Change of channel
Thank you for your article 'This subscription goes very long way' (September 22). It prompted a very positive response from members of the boating community. Hopefully this will be followed by cash.
However, there still seems to be some confusion about what and why this is happening despite it being advertised, mainly on televised fishing shows and in most media since July 2015.
On October 1 certain maritime repeater and nowcasting weather frequencies throughout New Zealand will be reallocated to international shipping for their automatic identification system (AIS) and VHF data exchange system (VDES) signals.
The only change affecting Far North Radio and Sea Rescue is VHF Channel 83, which changes to Channel 2, and covers the west coast from the top of 90 Mile Beach to the top of the Hokianga.
This change has been noted on this year's subscription form. The existing distress channel VHF 16 will not change.
The nearest other change is the Whangaroa VHF Channel 84 changing to Channel 5.
Thank you for your valued continued support for this vital Far North community service.
ANNETTE HALL
President, Far North Radio & Sea Rescue Inc