NZ On Air is conducting focus groups to explore whether publicly funded LGBT television is meeting the needs of the community. The organisation currently funds the LGBT show, Kiwifruit, which airs each Tuesday at 11pm. LGBT programming forms part of NZ On Air's brief to "fund programmes… not otherwise provided in a commercial market, which are widely accessible, reflect New Zealand's diversity," and are informative and entertaining. Acting Chief Executive, Bernard Duncan, told GayNZ.com that NZ On Air is "comfortable with the Kiwifruit series," and the purpose of the focus groups is "to ensure that this is still the most appropriate way of meeting the needs of the audience." Beyond the Kiwifruit series, "funding of programmes that meet the needs of the LGBT audience is assured," said Duncan. The focus groups have been commissioned to find out what LGBT New Zealanders want to see on television, and will be conducted around the country later this month. They will be an informal discussion, with refreshments provided, and participants will be paid $50 for their effort. The groups will convene in the Wairarapa on the 21st of May, Lower Hutt on the 23rd, and in Auckland on the 27th and 28th. If you are interested in getting involved, so you can have your say about the future direction of LGBT television, email tess@labett.co.nz.