Charmaine's back on the air

Charmaine Soljak is taking over the headphones from Mike Plant at the rebranded Hits Radio station.

After nine months off the air, Charmaine Soljak is returning to run the day show on the rebranded Hits Radio station in Northland.

Ms Soljak - who was previously co-host with Mike Plant when it was formerly Classic Hits - has more than 27 years of experience on air, starting her career in Rotorua and working for stations like Mai FM in Auckland through to More FM in Northland before joining NZME. in April 2013.

Regional manager Mandie Skipps said Mr Plant would be missed greatly as he had built a loyal fan base in Northland and contributed in a range of ways to the community during the past three years, something which could be hard for outsiders to do.

"There's always that perception you are not local until you've been here at least 10 years," Ms Skipps said.

Ms Soljak has been in Northland for 17 years and actively engaged in the community.

"Our listeners will enjoy her return to airwaves as she is a huge radio talent and Northlanders are lucky to have kept her as there is a national shortage of radio talent in New Zealand."

Ms Soljak said the best part of the job was sharing listeners' lives.

"Pouring their heart out, laughing their heads off and those delicious moments about love, kids and special family memories. I love living here, we live in paradise, I can't wait to catch up with you soon," she said.

Ms Soljak will be back on air from January 12.