AwaFM Whanganui

Tena koutou,

This submission comes after consultation with Whanganui Iwi regarding the proposed allocation / auction.

We believe that a portion of the spectrum must be reserved for the promotion and protection of Maori language and culture.

The portion spoken of specifically relates to Iwi radio throughout the country. The spectrum will allow future development in terms of providing wireless broadband access & services and point-to-point services for outside broadcasts, especially in remote areas. Point in case: Te Reo Irirangi O Whanganui (T/a AwaFM) is currently broadcasting the hearings of the Waitangi Tribunal being held in our tribal domain. As the hearings move site every 2 weeks, we have to organise temporary phone line connections to enable the broadcast. With wireless access, the operation would be a lot easier. We look forward to the technology changes ahead and believe that an allocation to iwi radio via Te Whakaruruhau O Nga Reo Irirangi O Aotearoa, under the mantle of our (collective) company – Starnet 200 Ltd – would be a wonderful gesture of a “hand up” instead of a “handout”.

Noho ora mai,
Geoff Mariu
Operations Manager