Luxon’s Government actively neglects Māori news broadcasting – Greens

The shutdown of the National Māori Radio news service isn’t just another budget cut — it’s the silencing of a voice that has carried te reo Māori, community stories, and kaupapa Māori journalism for decades. As iwi radio loses a central news service, questions are growing about what the Government is willing to protect — and what it’s prepared to let disappear.

The Green Party has condemned the funding cut which has lead to the loss of the National Māori Radio news service. The news service will air for the last time tonight.

“After years of harsh cuts to Māori broadcasting under Luxon’s Government, the Green Party is calling on Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka to stand up for Māori news broadcasting,” says Green Party Co-leader, Marama Davidson.

“Over the past four decades, iwi radio has played a fundamental role in broadcasting critical news, diverse voices, and community stories to whānau across the motu.

This was never just a news service

“The National Māori Radio service has always been about so much more than just news. It has included the daily presence of te reo Māori and Māori news, positively affirming identity and how Māori see themselves.

“These cuts breach the Crown’s treaty obligations to actively protect te reo Māori and Māori news broadcasts.

“Māori are renowned storytellers. Iwi radio has allowed Māori stories to be told by Māori, for Māori and all communities, throughout four decades of uninterrupted programming.

So where was the Minister while this happened?

“Where has Minister Potaka been while this was happening? A process that has been incredibly arduous and destabilising for our whānau in iwi radio, and the Māori broadcasting sector as a whole?

“The Green Party will ensure enduring funding for Māori news services which tell our enduring Māori stories. We support iwi radio to ensure their voices continue to be heard and celebrated.

“This silence will be loud. We will continue to stand with Māori storytellers, and stand for Māori stories,” says Marama.