Broadcasting icon Paul Norris dies


Well-respected media commentator Paul Norris has died.

Norris was a former head of Christchurch’s New Zealand Broadcasting School (NZBS).

He was also a former head of news at TVNZ.

Norris retired due to illness last year and his career was celebrated in an event for staff and students co-organised by NZBS tutor Ruth Zanker.

Zanker said: ”It was extraordinary that as soon as word got out, we were contacted by former colleagues from the BBC, SBS Australia and TVNZ.”

Judy Bailey and Jim Hickey were among the journalists, presenters and researchers who offered tributes via video and in person.

Newstalk ZB mornings host Chris Lynch said this morning that Norris was ”a true gentleman” who encouraged him at broadcasting school.

”He was well liked and a respected man and he’ll be missed.

“Paul was the man who kick-started Holmes’ television career and looked after TVNZ news in the good days of television of Judy and Richard and the team,” he said.

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