Budget puts RNZ under pressure - chairwoman

Radio New Zealand will struggle to maintain current services with the flat level of funding provided by the Government in the budget last week.

The state broadcaster's funding will remain stable at around $35 million for the next four years.

An independent review recently found RNZ was "underfunded in terms of its ability to sustain current services" and limited in its ability for future investment in infrastructure assets.

It found RNZ was "providing excellent value for money with no room for further economies".

Chairwoman Christine Grice said the delay of funding increase would put pressure on operations and services.

"Despite those pressures, we are confident that RNZ can continue to meet the highest international standards for public service broadcasting."

Its role was even more vital in the current economic climate when other broadcasters were dealing with financial constraints, she said.

- NZPA