Wanaka DJ apologises over comment

Radio Wanaka breakfast host Wayne Johnson apologised on air yesterday morning for comments he made during a broadcast on Friday about a Wanaka mother who had concerns about a "white supreeemacy"-themed college after-party.

Mr Johnson had suggested the woman be "run out of town" for complaining about the wording on the ticket and attracting national media attention.

Broadcasting Standards Authority legal manager Christina Sophocleous, of Wellington, confirmed yesterday two complaints about the broadcast were lodged through the authority's website on Friday, which were forwarded to Radio Wanaka yesterday for action.

Yesterday morning, Mr Johnson apologised on air to the woman and her family and said the comments were made in the heat of the moment.

Both the woman and Mr Johnson declined to comment when contacted by the Otago Daily Times yesterday.

Radio Wanaka owner Ed Taylor has also declined to comment because the issue is now being dealt with by the authority.

Ms Sophocleous said formal complaints were always dealt with by a broadcaster in the first instance.

"Broadcasters have to write directly to the complainant within 20 working days of receiving the complaint.

"Then, if the complainant is not satisfied with the broadcaster's response, they can refer their complaint to the BSA," she said.

As far as Ms Sophocleous was aware, the complaints about Mr Johnson's comments had not been withdrawn.

The party organisers changed the name of the after-ball party to "The White Out" after Mt Aspiring College principal Wayne Bosley intervened on Thursday.

It was held at Jeff and Sandy Limmer's property at 301 Riverbank Rd.

Lakes Environmental compliance and enforcement manager Tim Francis said yesterday he was aware of one noise complaint in that area on Saturday.

Wanaka police have told the Otago Daily Times the event was well organised and said those attending the event were well-behaved.

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