Veteran broadcaster Danny Watson dies aged 73

Veteran New Zealand broadcaster Danny Watson has died at the age of 73 after a short illness. He passed away peacefully on Thursday, 15 October, surrounded by his family.

Watson was a prominent radio host who hosted Newstalk ZB’s Afternoons programme for 15 years between 2000 and 2015. His broadcasting career began on television, starting with the children's programme Spot On after a flatmate saw a job advertisement. He also worked on the children's show What Now?, the junior sports programme World of Sport, Danny’s Cafe, and TV3's version of Candid Camera.

In November 2014, Watson broadcasted live from Scott Base in Antarctica. Following his time at Newstalk ZB, he joined Today FM in 2022, though that station closed the following year.

Watson is survived by his wife, Teresa, four tamariki, and six mokopuna. His family expressed gratitude for the support provided by the North Harbour Hospice and requested that donations be made to hospice in lieu of flowers.

How it developed

• Fri 16 Oct, 12:50pmCurrent Newstalk ZB hosts Matt Heath and Tyler Adams shared personal memories of Watson's kindness and impact.

Where reports differ

• While most reports focus on his career, report 3 includes specific tributes from current Newstalk ZB hosts.

Compiled from reports by Stuff, Otago Daily Times, NZ Herald, 1News and The Press.