Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air
The annual New Zealand Radio Awards were held in Auckland last night with broadcasters, production and sound specialists, programmers, news and sports reporters, and creatives recognised for their work and contribution to the industry.
Tongan broadcaster George Moungatonga, who has worked behind the scenes of Pacific radio for more than 30 years, was recognised for his services to Broadcasting.
George, who started his career in broadcasting with Auckland community station, Radio 531pi, in 1994, initially began panelling for a Friday night show hosted by his wife Veronica.
From there, George turned his attention to sound engineering. In 1998 he took on the role full-time after Rev. Lui Ponfasio left to create Radio Samoa.
George has been part of the rapid changes of the Pacific radio industry from the creation of the nationwide Pacific network Niu FM in 2002, to the merging of Niu and Radio 531pi in 2008 that then became Pacific Media Network that owns and operates Radio 531pi, Niu FM, PMN News and the 10 Pacific language programmes.
Former Niu FM host Alice Lolohea took to social media and says George has been a staple at PMN and deserves to be recognised for his part in Pacific radio.
“Georgie has always been a pillar of support to all who have walked through the doors of PMN. Lots of nuggets of wisdom to share and the most funny jokes to lift your spirits.”
The father of four has been a constant and influential presence at the station. With no signs of slowing down, George has some advice for the next generation of Pacific broadcasters.
“If you are a young Pacific person and proud of your culture, PMN is a platform where you tell your stories in your own language. Language is your identity.”
