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Complain about a TV or radio programme or an ad

If you think a TV or radio programme hasn't followed the broadcasting standards, or an ad (on TV, radio, the internet or in print) hasn't followed the advertising standards, you can complain to the relevant authorities.

Complain about a TV or radio programme

If you think a TV or radio programme has not followed the broadcasting standards, you can make a complaint.

Broadcasting standards codebook — bsa.govt.nz

When to complain

You have to complain within 20 working days of a programme airing.

You cannot complain about a programme before it’s aired.

What you can complain about

You can make a complaint about:

  • free-to-air and pay TV programmes
  • radio programmes
  • promos for programmes
  • election advertisements on radio or television (during election periods).

Who to complain to

You should first complain to the broadcaster, within 20 working days of the broadcast.

If you are not satisfied with the response you can make a formal complaint with the Broadcasting Standards Authority.

Make a formal complaint

Complain about an ad

If you think an ad on TV, radio, the internet or in print is wrong, misleading or inappropriate, you can complain to the Advertising Standards Authority.

When you make your complaint, you need to know which of the codes of practice you think the ad breached.

Advertising standards codes

What you can complain about

You can make a complaint about:

  • a print ad, include a copy of the ad
  • a TV or radio commercial, give the approximate time, date and station of the broadcast
  • an internet ad, include the website where you saw it.

How to complain

You can make a complaint with the Advertising Standards Authority.

Make a complaint

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