TrainingandSupportJunearchive

Access Radio was the first community radio station to be established in New Zealand. The station began under the auspices of Radio New Zealand in April 1981, broadcasting throughout the greater Wellington region on Radio New Zealand's 2YB transmitter. Since 1981 the

Above: Bala Thomson has been hosting Access Radio's Indian Community Programme for 27 years.

Below: Eddie O'Strange and Merv Walters from Town and Country Radio, which is broadcast from 9 pm every Monday.

Below: Wellington songwriters and performers are showcased in Terry’s Songwriters Show, presented by Terry Shore. This weekly show won Best Music Programme in the Access/Ethnic radio category at the 2007 New Zealand Radio Awards.

station's airtime has risen from a largely experimental three hours weekly, to 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

Access Radio remained under the patronage of Radio New Zealand until July 1993, when the Wellington Access Radio Broadcasting Society Incorporated took over the ownership and management of the station. Radio New Zealand relinquished the 783AM frequency and assisted the station in the purchase and installation of its own 10kw transmitter.

Access Radio now has over eighty programmes in twenty-five different languages. We have a four-weekly schedule with programmes broadcasting on a daily, weekly, fortnightly or once-a-month basis. The frequency is also used by Samoa Capital Radio, who broadcast 38 hours of programming each week.

While Access Radio is transmitted throughout the Wellington Region anyone around the world can listen to what we do! You can listen live online or can download specific programmes of interest – just go to www.accessradio.org.nz .

Anyone can apply to make a programme on Access Radio. We give priority to local people whose voices are not always heard, especially ethnic minorities, religious minorities, women, youth, children, people with disabilities, special interest groups, and people with different ethical points of view. You can broadcast in English or in any other language.

For those of you interested in the technical side of broadcasting we have a constant demand for skilled operators. We offer comprehensive training and on the job learning opportunities.

We have lots of need for folks to help out around the office, answering phones, and helping at special events or evening programmes.

We are currently in need of a web designer to assist us with a major overhaul of our website.

You could assist at public events; help with marketing and public relations, or newsletter distribution.

Last but certainly not least, anyone with something to say can apply to become a programme maker. In particular, we encourage people whose voices are not always heard. You can broadcast in English or in any other language. Programme fees apply. Training, encouragement and support are provided.

For only $20 a year, you can become a member of Wellington Access Radio Broadcasting Society. The support of members helps our station to keep going and keep growing. It will also entitle you to participate in the governance and direction of the station. All members receive the regular newsletter as well as discounted rates on studio hire.

If you have an idea on how you could contribute to Wellington Access Radio 783AM, please let us know. It is your station!

Access Radio is one of eleven community radio stations spread throughout New Zealand. For a full list of community stations go to the New Zealand On Air website