Tony Amos Joins Radio Aotearoa Network With 'Big Tony's Big Breakfast' Show
Press Release – Radio Aotearoa
Tonys journey is a testament to the enduring power of radio to connect, inform, and entertain audiences.
Radio Aotearoa is thrilled to announce the addition of veteran broadcaster Tony Amos to our network lineup. Amos will host 'Big Tony's Big Breakfast' from 6:00 AM to 8:30 AM, Monday to Friday. With over 50 years of radio experience, Tony brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the morning airwaves.
Amos began his radio career in 1972, and throughout the decades has had the privilege of broadcasting on various radio stations across New Zealand. His extensive career includes working with some of the country's most respected broadcasters, ensuring he has a deep understanding of New Zealand's diverse radio landscape. Tony's journey is a testament to the enduring power of radio to connect, inform, and entertain audiences.
Now broadcasting live from Radio Aotearoa's Tauranga studios, Tony's 'Big Breakfast' show will reach listeners across the country, including Paihia, Auckland, Pukekohe, Waiuku, Tauranga, Hawke's Bay, and Dunedin – the oldest radio station in New Zealand.
In addition to Amos, Radio Aotearoa is excited to welcome other highly regarded broadcasters to the network. Sean Plunket and Michael Laws, known for their work on The Platform, will be joining Tony with their own shows. Sean will broadcast from Wellington, while Michael will provide his commentary from Otago. Barbara Hamilton, a long-time Dunedin broadcaster, will take the helm of the midday to 4:00 PM slot, providing the community with compelling content.
George Ngatai, Radio Aotearoa's owner-operator, who previously hosted the breakfast show, now takes over the 'Drive' time slot from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Monday to Friday. George shared, 'While we are a National Māori Radio Network, we are excited to bring in these incredibly experienced broadcasters. Their wealth of experience will elevate the programming we offer to our listeners.'
George also highlighted the ongoing work to expand the network's reach. 'We are working on the re-launching of Radio Northland from Paihia, Radio Pacific in Auckland, Radio Geyserland in Rotorua, and Radio Avon in Christchurch. It's been a two-year journey, and we are proud to see our network covering over 50% of Aotearoa.'
While exploring the possibility of using dormant national Maori frequencies for these stations, George approached former Radio Minister Willie Jackson in 2022, seeking approval for the frequencies, but was not granted permission. 'I don't want funding from the taxpayer; I want the use of frequencies even to lease them. These frequencies have been dormant for over 30 years. This is an opportunity to bring these stations back to life and serve the communities that rely on them,' said George.
Now, George is reaching out to Minister Potaka and Minister Goldsmith to discuss the possibility of utilizing these frequencies, funded by advertisers rather than the taxpayer. 'If Pākehā can run radio stations well, then Māori can too. It's about providing quality content for all of Aotearoa.'
Radio Aotearoa continues to grow as a significant voice in New Zealand's media landscape. With an expanded network, seasoned broadcasters, and a deep commitment to Māori and NZ music and community-driven content, the network is poised for an exciting new chapter.
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