New FM station for Auckland

The Radio Network in New Zealand has adjusted it's format offering in the Auckland market.

Radio Sport, which was simulcasting on the FM and AM band, will now broadcast solely on the AM band. The FM frequency of 98.2 has been given to a new brand which will air in Auckland only called Mix 98.2.

TRN's Chief Content Officer Dean Buchanan said;

“We have identified a market opportunity in Auckland for a music station that specifically targets 40-54 year olds. Mix98.2 has been created based on these consumer and commercial insights” 

Mix 98.2's format features music from the 80's and 90's, together with fashion, style, food, dining out, wellness, entertainment and all things Auckland.

CEO New Zealand Media, APN Jane Hastings says this is not just about a new radio station. The content will be generated via collaboration of a new team between TRN and the APN talent who lead VIVA, Bite and Canvas to name a few, this will extend to advertising opportunities.

“With APNs recent acquisition of 100% ownership of TRN, the new leadership team has been looking at effective ways to leverage the content rich business to grow audiences for advertisers wanting to reach savvy women with control of the household purse strings.

An Auckland-only station shows our commitment to the largest city in New Zealand.”

Melanie Homer will host weekdays from 8am-12pm, and will be the only announcer on the station at this time.

Dean Buchanan said;

“We are thrilled to have Mel host Mix98.2. With her extensive radio career and experience we know Mel will easily connect and engage with the lifestyles and attitudes of the target audience. There are enough talk-intensive Breakfast and Drive shows in Auckland and we have intentionally chosen to focus on more music at this time of the day to differentiate.”

Radio Sport will remain on the AM frequency of 1332, and also broadcasts on iHeart.

Buchanan said: “We recognise the strength of the Auckland Radio Sport audience via iHeartRadio and we will introduce a new Radio Sport stream called ‘Radio Sport Omnibus’. In addition, ‘Radio Sport Extras’ will be added to Newstalk ZB. We know that those who love sport will find the frequency and are highly engaged online streaming users."