25 years of Pacific Radio in Aotearoa

Press Release for Immediate Release – Monday 16th August 2010

Radio 531pi and NiuFM celebrates 25 years of Pacific Radio in Aotearoa

Pacific Media Network (PMN) parent entity to Pacific radio stations; Radio 531pi and Niu FM, will host a birthday event celebrating 17 years of broadcasting for Radio 531pi and 8 years for NiuFM.

Vibrant and diverse, Pacific people continue to contribute value in Aotearoa through various achievements in an array of areas including music, sports, business, dance, arts and culture. Achievements that have all become success stories - shared and celebrated on the airwaves of Radio 531pi and Niu FM.

Since 1993, Radio 531pi has been broadcasting programmes in English and 9 Pacific languages. Niu FM started as a pilot programme in 2002 and has been connecting Pacific Peoples throughout New Zealand with 13 frequencies on it’s nationwide network. Both stations dedicated to linking Pacific communities with NiuFM broadcasting a more youth focused programme and 531pi; news, information and talkback format attracting a
mature audience.

Pacific Peoples represent 6.9 percent of the total New Zealand population (2006 Census) and by 2026, it is projected that Pacific people will account for 10% of the population. Leaving their homes in the Islands in search for opportunity for their families, Pacific people in Aotearoa have come a long way and have made huge gains. While adversity and challenge still presents itself, the nature of these have changed to include decisions around tertiary study and which is the best university to attend or what kind of business to start.

PMN Chief Executive, Tom Etuata says “The birthday show will feature performances from comedy duo The Laughing Samoans, cultural performances and game shows hosted by radio personalities with major prizes including trips to the Pacific Islands to be given away. A special feature of the birthday show will include the launch of the new names for the Community Language Shows.”

The birthday show event will take place on Saturday 28th August from 1pm with a minimarket and the show starting at 2pm at the Otara Recreation Centre, Bairds Road, Otara. A free event to attend with limited seats.

ENDS

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