Rawdon Christie delivered his final broadcast from the Breakfast couch this morning amid both tears and laughter, as the show took the opportunity to highlight some of his best moments on screen over the course of his 13-year career with TVNZ.
From having his sand drawings repeatedly washed out by waves, to dropping a few F-bombs on TV, the irrepressible broadcaster’s funniest ‘bloopers’ were showcased in a montage of clips.
“I honestly thought I’d done no bloopers – I thought I hadn’t done anything wrong. You’ve done some serious digging,” Rawdon revealed after the footage aired.
Rawdon’s co-host Nadine Chalmers-Ross will finish up at Breakfast next week. Photo: Getty
The show also included some of Rawdon’s career highlights, from his live coverage of the Christchurch earthquake to his time hosting Sunday and One News.
When it came time for Rawdon to say goodbye, co-presenter Melissa Stokes broke down in tears upon hearing his tribute to her.
“It’s a special friendship that will continue for many more years to come,” he said, as he thanked her for easing him into his first few days at TVNZ back at the beginning of his career.
Close friend Toni Street also made an appearance for Rawdon’s last broadcast. Photo: Getty
Former Breakfast presenter Toni Street also made a special appearance this morning to farewell her former co-host.
“I know we’ll stay friends and you’ll come to my house and eat food and you won’t bring anything,” she quipped.
“You’re one of the best friends I’ve made here.”
Rawdon’s departure comes after veteran journalist Peter Williams said his goodbyes on the show on Wednesday, kicking off what Rawdon called the “sad week”. Nadine Chalmers-Ross will sign off for the last time next week.
New hosting duo Hilary Barry and Jack Tame will take over the Breakfast couch from September 19.
