‘Genuine privilege’: Simon Dallow signs off 6pm news for the final time

TVNZ’s Simon Dallow has signed off from the 6pm news for the final time.

Dallow had been the presenter of 1News at Six for nearly 20 years.

During his last few moments as a newsreader, Dallow addressed viewers directly and said it had been a “genuine privilege” bringing them the news.

“I’ve always firmly believed newsreaders should never be the news, but now I’m no longer one and that means I can say, it’s been a genuine privilege to be on your screens and in your living rooms.

“It’s something we never take for granted and I’m sincerely grateful. Just as I’m grateful to my colleagues for the privilege of fronting their work over the past 30 years, knowing just how hard they work and strive to bring you the news each day.”

Dallow was noticeably emotional during his final address, stopping to clear his throat a couple of times.

“All I’ve ever wanted was to help you better understand the complexities of today’s news without influencing or distracting you,” Dallow said.

“I hope I’ve succeeded in that more than I’ve failed.

“On that note, to you and your loved ones, I wish you a merry Christmas and sunny Summer ahead. Good night and good luck.”

Before Dallow’s address, weather presenter Renee Wright told Dallow it had been “an honour” working with him.

A video showing some of Dallow’s best moments over his career at TVNZ was then played.

It was announced earlier this month Dallow would step down, and Melissa Stokes would move from her weekend presenting role to anchor the bulletin Monday to Friday.

Dallow, who previously worked as a barrister, joined TVNZ as a presenter in 1993. He appeared on Newsnight and other 1News bulletins. He worked on Agenda and Q + A before taking the helm at 1News at Six weeknights alongside former co-host Wendy Petrie.

New lead presenter, Stokes had been with TVNZ for more than two decades, including a stint as Europe Correspondent. She’d been presenting 1News at Six on the weekends since 2019.