This meant the annual costs TVNZ paid for the show – which one source estimated to be about $20m – reduced to about $8m.
The show, which started in 1992 received NZ On Air funding for its first four years of production, until it had reached the point of commercial viability. Shortland Street then operated without funding support for 28 years before 2023. It is currently a commercially funded, digitally delivered show.
Other cost-cutting measures made to Shortland Street’s production included shifting from a five-weekly episode structure down to a three-episode-a-week format (Monday to Wednesday) this year.
The Herald posed a range of questions to South Pacific Pictures, including details of discussions between the company, TVNZ and NZ On Air. It declined to comment.
In a statement, TVNZ said Shortland Street remains a standout performer.
“It’s currently the second-highest-rating show on TVNZ 2, with audiences tracking in line with 2025 across broadcast and TVNZ+.”
The company said that in the first half of this year, the show reached more than one million New Zealanders on TVNZ 2.
“It is also delivering strongly on TVNZ+, reaching 139,900 viewers over the same period, ranking in the platform’s top 10 shows and the top-rating local drama.”
South Pacific Pictures Chief Executive, Kelly Martin says: “We’re immensely proud of Shortland Street’s continuing legacy. This last season has seen both cast and crew deliver some of their best work, and NZ audiences are enjoying the ride. Returning to four nights a week is something we’re all delighted about, and we look forward to continuing to entertain and delight New Zealanders.”
NZ On Air says it received eight applications for scripted funding and has committed just over $8m to four scripted projects in this round. Other shows funded include a second season of Ms X and the return of Wellington Paranormal after a hiatus.