Peter Williams to retire from Magic Talk radio

Veteran broadcaster Peter Williams is to retire from Magic Talk radio.

The 67-year-old Magic Talk Mornings host has stepped down, saying he wants to “enjoy a life with fewer commitments”.

Williams started out in broadcasting at Radio Otago, now More FM, in Dunedin in 1972.

He was hired by TVNZ in 1979, and went on to commentate and report for a number of years before joining the 1 News team full-time as Breakfast newsreader.

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Williams has had an illustrious career, covering seven Olympic Games, five Commonwealth Games, three Rugby World Cups, two Cricket World Cups and two Masters Golf Tournaments.

After nearly 40 years on television, the veteran broadcaster signed off for good in December, 2018, after his 65th birthday.

He then went to work as a talk radio host with Magic Talk in January 2019, back to where it all began for him in the broadcasting industry – on radio.

Geraldine-born Williams told Stuff at the time of his unveiling as a Magic Talk host that, “as someone approaching the age of Winston's Gold Card, I have plenty of thoughts and opinions on various issues”.

However, Williams copped criticism in February this year after referring listeners to the website of an anti-vaccine and anti-mask group.

MediaWorks chief executive officer Cam Wallace said in a statement that Williams had signalled for some time he wanted to finish up, and thinks now is the right time.

“I’d like to acknowledge his significant contribution to Magic Mornings over the past three years – there have been plenty of engaging and lively discussions.

“MediaWorks wishes Peter all the best.”

Leah Panapa will move into hosting the 9am-midday on Magic Talk and Danny Watson will continue to host afternoons, with the changes coming into effect immediately.