Former Newstalk ZB Afternoons host Danny Watson has died after a short illness, surrounded by family.
In a statement today, Watson’s family shared the news of his death yesterday with “heavy hearts”.
The 73-year-old was described as a cherished husband, devoted father, and adored koro.
“Danny is survived by his loving wife, four tamaraki, and six mokopuna, who were the absolute centre of his world,” his family wrote.
He was described as a familiar voice and face who brought warmth, humour, and “genuine human connection” to television screens and radio airwaves for decades.
“To us, he was the heart of our whānau.”
Watson’s family said he was a man of extraordinary depth, who had a wealth of knowledge, and was defined by his strength and an endless appetite for life.
“A true man of many talents, he threw his whole heart into everything he did.
“He was passionate about Te Ao Māori o Waitaha, Ngā Puhi Kaumātua, Seido karate, beekeeping and many other endeavours.”
His family said he lived life with boundless energy, generous spirit, and an extraordinary capacity for loving people.
“Danny made everyone feel seen and valued.”
His family said they were grateful for the kindness, care and support shown to them by medical staff, the North Harbour Hospice, friends and the wider community.
“We will take this time to grieve and celebrate his incredible life privately.”
In lieu of flowers, his family asked people to donate to hospice.
“In Danny’s honour, we encourage you to do what he did best: share a good story, check in on a neighbour, and hold your loved ones close.”
Watson took an unconventional path to broadcasting before discovering where he truly belonged.
His television career began after a flatmate spotted a newspaper advertisement for the much-loved children’s programme Spot On.
He later became part of the team behind another Kiwi favourite, What Now?.
Watson’s infectious energy made him a natural fit for radio – and he hosted Newstalk ZB’s Afternoons from 2000 to 2015.
That included a famous live broadcast from Scott Base in Antarctica in November 2014.
NZME chief executive Michael Boggs said Watson was a big part of the Newstalk ZB family and his loss would be felt right across the company.
“Many of our people worked alongside Danny over the years, and today is a very sad day for all of us at Newstalk ZB and NZME,” Boggs said.
“Danny had a real gift for connecting with listeners, and for so many New Zealanders his voice was part of everyday life.
“He was a wonderful colleague and friend to many here, and he will be greatly missed.”
Boggs said many of the team at NZME loved catching up with Watson at the recent ZB 100-year celebration.
“All our thoughts are with his wife Teresa, their children, his wider family and friends.”
Current Newstalk ZB afternoon hosts Matt Heath and Tyler Adams shared their memories of the “great Danny Watson”.
Heath said he was a “big fan” of Watson and grew up watching him on Spot On.
Adams shared that when he started on the station, Watson was working on the afternoons.
“I had some dealings with him, phoning into his show and reporting on various things, and he was nothing but kind, generous, full of enthusiasm and warmth and just an incredible human being,” Adams said.
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