About Wellington Access Radio

Wellington Access Radio is the station that’s by, for, and about our community. We’re a non-profit, grassroots organisation that celebrates all things Wellington. We are the region’s community access broadcaster, covering Wellington, the Hutt Valley, and Porirua.

We provide a media platform for groups whose voices aren’t usually heard on mainstream radio. We primarily broadcast content under section 36(c) of the Broadcasting Act – which provides for the interests of women, children and youth, persons with disabilities, minority groups including ethnic minorities, and other content which reflects the diverse religious and ethical beliefs of New Zealanders. This contents sits alongside community programming, arts and culture coverage, current affairs, NZ music, and special interest programming.

Wellington Access Radio was the first established community access radio station in New Zealand, and has been on the air since April 1981. We broadcast over 80 programmes in more than 25 different languages. We stream and podcast our programmes on this website, and broadcast on 106.1FM.

Because we’re a non-commercial radio station our priorities are vastly different to most radio stations. We measure success based on the quality and diversity of our programmes and audience, not on audience size alone. Our schedule is the most diverse in the region, and everyone has the opportunity to be participate.

We survive financially through the continuous support of New Zealand on Air and through our small broadcasting and membership fees, grants and donations, and sponsorship. Our non-commercial radio frequency is granted by the Ministry for Culture and Heritage. The station is a member of CAMA – Community Access Media Alliance, the representative body for the 12 NZ on Air funded community access radio stations across New Zealand. Check out the website: CAMA.NZ