Relocation on hold for community radio station
A Taranaki community radio station was meant to move premises last week, but instead the talent is now working from home.
Much like the rest of the country, Most FM staffers are working remotely, broadcasting from make-shift home-studios as the country settles into coronavirus lockdown.
Taranaki FM Trust chairman Mark Dickie said the crew had been ready to ‘‘flick the switch’’ on their Bell St digs and head to a new space on Liardet St last Friday.
‘‘The move was put on ice and we just focused on what we were able to do – broadcast,’’ he said.
The station’s hosts are recording their respective shows at home and sending them to the programmer, Dickie said.
‘‘As soon as we are able, we will relocate. Who knows when that will be, but we’re waiting at the start line.’’
It’s not the only change the station has experienced of late.
The Most FM breakfast host Jack Irving stepped down from his post on Tuesday, making way for the return of a familiar voice.
Taking on the DJ role is former station manager Dave Haskell, who was eager to return to his passion.
Acknowledging Irving for all of his work at the station, Haskell knew he had big shoes to fill.
Irving said it had been a privilege to work with a talented and committed group of people.
‘‘I know the station is in good hands and I’m very comfortable with the manaakitanga at The Most,’’ he said.
The station’s commitment to serving the community throughout the national emergency was identical to that of Access Radio Taranaki.
Station manager Alessandra Keighley said live-to-air broadcasts were able to continue remotely, while other hosts were pre-recording shows.
The station was dedicated to informing and guiding its listeners through the Covid-19 emergency, Keighley said.
‘‘Each time there’s been a crisis it’s really heightened the importance and value of this local, local broadcasting.
‘‘This is our time, really.’’