TVNZ employs watchdog to focus on Maori issues

By REBECCA BARRY

TVNZ has employed a Maori manager to ensure it fulfils its charter obligations.

Hone Edwards, a member of the Maori Television Service (MTS), will be called the network's kaihautu (a person who makes sure a waka is being paddled in the right direction).

He will report directly to CEO Ian Fraser, advising those at programming and executive level on Maori issues related to the charter, which requires TVNZ to promote Maori language and culture and serve the interests and informational needs of Maori.

Mr Edwards will step down from his position as head commissioner of programming at the MTS to take up the new management-level position on September 22.

The announcement of his appointment drew fire from Act MP Deborah Coddington, who described it as politically correct nonsense.

She said the new position was "bloody ridiculous".

"If I was Maori I would be absolutely insulted because it is treating Maori as something different and they are no different from any other intelligent New Zealander."

Mr Fraser said Mr Edwards would be responsible for "significantly increasing" content not only for Maori audiences but across all areas.

Mr Edwards said he would like to see more Maori drama and for Maori news and current affairs to get more prominence.

He has nearly 20 years in TV, including working at TVNZ as a reporter, helping to set up the Maori news programme Te Karere, and working as a director and producer.



Professor Ranginui Walker, former head of Maori studies at Auckland University, said that Pakeha remained ignorant about the Maori world and their interests took precedence over Maori interests in television. "Hone will hopefully change that."