Pacific services

RNZ CEO, Paul Thompson, has confirmed that there will be no reduction in Radio New Zealand’s commitment to its Pacific broadcast partners. His reassurance comes as Radio Australia closes its international shortwave transmission service to Papua New Guinea and the Pacific.

Thompson has emphasised the importance of RNZI’s 25 year relationship with New Zealand’s Pacific neighbours.

This comes after the Australian Broadcasting Corporation announced that it would cease its shortwave broadcasts at the end of next month.

The decision has been criticised by various groups in the Pacific.

Ms Bishop told SBS that she was aware of the concerns in the region and that they have been shared with the ABC.

The ABC said before the changes were announced, her office was fully briefed, and the foreign ministry supported the decision and the strategy behind it.