NZOwnership & classification
Founded: 2014
Ownership
The Spinoff is an independent New Zealand digital magazine founded in 2014 by Duncan Greive, who remains its publisher. It is privately owned by Greive and his family rather than by a large media group, having grown without major external investors.
Funding
It is financed mainly through commercial brand partnerships and sponsored content, plus member/reader donations and subscriptions, and has at times received project grants from public bodies such as Creative New Zealand and NZ On Air. No party or state owns it.
Affiliation & stance
The Spinoff is a small, founder-owned commercial publisher with a centre-left, culturally progressive editorial voice but no party, union or state control. Its private independent ownership makes it INDEPENDENT.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Progressive
- Measured from coverage
- Lean Progressivebased on 153
77/100
Factual
70/100
Objective
208
Articles
206
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
Love, actually, at 29: ‘Consistently receiving love for the first time ever’
This article features a personal reflection from a 29-year-old bisexual woman who describes her experiences in a long-term relationship. She discusses how she has learned to receive love for the first time, which has helped her develop self-love and improve her ability to support her partner. The piece highlights communication, shared goals, and emotional growth within the relationship. It also touches on challenges such as past fears of betrayal and differences in how they handle stress. The author emphasizes the importance of consistent love and mutual effort in maintaining a healthy partnership.
The R18 online quirk that feels like a relic of the old internet
The article discusses a quirky form of internet trolling where alcohol websites redirect underage users to child-friendly content or humorous videos instead of enforcing strict age restrictions. When Ben Fagan clicked 'no, I'm under 18' on the Garage Project site, he was redirected to Toyworld New Zealand, which offered toys at a discount. Similar tactics were used by Liquorland, which sent users to a music video for Dragon’s song 'Are You Old Enough,' and Behemoth Brewing Company, which provided a metal cover of 'Baby Shark.' Other breweries like The Good Wine Company and Beer Hug redirected users to The Wiggles or Peppa Pig content, while some offered non-alcoholic drink options or discounts. Although these redirects are playful, they comply with New Zealand's laws restricting alcohol advertising to adults. A few sites, like Tokyo Liquor and Alpa Domus, redirected users to unrelated pages, but overall, the trend reflects a light-hearted approach to enforcing age limits.
There was only one thing about Bürgen that was German and it was not the bread
The article discusses the origins and branding of the German-sounding bread brand 'Bürgen,' clarifying that it was actually created in New Zealand by a local baker and later acquired by an Australian company. The piece explores the broader theme of how brands often adopt foreign-sounding names to evoke certain cultural associations, even when those connections are tenuous or misleading. It references historical examples such as Häagen-Dazs and Audi, illustrating how companies manipulate linguistic elements to create perceived authenticity or prestige. The author, a German speaker, critiques the practice of mislabeling products and highlights how such strategies rely on the credibility of the cultural or national reputations they borrow.
The Unity Books children’s book review roundup for winter
The Spinoff presents a roundup of children's book reviews from Unity Books Auckland and Wellington, featuring a selection of titles suitable for various age groups. The reviews highlight the artistic value and storytelling of each book, with particular emphasis on the visual elements and narrative depth. Titles such as 'Ahab and the White Whale' and 'Grumble’s Bridge' are praised for their engaging illustrations and imaginative retellings of classic tales. Other highlighted books include 'Picturebook Makers Part Two,' which explores the creative process behind picture books, and 'Edith: the Girl Who Was 100 Years Old,' which prompts thoughtful reflection through its unique premise.
Where to eat in Avondale, Auckland – an insider’s guide
This article features an insider's guide to dining in Avondale, Auckland, written by restaurateur Kaz Suzuki. It highlights the area's evolving landscape, including ongoing developments and changes to its iconic spider mascot and markets. Suzuki, who owns several successful eateries, shares his personal recommendations for top restaurants and dishes, emphasizing quality, atmosphere, and community spirit. He praises specific venues such as Burnt Butter and Tokos Tacos while offering candid opinions on the neighborhood's potential for growth and improvement. The piece focuses on local cuisine and dining experiences rather than political issues.
Where did all the acne go?
The article discusses the apparent decline in severe acne cases among teenagers in New Zealand, particularly cystic acne and its associated scarring. The author reflects on their personal experience with severe acne during the early 2000s, describing the social stigma and limited treatment options available at the time. They recall struggling with various treatments, including Proactiv, tea tree oil, and antibiotics, before being eventually prescribed isotretinoin (Accutane) after a lengthy wait. The piece highlights a significant change in healthcare policy in 2009, which allowed general practitioners (GPs) to prescribe isotretinoin directly, reducing barriers to access compared to the previous system requiring dermatologist referrals. This policy shift is suggested as a possible explanation for the observed decrease in severe acne prevalence.
Greatsouth on making music and what it really means to be a good Kiwi
Greatsouth, a Māori musician based in New Zealand, has released his debut album 'Hellhole of the Pacific,' which blends Māori cultural elements such as taonga pūoro (traditional instruments) with alternative rock. The album challenges New Zealanders to re-examine national narratives and identity. Greatsouth, whose real name is Payton Taplin, grew up in Papakura, South Auckland, and draws inspiration from both his Māori heritage and experiences in the global music scene, including a trip to Amsterdam for a music academy program. His music reflects a fusion of traditional and contemporary influences, aiming to highlight the richness of Māori culture within modern contexts. The article describes his creative process, personal background, and the significance of his work in the local music scene.
Why own anything any more? The rise and rise of rental culture
The article explores the growing trend of rental culture in New Zealand, where consumers increasingly opt for rental services over traditional ownership. It highlights examples such as car rentals through MotorShare, clothing rentals via businesses like Renting with SB, and broader rental options ranging from luggage to hiking gear. The piece discusses motivations including affordability, sustainability, and convenience, noting that rental culture is expanding across various sectors. The focus is on how modern lifestyles and economic factors are reshaping consumer behavior, making ownership less appealing or accessible.
Yesterday Luxon won, again. Who lost?
The article discusses the recent internal turmoil within New Zealand's National Party, focusing on Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's continued dominance despite threats of a caucus revolt. Similar to a previous incident in April, Luxon managed to quell dissent and secure full support from his party members. The narrative highlights the repetitive nature of these events, drawing comparisons to a 'cruel existential test.' The piece critiques the internal dynamics of the party, suggesting that potential challengers to Luxon lacked both strategy and resolve. It references Mike Hosking's commentary, emphasizing that those plotting against Luxon were ultimately less effective. The article also notes the challenges of removing a leader under New Zealand's Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) electoral system, including managing coalition relationships and timing considerations ahead of an upcoming election.
Echo Chamber: Attack of the taxes!
The article discusses the political dynamics in New Zealand ahead of the 2026 election, focusing on the National Party's emphasis on taxation as a campaign strategy. During parliamentary sessions, Prime Minister Chris Luxon and his ministers repeatedly highlighted taxation issues, with particular attention to potential new taxes and the removal of a streaming levy bill. The article notes the controversy surrounding the removal of the Broadcasting (Commercial Video On-Demand Levy) Amendment Bill and mentions the sacking of Cabinet member Chris Penk, which became a point of contention between parties. Additionally, it references legislative actions such as the Te Here ā Nuku (Nelson Tenths) Bill and the Climate Change Response (Tort Liability) Amendment Bill. The piece also touches on internal party tensions and attempts by opposition leaders to probe government actions.
The Unity Books bestseller chart for the week ending August 21
This article presents the top 10 bestselling books at Unity Books' stores in Auckland and Wellington for the week ending August 21. In Auckland, 'Yesteryear' by Caro Claire Burke leads the list, followed by 'Facing Up to Our Future', 'Sophie, Standing There', 'The Valley: Crime and Punishment in a New Zealand City', 'Things We Never Say', and 'Short Stay in Hell'. In Wellington, 'kluge' by pip adam is the top seller. The article includes brief descriptions of each book, highlighting themes such as personal reflection, societal issues, and philosophical exploration.
20 takeaways from NZ Fashion Week 2026
The article provides a roundup of highlights from New Zealand Fashion Week 2026, emphasizing the vitality of the local fashion industry and its growing international engagement. It notes the high number of local designers participating, the integration of cultural symbols like the New Zealand Order of Merit medals into fashion, and the increasing influence of global collaborations. The event showcased both domestic and international designers, including those from Taiwan, Alaska, Fiji, China, and India, highlighting New Zealand's expanding role in the global fashion landscape. The article also mentions initiatives such as the New Zealand Indigenous Fashion Symposium and partnerships with international fashion councils, underscoring the evolving nature of the event beyond traditional trade functions.
Meet 25 young people changing Aotearoa and the world
The Spinoff highlights 25 young individuals in New Zealand recognized by the YWCA Y25 program for their contributions to society. These young people, aged 15 to 25, come from diverse backgrounds and fields such as activism, science, arts, and healthcare. They are acknowledged for their efforts in promoting equity, supporting Māori and Pacific communities, advancing mental health awareness, and driving climate action. The Y25 program, now in its seventh year, offers a leadership development opportunity to these individuals, including mentorship and professional growth. The article emphasizes the importance of youth leadership in shaping a more just and inclusive future.