At the beginning of each year, New Zealand On Air recognizes radio stations that play more than 20% Kiwi music. This year, Radio 1XX, Q97, and BAYROCK were all awarded for their commitment to local content.
While BAYROCK and Q97 are regular recipients of this award, this marks the first time 1XX has achieved this recognition.
“It’s really important for us to support the locals. Whether that's the eastern bay or nationally for New Zealand, rather than focusing only on international artists. By playing more kiwi music, we are really celebrating those artists.” said Media Bay Of Plenty's Managing director, Andy Galbraith.
The award night in Auckland also featured a showcase with emerging artists, A.R.T, Coast Arcade, NO CIGAR, and Ruby Coley.
In total, six stations received awards, with Coromandel's CFM, Radio Hauraki and Niu FM joining Media Bay of Plenty. Niu FM stands out as the station playing the most Kiwi music, surpassing the target with over 50% of its content being local.
However, while these stations are making strides in promoting local music, a recent report from Recorded Music New Zealand highlighted a concerning trend. For the second year in a row, commercial stations in the country failed to meet the overall threshold for Kiwi music. The report showed that fewer than one in five songs played on these stations were from New Zealand artists.
“It’s never been easier to release music, but it’s becoming harder for our local musicians to compete against international artists,” said NZ On Air’s Head of Music, Teresa Patterson.
NZ On Air remains committed to supporting the growth of Kiwi musicians and is dedicated to partnering with more stations to highlight local voices across Aotearoa.
