TVNZ and South Pacific Pictures have announced that Shortland Street will return for its 2026 season.
New Zealand’s longest-running drama will continue due to funding support from NZ On Air, combined with eligibility for the Screen Production Rebate.
The show’s future had come into question amid ongoing cost-cutting at the state broadcaster and wider media uncertainty.
In July 2024, it was announced it would continue screening three days week instead of five.
Last year, the Government tweaked eligibility criteria for the New Zealand Screen Production Rebate for local shows “with strong industry and cultural value” such as Shortland Street.
TVNZ’s chief executive Jodi O’Donnell said today that “our audiences love Shorty and NZ On Air’s funding ensures we can continue to bring this iconic drama to viewers in 2026 while we work through its digital transition”.
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“As one of TVNZ+’s most streamed programmes, Shorty fans are split across broadcast and digital platforms,” TVNZ said in a statement.
“With audiences migrating online, effort is underway to increase the digital revenue needed to support Shortland Street as a digital-first content proposition.”
Before 2023, the show operated without funding support for 28 years.
It is now transitioning to a commercially funded, digitally delivered show.
South Pacific Pictures Chief Executive, Kelly Martin, said, “Shortland Street continues to entertain NZ audiences with its diverse and relatable stories, and it continues to play a crucial role in the NZ production sector, providing consistent employment and fostering local talent”.
“We are incredibly thankful to both TVNZ and NZ On Air for their support.”
