“Whakatupuranga Ruamano (a self-funded programme) was a great example of iwi organically getting up and saying: ‘Actually, we’re gonna take a stand. We’re gonna start acting and we are going to do this off our own resources.” That’s what I call rangatiratanga.”
‘Legitimate platform’
He also noted that there was more than one broadcaster in Aotearoa.
“People have said there’s only one broadcaster left in Aotearoa once Newshub goes, and I’ve reminded them that is definitely not the case. I think that the mahi that Whakaata Māori and others are doing is a very valid and legitimate platform for news and it gives a more indigenous flavour, or taste, or perspective on how the news is playing out. So, for me there is not one broadcaster left in New Zealand once Newshub goes. Actually, there’s multiple and some of them are very indigenous.”
Potaka said the future was digital, which needed new ways of thinking to deliver quality content. He was hopeful that, in his role as the Minister of Māori Development, he could persuade, engage, and influence his colleagues on understanding the value te reo Māori for the government, community and national identity.
“Te reo Māori me ōna tikanga is a fundamental part of this country’s DNA, past, present, and future.”
CORRECTION: An earlier story saying the minister expected Māori media to fully fund themselves without government support was incorrect.
