The New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union submitted feedback on the Government’s proposals to modernise media regulation and content funding, as global streaming platforms reshape the industry. While the review aims to support local content and accessibility, we argued that several proposals risk distorting the market and increasing costs for consumers.
We opposed forcing TV manufacturers to prioritise local apps and rejected proposals to impose effective taxes on offshore streaming services. Instead, we called for removing outdated local content mandates to create a level playing field.
We supported practical accessibility measures, but opposed merging public funding bodies, recommending instead a shift away from taxpayer-funded content toward a more market-driven approach.
This matters because heavy-handed regulation risks reducing consumer choice, increasing costs, and discouraging investment in New Zealand’s media market. A more competitive, market-led system would encourage higher-quality content, better reflect audience demand, and reduce reliance on taxpayer subsidies.
