RNZ says it will cut about 25 to 30 roles over the next financial year, a reduction of around 10% of its workforce, as it responds to fresh cuts to its public funding.
The public broadcaster has reopened its voluntary redundancy scheme, previously run in 2025/26, as a first step in the process.
RNZ chief executive and editor-in-chief Paul Thompson said the organisation had already moved to trim spending over the past year, including reducing its workforce size in 2024, but another drop in funding had forced its hand.
"Due to a further reduction in our funding this year, and with more reductions indicated for the next two financial years, we need to make further savings to remain financially sustainable and continue delivering on our public media charter for New Zealanders," Thompson said.
He said the cuts would involve a series of targeted changes and the broadcaster wanted to be upfront with staff.
"RNZ's priority is to communicate clearly and honestly with our talented staff and support them as much as possible as we respond to reduced funding," he said.
Thompson said RNZ would work to shield its content from the changes.
"RNZ's focus is to continue to do a great job for New Zealanders and minimise impact on content while making the organisation more efficient and sustainable," he said. "We will continue to prioritise trusted news, information and entertainment, and to work with our people on these challenges and keep them fully informed as decisions are made."
He said further changes beyond the voluntary scheme would be worked through carefully, with fair process and constructive engagement with staff.
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