Mediawatch RNZ’s bid to stop the National slide, minding your Ps & Cs
Aug 30, 2025
Paul Thompson, Chief Executive and Editor-in-Chief of RNZ, dives into the network's strategies to win back listeners following a critical review. He reveals how RNZ is tackling audience engagement and adapting to digital trends, especially in response to declining radio listenership. Thompson discusses the importance of nurturing meaningful journalism while balancing community interests and growing a diverse audience. He also addresses recent media controversies, emphasizing the challenges of maintaining editorial standards amid shifting public perceptions.
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Chit-Chat Tension Between Tone And Duty
- Some listeners object to hosts' increased chit-chat, seeing it as trivial or wasting airtime.
- Paul Thompson defends a warmer, human on-air tone as important to radio's intimacy and relevance.
Reflect Auckland By Hiring Local Voices
- Grow Auckland editorial presence by hiring and placing editors and presenters who are Aucklanders.
- Keep national coverage balanced by sustaining strong teams in Wellington and Christchurch.
Clear Audience Targets And Continuity
- RNZ set a public target: 500,000 weekly RNZ National listeners by November next year, with a later 520,000 aim.
- Paul Thompson expects continuity of core programs but more relevance and stronger on-air talent.