TVNZ Chief Executive Ian Fraser today welcomed the Minister of Broadcasting's announcement that TVNZ will receive $12 million of Charter funding in the next financial year.

The Charter, which is due to come into effect on 1 July, provides TVNZ with a mandate to focus on public broadcasting objectives while maintaining commercial performance.

"The funding announced today will greatly assist TVNZ to not only continue with the Charter initiatives already on screen, but more importantly, will allow us to proceed with some exciting programme ideas still in development.

"It will enable us to maintain our increased investment in documentary programmes, as well as other initiatives. In particular, the funding will assist TVNZ to meet its substantial commitment to the History of New Zealand series, which subject to final New Zealand On Air approval, can now go into full production.

"Today's announcement will also encourage us to look more closely at our commitment to children's programming. This is an area in which, partnering with New Zealand On Air, I believe TVNZ should raise the bar.

"The funding will also assist our News and Current Affairs team to strengthen the quality and range of its content.

"The next year presents TVNZ with exciting challenges and opportunities as we work towards giving effect to our new Charter. Today's funding announcement will go a long way towards making the implementation of the Charter a success," said Mr Fraser.

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