Maori Radio Service Reinforces News Team

Te 12 o nga ra o Paenga-whawha 2002

National radio service Ruia Mai is consolidating its position as New Zealand's leading Maori language news organisation with the appointment of several new staff.

Former Te Karere reporter Maihi Nikora (Rongowhakaata, Mahaki, Ruapani, Kai Tahu, Te Atiawa, Tuwharetoa, Tuhoe, Ngati Ruanui, Te Ati-Haunui-a- Paparangi) and up-and-coming Maori journalist Roihana Nuri (Te Arawa, Ngati Awa, Tuhoe, Te Whanau-a-Apanui) have both joined the Auckland-based Ngati Whatua station.

Mr Nikora has worked for Gisborne Maori radio station Te Reo Irirangi o Turanganui-a-Kiwa but is best known for his role as a reporter and presenter for the TV One Maori language news programme, Te Karere. Mr Nuri, who has a National Diploma in Journalism from Taranaki Polytechnic, has worked for the Whakatane Beacon as well as iwi radio stations throughout the North Island.

Ruia Mai reporters contribute to the morning and night current affairs shows, Te Kowae Paneke and Te Kawe Purongo, as well as the on-the-hour news and sports bulletins, Nga Rangona Korero. Seven days a week, the team of presenters, reporters and producers generate some 40 hours of programming for the national network of iwi radio stations as well as broadcasting on their own frequency in Auckland, 1179AM.

Staff include Kingi Taurua, Dan Hiramana-Rua, sports manager Henare Pryor, Vanessa Bidois, Wellingon-based political editor Shane Taurima, Piripi Taylor, Tamati Waaka, Annabelle Lee, Mere McLean, Erana Karauti and Kororia Taumaunu. Another staff member, Ngarimu Daniels, is a finalist for Best Newsreader at the 2002 New Zealand Radio Awards being held in Auckland on May 4.

Ruia Mai general manager Pere Maitai says the service has strengthened itself over the past six months with a new management team; the appointment of more trained journalists; and the recognition of the talents of staff by other media outlets.

"Ruia Mai is at the forefront of Maori news and current affairs gathering in the Maori language, and we’re constantly pushing to be first with the stories on Maori issues," Mr Maitai says. "These issues are about Maori, being communicated to Maori, by Maori, in the Maori language."

ENDS

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