TV study points up lag in Kiwi content

Local content not benefitting from deregulated TV

By PAUL SMITH

AUCKLAND, New Zealand -- A new report has confirmed what Kiwis have long suspected about their television system: It may be the least regulated in the world, but its local content level is dismal.

Of 10 countries surveyed, New Zealand comes in last. Local content makes up just 24% of total transmission.

However, the real condemnation of Kiwi-Telly's deregulated broadcasting system lies in the comparisons with other countries' legislative approaches. In New Zealand, it's a hands-off approach to everything about TV. The report, commissioned by license fee funder New Zealand On Air, shows that by comparison other countries have comprehensive legislative requirements to promote national identity and culture.