An acquisition by MediaWorks should ensure the future of a Maori-language radio station.
MediaWorks Radio has acquired the Auckland based radio station George FM, and also leased the frequency 96.8FM.
The agreement is with the Manukau Urban Maori Authority (MUMA) and the Waipareira Trust.
"There is a strong,
ongoing relationship between the urban Maori authorities and MediaWorks", said MUMA chief executive officer Willie Jackson.
"John Tamihere, CEO for Waipareira, and myself have worked for MediaWorks as talkback hosts for three years now. We will all be working together to ensure Maori language and cultural objectives on George FM continue to be met," Jackson said.
MediaWorks CEO Brent Impey said his organisation is also keen to maintain the cultural and language commitments of the George FM brand.
"George FM is an urban, dance format station with a proud cultural heritage. It complements many of our key radio brands," said Impey.
"We are keen to retain the station's successful format and fully support commitments the station has to fostering the Maori language and culture," he said.
The purchase is for an undisclosed amount.
