NMZE. has confirmed they have signed talented multi-media broadcaster Marcus Lush. 

In what is being dubbed the ‘steal’ of the year, Lush will finish with Mediaworks mid-next year, joining NZME. at the end of 2015.  He will host the night show on Newstalk ZB, but Dallas Gurney, General Manager (Talk) says someone with Lush’s talent the potential is endless.

“Marcus is a brilliant broadcaster – he is Radio Live’s most successful performer but he is also a favourite with New Zealanders on screen and he writes well.

"NZME. offers him the opportunity to showcase all of his talents. Marcus is a natural fit to work with us as we continue to grow our #1 rating nationwide night show on Newstalk ZB. He’s bloody top talent, one of the best and he deserves to be working with the best.”

Lush says the year ahead is looking exciting.

“While I’ve enjoyed my time on breakfast, night-time talk on Newstalk ZB is my natural home.  NZME. is an exciting new media company to work for and Newstalk ZB is the pinnacle of talk radio.  They are professionals and I can’t wait to get started.”

Gurney confirmed incumbent host Kerre McIvor will be moving to afternoons as part of a yet to be announced new show. McIvor says she couldn’t have handed her show over to just anyone.

“I have absolute faith in Marcus to look after my people… he’s the right person for the job.”

Gurney added, “Kerre is one of our stars and is ready for a new challenge. Danny Watson will not be renewing his contract at the end of next year. He’s decided to concentrate on his bee business and honey school."

"He’s been talking about this for a bit, so while we are sad to see Danny depart after 15 years with us, the timing works to create something different and exciting in afternoons for 2016, while Marcus’ involvement at nights will bring a brand new audience to night-time talk radio.”