Radio hit by rising costs

Palmerston community radio station Radio Puketapu needs help to stay on the airwaves.

The current economic situation had led to a decline in advertising revenue, Radio Puketapu spokesman John Blair, of Palmerston, said yesterday.

If income could not be increased, the outlook for the station was not good, Mr Blair said.

When the volunteer-run radio station first went to air 15 years ago, an advertising income of $1000 a month was sufficient to cover costs. Now $2000 a month was required because costs had risen steeply, but advertising revenue had dropped, he said.

A public meeting in Palmerston on Monday night attracted 15 people, but no new ideas had emerged.

Waihemo Community Board chairman Rod Philip said yesterday businesses in the area should support Radio Puketapu. The board could in some circumstances contribute to capital costs, but could not contribute to running costs.

Mr Blair said more volunteer announcers and helpers for the radio station shop would be welcome.

 

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