Triangle on track to launch regional station

June 21, 2004

Triangle Television on track to launch regional station in Wellington

Plans for the launch of Wellington's new regional television station are well underway with new operator, Triangle Television, continuing to work with Broadcast Communications Ltd (BCL) to access translator sites to ensure wide coverage in the region.

The Ministry for Culture and Heritage advised Triangle Television in March that it had been successful in its bid to operate the non-commercial television frequency in the greater Wellington region.

For the past five years, Triangle has been offering an alternative to mainstream television channels, screening a combination of access, public broadcast, and programming in the style of Australia's SBS. It is proposing a similar service, with a strong Wellington identity and input.

Triangle Television Chief Executive Jim Blackman says Triangle Television's ability to provide good coverage in the Wellington region depends on access to suitable translator sites. The station is working through such issues with BCL and the Government.

"We're delighted at the level of support, encouragement and interest from all levels within the Wellington community for this venture and will soon be meeting with interested groups in Wellington to discuss this further," says Mr Blackman.

The new Wellington station will operate as a separate entity from Triangle Television in Auckland and will develop a clear Wellington focus that will reflect the diversity of that region and its people.

"It will screen an eclectic mix of Wellington regional-access television including community, music, arts and entertainment shows, plus international news and information. Like its sister station, Triangle Wellington will broadcast 24 hours a day - but it will not be simply a re-broadcast of Auckland programming."

Mr Blackman says Triangle Television will consult with Wellington's communities to preserve the local flavour and identity, and will explore all options to ensure ongoing success and viability.

"We want to continue involving key Wellington groups as we develop programmes so we can build a solid base for the future."

Triangle Television is a registered charitable trust and has been operating as the country's first non-profit public service broadcaster in the Greater Auckland Region since August 1, 1998.

ENDS

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