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RFP for research on Māori programming

MAINSTREAM MĀORI TELEVISION PROGRAMMES RESEARCH REPORT
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

KAUPAPA

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NZ On Air wants to commission a report that examines the state of Māori mainstream television today: how it has arrived to this point; how it serves its audiences; and how it may best develop, now and in the future.

We define mainstream Māori television as programming that features Māori and Māori perspectives intended for a general audience including Māori. This programming is primarily in the English language.

NZ On Air's Statement Of Intent maintains a commitment to "continue promoting the inclusion of Māori perspectives in mainstream programmes." This includes a goal that Māori language and culture are visible in mainstream television. NZ On Air's policy is set out in its Rautaki Māori.

Since the very first night of television in New Zealand in 1960, there has been a Māori presence on the small screen. In the beginning it was circumscribed by the attitudes of the times but over the decades, a unique Māori television voice has emerged and is now well established.

It is now 20 years since NZ On Air's inception and it is timely to consider the context of the many advances that have been made in Māori television generally. After just one generation we are able to celebrate what is in effect, a rich whakapapa of Māori television storytelling.

In addition, it is worth considering how NZ On Air can best complement the work of bodies like Te Māngai Paho and the Māori Television Service, both charged (among other things) with the prime responsibility for promoting Māori language on the airwaves.

Read full RFP and terms of reference (PDF 91 KB)