After more than 30 years with TVNZ, long-time 1News presenter Simon Dallow has delivered his final bulletin, thanking viewers and colleagues as he signed off from 1News at Six.
In a heartfelt farewell message to viewers on Friday, Dallow said he had always believed that "newsreaders should never be the news".
"Just as I stop being one, it’s been a genuine privilege to be on your screens and in your living rooms."
He expressed his gratitude to his colleagues at 1News, acknowledging the hard work they put into delivering news every day.
Simon Dallow signs off from 1News at Six for the last time - Watch on TVNZ+
Dallow also reflected on his approach to journalism, saying he aimed to help viewers "better understand and comprehend the complexities of the day’s news without influencing or distracting you unnecessarily and I hope I’ve succeeded more than failed".
Thanking viewers for allowing him to be a part of their evenings, he also reflected on the "good and bad" news he had covered over the years.
"Our collective, shared experience is what binds us together as people."
Dallow, who previously worked as a barrister, first joined TVNZ in 1993, presenting TV2's Newsnight alongside Alison Mau and Marcus Lush.
He went on to present a variety of TVNZ news and current affairs shows during the following years, including One Mid Evening News, One Tonight, Agenda and Q&A.
In 2006, he teamed up with Wendy Petrie to become the weeknight co-presenters of 1News at Six and in 2020, Dallow became the sole 6pm news anchor.
He became a trusted face during some of New Zealand’s most significant events – including the 2010-2011 Canterbury earthquakes, the 2019 mosque attacks, the Covid-19 pandemic, and Cyclone Gabrielle.
TVNZ chief executive Jodi O’Donnell said Dallow had been an “exceptional journalist and presenter”, known for professionalism, integrity and dedication to the role.
“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. His departure marks the end of an era for 1News at Six, and we are deeply grateful for his years of service."
Melissa Stokes will take over the role of weekdays presenter, while Jack Tame will step into the weekend presenting gig.
Dallow concluded his Friday farewell by sending warm wishes to 1News at Six viewers.
"To you and your loved ones, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a sunny summer ahead. Pō mārie, goodnight and good luck."
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