TRN announce major changes to ZM/Classic Hits

Staff Writer

The Radio Network (TRN) has announced that from April 28 Polly and Grant (Polly Gillespie and Grant Kereama) will be the faces of a new station, The Hits that will replace Classic Hits. Although they will be networking breakfast, TRN has said there will be an increase in the amount of local hours regionally during the day.

As expected, ZM’s new breakfast show will be headed up by Fletch, Vaughan and Megan. Fletch & Vaughan left The Edge late last year to jump to TRN.

TRN CEO Jane Hastings says: “This is a major day for radio. We are excited to deliver listeners and advertisers these changes. This is a great combination of the best talent, music and multimedia capabilities. In addition to iHeartRadio, we are confident these will future proof our business.”

The Polly and Grant Show will air on breakfast in 20 regions, nationwide on iHeartRadio and an hour of daily highlights will play from 6-7pm nationwide.

TRN Chief Content Officer, Dean Buchanan (left) says breakfast radio is all about being connected on a local, national and international level.

“In a globally connected world, listeners demand the very best of entertainment from the very best of sources. Polly and Grant have proven themselves as both and have an exceptional track record that is world-class. The Hits captures all that was strong from Classic Hits and has evolved to recognise today’s modern day adult listener,” says Buchanan.

Polly says: “We’ve got the chance to start a revolution. We’ve never done anything like this in our careers and it’s something we’re so excited to be part of. We’ve been working really hard to bring listeners everything they will love in a station – the best music, the biggest stars and the greatest experiences."

The Hits new look will see it extend the number of local on-air hours for the majority of its provincially based stations. 

“Localism is as strong as ever. With this move we will be one of a few local media left connecting with New Zealand’s growing SME market. We are regularly asked about extending local content, particularly from local businesses who want to talk to locals. This also benefits national advertisers who need to connect locally and in relevant ways,” says Hastings.

Drive (3pm–6pm) will continue as a national show with Stacey Morrison and Justin Brown.

“They both understand that some days getting the kids to the right school and fully clothed can resemble a mission to Mars. Being able to talk about that on air in a way that makes listeners laugh and regain some degree of sanity is a gift. Equally The Hits will let you know what movie is worth seeing for date night, what Gwyneth Paltrow is up to and what style of boots are hot this winter,” says Buchanan.

Talking about the music change to The Hits, Buchanan says:

“It’s about being able to sing out loud to a great mix of songs you know and love. This has been the core of Classic Hits and a key reason for its dominant success in the market. However, 40 is now the new 30 and if a hit song today resonates with this audience, we will also play it. We are no longer defined by era alone.”

Hastings says: "The Hits will really resonate with todays 30 plus audience. A leading entertainment based breakfast with Polly and Grant (and producer) Marc, followed by a strong local connection during the day, a top talent drive show and all the music you know and love. This may be the best radio station you have ever heard.”

“On the same day Fletch, Vaughan and Megan will begin their new breakfast show on ZM.

"Fletch, Vaughan and Megan are naturally hilarious. They have an off-the-wall sense of humour which is irreverent, creative and highly relatable. It works seamlessly with social media channels and they love connecting with their fans this way. They’re back and ready to laugh again with their fans and a whole new audience at breakfast.”

Buchanan added: “The latest music is a critical component for ZM listeners as is being at the cutting edge of what’s next and trending. This has been a real focus for us. ZM will create the trend not follow it.”

Here's the announcement from ZM breakfast this morning from Polly & Grant.

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