Established in 2004, Maori Television has had a major impact on New Zealand broadcasting. But over the past year or so, the politics of Maori Television have been brought to the foreground of public consciousness, with other media outlets tracking Maori Television's search for a new CEO, allegations of editorial intervention and arguements over news reporting approaches to Te Khanga Reo National Trust. Based on three years of interviews with key stakeholders-staff, the Board, other media, politicians, funders and viewers- this is a deep account of Maori Television in its first ten years. Jo smith argues that today;s arguements must be understood within a broader context shaped by non-Maori interests. Offering five frameworks to address the challenges of a Maori organisation working within a wider non-Maori context, this is a solidly researched examination of Maori Television's unique contribution to the media cultures of Aotearoa New Zealand.
The first sustained and focused discussion of Maori Television practices, the role of television in language revitalization, innovations in Maori programming and how audiences are engaging with indigenous television.
Maori Television is one of the boldest state broadcasting ventures in recent years and its success is worthy of study by indigenous communities and state broadcasters internationally.