Melissa Stokes has been revealed as the new 1News at Six presenter, with Simon Dallow confirming plans to step down at the end of the month.
Dallow has spent nearly two decades as TVNZ’s news anchor, presenting significant events including the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes, the city’s mosque attacks, the Covid pandemic and Cyclone Gabrielle.
TVNZ Chief Executive Jodi O’Donnell said Dallow had been an “exceptional journalist and presenter”, known for bringing professionalism, integrity and dedication to the role.
'End of an era' - looking back Simon Dallow's career as Melissa Stokes takes over - watch on TVNZ+
“He’s part of why 1News at Six continues to reach 1 million New Zealanders on broadcast TV as well as being TVNZ+’s most streamed show,” she said today.
“His departure marks the end of an era for 1News at Six, and we are deeply grateful for his years of service."
Dallow, who previously worked as a barrister, first joined TVNZ in 1993. He appeared on Newsnight, other 1News bulletins and hosted Agenda and Q+A before presenting the 6pm bulletin, initially with co-host Wendy Petrie.
O’Donnell said Dallow’s calm stewardship has gained the trust of New Zealand audiences. His commitment to delivering the stories of the day with accuracy and impartiality had earned him the respect and appreciation of viewers and colleagues alike.
Dallow, 61, will step down on November 28.
Melissa Stokes
Stokes will move from her weekend presenting role to anchor the bulletin on weekdays.
Her TVNZ career spans more than two decades, including a variety of reporting roles and time as the 1News Europe Correspondent.
O’Donnell said Stokes was respected and trusted by viewers, having presented across TVNZ’s news programmes and worked as the weekends presenter for the flagship evening news programme since 2019.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have someone of Melissa’s calibre appointed as our lead presenter for 1News at Six.
“She’s done an exceptional job fronting weekends and this experience, alongside the strong leadership role she plays in our newsroom, makes her a natural successor.
“Her enduring relationship with our audience will help guide them through this transition for our biggest show,” O’Donnell said.
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