Television Presenter Kaipānui Pouaka Whakaata

Television presenters introduce, present or host programmes on television.

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Television presenters may do some or all of the following:

  • host game shows, current affairs, sports, arts or educational programmes
  • read news, sports or weather reports
  • interview people
  • report on issues and events
  • run social media accounts
  • research and write scripts
  • attend production meetings
  • attend promotional events, conferences and social functions.

Physical Requirements

Television presenters should have clear speech and an expressive voice.

Useful Experience

Useful experience includes:

  • work as a radio announcer or journalist
  • experience in theatre, film, television or radio
  • drama or speech training.

Personal Qualities

Television presenters need to be:

  • confident and relaxed on television
  • able to work well under pressure
  • able to accept criticism, and follow instructions
  • able to relate to people from a wide range of cultures
  • good communicators
  • good planners and organisers.

Skills

Television presenters need to have: 

  • good interviewing skills
  • good knowledge of their area of specialisation – such as sports or current affairs
  • knowledge of the television production process.

Conditions

Television presenters:

  • may work irregular hours including early mornings, evenings and weekends
  • work in offices, television studios and on location
  • work in conditions that may be stressful due to deadlines
  • may have to travel locally and overseas to cover stories or complete location shoots.

Subject Recommendations

There are no specific secondary education requirements to become a television presenter. However, media studies, music, dance and drama, ngā toi, te reo Māori and English are useful.

Television presenters may specialise in areas such as:

  • sports commentary
  • current affairs
  • news
  • children's television.

Years Of Training

There are no specific requirements to become a television presenter, but a good level of spoken English or te reo Māori is essential.

A qualification in television, film, or journalism is preferred by most employers.

A full driver's licence is usually preferred, as television presenters may have to travel to locations for filming that are not accessible by public transport.

Television Presenter