World Radio Day

World Radio Day History

World Radio Day highlights the importance and impact of radio in societies across the world. It has a crucial role in disseminating information, nurturing cultural diversity and promoting dialogue. The day recognises the unique ability of radio to reach out to the farthest corners of the world, making it a powerful and low-cost medium of discourse. It provides a platform for people regardless of their educational level, promoting the right to information and freedom of expression.

World Radio Day, proclaimed in 2011 by the member states of UNESCO and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012, has a particular relevance to New Zealand. The history of radio in New Zealand dates back to the start of the 20th century with the first radio broadcast taking place in 1921. It played a crucial role in connecting the country's dispersed population, particularly in remote areas. Over the years, it has diversified into a vibrant platform for communicating local issues, indigenous culture, and language, reflecting the country's unique identity and cultural diversity.

In New Zealand, World Radio Day is observed by various community, public, and online radio stations acknowledging their role in fostering dialogue, tolerance and peace. Events such as discussions, interviews, and special broadcasts about radio's role and development occur. The day, celebrated annually on February 13, brings a great opportunity to appreciate the value of radio in our lives, and how this communication tool aids New Zealand in being an informed and connected society.

Top 8 Facts for 2026 World Radio Day in NZ

• As World Radio Day approaches on February 13, 2026, here are the most interesting and significant facts likely to capture interest across Aotearoa:
  
  The global theme for 2026 is Radio and Artificial Intelligence, which explores the evolving relationship between human broadcasters and digital innovation, specifically focusing on how AI-driven voice cloning and automated content can be used ethically to enhance local storytelling.
• New Zealand holds a unique place in global media history as the first country in the world to introduce regular live broadcasts of its Parliament, a service that began in 1936 to ensure the democratic process was accessible to all citizens.
• This year marks a major milestone for national broadcasting, as 2026 is the centenary of the Radio Broadcasting Company, the precursor to Radio New Zealand, which was established in 1926 to provide the country's first truly national radio service.
• Radio Dunedin, which first began its experimental transmissions in 1922 as 4XD, continues to hold the prestigious title of the longest-running continuously broadcasting radio station in the Commonwealth.
• A landmark moment in indigenous media occurred on Waitangi Day in 1928, when a pioneering pageant of Māori history, song, and story was broadcast across all four national stations, representing the first extensive use of te reo Māori on the New Zealand airwaves.
• The legendary 204-foot radio mast in Auckland, which significantly boosted the reach of 1YA when it opened in August 1926, celebrates its 100th anniversary this year as a symbol of the era when radio first bridged the geographical gaps between New Zealand's isolated communities.
• Contemporary listeners may be surprised to learn that in its early decades, New Zealand radio operated under a strict moral code that banned all advertising and required all stations to shut down by 10:00 p.m. to encourage traditional evening routines.
• New Zealand was also a global pioneer in amateur radio when Frank Bell made the first-ever trans-global transmission from a sheep station in Shag Valley to London in 1924, proving that shortwave radio could connect the most remote corners of the world.

In the News and Trending in NZ for World Radio Day

Top things to do in NZ for World Radio Day

• Learn Morse Code. The radio was originally invented to pass on Morse code message through radio waves.
• Learn about some of the issues surrounding freedom of speech and government control of radios around the world. Read up on recent problems in Zimbabwe and Somalia regarding government control.
• Plan a Radio Day event involving important issues such as human rights, freedom of speech and international broadcasting. Let UNESCO know what you have planned for World Radio Day and they will put it on their world map so that others can find you and get involved!
• Attend Special Talks or Seminars - Some arts or community centers may host special discussions or presentations on the history and impact of radio.
• Radio interview special: New Zealand radio stations often air special interviews and programs that celebrate World Radio Day. These may include interviews with radio personalities or retrospectives on the history of radio.