15 December 2005

MEDIA RELEASE

New Research on Maori in the Media

The Broadcasting Standards Authority this week released the findings of a substantial academic research project on the portrayal of Māori and te ao Māori in broadcasting.

A research team from Te Kawa a Māui, the School of Māori Studies of Victoria University of Wellington, undertook the study focusing on standards of balance, fairness and accuracy.

The research team elected to cover early foreshore and seabed reporting, and looked at coverage of the hui convened around the country between June and September 2003. Coverage by One News, 3 News, Marae, Te Karere and National Radio was examined.

The report addresses important issues about how Māori are portrayed in news reporting, and questions whether applying universal broadcasting standards can fit effectively into a Māori world view.

Key findings in terms of the broadcasting standards are: the programmes examined were considered fair; while balance was not always achieved in individual stories, broadcasters generally attained balance over time; and, the programmes were almost all accurate. Correct pronunciation of te reo continues to be seen as very important.

"We are delighted to have supported the research" said BSA chief executive Jane Wrightson. "Discussing issues around fairness and balance in broadcasting is always complex and this study provides an important new reference."

Copies of the report are on the BSA website www.bsa.govt.nz

ENDS

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