PremiumUpdatedBudget 2026: RNZ and NZ on Air funding cut, boost for domestic screen production rebate and Māori broadcasting – Media InsiderShayne CurrieNZME Editor-at-Large·NZ Herald·28 May, 2026 04:15 AM6 mins to read‌RNZ chief executive Paul Thompson (left inset) and chair Jim Mather.RNZ chief executive Paul Thompson (left inset) and chair Jim Mather.Media money: the Budget has delivered more funding for New Zealand’s domestic screen rebate and Māori broadcasting, but less for RNZ, NZ on Air, and the Film Commission.

Public broadcaster RNZ has had its budget shaved once again – a $1.4 million baseline cut on top of a $4.6m annual