$4.4m for community radio and regional TV

Regional television would get its first-ever government funding with a $3.5 million allocation in the budget, Broadcasting Minister Steve Maharey said today.

Nearly $900,000 was also being allocated to non-commercial radio, he said.

Mr Maharey made the announcement at Wellington community radio station Access Radio.

Mr Maharey said regional broadcasters served their local communities in ways no other media outlets could.

"They provide forums for local and minority voices."

He said in a statement the $4.4m for non-commercial radio and regional television would be spread over four years.

- NZPA