[2] Stevenson began his broadcasting career in 1964 with the regional Dunedin station DNTV2, and in 1969 was chosen to read the first nationwide news bulletin for the new countrywide television network (on 5 November).

Since leaving a regular anchor role, he has appeared as presenter and narrator of many series, his distinctive voice making him a popular choice for documentary work.

If there is an end-of-the-world broadcast kept in readiness for the final moments on Earth, I hope TVNZ has chosen Dougal to announce it.

In 2012 he finally made his debut in a true acting role, starring as "Grandad Jack" in a six-minute short film by Gem Waterhouse, Forget Me Not.

In 1987 he was chosen to host the Australasian version of the popular ITV-produced Granada Television quiz show The Krypton Factor.