Mike Bodnar

Liverpool-raised Mike Bodnar emigrated to NZ at the age of 14. After escaping from teaching to became a radio announcer, he hosted weekend editions of RNZ’s nationwide Tonight Show, then crossed to television as a live continuity announcer. In the 80s he began four years hosting and interviewing for nightly regional slot Today Tonight. Bodnar has also done time as a freelance director, PR consultant and standup comedian.

I particularly enjoyed the live, edgy aspect of delivering a news programme; it was rather like piloting an aircraft loosely held together with string and chewing gum through a storm, then landing it perfectly and taxiing to the end of the runway...five nights a week. Mike Bodnar, on hosting regional show Today Tonight