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NZME’s digital news show, New Zealand Herald Focus, has hit its highest ratings ever, with 1.2 million views across all platforms last week. Launched in April this year, Focus airs up to 12 times a day, providing rolling video coverage to NZME’s digital audience. 

The mix of news, sport, entertainment and live coverage allows viewers to tune in at any time, across any number of devices.

Last week, Focus hit a peak following live coverage throughout Wednesday of Donald Trump’s election as US President. “The record numbers have exceeded expectations, showing the unique format and distribution strategy is engaging with viewers,” said NZME head of video Cameron Death.


“The viewership numbers speak to the show’s unique ability to solve viewers’ needs for news content in today’s world,” he said.


“New Zealand’s traditional broadcasters are scrambling to find a way to engage viewers as behaviour changes – with Focus we are able to leverage our journalistic expertise with the reach of our digital audience to produce engaging, timely and high-quality content New Zealanders want to watch.

“The broad, engaged national audience that it reaches is also making it an attractive medium for advertisers, and we are working with leading clients and brands looking to be involved with Focus.”

Focus is helmed by executive producer Belinda Henley, with experienced current affairs reporter Sarah Hall as producer.  Presenters include Tristram Clayton and Laura McGoldrick and the show regularly features trusted names in journalism, including NZ Herald business editor Liam Dann and Newstalk ZB political editor Barry Soper.

In addition to news updates, the Focus team has broken a number of high-profile stories, launched ongoing investigations and a series celebrating some of New Zealand’s unsung heroes.


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