Political leaders, media executives and industry stakeholders gathered in Auckland this evening for the News Publishers’ Association Election Debate on the Future of Media to discuss how New Zealand can maintain a strong, sustainable and trusted news media sector in the years ahead.

The discussion explored some of the most significant issues facing the industry, including the impact of global digital platforms, the emergence of artificial intelligence, media regulation, competition policy and the future funding of public interest journalism.

While news publishers continue to invest in journalism, technology and innovation to meet changing audience needs, the debate highlighted growing concerns about the sustainability of professional journalism in an increasingly digital media environment, including the relationship between news publishers, global technology companies and emerging AI services.

Brook Cameron, General Manager of the News Publishers’ Association, said the debate reinforced the need for policy settings that support a sustainable future for journalism.

“New Zealand’s news publishers are embracing digital innovation and exploring the opportunities new technologies, including artificial intelligence, can provide for audiences and newsrooms.”

“However, the debate highlighted growing concerns about global technology companies and AI services using professionally produced news content without publishers’ permission or fair compensation, despite relying on that journalism to attract audiences, train products and generate revenue.”

“Strong, independent journalism is essential to an informed public and a healthy democracy. The policy choices made over the next parliamentary term will help shape its future.”

The event brought together journalists, editors, media executives and invited guests from across New Zealand’s news publishing sector, reflecting the industry’s commitment to collaboration on issues of shared importance and to ensuring professional journalism continues to serve the public interest and support a healthy democracy.

For further information please contact:

Brook Cameron
General Manager, News Publishers’ Association
Email: brook.cameron@npa.co.nz