Waatea 5th Estate – BSA vs Maori Lore

1. What a fantastic panel. Some really good discussion of issues around the reporting of Māori stories in both pākeha and kaupapa Māori media channels, and the role of the BSA in ensuring reporting is fair and balanced. I have to say I was particularly impressed by Deborah Coddington’s comments. She’s clearly come a long way in the evolution of her political and cultural understanding since her time with the Libertarianz and ACT.

   With all due respect to Willie Jackson, the only thing that really let this show down (aside from the technical difficulties) was his hosting. I’m sure it’s not easy to cover a complex topic like the state of journalism in 30mins, but I have a few suggestions for Willie that may help. Please refrain from the loaded questions; “is it this, or is it that?”, when the guest may think it’s something entirely different. Please ask open-ended questions that let your guests speak for themselves. Hard questions are good, but please avoid throwing provocative comments at your guests, and expecting them to respond as you’ve asked a question. Most importantly, please let your guests finish their own sentences instead of interrupting them and putting words in their mouths.

   All that said, I’ve been really enjoying the return of a public broadcasting style current affairs show, and will continue to watch the evolution of Waatea 5th Estate with interest.

2. Also, Willie introduced Deborah Coddington in the same sort of sexist way that Paul Henry introduced Metiria Turei on International Women’s Day. I note that none of the male guests were complimented on their attractiveness as they were introduced 🙁

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