NBR: The Evolution of New Zealand's Business News Publication
The NBR (National Business Review) has served as a cornerstone of business journalism in New Zealand for over five decades. From its humble beginnings as a tabloid newspaper to its current status as a digital-first multimedia platform, the publication has continuously adapted to the changing landscape of media consumption and technology.
The Founding and Early Growth
The NBR was established in 1970 by Henry Newrick, who was just 23 years old at the time of its founding. In its early years, the publication operated as a fortnightly tabloid-format newspaper. As the demand for business intelligence grew, the NBR briefly transitioned into a daily newspaper between 1987 and 1991.
A significant era of stability began in 1988 when New Zealand businessman Barry Colman purchased the publication from John Fairfax & Sons. Colman served as the publisher for 24 years, guiding the NBR through a period of substantial growth before selling the business to Tod Scott in 2012.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Digital Transformation and Multimedia Expansion
To keep pace with the digital revolution, the NBR implemented a paywall model—a system where access to specific content is restricted to paying individual and business subscribers. This strategy proved successful; by June 2016, the publication reported more than 4,000 paying subscribers.
The NBR further diversified its content delivery by launching NBR Radio, an online radio platform, in March 2015. This was followed in early 2018 by the launch of NBR View, a video-on-demand platform powered by Shift72.
A pivotal shift occurred in 2020 when the NBR ceased printing its weekly physical newspaper. The publication transitioned into a completely ad-free online multimedia news website, allowing for constant updates on breaking news and timely business developments.
Current Content Strategy
Today, the NBR delivers business news through a multi-channel approach. This includes high-quality video content, podcasts, and articles authored by award-winning journalists and verified contributors.
Copyright Protection and Legal Challenges
As digital piracy became a concern, the NBR adopted strict policies to protect its intellectual property. By December 2025, the publication began actively pursuing subscribers who illegally shared paywalled content. To mitigate the risk of copyright violations, the NBR disabled the ability for subscribers to copy, print, or save articles as PDFs.
This commitment to copyright led to a high-profile dispute with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD). Co-owners Tod Scott and Hamish McNichol confirmed that the IRD was banned from subscribing after the government department illegally shared content among its staff. Following the collapse of compensation negotiations, the NBR confirmed in early January 2026 that it would initiate legal action against the IRD through the District Court of New Zealand.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1970 by Henry Newrick.
- Ownership History: Owned by Barry Colman (1988–2012) and later sold to Tod Scott.
- Digital Shift: Ceased print operations in 2020 to become an ad-free multimedia site.
- Multimedia Assets: Includes NBR Radio (launched 2015) and NBR View (launched 2018).
- Legal Action: Pursuing the Inland Revenue Department in the District Court of New Zealand (January 2026).
| Year | Milestone | Format/Change |
|---|---|---|
| 1970 | Foundation | Fortnightly Tabloid |
| 1987–1991 | Daily Publication | Daily Newspaper |
| 1988 | Ownership Change | Acquired by Barry Colman |
| 2012 | Ownership Change | Acquired by Tod Scott |
| 2015 | Audio Expansion | Launch of NBR Radio |
| 2018 | Video Expansion | Launch of NBR View |
| 2020 | Digital Pivot | Ceased print; became ad-free online site |
| 2026 | Legal Action | Lawsuit against Inland Revenue Department |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded the NBR and when?
The NBR was founded in 1970 by Henry Newrick, who was 23 years old at the time.
When did the NBR stop printing its physical newspaper?
The NBR ceased printing its weekly newspaper in 2020, transitioning to a fully digital, ad-free multimedia news website.
What are NBR Radio and NBR View?
NBR Radio is an online radio platform launched in March 2015, and NBR View is a video-on-demand platform launched in early 2018 via Shift72.
Why did the NBR ban the Inland Revenue Department from subscribing?
The ban was implemented because the government department illegally shared the NBR's paywalled content among its staff members.
What measures has the NBR taken to prevent copyright infringement?
The NBR has disabled the ability for subscribers to copy, print, or save articles to PDF and has pursued individuals who illegally share paywalled content.