Canterbury Television (CTV) and Maori Television have become unlikely bedfellows, with Maori Television broadcasting the Christchurch-based channel nationwide from today.
It was a small way to support the CTV staff and help Christchurch people recover from the devastating quake, said Maori Television chief executive Jim Mather.
He said he was glad it could offer CTV a chance to broadcast to a national audience after the CTV building was destroyed by the February 22 earthquake, which claimed the lives of 16 CTV staff members.
The building's collapse also killed more than 60 students and staff from English language school King's Education.
Free transmission access would be provided to CTV and it will screen when Maori Television is normally off air.
"It is our hope that the support of Maori Television will contribute to CTV sharing local Christchurch stories to a national audience during the challenges that they all continue to face,'' Mr Mather said.
"I am particularly mindful that CTV has suffered horrifically with the loss of so many of its staff members, its home base, and its entire infrastructure. As a fellow broadcaster they have our support.''
CTV chairman Nick Smith said CTV had approached Maori Television because it was important to get recovery messages and updates to all New Zealanders, particularly those with family and friends living in Christchurch.
CTV was indebted to Maori Television for their kind offer, he said.
"This gives us a national platform which would not otherwise be available to us. I know that the people of Christchurch appreciate this, as do Christchurch businesses.''
CTV will broadcast on Maori Television weekdays from 8am to 10am and from 1pm to 3pm, and weekends from 8am to 2pm until July 31.
