Talk host Linda Clark is leaving her “Nine to Noon” program on Radio New Zealand on March 3rd. after almost four years hosting the show. The mother of twins said in a statement yesterday that she would be considering “new options and new directions”.

Her resignation has even surprised her own staff.

Clark said:“Nine to Noon” has been a fantastic show to host as it provides such a wonderfully intimate connection with the listeners. I greatly value and appreciate my time with the programme but it’s time to do something else with my life.”

No replacement has yet been announced although speculation has mounted that Anita McNaught, who will fill in for Clark from January 23 for a week, was a contender for the job. The BBC presenter had indicated an interest in returning to New Zealand, but Radio New Zealand spokesman John Barr says her host role merely coincided with a visit to NZ.