The co-hosts of TVNZ's Breakfast show say they do not take the access to New Zealand politicians for granted, in the wake of Christopher Luxon's decision to cut his standing weekly appearance on the show.
Luxon on Friday said that he would no longer appear every Monday, as he has during his time as Prime Minister - instead, his availability would be considered on a case-by-case basis.
The Prime Minister’s office said it had reviewed his regular media arrangements late last year and had now decided to update its approach. It also referenced the fact it had separately raised concerns with TVNZ about what it saw as the "inappropriate conduct of its staff".
Luxon’s Breakfast withdrawal follows his criticism of the media over widespread reporting that some National MPs were dissatisfied with his leadership, prompting an unprecedented caucus vote last week.
It is a long-standing convention that the Prime Minister of the day appears on Breakfast on a Monday morning. The programme is hosted by Tova O'Brien, a former political editor, and Chris Chang.
O'Brien this morning said it was important to the show that "you - our audience, the NZ public, all voters - have the opportunity to get to know our leaders, understand them as people, understand their parties, principles, policies and decisions that impact you each and every day".
Chang added that access to politicians in NZ was generous, and they considered being able to interview them a privilege.
"We do not take this access for granted."
The pair said Labour leader Chris Hipkins would continue his weekly spot, and they would continue extending an invitation to Luxon to appear each week.
Instead of Luxon today (due to yesterday's public holiday), Deputy PM and ACT Party leader David Seymour appeared. He was asked about the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, the relaxation of some trucking and weight rules in a bid to reduce fuel use, and Sail GP.
Deputy PM and ACT Party leader David Seymour said we are lucky in New Zealand to live in a society that’s largely peaceful, and we should protect it at all costs. (Source: Breakfast)
In confirming the Luxon decision on Friday, TVNZ also pointed out he had last been interviewed by Q+A’s Jack Tame in December 2024.
"Interview requests for 2026 have been declined. Q+A has a standing offer in place."
During his time as Prime Minister he has consistently appeared for Monday morning interviews on Breakfast, RNZ and Newstalk ZB.
1News understands Luxon will continue to appear on RNZ and Newstalk ZB.
The Prime Minister survived a caucus confidence vote in his leadership on Tuesday. He emerged after a marathon 2.5-hour session to make a short statement to reporters, refusing to take questions.
The Prime Minister also took aim at media coverage of his leadership, saying he would no longer respond to “speculation and rumour”.
In 2021 then Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern pulled out of her weekly slot with Mike Hosking on Newstalk ZB.
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