NZ's Next Top Model not scrapped, says TV3

Series winner Christobelle Grierson-Ryrie was NZ's first and now seemingly last 'next top model.' Photo / Supplied

TV3 has denied ruling out a second series of the high-rating reality programme New Zealand's Next Top Model.

An earlier report by Herald media writer John Drinnan said the broadcaster had scrapped making another series of the model talent show because money is tight in the advertising slump.

But in a story posted on its website, TV3 says while it is not planning to produce a second series in the short term, there is a "distinct possibility" a second series will air in the second half of 2010.

TV3 MediaWorks programming director Kelly Martin said the show had been a success.

"It's done well for us. But we won't be able to afford it in the short term," she said.

NZ's Next Top Model, the first New Zealand adaptation on the successful American format, drew in an average of 262,000 viewers an episode, according to AGB Nielsen figures.

The first series was won by Christobelle Grierson-Ryrie.

- NZ HERALD ONLINE