Newstalk ZB has announced this afternoon co-host Phil Gifford will be leaving the show he hosts with Simon Barnett.

Barnett and Gifford have forged a strong talkback team since reuniting on-air in July 2019, helping Newstalk ZB’s afternoon show to number one in the Auckland radio market for the first time in the network’s history.

Gifford, who began his on-air career exactly 40 years ago on an Auckland breakfast show, said he considers himself “hugely fortunate” to have been able to combine radio with journalism.

“I can’t pick a favourite,” he said. The author of 26 books said that while writing offered a chance to consider and rework your words, “I’ve never stopped loving the immediacy and audience involvement of radio.”

He will continue as a columnist for the New Zealand Herald and as a regular commentator across Newstalk ZB.

“Phil has done a fantastic job with Simon over the last 2 years as we reinvented Newstalk ZB afternoons. I appreciate all Phil has brought to the show and our listeners and I want to personally thank him. I am delighted Phil will continue to be part of the NZME team on Newstalk ZB and NZ Herald” said NZME’s Head of Talk Jason Winstanley.

Phil’s last day with the show will be on Friday 25 June 2021.

An announcement will be made soon on plans for the Newstalk ZB Afternoon Show with Simon Barnett.