28 Jul 2022

Review into Santamaria hiring costs TVNZ head of news his job

From Morning Report, 7:14 am on 28 July 2022

A review into the hiring of former TV One Breakfast host Kamahl Santamaria released yesterday found there was a lack of consultation with key staff before his arrival, and he didn't even complete a screen test.

Santamaria quit his role after just 31 days, after complaints were made about his conduct.

TVNZ's head of news and current affairs, Paul Yurisich resignation was made public yesterday, TVNZ yesterday released a three-page summary of the review's findings and recommendations, but didn't release the report itself.

TVNZ's chief executive, Simon Power, declined an interview with Morning Report, but in a statement he said the review provided a clear path to ensure the company's recruitment practices are fit for purpose.

Former TVNZ head of news Bill Ralston spoke to Susie Ferguson.