Media Insider revealed earlier this month that TVNZ was also planning a new morning business show next year, to accompany its Breakfast show.
Breakfast is already undergoing a major change with former TV3 political editor Tova O’Brien joining Chris Chang as co-host in 2026. O’Brien, currently at Stuff, replaces Jenny-May Clarkson.
And RNZ also announced last week that TVNZ chief correspondent John Campbell would replace Corin Dann as co-host of Morning Report in 2026.
Dann is moving to become RNZ business editor.
Herald NOW Business would build on the strength of NZME’s business reporting strength, said NZME editor-in-chief Murray Kirkness.
“I am proud of the depth of talent in business journalism here at NZME – it’s unrivalled in New Zealand, and I’m looking forward to us further showcasing that through Herald NOW Business.”
The show will lead into the Herald NOW show, hosted by Ryan Bridge.
Herald NOW host Ryan Bridge interviews PM Christopher Luxon. Photo / Michael Craig
“Since launching Herald NOW in May, we’ve seen incredible audience engagement, and the demand for business content has been particularly strong,” NZME managing editor – multimedia content Sarah Bristow said in a statement.
“Garth’s expertise and engaging presentation style, which our viewers already know from his regular appearances, make him the perfect host to deliver the business news and analysis Kiwis need to start their day.”
Bray said in the statement that he could not wait to get stuck in.
“New Zealanders like what they’re seeing on Herald NOW – it’s snappy, smart and engaging. In 2026, we’ll be getting their workdays off to an even better start and introducing them to businesses they need to know about, and the people driving them.”
NZME also announced today that experienced media and business leader Erica Lloyd – who has had senior roles at TVNZ, MediaWorks, BNZ, Datacom, Callaghan Innovation, Soul Machines and Zenno Astronautics – will be the executive producer for the show’s launch.
Media Insider also revealed in December that NZME and TV3/Three owner Sky TV have been in discussions to expand Herald NOW to Three Now, TV3’s digital platform.
That may pave the way for the Bridge-hosted show to eventually screen on Three’s linear channel, in direct competition with TVNZ Breakfast.
Editor-at-Large Shayne Currie is one of New Zealand’s most experienced senior journalists and media leaders. He has held executive and senior editorial roles at NZME including Managing Editor, NZ Herald Editor and Herald on Sunday Editor and has a small shareholding in NZME.