Digital First Funding Model for Shortland Street

August 1, 2025 0 Comments

Following NZ On Air’s announcement, TVNZ and South Pacific Pictures have praised the funding agency for helping to ensure Shortland Street’s survival while they develop a commercial “digital first” model for its future.

“TVNZ and South Pacific Pictures are focusing on transitioning Shortland Street to a commercially funded, digitally delivered show and NZ On Air’s funding provides a crucial pathway towards making that ambition a reality,” they say in a statement.

Here’s the media release:

Shortland Street Returns for 2026 – thanks to NZ On Air

TVNZ and South Pacific Pictures are pleased to announce Shortland Street will return for its 2026 season, thanks to ongoing funding support from NZ On Air.

NZ On Air funding, which was confirmed this morning, combined with eligibility for the Screen Production Rebate, will enable the continuation of New Zealand’s longest-running drama in the new year.

Shortland Street is one of the most recognisable and loved television programmes in Aotearoa. It provides immense cultural value on screen, while also offering a rich training ground for actors and crew behind the scenes.

Shortland Street is a key pillar of the TVNZ 2 slate, but its dedicated rangatahi audience has placed it at the forefront of audience fragmentation.

As one of TVNZ+’s most streamed programmes, Shorty fans are split across broadcast and digital platforms.

With audiences migrating online, effort is underway to increase the digital revenue needed to support Shortland Street as a digital first content proposition.

Prior to 2023, Shortland Street operated without funding support for 28 years.

TVNZ and South Pacific Pictures are focusing on transitioning Shortland Street to a commercially funded, digitally delivered show and NZ On Air’s funding provides a crucial pathway towards making that ambition a reality.

TVNZ’s Chief Executive, Jodi O’Donnell says, “We’re extremely grateful for NZ On Air’s support in helping us keep this taonga on screen.

“Our audiences love Shorty and NZ On Air’s funding ensures we can continue to bring this iconic drama to viewers in 2026 while we work through its digital transition.”

South Pacific Pictures Chief Executive, Kelly Martin says “Shortland Street continues to entertain NZ audiences with its diverse and relatable stories, and it continues to play a crucial role in the NZ production sector, providing consistent employment and fostering local talent.

“We are incredibly thankful to both TVNZ and NZ On Air for their support.”