Broadcaster Paul Henry has resigned from his position on the TVNZ board to stand as an ACT Party list candidate in the November general election.
ACT leader David Seymour confirmed the candidacy on Tuesday, praising the television personality for his sharp intellect and fearlessness.
In a statement released by the party, Henry said he was entering politics because New Zealand was failing to reach its extraordinary potential.
He expressed frustration that young people were leaving the country for better opportunities overseas while locals struggled to pay their bills.
"I've spent decades speaking with New Zealanders and watching governments come and go," Henry said. He added that the country had become weighed down by excessive bureaucracy and debt.
Henry took a direct shot at the previous government.
He claimed six years of a Labour-led government had left the nation heavily indebted, and he argued the current coalition had not moved hard or fast enough to fix the economy.
Seymour said Henry would bring wit and a powerful voice to the ACT team. He said the broadcaster had a genuine love for the country and a deep frustration at wasted opportunities.
The move is a major career shift for Henry, who has spent 40 years in the media industry.
He was appointed to the TVNZ board in June 2025 by Media and Communications Minister Paul Goldsmith.
Over the past year, he has also hosted local television programmes such as The Traitors NZ and The Chase NZ.
