That sucks, Russell.

If you're anything like me, then you probably resigned yourself to the reality that all productions can summarily end long ago. Of course that never seems to placate the sense of loss that comes with having something you've worked so hard at for so long, simply dismissed.

You're right, six years is a good stretch, but if your programme (and its history) has taught me anything, it's that longevity alone isn't evidence of quality. For that, we need only look at the hard work and effort that you, Phil and the rest of the team put into this show on a weekly basis.

You're only ever as good as you're last show, and over the last six years you've been nothing short of excellent.

Please pass on my congratulations to all involved for a job well done.

This is interesting... http://video.allthingsd.com/video/d8-steve-jobs-on-television/FF922002-FA63-4B68-A326-EA12EC800612

According to the Herald the government can only make money from this event from ticket sales. And given that MTS is non commercial, it's not that surprising that a national government would choose to back TVNZ who could/should be able to turn a profit from these free-to-air rights that would then be repaid to the government in their end of year dividend (possibly).

I think the issue of public access has very little to do with ensuring tax payers rights, and is more about minimising the loss they're going to take from hosting this event.