Emotional Smalley signs off

Rachel Smalley. Photo / Robert Trathen

Firstline presenter Rachel Smalley signed off for the final time this morning as she prepares to jump to a rival radio network.

The presenter was emotional as she closed the morning news program.

Reporters paid tribute to her throughout the show.

I'll miss our chats on @FirstlineNZ @Rachel_Smalley - all the best with the new gig xx

@Rachel_Smalley Lovely last show. You will be missed in the mornings xx

Certainly going to miss you @Rachel_Smalley in the mornings on @FirstlineNZ One of the best interviewers in the game & lovely to boot

Smalley is set to host a new breakfast programme on Newstalk ZB called Early Edition, which will air between 5am and 6am. Her show will lead into the 6am-8.30am breakfast programme hosted by Mike Hosking.

Regular Firstline back-up presenter Simon Shepherd will host the show for the week starting Monday.

He will share presenting duties until Smalley's replacement is announced.

TV3 Director of News and Current Affairs Mark Jennings said Smalley had made a vital contribution to 3 News.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to acknowledge Rachel's work...

"Rachel was our first European correspondent, and her hard work and dedication played a key part in making Firstline."

- nzherald.co.nz