The independently owned radio stations Radio Wānaka and Roy have been sold to New Zealand Media and Entertainment (NZME).

The stations had been owned by Wānaka resident Mike Regal, under Central Lakes Media, for more than a decade. 

“NZME is a leading media company in New Zealand and we have always had a great working relationship,” Mike said. 

“Their dedication to local media means I know Radio Wānaka is in safe hands, and the community I know and love will continue to have a quality radio station to keep them entertained and in the know.”

Mike will stay on as the morning announcer on Radio Wānaka.

Fellow staff Petrea McRobie, Hannah Twiss, Ali O'Connor and John Jones have also been retained and will join NZME in the Wānaka office.

Breakfast announcer Bradley Craig (Bradley’s Big Breakfast) has not had his contract renewed.

Under the new ownership, Radio Wānaka will join NZME’s stable of radio stations broadcasting into Wānaka, which include Newstalk ZB, The Hits, ZM, and Coast. 

Radio Roy has been closed and it is expected NZME will use Roy’s radio frequency to broadcast one of its other national radio brands (Gold, Flava, or Radio Hauraki) into Wānaka.

“We’re thrilled to be welcoming Radio Wānaka to the NZME family, as well as Mike, Petrea, Hannah, Ali and John,” NZME’s general manager South Island regions Janine Tindall-Morice said. 

“Their local knowledge and experience in radio will be invaluable as we work together to continue to provide a voice for Wānaka residents and businesses.”

Mike will host Radio Wānaka’s weekday breakfast/morning show from 6am-12pm with NZME announcer Peter Mac hosting the afternoon show.

NZME is one of New Zealand’s largest media companies managing print, audio, and digital media.

The sale of Radio Wānaka and Roy to NZME was effective from Tuesday February 1.

PHOTO: Supplied