Mediaworks — which broadcasts The Breeze, More FM, The Rock, The Edge, The Sound and Magic FM — will move into a new purpose-built office and studio at 56 Bank St.
Broadcaster Brent Birchfield opened the doors to 56 Woollcombe St 34 years ago, broadcasting local radio station Port FM across the region.
With a focus on community and fantastic service, Port FM was an institution across North Otago, South Canterbury and Mid Canterbury until Mr Birchfield sold the Port FM Music Network to national broadcaster MediaWorks in 2018.
In a statement about the move, MediaWorks regional general manager Mary Strachan said she was excited to be moving into the new purpose-built facility.
"It is with sadness that we close the chapter on Port FM house which is an institution, but [we are] exceptionally excited to be investing serious capital into our local region."
She acknowledged the efforts and influence Mr Birchfield had on radio in the region.
"[He] has been an instrumental force in the popularity and development of radio in this region. We would not be who we are without his foresight, hard work and commitment to the regions, which I take great pride in continuing with MediaWorks.
"Mr Birchfield has also been an invested landlord for us, and it is with sadness that we will be moving from this institutional building.
"So many amazing broadcasters and staff have worked from here and continue to do so today."
The site at 56 Bank St is fitted out with a new purpose-built studio unit featuring some of the latest technologies, and the new office space will house the eight Timaru-based staff.
OJ on The Breeze was to broadcast his first show from the new premises this week, and the rest of the team is due to begin working from there on Monday.
