CTV to get back on air

Photo / Geoff Sloan

Christchurch's Canterbury Television (CTV), which lost 16 staff members in February's devastating earthquake, will be back on air this month.

The collapse of the CTV building in February 22's 6.3 magnitude earthquake caused massive loss of life, with more than 60 students and staff from foreign language school King's Education amongst those who perished in the building.

CTV chairman Nick Smith told NZPA getting back on the air was not only important for the memory of staff who died in the quake but also for Christchurch's recovery from the quake.

The station would resume operations on April 18 and there would be an on air tribute for the staff members who died in the quake, Mr Smith said.

Current television coverage "doesn't do justice to the damage done to this town", he said.

Immediately after the quake CTV had considered ceasing operations but once they gained access to the Mainland Press building, where they will now be based, and the necessary equipment there was no question about going back on the air.

"Anyone who gives up in a little bit of adversity is not worth a tin of salt," Mr Smith said.

The news was a massive boost for remaining staff, who had been in shock since the quake.

"When we finally put the contracts in place... the whole thing has been going gang busters, everyone has been chipping in, it has been great," he said.

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker told Mainland Press the return of the station was "inspirational" news for Christchurch.

"I'm really thrilled. It's great news for our community and it's also just an appropriate thing given the horrific events of the last couple of months," Mr Parker said.

Mr Parker said he knew many of the CTV staff who died, including former CTV managing director Murray Wood.

"For the memory of all the wonderful CTV people down through the system, this is a fitting tribute to their passion," he said.

CTV will be broadcast on the local analogue frequency 24 hours a day and would also be aired nationally on Maori TV from 8am to 10am and 1pm to 3pm daily.

- NZPA