Mō te tūnga | About the role
We are seeking a Commissioner – Kaikōmihana to join our team. This pivotal role is responsible for identifying, developing, and delivering high-quality commissioned content across Whakaata Māori’s platforms — including MĀORI+, Whakaata Māori TV, Te Ao Māori News, and social media.
The Commissioner will play a key role in ensuring commissioned content upholds Whakaata Māori’s strategic vision ‘kia mauriora te reo’, aligns with Te Huapae and the Commissioning for Outcomes Framework, and authentically represents te ao Māori. Working closely with producers, writers, and sector partners, this role will help strengthen te reo Māori, promote Māori storytelling, and support the growth of the Māori media sector.
This is a full-time permanent role based at our head office in East Tāmaki.
Ngā kawenga matua | Key responsibilities
- Develop and deliver commissioning strategies that align with Whakaata Māori’s strategic goals and Commissioning for Outcomes Framework.
- Identify kaupapa and content opportunities that strengthen te reo Māori and engage diverse audiences.
- Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to support the successful delivery of commissioned projects.
- Assess proposals and work with producers to refine creative concepts, treatments, and budgets.
- Support partnerships and co-funding arrangements with key stakeholders such as TMP, NZ On Air, and Te Mātāwai.
- Ensure all commissioned content reflects Māori worldviews, upholds cultural integrity, and meets editorial and technical standards.
- Build and maintain strong relationships within the Māori media sector to foster collaboration and capability development.
Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | What you’ll bring
- A tertiary qualification in media, communications, journalism, marketing, business or equivalent experience.
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience in television and film production, producing, or commissioning.
- Proven ability to create or commission engaging, high-quality content for broadcast or digital platforms.
- Strong relationship management skills and experience working with producers, funders, and partners.
- Sound understanding of production methodology, budgets, and content delivery.
- Knowledge of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a strong understanding of tikanga Māori.
- Proficiency in te reo Māori, or a strong commitment to learning, is highly desirable.
Ko wai mātou | Who we are
Whakaata Māori is Aotearoa New Zealand’s indigenous national broadcaster that inspires viewers to connect with te ao Māori through compelling and authentic Māori content. The network delivers a diverse range of educational, informative, and entertainment content that reflects the unique identity of Aotearoa, promoting an inclusive environment that fosters the growth and revitalisation of te reo me ngā tikanga Māori. Each day, Whakaata Māori reaches thousands of viewers through channels, Whakaata Māori and Te Reo and online entertainment platform Māori+. Our news site teaomaori.news connects people to the important Māori issues throughout the day.
Tono mai ināianei | Apply now
If you’re ready to lead change with purpose and heart, we want to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a cover letter telling us why you're the right person for this role.
