3 Feb 2026

Kiwis find bad language on air increasingly offensive

From Nights, 8:25 pm on 3 February 2026

A study by the Broadcasting Standards Authority shows we've become less tolerant of offensive language in broadcasting.

The 2025 research reveals our tolerance has dropped since the last survey four years ago, which is a walk-back from what has been a long-term trend of softening attitudes.

BSA chief executive Stacey Wood breaks down the findings with Emile.

woman with mouth sealed in adhesive tape. Free of speech, freedom of press, Human rights, Protest dictatorship, democracy, liberty, equality and fraternity concepts

Photo: 123RF