Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour Faces Criticism Over RNZ and TVNZ Remarks

Deputy Prime Minister and ACT Party leader David Seymour criticised publicly funded broadcasters RNZ and TVNZ, suggesting changes to RNZ's board and questioning editorial direction. Media Minister Paul Goldsmith called Seymour's comments unhelpful and said he had spoken with him but did not “pull him into line”. New Zealand First leader Winston Peters described the remarks as “out of order”. Seymour argued that ministers have a right to challenge the performance of taxpayer‑funded media and maintained he had not directed any specific programme.

The dispute emerges as New Zealand grapples with rising cost‑of‑living pressures, housing affordability concerns and youth unemployment ahead of the 2026 general election. Critics warn that repeated attacks on journalists could erode public trust in independent media, while supporters say public broadcasters should be accountable for the use of public funds. The coalition government previously cut RNZ’s funding by nearly NZ$5 million after a prior increase, a move framed as fiscal prudence.