Easy Mix returns, nudging Flava to an online slot

The Radio Network will re-launch Easy Mix on 96.7FM from Thursday, March 1.

"Since June last year, when we took Easy Mix off the air to transition Newstalk ZB to FM, there has been a constant listener and advertiser demand for the station to return," says Rebecca Johnson, Hawke's Bay general manager for The Radio Network.

"Following that feedback we have reviewed our station selection and made the decision to bring back Easy Mix."

In making the change, Flava, the station currently heard on 96.7FM, will cease broadcasting on February 29.

"We're sorry to disappoint the many listeners to Flava and thank them for their loyal support of the station. Flava will still be available online at www.flava.co.nz.

"This change is no reflection on the Flava product, which is a ratings winner, ranking number five for all people 10+ in the recent Hawke's Bay radio survey results.

"It is a question about the demographic spread of our stations and Easy Mix is a better fit with our other adult-focused stations."

Switching Newstalk ZB to FM was a successful move with the station considerably increasing audience share to become the number one station in Hawke's Bay in the last survey.

The Radio Network will continue with seven stations on air in Hawke's Bay which, in addition to Easy Mix, also includes Newstalk ZB, Classic Hits, ZM, Radio Hauraki, Coast and Radio Sport.

There are no staff changes as a result of the format switch.