Local content in New Zealand television and radio

Abstract

Television and radio have a pervasive presence in most New Zealanders' lives. On average New Zealanders watch 2 hours 46 minutes of television a day, and listen to three hours of radio. Sources New Zealand on Air(2000). Annual Report 1999/2000, New Zealand on Air. Research International (2001), Radios - National Database. This paper focuses on the content of broadcasting - the term content covering both television and radio programmes, as well as music on radio. What are the policy concerns in broadcast content in a time of technological change? Why should the government be concerned with local broadcast content, what is it trying to achieve and how should it be done? Arguments for state involvement in broadcast content call on a wide range of justifications including economic, cultural and political rationale. After examining the debate, two goals for government intervention in broadcast content are accepted; increasing consumer satisfaction by alleviating market failure; and building New Zealand cultural capital - the shared codes which facilitate the nation's life. In comparing policy options, a balance is sought between broadcasting content that aids progress towards the goals, attracts audiences, and maximises value for the money spent. Recommendations suggest this be achieved through existing state-owned assets.