A number of staff at Māori Television learned on Tuesday that their jobs are on the line.
Newshub understands about 18 people will lose their jobs in a "strategic refresh", which the company hopes will revitalise the use and appreciation of te reo Māori in New Zealand.
Chief executive Keith Ikin said none of the changes will impact its news and and current affairs operation, despite the department's leader Maramena Roderick resigning.
"We are very sad that Maramena has decided to step down as head of news and current affairs," said Mr Ikin.
"She has been responsible for leading significant changes in the newsroom and across the organisation.
"Maramena supports the proposed strategic refresh and continues to support the future direction of Whakaata Māori."
Mr Ikin said the "refresh" is a sign of the "highly competitive and dynamic digital media environment" it was competing in.
"We have been working with staff over recent months to look at how we can do things better. Today marks the first step forward in implementing our strategic refresh."
Māori Television staff were made aware of the staffing changes on Tuesday.
Consultation is underway, but it's understood marketing and operations staff are affected.
In May, Minister of Māori Development Nanaia Mahuta told The Hui that station faces serious financial challenges and signalled potential job losses were on the horizon.
Newshub.
