Fans of the television soap Coronation Street have started a petition to keep the show in its regular prime timeslot.
Television New Zealand has announced that the longest running soap on TV is being replaced by MasterChef Australia and will be shown instead at 5.30pm on TV One.
TVNZ says the change is for an initial period of three weeks, but could become permanent.
Media commentator Brian Edwards says television networks are looking for prime time programmes that appeal to people aged between 18 and 49, and Coronation Street does not attract the right sort of audience.
Mr Edwards says the soap still has enough loyal fans to ensure it will not be taken off air altogether.
