Media Insider: Radio Shakeups, Paul Henry’s Legacy, and Lorde’s Latest Move

Mai FM breakfast host Fame Teu has departed the station after 11 years, citing a desire to rest and pursue new ventures, according to reports from Media Insider. Teu’s exit follows four years as a breakfast co-host alongside Nickson Clark and Tegan Yorwarth. While his departure prompted social media tributes from his colleagues, Teu has denied speculation regarding internal staff tensions.

Fame Teu’s Departure from Mai FM

Teu, who joined Mai FM 11 years ago, confirmed his exit was a personal decision to “reset the mind.” Despite rumors regarding his sudden departure, Teu told Media Insider that he had no knowledge of issues within the staff WhatsApp group. “I’ve been in this game for a while, and it’s interesting how whispers get around,” Teu said. He confirmed he opted against a formal on-air farewell, stating, “I’ve never been in it for the spotlight.” Mai FM’s morning show is the most popular music show in Auckland, currently holding 144,100 listeners weekly, second only to Newstalk ZB’s Mike Hosking.

Paul Henry’s Shift to Politics

Former TVNZ host Paul Henry has transitioned into politics as an Act Party candidate, a move that former colleague Peter Williams views as consistent with Henry’s history of shifting interests. According to Williams, writing on his Substack, Henry was “by far the best Breakfast frontman the company [TVNZ] has ever had” but remains a “team player as long as he is the captain.” Henry, 65, recently resigned from the TVNZ board after one year. Regarding the future of the state broadcaster, Henry told Media Insider that while he believes the company will become profitable, he does not currently support selling it, despite Act’s general stance on state ownership.

The Launch of Lume: A New Music Model

Lorde is among the high-profile investors backing Lume, a new digital music platform launching with the goal of increasing artist revenue. According to a statement provided to Media Insider, Lorde described the platform as a “missing piece in the puzzle of modern album-sharing.” Unlike major streaming services, Lume allows fans to purchase full albums—including exclusive creative material like handwritten lyrics and photography—for a one-off fee of $24.99. Artists receive 80% of the revenue from these sales, a model founders hope will provide a more sustainable financial return for musicians compared to traditional streaming.

Financial Challenges at the New Zealand Medical Journal

The New Zealand Medical Journal, a 139-year-old publication, is facing an uncertain future as its owner, the Pasifika Medical Association Group (PMAG), ends its financial support. Editor-in-chief Professor Frank Frizelle noted in an editorial that the journal is “at a crossroads.” While an interim funding arrangement involving Auckland and Otago universities and a private donor is in place until December 31, Frizelle emphasized the need for a long-term governance structure that maintains editorial independence. The publication costs approximately $400,000 annually to operate.

AI Policies in Media: The Marie Claire Case

FAQ

• Why did Fame Teu leave Mai FM? Teu stated he wanted to take a break to “reset the mind” and explore new career opportunities outside of the radio spotlight.
• What is the Lume platform? Lume is a music app where fans buy full albums for a one-off fee, with 80% of the revenue going directly to the artists.
• What is the status of the New Zealand Medical Journal? The journal is currently seeking a new long-term funding model after its owner, PMAG, announced it could no longer provide financial support.

Have thoughts on the shifting media landscape? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates on industry movements and digital trends.