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Media and News

Sources for staying updated about local news via newspapers, TV, or radio.

Sections

1. Newspapers in Dunedin

a. Otago Daily Times (ODT)

  • Overview: The Otago Daily Times is Dunedin's primary and most prominent newspaper. Established in 1861, it is New Zealand's oldest daily newspaper and provides comprehensive coverage of local, regional, national, and international news.
  • Content: Local news, politics, business, sports, arts, culture, and community events.
  • Frequency: Published daily (Monday to Saturday).
  • Subscription Costs:
    • Print and digital: Approximately NZD 10–15 per week.
    • Digital-only: Around NZD 5–7 per week.
  • Access: Subscriptions can be set up online via the ODT website or by contacting their customer service. Single copies are available at local newsagents and supermarkets.
  • Website: www.odt.co.nz

b. The Star

  • Overview: A free weekly community newspaper distributed across Dunedin and surrounding areas.
  • Content: Focuses on hyper-local news, community stories, events, and advertisements.
  • Frequency: Published every Thursday.
  • Access: Delivered free to households in Dunedin or available at select distribution points.

c. Critic Te Δ€rohi

  • Overview: A student magazine published by the Otago University Students' Association (OUSA). It is one of the oldest student publications in New Zealand.
  • Content: News, opinion pieces, satire, arts, and culture, with a focus on student life and issues.
  • Frequency: Weekly during the university semester.
  • Access: Free copies are available on the University of Otago campus and online.
  • Website: www.critic.co.nz

2. Television in Dunedin

a. Free-to-Air Television

  • Overview: Dunedin residents have access to New Zealand's free-to-air television channels, which include:
    • TVNZ 1: News, current affairs, and general entertainment.
    • TVNZ 2: Entertainment, reality shows, and movies.
    • Three: News, entertainment, and reality programming.
    • Māori Television: Focuses on Māori culture, language, and news.
    • Prime: General entertainment and sports.
  • Access: Free-to-air channels can be accessed via a UHF aerial or Freeview satellite.

b. Local Television

  • Channel 39 - Southern Television:
    • Overview: A Dunedin-based regional television channel that focuses on local news, events, and community programming.
    • Access: Available on Freeview Channel 39 and online.
    • Website: www.channel39.co.nz

c. Subscription Television

  • Sky TV:
    • Overview: A paid satellite TV service offering a wide range of channels, including news, sports, movies, and entertainment.
    • Cost: Basic packages start at around NZD 25–30 per month, with additional costs for premium channels.
    • Access: Subscriptions can be set up online or through local retailers.
    • Website: www.sky.co.nz

3. Radio Stations in Dunedin

Dunedin has a variety of radio stations catering to different tastes and interests. Below are some key options:

a. Local and Regional Stations

  • Radio Dunedin (1305 AM / 95.4 FM):
    • One of the oldest radio stations in the Southern Hemisphere, offering a mix of music, local news, and talk shows.
  • Otago Access Radio (OAR FM):
    • A community radio station featuring diverse programming, including local news, cultural shows, and music.
    • Website: www.oar.org.nz

b. National Stations Available in Dunedin

  • RNZ National (101.4 FM / 810 AM):
    • New Zealand's public broadcaster, providing in-depth news, current affairs, and cultural programming.
    • Website: www.rnz.co.nz
  • The Hits (89.4 FM):
    • A popular station for contemporary music and light entertainment.
  • Newstalk ZB (1044 AM):
    • Focuses on news, talkback, and current affairs.

c. Student Radio

  • Radio One 91FM:
    • Operated by the University of Otago, this station features alternative music, student-focused content, and local news.
    • Website: www.r1.co.nz

4. Online News Platforms

a. Otago Daily Times (ODT)

  • The ODT website is a key source for local and regional news, updated daily.
  • Website: www.odt.co.nz

b. Stuff

  • A national news platform that covers Dunedin and Otago news alongside national and international stories.
  • Website: www.stuff.co.nz

c. New Zealand Herald

  • Another national platform with occasional coverage of Dunedin news.
  • Website: www.nzherald.co.nz

d. Channel 39 Online


5. Subscription Costs and Access Procedures

  • Newspapers: Subscriptions for the Otago Daily Times can be set up online or by phone. Digital-only subscriptions are more affordable and convenient for those who prefer online access.
  • Television: Free-to-air channels require no subscription, but Sky TV and streaming services like Netflix or Disney+ require monthly fees.
  • Radio: Most radio stations are free to access via FM/AM or online streaming.

6. Local Considerations and Tips

  • Community Focus: Dunedin’s media landscape is highly community-oriented, with a strong emphasis on local news and events. Tuning into local radio stations or reading the ODT is the best way to stay informed about what’s happening in the city.
  • Student Media: If you’re a student or interested in youth culture, Critic Te Δ€rohi and Radio One 91FM are excellent resources.
  • Digital Access: Many platforms, including the ODT and Channel 39, offer free or subscription-based digital access, making it easy to stay updated on the go.
  • Cultural Awareness: Māori Television and Otago Access Radio provide insights into Māori culture and local community initiatives, which can be valuable for newcomers looking to understand the region’s heritage.

By utilizing these resources, you can stay well-informed about life in Dunedin, from local happenings to national and international news.