rate of 0.7% through 2025-26 for newspaper publishing overall.[67] In adaptation, NZME accelerated its digital pivot, forging agreements with Google in June 2022 to fund content management system upgrades, workflow streamlining, and performance enhancements aimed at boosting user engagement and scalability.[68] [69] The company released a revised three-year strategy in November 2023 emphasizing digital transformation across audio, publishing, and property (OneRoof) divisions, including investments in programmatic advertising and data analytics for audio.[22] These efforts yielded tangible growth: digital subscription revenues rose 10% to $22.6 million in 2024, while digital audio revenues surged 32% to $10.8 million, buoyed by podcast expansion.[27] Overall operating revenue increased 2% to $345.9 million in 2024, with digital channels offsetting print declines and enabling resilience, such as through homepage personalization via new automation tools.[27] NZME also pursued diversification, including a strategic review of OneRoof for potential separation to unlock property-focused growth, and maintained dividends at 9.0 cents per share totaling $16.8 million.[27]Publishing Operations
New Zealand Herald and National Titles
The New Zealand Herald is NZME's primary national daily newspaper, founded on 13 November 1863 in Auckland and serving as a cornerstone of the company's publishing portfolio with broad national distribution.[70][71] As the most widely read publication in New Zealand, it covers news, business, sports, and lifestyle topics, maintaining a print edition alongside robust digital platforms.[72] Owned by NZME since the company's formation through mergers in the 2010s, the Herald operates as the flagship title, integrating with NZME's ecosystem of radio and digital assets to reach an estimated 3.5 million New Zealanders across platforms.[70][73] Its editorial operations emphasize independent journalism, though analyses have rated it as holding a right-center bias, particularly in critiquing left-leaning governments, distinguishing it from broader trends in New Zealand media.[74] Circulation figures for the print edition have declined from a peak of over 200,000 copies daily in 2006 to approximately 100,000 by 2021, reflecting industry-wide shifts to digital consumption.[75] However, cross-platform readership remains dominant, with the NZ Herald brand achieving 2.39 million weekly audiences in mid-2025 and monthly digital visits exceeding 2 million.[76][77] Associated national titles under the Herald umbrella include the Herald on Sunday, a weekly publication launched in 2004 that complements the daily with in-depth features and opinion pieces, and the Weekend Herald supplement distributed with Friday editions.[70] These titles collectively reinforce NZME's national presence, though the company has faced challenges like proposed closures of regional papers amid cost pressures, sparing core national operations.[78] In recent years, the Herald has accelerated digital transformations, including app enhancements and video content like Herald Now, which garnered 2.4 million views in July 2025, signaling adaptation to declining print revenues while sustaining audience engagement.[76][75]Regional and Local Newspapers
Regional and local newspapers in New Zealand focus on hyper-local coverage, including district council decisions, community events, sports, and business developments specific to provinces and towns, often serving audiences underserved by national media. These publications historically emerged in the mid-19th century alongside settler expansion, with early examples like the Taranaki Herald (founded 1851) and Wanganui Chronicle (1867) providing essential information in isolated regions where telegraph and rail infrastructure was limited.[79] By the early 20th century, dozens of provincial dailies and weeklies operated independently, fostering regional identities but facing consolidation as chains formed post-World War II due to rising production costs and advertising competition.[79] NZME, New Zealand's largest newspaper publisher, maintains a portfolio of regional dailies such as the Bay of Plenty Times (Tauranga, established 1872), Rotorua Daily Post (1914), Hawke's Bay Today (Hastings/Napier, 1999 merger of predecessors), and The Northern Advocate (Whangārei, 1875), which collectively reach audiences in the North Island's key provincial centers.[80] These titles emphasize investigative reporting on local issues like infrastructure projects and agricultural economies, with digital editions integrated via nzherald.co.nz subdomains to offset print declines. Community weeklies under NZME, such as the Aucklander and Hamilton News, target suburban and rural readers with notices, classifieds, and human-interest stories, though their print runs have diminished amid a shift to online formats.[81] Competing publishers like Stuff operate South Island regionals including The Press (Christchurch, 1861, circulation around 31,000 in recent audits) and Otago Daily Times (Dunedin, 24,904 in 2023), alongside North Island papers like the Manawatū Standard.[82] Independent community titles persist, with over 70 still active nationwide as of 2025, often volunteer-run or family-owned, filling gaps in coverage for small towns.[83] Financial pressures from digital disruption and ad revenue loss have led to widespread closures, exemplified by NZME's November 2024 proposal to shutter 14 North Island community papers—such as long-running titles over 100 years old—affecting about 30 jobs and exacerbating "news deserts" in rural areas where local accountability journalism declines.[84][85] Readership data indicates a paradox: high demand for local news (e.g., 61.7% of adults accessing newspapers weekly via any format in late 2024) but reluctance to pay, driving publishers toward cost-cutting and digital pivots despite print's role in building trust through tangible community ties.[72][86] This trend risks undermining democratic oversight, as empirical studies link local paper vitality to lower corruption and higher voter turnout in comparable markets.[87]Magazines, Supplements, and Collaborative Publications
NZME produces a range of lifestyle-oriented magazines and newspaper supplements that complement its core newspaper titles, focusing on fashion, culture, food, design, and travel to engage readers beyond daily news. These publications often appear as lift-outs or dedicated sections within the New Zealand Herald and regional papers, enhancing subscriber retention through specialized content.[80] Viva, a flagship weekly magazine inserted in Wednesday editions of the New Zealand Herald, covers fashion, beauty, food, culture, and design, positioning itself as a premium lifestyle brand with a celebratory tone. Launched in 1998, Viva marked its 25th anniversary in September 2023, featuring in-depth storytelling on local and international trends. In August 2023, NZME extended Viva's reach by introducing Viva Local Life, a localized version distributed across five regional newspapers to provide region-specific lifestyle content. A digital subscription tier, VIVA Premium, offers enriched access to this content via NZ Herald platforms.[88][89][90] Canvas serves as the Saturday lift-out magazine in the Weekend Herald, blending feature articles, lifestyle advice, recipes from contributors like Annabel Langbein, restaurant reviews, wine recommendations, fashion, and cultural insights to appeal to weekend readers seeking leisure-oriented reading. It emphasizes enriching content on living and entertainment, distributed nationally through NZME's print network.[91] Other supplements include Driven Car Guide, which focuses on automotive reviews and motoring news, and Travel, providing guides and features on domestic and international destinations integrated into NZME's publications for targeted advertising and reader engagement.[80] In collaborative efforts, NZME partnered with Are Media, a New Zealand magazine publisher, in July 2023 to launch a digital subscription product under the established Listener brand, combining NZME's digital infrastructure with Are Media's content expertise to revive the title in a subscription model amid declining print circulation. This initiative reflects NZME's strategy to leverage partnerships for diversified revenue in lifestyle and opinion publishing.[20]Radio Broadcasting
Historical Evolution of Radio Assets
The consolidation of commercial radio in New Zealand accelerated after the Broadcasting Act 1989 enabled private ownership and frequency trading, leading to the formation of The Radio Network (TRN) in 1996 as the country's dominant commercial broadcaster. TRN aggregated a portfolio of established stations, including talk-oriented Newstalk ZB (with roots in independent ZB outlets from the 1930s), rock station Radio Hauraki (launched offshore as a pirate broadcaster in 1966 to challenge state monopoly), and contemporary hits network ZM (debuting in 1976), thereby achieving national reach through syndicated programming and local affiliates. This structure positioned TRN to capture over 40% of the commercial radio market by leveraging economies of scale in content production and advertising sales.[92] TRN operated initially as a 50-50 joint venture between Australian-based APN News & Media and U.S. firm Clear Channel Communications, reflecting international capital's role in post-deregulation expansion. In February 2014, APN announced the acquisition of Clear Channel's stake in TRN (and its Australian counterpart ARN) for NZ$246.5 million, gaining full control and integrating radio operations more tightly with APN's New Zealand print assets like the New Zealand Herald. The deal closed in early 2015, enabling streamlined management and cross-promotion amid rising digital competition.[93] Later that year, NZME emerged from APN's demerger of its New Zealand holdings, incorporating TRN's radio assets into a unified media entity focused on integrated news, entertainment, and audience engagement across platforms. This evolution emphasized digital audio extensions, such as iHeartRadio syndication launched in the mid-2010s, while maintaining terrestrial dominance with networks like The Hits (rebranded from older adult contemporary formats), Coast, Flava, and Gold. Recent expansions include the acquisition of community-focused Radio Wānaka, bolstering rural coverage and localism in response to regulatory pressures for diverse content. By 2022, NZME's radio division held a 41.4% revenue share in the market, with digital audio comprising 6% of income, underscoring adaptation from analog origins to hybrid models.[94][95]Major Commercial Networks
The commercial radio sector in New Zealand is dominated by two primary operators: New Zealand Media and Entertainment (NZME) and MediaWorks, which collectively manage the majority of nationwide network stations and reach millions of listeners weekly through a mix of talk, music, and entertainment formats.[96][97] These networks compete for audience share in a market where advertising revenue funds operations, with NZME emphasizing news-talk integration and MediaWorks focusing on music-driven youth and adult contemporary audiences.[98] NZME's portfolio includes Newstalk ZB, the country's largest commercial talk radio network, broadcasting current affairs, sports, and opinion programming across multiple frequencies from Auckland to regional areas.[96] Complementary music networks under NZME encompass ZM (contemporary hit radio targeting younger listeners), The Hits (pop and recent hits), Coast (easy listening for mature audiences), Radio Hauraki (classic rock and talk), Flava (urban contemporary), Gold (greatest hits and sports via Radio Sport integration), and Hokonui (full-service rural-focused content).[96] These eight networks leverage synergies with NZME's print and digital assets for cross-promotion, maintaining a strong presence in both urban and provincial markets.[99] MediaWorks operates approximately nine key networks, prioritizing music genres to capture diverse demographics.[100] Prominent brands include The Edge (top 40 and youth-oriented hits), More FM (adult contemporary), The Breeze (easy adult mixes), The Rock (active rock), Magic (classic hits), George FM (dance and electronic), and Mai FM (urban and Pacific Island music).[97] Additional platforms like rova provide on-demand audio extensions, enhancing accessibility via app-based streaming.[101] MediaWorks' stations emphasize high-energy DJ-led shows and event tie-ins, with a nationwide footprint bolstered by centralized Auckland production.[100] Both operators face regulatory oversight from the Radio Broadcasters Association, which advocates for commercial interests amid declining traditional listenership trends offset by digital growth.[98] In April 2025, MediaWorks transitioned to full ownership by an Australian firm, potentially influencing future programming investments.[102]Community and Niche Radio Initiatives
Community access radio stations in New Zealand form a network of 12 independent, not-for-profit broadcasters under the Community Access Media Alliance (CAMA), established to provide airtime for underrepresented groups including ethnic communities, special interests, and local voices. These stations, funded primarily through NZ On Air grants and community support, operate on non-commercial frequencies and emphasize volunteer-driven programming in over 25 languages, with examples including Wellington Access Radio (founded 1981, broadcasting 80+ programs on 106.1 FM) and Planet FM in Auckland (launched 1987, focusing on diverse ethnic content).[103][104][105] Access stations like Free FM in Hamilton and Radio Southland (96.4 FM) prioritize local news, discussions, and cultural expression, enabling groups facing media barriers to produce content without commercial pressures.[106][107] Niche initiatives extend to iwi radio networks, which serve Māori communities by promoting te reo Māori and cultural narratives through 21 stations as of 2020, blending indigenous language programming with English for broader reach. These stations, operational for over 30 years, have adapted to digital convergence by expanding into online streaming while maintaining FM broadcasts to preserve oral traditions and community storytelling.[108] Ethnic niche radio complements this, with outlets like Radio Samoa and Apna 990 AM targeting Pacific and South Asian audiences, respectively, often integrated into access frameworks to foster multicultural dialogue amid New Zealand's growing immigrant populations.[109][110] Student radio represents another key niche, with independent campus stations championing alternative music and youth perspectives since the late 1960s. Notable examples include 95bFM in Auckland (broadcasting since 1969 on a semi-commercial educational license) and the Student Radio Network (SRN), which unites stations like Radio One in Dunedin, RDU 98.5 FM in Christchurch (not-for-profit, focused on emerging talent), and Radio Active in Wellington (88.6 FM, operational since 1977).[111][112][113] These outlets, often run by volunteers, have historically pushed boundaries by introducing FM broadcasting and prioritizing independent artists, contributing to New Zealand's music discovery ecosystem without reliance on mainstream commercial models.[114] Specialized community efforts, such as hospital radio (e.g., Hospital FM Timaru) and local outlets like Raglan Community Radio (98.1 FM), further niche programming by delivering patient entertainment, event coverage, and hyper-local news, reinforcing radio's role in isolated or specialized audiences.[109][115] Despite challenges like funding volatility and digital shifts, these initiatives maintain a commitment to pluralism, with collective reach amplified through online podcasts and streams via platforms like accessradio.org.[116]Digital and Technological Initiatives
Online News and Digital Platforms
Stuff.co.nz, operated by Stuff Limited, dominates New Zealand's online news landscape as the country's largest digital news publisher, attracting millions of monthly users through its comprehensive coverage of breaking news, sports, and local stories.[117] Launched in the early 2000s as part of Fairfax Media's digital expansion, it adopted a digital-first strategy over a decade ago, separating print and digital operations to prioritize online growth amid declining print readership.[118] By 2025, Stuff's platforms emphasize multimedia integration, including video and interactive features, though it faces competition from global platforms fragmenting audience attention.[119] The New Zealand Herald's online presence, via nzherald.co.nz, underwent a major redesign in July 2025, introducing a faster, wider homepage layout optimized for desktop and mobile to enhance user experience and content visibility.[120] Complementing this, NZME launched Herald NOW in May 2025 as a dedicated digital live news streaming platform, featuring video content like morning shows hosted by Ryan Bridge, which garnered 2.4 million views in July 2025 and reached 1 million unique monthly viewers across apps, websites, and YouTube—a 41% increase year-over-year.[76] [121] This initiative addresses rising demand for video news, filling a market gap where traditional broadcasters lag in digital delivery.[122] Radio New Zealand (RNZ), as the public broadcaster, maintains robust digital platforms including its website and mobile app released in July 2017, enabling live streaming, on-demand audio, podcasts, and news updates accessible to 80% of New Zealanders monthly as of 2024 research.[123] [124] RNZ's multi-platform approach—51% of users engage across devices—supports its transition from radio-centric to multimedia, with content emphasizing current affairs and documentaries, though a 2025 review led to closing its youth platform TAHI to refocus resources.[125] [126] Other notable platforms include 1News.co.nz from TVNZ, focusing on breaking news and analysis with integrated video, and independent sites like Newsroom.co.nz for in-depth reporting and The Spinoff for politics and culture, which collectively contribute to a fragmented but vibrant digital ecosystem.[127] [128] [129] Digital news penetration stands at 27.63% in 2025, with stabilization in audience reach after post-2021 growth, driven by online video and apps amid broader media revenue projected at US$3.22 billion.[130] [131] These platforms increasingly incorporate paywalls and subscriptions to counter ad revenue pressures, reflecting a shift toward sustainable models in New Zealand's evolving media environment.[132]Integration of Artificial Intelligence
New Zealand media organizations have begun incorporating artificial intelligence primarily for operational efficiencies such as transcription, social media monitoring, and preliminary content drafting, while maintaining restrictions on its use in core journalistic outputs to preserve factual accuracy. Radio New Zealand (RNZ) established AI principles in August 2024, prohibiting generative AI for creating news stories, current affairs, or factual journalism, but permitting it for administrative tasks like audio transcription and harmful content detection on social platforms via tools from Sence.[133][134] In June 2025, RNZ appointed Patrick Crewdson as its first director of AI strategy and implementation to oversee ethical integration and newsroom innovation.[135] Similarly, TVNZ's policy allows AI-generated text or images in content but requires disclosure when significant elements are AI-produced.[136] NZME, publisher of the New Zealand Herald, has deployed AI tools in its newsrooms for generating articles and editorials, as disclosed in footers on article pages, though a 2024 incident involving an AI-assisted editorial lacking editorial rigour prompted internal review.[137] Regional outlets like the Waikato Times are experimenting with AI to enhance productivity amid revenue pressures, reflecting broader industry efforts to adapt to digital disruptions.[138] Journalists' union E tū issued a statement in August 2024 advocating for worker input on generative AI deployment to mitigate risks to journalistic standards.[139] These developments align with New Zealand's national AI strategy launched in July 2025, which emphasizes adoption for productivity gains without foundational AI development.[140] In the entertainment sector, particularly film and television, AI is accelerating post-production tasks like visual effects and editing, reducing timelines from days to minutes and lowering costs, though adoption is tempered by concerns over creative displacement and intellectual property.[141] The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) released AI guiding principles in July 2025, prioritizing human oversight, transparency, and alignment with international standards to support innovation while protecting local talent. Industry stakeholders highlight AI's potential in visual effects but warn of exacerbated labor issues, including the creation of digital performer replicas from existing footage, prompting calls for regulatory protections.[142][143] Despite these tensions, AI integration is projected to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness in New Zealand's screen sector over the next five years.[144]Emerging Formats like Streaming and Podcasts
In New Zealand, subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) services emerged prominently from the mid-2010s, challenging traditional broadcast television by offering on-demand access to both local and international content. Key local platforms include TVNZ+, the free ad-supported streaming service operated by Television New Zealand, which rebranded from TVNZ OnDemand in 2022 to emphasize Kiwi-produced programming alongside licensed titles. Neon, launched by Sky Network Television in February 2015, focuses on premium films and series, including HBO content, and merged with Spark's Lightbox in 2020 to expand its library before price adjustments in subsequent years. International entrants like Netflix, available since 2017, and Disney+ have captured significant demand shares, with Apple TV+ originals accounting for 3.6% of overall show demand in Q2 2024. The pay-TV and streaming video market continues to expand, with forecasts indicating sustained adoption through 2030 driven by broadband penetration and cord-cutting trends.[145] These platforms have accelerated the decline of linear TV viewership, as evidenced by the Television Broadcasting industry's $1.1 billion market size in 2025, incorporating both broadcast and streaming revenues amid fragmentation. Local services prioritize New Zealand content quotas, such as TVNZ+'s investment in original series, to comply with regulatory mandates under the Broadcasting Act, fostering cultural relevance while competing with global giants. However, challenges persist, including high licensing costs for international hits and variable broadband speeds in rural areas, which limit accessibility for approximately 15% of households without reliable high-speed internet.[146] Podcast adoption has surged in parallel, with revenue in the music, radio, and podcasts segment projected at US$386.79 million in 2025, reflecting an annual growth trajectory fueled by smartphone ubiquity and platform algorithms. According to Edison Research's Infinite Dial New Zealand 2025, podcast consumption remains robust, with 55% of the 16+ population engaging monthly and growth unabated among younger demographics, where 71% of 16-34-year-olds report listening. Weekly audio consumption reaches 94% across the population, surpassing video (92%) and social media (73%), underscoring podcasts' role in fragmented media diets.[147][148] Public broadcaster RNZ leads in listenership, with programs like Morning Report and The Detail drawing from a weekly audience of 639,600 for RNZ National and Concert in early 2024, bolstered by investigative formats that peaked in new podcast launches around 2020. Commercial entities, including NZME's network, reach additional audiences via scalable channels, with interview-style shows comprising 41% of local output, mirroring global preferences for accessible, conversational content. Top charts feature both domestic titles like I Catch Killers and international imports such as The Joe Rogan Experience, highlighting podcasts' hybrid appeal in New Zealand's market. Despite this, monetization lags behind streaming video, relying on sponsorships and public funding amid a post-2020 stabilization in new series production.[125][149][150]Leadership and Governance
Executive Team Profiles
Michael Boggs has served as Chief Executive Officer of NZME since March 2016, having previously held the role of Chief Financial Officer within the company.[151] Boggs oversees the organization's growth strategy, emphasizing digital subscriptions, video content expansion, and optimization of traditional media platforms such as print and radio. Prior to NZME, he was CFO at Tower Limited and TelstraClear New Zealand, and was recognized as CFO of the Year in 2014 by the New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants.[151] Renata Hayward was appointed Chief Commercial Officer - Direct in May 2025, succeeding from her prior position as Regional Head of Northern Commercial at NZME.[151] In this role, she directs commercial strategies aimed at increasing market share and achieving revenue targets across direct sales channels. Hayward has a track record in media sales leadership, including building sales teams and driving performance in competitive New Zealand markets.[151] Greg Hornblow has led as Chief of OneRoof, NZME's property platform, since January 2023.[151] With over 30 years of experience in real estate, advertising, and marketing, Hornblow focuses on platform growth, enhancing value for real estate agent partners, and integrating data-driven insights to strengthen NZME's position in property media.[151] Murray Kirkness serves as Chief Content Officer - Publishing and Editor-in-Chief since June 2023, managing a team of approximately 270 editorial staff across digital, radio, and print outlets including the New Zealand Herald.[151] His career spans extensive newsroom leadership in New Zealand and Australia, with prior roles at News Corp Australia and various NZME mastheads.[151] David Mackrell has been Chief Financial Officer since March 2019, responsible for finance, legal affairs, and corporate strategy functions.[151] Mackrell joined from Heartland Bank where he was CFO, following 25 years at Air New Zealand in senior finance positions; he was awarded CFO of the Year in 2024.[151] NZME announced on October 20, 2025, that Jo Hempstead will succeed Mackrell as CFO effective January 27, 2026; Hempstead brings over 20 years of finance leadership from roles at The Warehouse Group, NZX, and media sectors.[152] Katie Macdiarmid assumed the role of Chief Information Officer in September 2024, after serving as General Manager of Digital Products at NZME.[151] With more than 25 years in technology across media, telecommunications, and digital transformation in the UK and New Zealand, she drives IT infrastructure, AI integration, and digital ecosystem enhancements.[151] Greg McCrea was promoted to Chief Commercial Officer - Agency in May 2025, building on his experience as Commercial Director - Agency.[151] He manages revenue from advertising agencies and key strategic accounts, drawing from nine years at News Corp Australia and broader sales expertise in media.[151] Katie Mills has held the position of Chief Marketing Officer since December 2018, overseeing marketing, creative services, and communications.[151] Mills possesses over 20 years in media, including 15 years at MediaWorks, and was a finalist for Marketer of the Year in 2024 by the Marketing Association of New Zealand.[151] Chris Wallace joined as Chief People Officer in April 2024, leading human resources, organizational culture, and employee development initiatives.[151] His background includes senior HR roles at Air New Zealand, Westpac, and other large organizations, with a focus on diversity, employee engagement, and wellness programs.[151] Matt Wilson has been Chief Operations Officer since December 2016, handling print operations, distribution, and subscription fulfillment.[151] With more than 30 years at NZME and its predecessors, Wilson also serves on the boards of Print NZ and the Newspaper Publishers Association.[151] Jason Winstanley leads as Chief Audio Officer since 2021, directing radio broadcasting and digital audio strategies including iHeartRadio and the NZME Podcast Network.[151] With nearly 20 years at NZME, he has driven audience growth for stations like Newstalk ZB and The Hits.[151]Board Composition and Oversight
The NZME board consists of six directors as of October 2025, following changes approved at the annual shareholders' meeting on June 3, 2025.[153] The board emphasizes a mix of media, finance, technology, and governance expertise to oversee the company's operations in publishing, broadcasting, and digital platforms. Five directors are classified as independent, while one holds a non-independent status due to significant shareholding interests.[153] [154]| Director Name | Position | Key Expertise/Background | Join Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steven Joyce | Independent Chair | Former New Zealand Cabinet Minister (Finance, Infrastructure); founded RadioWorks NZ; current advisory roles in business and ventures. | June 3, 2025 |
| Carol Campbell | Independent Director (Audit & Risk Committee Chair) | Chartered Accountant, ex-EY partner; extensive financial and directorship experience across public companies. | Pre-2025 |
| Sussan Turner | Independent Director | 25+ years in media leadership (e.g., CEO of MediaWorks, RadioWorks); current CEO of Aspire2 Group. | Pre-2025 |
| Guy Horrocks | Independent Director | Tech entrepreneur; co-founded app development firms; expertise in data and digital platforms serving media clients like NZ Herald. | Pre-2025 |
| Jim Grenon | Non-Independent Director | 35+ years in executive roles; specializes in corporate turnarounds; founded TOM Capital; serves on multiple public boards. | June 2025 |
| Bowen Pan | Independent Director | Tech innovator; founded Facebook Marketplace; experience at Trade Me and Stripe; focuses on digital marketplaces. | June 2025 |
Key Leadership Transitions (Including 2025 Changes)
In 2025, NZME experienced notable boardroom upheaval driven by activist shareholder Jim Grenon, who acquired a significant stake and pushed for governance reforms amid concerns over performance and editorial direction. On April 14, David Gibson resigned as a director for personal reasons, reducing the board size temporarily and occurring against the backdrop of Grenon's campaign to replace multiple members.[159] [160] The annual shareholders' meeting in June formalized a reshuffle, with incumbent chair Barbara Chapman stepping down to facilitate a compromise. Steven Joyce, former National Party cabinet minister, was appointed as the new chair, while Grenon joined as a director; Sussan Turner was re-elected.[31] [32] This followed Grenon's initial nomination push and Chapman's reported intent to retire post-meeting, averting a proxy battle.[161] Executively, May 2025 saw an expansion of the leadership team from eight to eleven roles, including the elevation of editor-in-chief Murray Kirkness to a formalized Chief Content Officer position on the top table and the resignation of Chief Commercial Officer James Butcher.[162] Renata Hayward was appointed Chief Commercial Officer – Direct in the same month, overseeing direct revenue streams.[151] Earlier, in March, Chief Digital and Publishing Officer Carolyn Luey departed for a role at Contact Energy, reflecting ongoing adjustments to digital strategy.[163] Financial leadership transitioned later in the year, with Chief Financial Officer David Mackrell resigning on July 7 and set to exit by December 31, following over five years in the role.[164] NZME announced Jo Hempstead, previously general manager of finance at The Warehouse Group, as his successor on October 20, effective January 27, 2026, to support ongoing cost-saving and digital initiatives.[152] Chief Executive Officer Michael Boggs, in place since 2016, remained unchanged through these shifts.[151]Financial Performance
Revenue Trends and Digital Growth
NZME's operating revenue exhibited stability in the early 2020s amid structural shifts in the media sector, with annual figures ranging from $340 million to $355 million. In 2021, revenue reached $349.2 million, reflecting a 5% increase from 2020 excluding one-off government subsidies. This rose to $355.4 million in 2022 before contracting to $340.8 million in 2023, influenced by weaker advertising markets, and recovering modestly to $345.9 million in 2024, a 2% gain driven by diversified segments. For the first half of 2025, revenue declined 3% year-over-year to $165.7 million, attributable to community newspaper closures and subdued digital advertising, particularly programmatic channels.[165][166][27][167] Digital revenue streams demonstrated resilience and expansion, offsetting print declines and underscoring a pivot toward online models. Digital subscription revenue grew 10% to $22.6 million in 2024, supported by sustained uptake in premium content access. Digital audio revenue surged 32% to $10.8 million in the same year, with podcast revenue increasing 67%, reflecting heightened listener engagement via platforms like Newstalk ZB and RNZ integrations. OneRoof, NZME's property platform, saw digital revenue rise 51% in 2024, comprising 61% of its total revenue, bolstered by a 32% increase in listings enquiries and top web audience rankings by late 2024.[27][27][63] In the first half of 2025, digital growth persisted selectively: OneRoof digital revenue expanded 22%, outpacing market trends with 16% higher residential listings, while publishing subscriptions increased 5%. Audio division revenue edged up to $57.1 million, with digital components growing 6% and podcast revenue doubling from prior periods. These gains align with broader NZME strategies to prioritize high-margin digital products, though core digital advertising faced headwinds from deprioritized low-yield channels, resulting in a 2% dip overall. Monthly digital platform usage reached 2.5 million unique Kiwis by 2024, indicating scalable audience retention amid industry-wide fragmentation.[168][169][170][27]| Year | Total Operating Revenue (NZ$ million) | Key Digital Growth Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 349.2 | Baseline for post-subsidy growth |
| 2022 | 355.4 | Digital up 16% across pillars[171] |
| 2023 | 340.8 | Print advertising down 6% |
| 2024 | 345.9 | Subscriptions +10%, audio +32%, OneRoof +51%[27] |
| 2025 (H1) | 165.7 (down 3%) | OneRoof +22%, podcasts doubled[168][170] |
Cost Management and Job Restructuring (2020s)
In the early 2020s, New Zealand's media sector faced acute financial pressures from the COVID-19 pandemic, declining advertising revenues, and the shift to digital platforms, prompting widespread cost-cutting measures including voluntary pay reductions and redundancies. NZME, publisher of the New Zealand Herald, implemented a 15% workforce reduction in April 2020 by eliminating over 200 positions, equivalent to 15% of its staff, while also requesting a 12-week 15% pay cut for employees earning above $50,000 annually to preserve liquidity amid halved advertising income.[172][173] MediaWorks, operator of commercial radio stations, similarly sought 15% voluntary pay cuts from all staff in April 2020 before proceeding to 130 redundancies across radio and sales teams by May, reflecting a 20-25% staff cut to address projected revenue shortfalls.[174][175] These initial responses contributed to an estimated 637 media job losses across the industry by late 2020, reshaping operations toward leaner digital-focused models.[176] Subsequent restructurings intensified as structural challenges persisted, with broadcasters prioritizing operational efficiency over legacy programming. TVNZ, the state-owned entity, announced 68 redundancies in March 2024—comprising 9% of its workforce, with over half affecting journalists—to streamline news and current affairs amid falling linear TV viewership.[177] By November 2024, TVNZ proposed disestablishing 50 roles (10% of staff) to achieve $30 million in annual savings, including not filling vacancies and reducing management layers, with final cuts of 48.5 full-time equivalents yielding projected $8.9 million in savings by March 2025.[178][179] Warner Bros. Discovery's closure of Newshub in April 2024 eliminated approximately 350 positions across news operations, exacerbating industry contraction as free-to-air models struggled against streaming competitors.[180] Print and digital publishers continued paring costs into 2025. NZME proposed cutting 38 newsroom roles in January 2025—impacting 14 reporters and production staff—to reorganize operations across the NZ Herald, BusinessDesk, and Newstalk ZB, with 30 positions ultimately eliminated by February through redundancies and attrition.[65][64][181] MediaWorks disestablished multiple roles in October 2024, affecting dozens of employees in radio and support functions, as part of ongoing efforts to reduce overheads following earlier 90 redundancies in January 2023.[182][183] Stuff faced internal pushback against proposed reductions to audio and visual teams in October 2024, signaling persistent fiscal tightening to align costs with digital subscription growth.[184]| Company | Year | Jobs Impacted | Purpose/Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| NZME | 2020 | 200+ | 15% workforce cut; pay reductions for liquidity[172] |
| MediaWorks | 2020 | 130 | Radio/sales restructure amid revenue drop[175] |
| TVNZ | 2024 | 68 | 9% staff reduction, focused on news[177] |
| Warner Bros. Discovery (Newshub) | 2024 | ~350 | Full closure of news operations[180] |
| NZME | 2025 | 38 (30 cut) | Newsroom reorganization[185][181] |
| MediaWorks | 2023-2024 | 90+ dozens | Cost reductions in radio/support[183][182] |