TVNZ axes four news shows

The Herald reports:

TVNZ is axing Sunday, Fair Go and two of its daily news bulletins as part of a massive overhaul of its news and current affairs portfolio.

There are reports the Midday and Tonight weekday bulletins are also being dumped as part of widespread cost-saving measures as the company cuts costs in a challenged economy.

This is sad both for news coverage in NZ, and especially for affected staff.

I’m probably an example of the challenge broadcasters face. I used to watch several news bulletins a day, loved Fair Go and Sunday etc.

Today I don’t even watch the 6 pm news. Not because I will dislike it, or it isn’t good, but because it isn’t necessary. I already know what has happened of interest that day through Twitter feeds, websites etc. Life is too busy to spend an hour in front of the television. I’ll just tune in occasionally for very major stories.

So if former news junkies like me have tuned out, it is no surprise TVNZ is having to make the hard decision to close these shows. It is a pity, but the would has changed. Linear TV has a limited life span.