On Monday Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced that Super Saturday – a national day promoting vaccination against Covid-19 – would include a televised Vaxathon.
The PM’s announcement referenced Discovery NZ andMāori Television as being the main backers of the event.
No mention of TVNZ – perhaps she just forgot?
Next day, Discovery shared details that it would broadcast the nation’s first-ever Vaxathon on Three to help boost the uptake of vaccinations across New Zealand.
The Super Saturday Vaxathon aims to encourage all Kiwis, particularly young Māori, Pacific and those living with a disability, to get vaccinated urgently against COVID-19.Māori Television would be key in communicating this message.
“We’re delighted to bring the Super Saturday Vaxathon to audiences across New Zealand this weekend,” says Juliet Peterson, Senior Director Programming, Discovery Australia and New Zealand.
“We’re committed to doing all we can to not only inform and entertain our audiences, but to engage and motivate our communities to get vaccinated and boost our nation’s immunity.”
Three’s broadcast will feature Newshub presenters including Mike McRoberts, Melissa Chan-Green, Patrick Gower and Oriini Kaipara, The Project’s Jesse Mulligan, Kanoa Lloyd, Laura Tupou and Tony Lyall and other well known New Zealanders and health professionals live from COVID-19 vaccination sites across the country.
On Thursday, TVNZ announced that it too would be joining the party.
“We are proud to be supporting this initiative alongside Discovery NZ, Māori Television, it will also be streamed on social media and by other media outlets.
“Well-known TVNZ talent, influencers and health professionals will be live, crossing to COVID-19 vaccination sites to capture the atmosphere and experiences of those receiving their first or second vaccine,” the public broadcaster said in a statement.
Perhaps TVNZ was a little late to the party, which is sure to attract many eyeballs?
The Super Saturday Vaxathon will be streamed live on TVNZ 2 from 12 to 8pm, and on Three from 12 to 6pm, respectivly.
Many advertisers will be quite interested in next week’s TV ratings, we’re sure.
