PTV Network New Zealand & TalkNZ (Patrick Te Pou Broadcasting Ltd)

[PaddyTePou]

PTV NETWORK NZ TO LAUNCH PTV KIDS CLUB

@TheBorkBork @SA_TV @LiamP @Damo @greenpea Below is a mock press release.

PTV Network New Zealand is proud to announce the launch of its new dedicated destination for kids.

Known as PTV Kids Club, this new platform offers more content than ever before, promising to be a one-stop shop for all kids’ entertainment needs. Commencing in April 2024, the network is taking a bold step forward by consolidating their children’s offering across linear television and online platforms.

The network has always been committed to providing age-appropriate content for children and this new venture takes that commitment to the next level. PTV Kids Club will feature a carefully curated selection of local and international shows, catering to both school age and preschool age children. With more than 100 titles and over 1,000 hours of programming to choose from, parents can rest assured that their kids will always find something entertaining and educational to watch.

The new PTV Kids Club website (ptvkidsclub.co.nz) and mobile app are designed to make it easy for kids to access their favourite shows. The digital offering will also complement the network’s own streaming service, PTV+, providing even more options for kids to enjoy their favourite shows at their convenience. This move is in line with the changing viewing habits of today’s tech-savvy generation, ensuring that PTV Kids Club stays relevant and accessible to all kids.

The linear channels, PTV Shake and PTV 13, will continue to offer kids’ content during specific timeslots, seven days a week.

PTV Shake, the network’s youth-oriented general entertainment channel, will air kids’ shows from 6am to 10am and 2.30pm to 6pm on weekdays, and 6am to noon on weekends.

(In the event of special television occurrences, such as live sport, the kids’ content schedules may be subject to change without prior notice or shifted to PTV Shake Extra during the same designated timeslots as PTV Shake - please refer to the daily listings for the latest updates.)

Meanwhile, PTV 13, the dual-purpose linear channel with the inclusion of general entertainment after 6pm, will provide commercial-free preschool content from 6am to 6pm as an alternative to PTV Shake’s own kids’ content. This ensures that there is always a suitable option available for kids to watch, whether they are looking for high-energy shows or educational programmes.

The decision to consolidate their children’s content into one platform was motivated by the network’s mission to provide a safe and enjoyable viewing experience for kids. With PTV Kids Club, parents can have peace of mind that their children are accessing appropriate content without any fear of being exposed to unsuitable material.

PTV Network New Zealand is excited about the launch of PTV Kids Club and is committed to delivering high quality New Zealand-made content alongside the best international programming for children. The network is set to become a pioneer in the children’s entertainment space and this new offering further cements their position as a leader in the industry.

The launch of PTV Kids Club is another example of PTV Network New Zealand’s dedication to providing a diverse range of quality content for all age groups. With this new platform, kids now have their own dedicated destination filled with engaging and educational shows.

So, mark your calendars for April 2024 and get ready to join the fun at PTV Kids Club!

[PaddyTePou]

CHANGES TO PTV NEWS AND CURRENT AFFAIRS IN 2024

@SA_TV @greenpea @NuStraya @TV4 Below are the mock details.

PTV Network New Zealand is set to undergo major changes to its News and Current Affairs programming from April 2024.

These changes are aimed at providing viewers with a more comprehensive and diverse news and current affairs line-up, covering both local, national and international stories.

One of the biggest changes to the network’s schedule is the introduction of a new early morning programme called Early Sunrise. This programme will screen from 6am to 7am, and will feature overnight news hot off the satellite, business news and detailed weather information in a serious hour-long format. This will be followed by Sunrise from 7am to 9.30am, which will feature a blend of news, sport, weather, entertainment and current affairs with a particular focus on the stories that make us as New Zealanders tick.

The network’s midday news bulletin, PTV News at Noon, will provide its viewers with the latest national and international news, sport, business and weather, wrapping up the morning’s events. This will be followed by the network’s mid-afternoon news bulletin, PTV News at 4pm, which will provide a recap on the day’s top stories and updates on the latest developments.

One of the most significant changes to the network’s schedule is the reshuffling of regional news programmes in the evening. At 6pm viewers can tune in to Look North for news from Auckland and the upper North Island (Northland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty); Spotlight for news from Wellington and the lower North Island (Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, Taranaki, Whanganui and Manawatu); Mainland Today for news from Christchurch, Canterbury and the upper South Island (Nelson/Tasman, Marlborough and the West Coast); and Points South for news from Dunedin, Otago and Southland. This move showcases PTV Network New Zealand’s commitment to providing comprehensive news coverage from ‘your local newsroom’.

The network’s flagship news programme, PTV National News, will screen at 6.30pm and present comprehensive coverage of the day’s important news from New Zealand and around the world, plus sport and weather. It will be followed by A Current Affair at 7pm, a topical and in-depth look at events and issues from around New Zealand through regional items of national interest, human interest stories and studio interviews.

Viewers can also expect a second edition of PTV National News at 8pm (on PTV Gold), incorporating a fresh update on the major news stories of the day. At 9.30pm a new panel show (title yet to be announced) will screen every Wednesday and provide its viewers with a lively discussion on the issues that affect us as New Zealanders. This will be followed at 10pm by Four Corners, a weekly, half hour presentation of international issues covered by various overseas current affairs programmes.

For those who prefer a more in-depth coverage of news and current affairs, Nightline will screen at 10.30pm (subject to scheduling). This 45 minute programme will delve deeper into the most significant stories of the moment from home and overseas, with investigative journalism, expert analysis and commentary. It will also feature a final wrap of the day’s news, a critical preview of tomorrow’s newspapers and a detailed look at the weather.

The weekends will also see some changes, with a new line-up of programmes starting at 8am every Sunday. This will include Sunday Sunrise, a half hour package of overnight news and sport. This will be followed by Business World at 8.30am, covering the latest business, economic and financial news from New Zealand and around the world. Meet the Press will screen at 9am, featuring interviews with politicians, a review of the week that was and a political panel with seasoned commentators.

The weekend edition of PTV National News will screen at 6pm on both Saturdays and Sundays, providing viewers with an update on the weekend’s news and sport. This will be followed by 60 Minutes, the network’s flagship current affairs programme known for its in-depth investigations into the stories that matter, on Sundays at 7.30pm. To wrap up the weekend, a final edition of PTV National News will screen at 10.30pm (subject to scheduling) and feature a 10-15 minute update on the news, sport and weather.

These changes to PTV Network New Zealand’s news and current affairs line-up demonstrate the network’s commitment to delivering high-quality, comprehensive and diverse content to its viewers from April 2024.

UPDATE

The introduction of two new current affairs programmes, Eyewitness and Forum, by PTV Network New Zealand was initially scheduled for March. However, at the eleventh hour, they were cancelled and the reporters from Eyewitness were reassigned to Nightline. We apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused.

[SA_TV]

@PaddyTePou

UPDATE

The introduction of two new current affairs programmes, Eyewitness and Forum, by PTV Network New Zealand was initially scheduled for March. However, at the eleventh hour, they were cancelled and the reporters from Eyewitness were reassigned to Nightline. We apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused.

lol what? that’s an odd thing to say.

Have to say for the most part these ideas are comprehensive, but not overly original.

[PaddyTePou]

PTV NETWORK NZ TO LAUNCH THE MORNING BREAK

@TV4 @nztv Below are the mock details.

PTV Network New Zealand (as a fictional broadcaster) today announced that it will launch a new, live-to-air magazine show - The Morning Break.

Slated to premiere on Monday 6 May 2024, The Morning Break is set to screen weekdays at 10.30am on PTV (followed by PTV News: Midday Edition). This 90 minute show is the first of its kind for the network, and it promises to be a refreshing addition to its programming line-up. The show will be hosted by seasoned New Zealand broadcaster, Pippa Wetzell, who brings a wealth of experience and charm to the table.

The Morning Break aims to be a well-rounded show, covering a diverse range of topics and segments. Viewers can expect a topical blend of entertainment, current affairs and showbiz glamour as well as the latest in fashion, food and celebrity interviews, plus live music. This mix of content will appeal to a wider audience, making it a must-watch for all.

But that’s not all - The Morning Break also offers an exciting opportunity for advertisers to become involved in the show. Radio personalities Leah Panapa and Robert Scott will introduce advertorial segments throughout the programme, presenting a unique in-show commercial opportunity for businesses to reach their target market.

The show will be produced by Kitty Kat Productions, an in-house unit of PTV Network New Zealand. This production team specialises in producing original factual and lifestyle content for the network’s linear and digital platforms. With their expertise viewers can expect high-quality production values and engaging content from The Morning Break.

The Morning Break will be broadcast live from PTV Network New Zealand’s Stanley Street studios in Auckland. This central location allows for easy access to a wide range of guests, from local personalities to international celebrities. This will surely keep the show fresh and exciting, with new and interesting guests every day.

The launch of The Morning Break is an exciting development for PTV Network New Zealand. Not only does it introduce a new type of show for the network but it also offers a platform for local talent and businesses to showcase their skills and products. The show’s magazine-style format - with its mix of lifestyle, entertainment and advertorial segments - is sure to capture the interest of Kiwis from all walks of life.

PTV Network New Zealand is committed to evolving with the times and providing its audience with diverse and engaging content. The Morning Break is just one example of their efforts in staying ahead of the curve.

So, mark your calendars and tune in to PTV on Monday 6 May to catch the premiere of this exciting new show.

[SA_TV]

@PaddyTePou

Television viewing habits have evolved drastically over the years and networks are constantly looking for ways to keep up with the changing landscape.

I’m not sure an idea that’s been round for 30 years is keeping up with the changing landscape to be honest. I like Pippa Wetzell from what I’ve seen of her.

[PaddyTePou]

PTV NEWS AND CURRENT AFFAIRS 2024

@greenpea @NuStraya @TV4 @Michael_Eccles Below are the mock descriptions for PTV Network New Zealand’s News and Current Affairs programming in 2024, although it is only a fictional broadcaster.

PTV NEWS

Anchored by Daniel Faitaua on weeknights and Tom McRae on weekends, PTV News covers the important news of the day from New Zealand and around the world. Utilising the vast resources of the PTV News newsroom and affiliates such as CNN, AP Reuters, Channel 7, ABC Australia, ABC America, NBC and the BBC through satellite feeds, this nightly half hour bulletin presents a comprehensive overview of the day’s major events nationally and internationally. Andrew Gourdie and Guy Heveldt team up to deliver in-depth sporting news and analysis, while Jess Tyson keeps New Zealanders updated on weather forecasts using state-of-the-art technology.

A CURRENT AFFAIR

Led by anchor Ryan Bridge, A Current Affair is a nightly current affairs programme and features a strong team of journalists, producers and researchers via the PTV News newsroom. Its emphasis is on investigative journalism and thorough coverage of topical events from around New Zealand. Through a mix of regional items of national interest, studio interviews and human interest pieces, the programme strives to provide a comprehensive insight the issues that affect us as everyday New Zealanders.

NIGHTLINE

Presented by Rebecca Wright, Nightline is a late night news and current affairs programme and provides an in-depth examination of the most significant events of the day and the issues that impact us as New Zealanders and the rest of the world. The programme offers current affairs investigations, hard-hitting interviews with the newsmakers, expert analysis, authoritative commentary and a critical preview of the headlines appearing in tomorrow’s newspapers. Janika ter Ellen anchors a nightly news round-up as part of Nightline, wrapping up today’s big news stories in New Zealand and previewing the international news day ahead as the Northern Hemisphere wakes up.

SUNRISE

Wake up to a better breakfast with Melissa Chan-Green and Lloyd Burr on Sunrise, a mix of the latest news, sport, weather, entertainment and current affairs in a 2.5 hour, magazine-style format. By drawing on the extensive resources of the PTV News newsroom and PTV Network New Zealand’s advanced satellite technology, Sunrise provides a comprehensive overview of what has been happening in New Zealand and abroad overnight, along with in-depth interviews, celebrity news and human interest stories. Joining the dynamic duo are newsreader Wilhelmina Shrimpton, sports anchor Jeff McTainsh and roving weather presenter Chris Kirk, making Sunrise the perfect start to your day.

EARLY SUNRISE

Presented by experienced New Zealand journalist and broadcaster, Wilhelmina Shrimpton, Early Sunrise is an early morning news programme that focuses on the important stories that happened overnight and what is likely to make the news in the day ahead. The programme delivers national and international news in an hour-long format and features detailed weather information and a thorough overview of the top headlines appearing in the morning papers. The network’s business editor, Madison Reidy, delivers the very latest in business, economic and financial news and overnight market updates.

PTV NEWS: MIDDAY EDITION

Presented by Amanda Gillies, PTV News: Midday Edition covers significant national and international news and wraps up the morning’s big events. This half hour bulletin has the latest updates on the developing news stories of the day from New Zealand and around the world, plus a comprehensive report on the latest in business and finance, sports news and the afternoon’s national weather forecast.

PTV NEWS: AFTERNOON EDITION

Presented by Amanda Gillies, PTV News: Afternoon Edition delivers an essential update on the important national and international news of the moment. This half hour 4pm bulletin delivers the latest developments on the day’s major stories from New Zealand and abroad, as well as a thorough business report, sports news and a comprehensive national weather forecast.

REGIONAL NEWS - PTV LOOK NORTH (Auckland)

PTV Look North is an Auckland-based regional news programme covering an area from Turangi in the south through to North Cape. Presented by Laura Tupou, this nightly half hour programme consists of the latest news, sport, weather and features from across the upper North Island and utilises the resources of the PTV News newsroom in Auckland with regional reporters and crew stationed in Whangarei, Hamilton, Tauranga, Rotorua and Whakatane.

REGIONAL NEWS - PTV SPOTLIGHT (Wellington)

PTV Spotlight is a Wellington-based regional news programme that reports on the events of significance to New Zealand’s capital city as well as the Kapiti Coast, the Wairarapa, Manawatu, Whanganui, Taranaki, Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne - all comprising the lower part of the North Island. Presented by Isobel Ewing, PTV Spotlight provides viewers in the region with a half hour package of local news, sport, weather and feature stories, drawing on the resources of the PTV News newsroom in Wellington with regional reporters and crew stationed in Gisborne, Hastings, New Plymouth and Palmerston North.

REGIONAL NEWS - PTV MAINLAND TODAY (Christchurch)

PTV Mainland Today is a Christchurch-based regional news programme that caters for the interests and demands of the Mainland, i.e. Canterbury, Nelson, Marlborough and the West Coast which make up the upper South Island. Presented by Emma Cropper, this programme delivers a comprehensive half hour package of local news, sport, weather and feature pieces. It utilises the journalistic expertise of the PTV News newsroom in Christchurch with regional reporters and crew stationed in Nelson and Greymouth.

REGIONAL NEWS - PTV POINTS SOUTH (Dunedin)

PTV Points South is a Dunedin-based regional news programme that focuses solely on Otago and Southland, providing coverage on local issues and local people and giving a regional perspective on national news. Presented by Hannah Wilkins, this half hour programme offers daily news, sport, weather and feature stories from across the lower South Island, just south of the Waitaki River. It draws on the extensive resources of the PTV News newsroom in Dunedin with regional reporters and crew stationed in Queenstown and Invercargill.

NEWSROUND

Fronted by TV journalist Andrew Macfarlane, Newsround is a twice-weekly show covering news and current affairs for 7-12 year olds. Through the efforts of a team of young reporters, the programme offers Kiwi kids an engaging and informative insight into the stories making headlines in New Zealand and overseas.

60 MINUTES

60 Minutes, a weekly current affairs and investigative journalism programme, boasts a team of renowned Kiwi journalists such as Garth Bray, Mark Crysell, Michael Morrah, Paula Penfold and Melanie Reid. Through extensive reporting, the programme delves deeper into the stories that affect, involve and concern us as New Zealanders plus the best of overseas current affairs from the US and Australian 60 Minutes teams.

BUSINESS WORLD

Nicholas Pointon, a seasoned financial journalist, presents Business World, a weekly programme catered for those interested in business affairs. The programme features a comprehensive review of the week’s national and international business news, a report compiled by Australia’s Channel 7 financial reporter Gemma Acton, insightful interviews with New Zealand and the world’s business leaders and feature stories impacting the corporate sector. Business World’s reporter/interviewers include Frances Cook and Courtney Winter.

MEET THE PRESS

Meet the Press is a Sunday morning programme focused on public affairs, live from the political hub of Wellington. Presented by Imogen Wells and the network’s political editor, Craig McCulloch, the show includes extensive interviews with the politicians behind the headlines, a thorough recap of the previous week’s events and a panel of experienced commentators offering their insights on the issues of relevance to New Zealand politics.

ESPINER & COMPANY

Espiner & Company, led by journalist and investigative reporter Guyon Espiner, is a lively and unapologetic weekly talk show that delves into the state of the nation. Rotating panellists include Linda Clark, David Cunliffe, Marc Daalder, Chris Finlayson, Morgan Godfery, Claudette Hauiti, Matthew Hooton, Jo Moir, Josie Pagani, Sam Sachdeva, Trish Sherson, Shane Te Pou, Ben Thomas and Laura Walters - all of whom bring their own bold and sometimes controversial opinions to the table.

FOUR CORNERS

Introduced by renowned investigative journalist and 60 Minutes reporter, Paula Penfold, Four Corners is a weekly presentation of international issues through the lens of overseas current affairs programmes from the BBC and ABC Australia. Each edition of Four Corners gives us as New Zealanders a different perspective on global events so that we can better understand the world and our place in it.

[NuStraya]

I’m impressed at how well you have thought this through, Paddy. Nice of you to take on all the laid off TV3 staff, too

[PaddyTePou]

@NuStraya

I’m impressed at how well you have thought this through, Paddy. Nice of you to take on all the laid off TV3 staff, too

Thanks, @NuStraya. As promised, PTV News and Current Affairs (part of PTV Network New Zealand as a fictional broadcaster) would possess certain similarities to Newshub (in real life), yet with slight distinctions such as the addition of journalists from other sources (e.g. TVNZ, RNZ, NZME, Stuff, Newsroom) and those who are new to TV.

[PaddyTePou]

LOTTO TO MOVE TO PTV

What if Lotto moved to PTV Network New Zealand (as a fictional broadcaster) if it became a reality? This is only a what-if scenario and below is a mock press release. @NuStraya @TV4

For over three decades Lotto has been a familiar sight on New Zealand’s television screens. The iconic lottery game, with its hope of winning big, has captured the hearts of many Kiwis since its first draw in 1987 but change is now on the horizon for Lotto as it prepares to shift to a new network and undergo a major makeover.

In an exciting announcement, PTV Network New Zealand has announced that starting from Saturday 4 May 2024, Lotto will be broadcast live on its main channel, PTV. This marks the end of its 37 year association with TVNZ and the beginning of a new chapter for the game. The move comes as a result of a deal struck between Lotto NZ and PTV, which will see the live draws transferred to the new network.

One of the most significant changes for viewers will be the fixed timeslot of 8.30pm every Wednesday and Saturday, replacing the previous approximate times of 8.20pm on Wednesdays and 8pm on Saturdays. In the instance of special television events, such as live sport, the Lotto draws will be shown on PTV Shake in the same timeslots as PTV.

Not only that, but the format of the show will also undergo a transformation. The live draws will now last for five minutes, rather than the previous 2.5 minutes, and will be broadcast from the network’s Stanley Street studios in Auckland.

But the changes don’t stop there. The overall look and feel of the programme will also be revamped to make it more appealing to viewers. The opening titles will be refreshed, the studio set will be redesigned and there will be a formal dress code for the presenters. Viewers can also look forward to an all-new version of the game’s iconic 1989 theme song, “Happy Days Are Here Again”, performed by a cast of dancers from the Auckland Music Theatre dressed in 1930s style costumes.

Lotto’s current presenters, Sonia Gray and Jordan Vandermade, will continue to alternate their hosting duties. However, to keep things fresh and exciting, a range of former Lotto winners and well-known New Zealand celebrities will join them as guest presenters in future editions of the programme. This decision was made to provide a greater variety and diversity in the show as well as showcase the lucky Kiwis who have won big with Lotto in the past.

The decision to switch the live draws to PTV and revamp the format was made with the aim of offering viewers a more consistent and engaging experience. As the newest addition to the network’s diverse range of programming, the move to PTV will give Lotto a larger platform and a more polished look. It is expected that the revamped format and new presentation will attract a wider range of viewers to the game.

Lotto NZ’s CEO, Chris Lyman, expressed his excitement for the change, stating, “Lotto has been a staple of New Zealand’s television landscape for over three decades and we wanted to continue that legacy by bringing a fresh and modern approach to the programme. The move to PTV will not only enhance the viewer experience but also provide a stronger platform for us to showcase the great work that Lotto does for communities across the country.”

Lotto has made a major decision to return to its origins by offering a 1st Division prize of $1 million every Wednesday and Saturday. In a new twist, the game will incorporate a ‘1st Division rollover’ system, in which an additional $1 million will be added if 1st Division is not won and rolls over to the next draw. However, this system will be limited to a maximum of four draws, after which a Must Be Won draw will be held. This means that the 1st Division prize will automatically roll down to the next highest winning division if it is not won.

Furthermore, Lotto will revive its popular Superdraw events, giving players the chance to win an even bigger 1st Division prize of $2 million or more. These Superdraws will take place at various points throughout the year, including Easter, Mother’s Day, King’s Birthday Weekend, Father’s Day, Labour Weekend and Christmas.

As for the add-on game Strike, which involves matching the first four Lotto numbers in the correct order, it will remain unchanged. However, the Strike 4 jackpot will now start at $100,000 and continue to grow with each draw until it is won, or until it reaches $1 million. Should it not be won by then, a Must Be Won draw will be held as Strike cannot roll over for more than nine consecutive draws. These changes by Lotto aim to provide even more exciting opportunities for players to win big prizes.

These significant changes to Lotto mean that Powerball, which has been a part of the game for over two decades, will come to an end with a Must Be Won draw (details of which are yet to be confirmed).

Players will continue to buy their Lotto and/or Strike tickets from any Lotto NZ store or online through mylotto.co.nz and the Lotto NZ app.

The response to this announcement has been overwhelmingly positive from the public, with many expressing excitement for the changes to come. The live draws on PTV will also be an opportunity to reach new and bigger audiences, providing more exposure for Lotto and its charitable contributions to local communities.

This change may be a surprise to some, but ultimately, it is an exciting development for both Lotto NZ and PTV. With a fresh new format, a new timeslot and the addition of guest presenters, Lotto fans can look forward to an enhanced viewing experience starting from May 2024.

Happy days are indeed here again for Lotto players up and down the country!

[SA_TV]

Am I dreaming or didn’t you put this on the other day?

[PaddyTePou]

@SA_TV

Didn’t you put this on the other day?

No. In NZ Lotto is generally played every Wednesday and Saturday.

[SA_TV]

@PaddyTePou

No. In NZ Lotto is generally played every Wednesday and Saturday.

No I mean you made this post about Lotto a few days ago, but now it’s showing being posted last night… is it a repost or did it change?

[PaddyTePou]

Just a repost. By accident I deleted the original post and as with many other posts, I try to get as many reactions as possible.

[SA_TV]

@PaddyTePou

as with many other posts, I try to get as many reactions as possible.

yes I have noticed it’ll often say a new-post but then it’s just the same thing re-posted.

[PaddyTePou]

FOUR CORNERS

Below is a mock press release.

PTV Network New Zealand has announced exciting news for news junkies.

Starting from Saturday 11 May 2024, the network will introduce a new programme - Four Corners - that will showcase the best in current affairs from the world’s leading news organisations. This move is set to elevate PTV’s current affairs programming to a whole new level and provide viewers with in-depth coverage of global issues.

Four Corners will screen on PTV Gold at 7.30pm every Saturday, with a repeat on PTV at approximately 11.15pm every Monday (straight after Nightline). The show will be introduced by renowned New Zealand journalist, Paula Penfold.

Paula, who has an impressive career in investigative journalism, will bring her wealth of experience and expertise to Four Corners as its host. She will continue to contribute to the network’s flagship current affairs programme, 60 Minutes, as a reporter.

Each hour-long edition of Four Corners will feature stories covered by some of the world’s most reputable and prestigious news outlets, including the BBC (Newsnight, Panorama), Australia’s ABC (7.30, Australian Story, Foreign Correspondent, Four Corners) and Canada’s CBC (The Fifth Estate). This partnership with international news organisations will provide PTV Gold viewers with a diverse range of perspectives on global events and issues.

According to producer Dianna Vezich, Four Corners aims to keep its viewers up-to-date and informed with international current affairs. She states, “We want to ensure that our viewers have access to top-notch news content and are aware of what’s happening beyond our borders. Four Corners will bring world-class stories to New Zealanders, delivering thought-provoking and informative content every week.”

The addition of Four Corners to the network’s diversity of programming will not only provide viewers with a broader perspective on current affairs but also showcase the network’s commitment to quality and diverse content. This new show will serve as a platform for the network to connect with its audience and keep them engaged and informed on the latest goings-on from overseas.

The introduction of Four Corners also reflects PTV Network New Zealand’s dedication to remaining competitive in the ever-changing media landscape. With the rise of digital media, consumers have access to news content from across the globe, making it essential for traditional media to keep up with the evolving demands of viewers.

Four Corners is a significant step in this direction for the network as it brings together the best of both worlds - traditional and international news content - for its viewers.

With Paula Penfold at the helm and partnerships with leading news organisations, Four Corners is set to become a must-watch for all those who seek in-depth coverage of global events and issues.

Catch Four Corners on PTV Gold, Saturdays at 7.30pm from 11 May 2024.

[PaddyTePou]

@TV4 @nztv @Michael_Eccles

“Tonight on 60 Nek Minnits…”

APRIL FOOLS!!!

Original image courtesy of CBS Broadcasting Inc. No copyright infringement intended.

[nztv]

Tbh, I would watch that Paddy. Lol

[PaddyTePou]

In real life, it was decided by Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) recently that, by early July, all Newshub operations will be shut down and 250 people will lose their jobs. The closure of Newshub made me utterly shocked, disappointed, disgusted and upset.

Once again, I extend my deepest sympathies to the Newshub staff, particularly journalists and camera crews, for whom I offer support and solidarity.

Back two years ago, I was on the award winning current affairs programme, The Hui, and talked about my love of television. This included putting my knowledge to good use and bringing my dream television network, PTV Network New Zealand, to life. That item, originally published on the Newshub website, was reported by Ruwani Perera and directed by Sarah Hall.

The Hui - My Story (2022)

Patrick Te Pou knows a lot about TV, which is surprising since he doesn’t actually watch a lot of it.

For the 32-year-old, who is an autistic savant, what’s on the box is a full-time obsession.

Autistic savants exhibit exceptional skill or brilliance in a particular area. It’s a rare and special talent that affects one in a million people and Patrick’s specialty is TV.

Anyone who spent some time in Patrick’s company can witness his uncanny, encyclopaedic knowledge of television trivia. He knows facts about television shows that screened before he was born and his favourite show is the British soap opera Coronation Street.

Patrick’s mum May Te Pou can’t work out where her son’s talent came from. The two share a unique bond, a closeness forged in the struggles of a single parent raising a child with undiagnosed, complex needs.

“There were some dark times. Patrick didn’t sleep normally. Just one hour a night - that was enough for him,” she tells The Hui.

“So I had to end up locking ourselves in the house when I went to sleep. I would tie a rope around my foot to his foot so I could feel him moving or he would get out.

“I was really, really tired and I wanted to find him dead. That sounds wrong for a mother but that’s how tired I felt.”

May knew something wasn’t right, but she was in the dark.

“You’ve got to remember, this is back in the day where autism wasn’t talked about, it wasn’t spoken about. I was called a bad mother and I was told I should put him into a mental home because there’s something not right with him,” May says.

“It was hard, but we continued because I kept on seeing little sparks in my son’s eyes.”

Finally, at age three, a child psychiatrist diagnosed Patrick with autism, which was a life-changing moment for a mum desperate for answers.

“It gave me something to go research and look at. That doctor was the only one who actually listened to me and told me it’s not my fault, and that’s the first time I ever heard from anyone,” May says.

Patrick has lived all his life in Kawerau in the Bay of Plenty. He makes the most of the limited independence and goes for walks and swims following his type two diabetes diagnosis.

Autistic savants can be overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety and struggle with communication and social interactions - but Patrick never tires of talking about TV.

Superior memory recall is an autistic savants’ superpower, with Patrick committing decades of television listings to memory.

He has plans to put his TV knowledge to good use and has created his dream television network, PTV Network New Zealand.

“If PTV network becomes a reality I hope to bring back some of the most iconic New Zealand-made programmes like Sale of the Century, Wheel of Fortune,” says Patrick.

Patrick’s devotion to TV is only rivalled by the aroha of his whānau - he’s surrounded by a loving family who is proud of all he’s achieved.

May’s advice to parents of autistic children is to not be afraid to get the support they need.

“It’s going to be long and hard but keep on going, the rewards are endless,” says May.

Since filming ended, the logo for my dream network was changed to incorporate a stylish font and a Southern Star constellation, similar to that of BNZ, which represents New Zealand as a nation. I also have plans to branch out into commercial radio as a complement to my television business.

I’d like to dedicate this post to @OnAir, @TV4, @nztv, @Horomono, @NuStraya, @LiamP & @Damo.

Illustration courtesy of Jayde Murray.

[foxyrover]

Make sure you download that video Paddy just in case it gets deleted with the shutdown.

[PaddyTePou]

@foxyrover My video, in which I uploaded two years ago, can be viewed on my YouTube channel but not the Newshub website.