C. NZ On Air's Regional Television Programme Fund

NZ On Air funds regional broadcasters for regional programmes intended for screening on a regional free-to-air channel, reflecting the special character of the region and its people and telling stories that are rarely seen on the schedules of national broadcasters. The programmes must meet specific criteria on a contestable basis.

Current programme priorities for the Fund are:

1. regional news;
2. coverage of important regional events and cultural activities, and local sporting events;
3. programmes particular to a region for community special interest audiences such as significant ethnic, linguistic and other minorities.
   

1. How well the proposed programmes serve the interests of the regional audiences?
2. The applicant’s production track record.
3. Whether similar programmes are already being broadcast.
4. Population size within the transmission area.
5. Likely audience size for the programme.
6. Proposed time-slot (peak or off-peak).
7. Level of funding sought? Does the proposal offer value for money? Is the broadcaster contributing?
   

In 2009/2010, NZ On Air allocated $1.5million to the Fund. The level of future funding is dependent on NZ On Air having sufficient funds available, as with all its funding categories.