Rhema Media

{{Short description|Christian media organization in New Zealand}} {{Use dmy dates|date=April 2022}} {{Multiple issues| {{independent sources|date=December 2015}} {{unreliable sources|date=December 2015}} }} {{Infobox company | name = Rhema Media | logo = [[File:Rhema Media Logos 2015.png|205px|Rhema Media Logo 2015]] | predecessor = Banbury Recordings International, Rhema Broadcasting Group | founded = [[Christchurch]], New Zealand ({{Start date|1976}}) | hq_location_city = [[Auckland]] | hq_location_country = New Zealand | area_served = New Zealand | industry = [[Broadcasting]] | key_people = Luke Weston, CEO | services = 1978 | website = {{URL|http://www.rhemamedia.co.nz|rhemamedia.co.nz}} }} '''Rhema Media''' (previously known as '''Rhema Broadcasting Group''' or '''RBG''') is a [[Christianity|Christian]] media organisation in [[New Zealand]]. It owns [[radio networks]] [[Rhema (New Zealand)|Rhema]], [[Life FM (New Zealand)|Life FM]] and [[Sanctuary (New Zealand)|Sanctuary]], and [[television station]] [[Shine TV (New Zealand)|Shine TV]]. It also publishes Bob Gass's quarterly devotional publication ''[[The Word For Today]]'', and a youth version called ''[[The Word For You Today]]''. Rhema Media is based in [[Newton, New Zealand|Newton]], [[Auckland]] and is the founding organisation of [[United Christian Broadcasters]] (UCB).<ref name=rhemahistory>{{cite web|title=Rhema History|url=http://www.rhemamedia.co.nz/information/history|website=rhemamedia.co.nz|publisher=Rhema Media|access-date=10 July 2015|archive-date=6 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150706171421/http://www.rhemamedia.co.nz/information/history|url-status=live}}</ref>

Rhema Media was set up in the 1960s by [[Christchurch]] evangelical Richard Berry, following the success of Ecuadorian Christian short-wave radio station [[HCJB]]. The company's flagship network ''Rhema'' (then ''New Zealand's Rhema'') began full-time broadcasting on 11 November 1978.<ref name="paullittle">{{cite web|url=https://www.noted.co.nz/culture/radio/radio-rhema-miraculous-longevity/|title=The miraculous longevity of Radio Rhema|last1=Little|first1=Paul|website=Noted|publisher=North & South|page=122|publication-date=January 2019|access-date=9 May 2019|archive-date=9 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190509032916/https://www.noted.co.nz/culture/radio/radio-rhema-miraculous-longevity/|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1997 the company launched the additional radio brands of ''Life FM'' and ''Star'' (then ''Southern Star''). ''Shine TV'' was launched in 2002, and The Word radio network operated between 2007 and 2015.<ref name=nicolebennik>{{cite news|last1=Bennik|first1=Nicole|title=Christian radio praying for a money miracle|url=http://www.newswire.co.nz/2010/09/radio-rhema/|access-date=17 July 2015|agency=Newswire|publisher=[[Whitireia New Zealand]]|date=24 September 2010|archive-date=27 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150127014652/http://www.newswire.co.nz/2010/09/radio-rhema/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==History==

===1960s–1978===

Rhema Media began in the 1960s as Gospel Radio Fellowship, a small group of [[evangelical Christians]] who wanted to set up a radio station in [[Christchurch]]. The New Zealand Government legalised private radio, after illegal pirate broadcasts by [[Radio Hauraki]] in the [[Hauraki Gulf]]. The fellowship set up a radio studio and transmitter in an old church building and applied to the Broadcasting Authority for permission to broadcast in 1972. However, the authority was skeptical about the need for an evangelical radio station,<ref name=halshortdove>{{cite web|last1=Atkinson|first1=Perry|title=The United Christian Broadcasters Story - Hal Short - theDove.us|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwBh7Jy3Ars|website=[[YouTube]]|publisher=[[KDOV (FM)|theDove]]|access-date=8 July 2015|location=[[Medford, Oregon]]|format=Video interview|date=30 August 2011|archive-date=12 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160312105810/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwBh7Jy3Ars|url-status=live}}</ref> and declined the station's application based on a lack of public interest, finance and professional staff.<ref name=history>{{cite book|last1=Wooding|first1=Dan|title=Never Say Never: The Story of the Rhema Broadcasting Group: A Modern-Day Miracle|date=1 January 2003|publisher=Rhema Broadcasting Group|location=[[Auckland|Auckland, New Zealand]]|isbn=0473099845}}</ref>

Gospel Radio Fellowship changed its name to Radio Rhema in 1974, and raised enough money to employ twenty staff. It received a one-day license for Christchurch in November 1974, a one-day license for [[Petone]] in October 1975, and a 10-day Christmas license for Christchurch in 1976.<ref name=history /> The broadcasts had to be live, medium wave, no more than 100 watts, and only directed at supporters.<ref name=halshortdove /> The station published newsletters for its Christchurch and Wellington listeners,<ref name=oneway1>{{cite news|title=Radio Rhema, the one way sound, official newsletter|issue=56|publisher=Radio Rhema|date=1974}}</ref><ref name=wellingtonbranch1>{{cite news|title=Wellington Branch newsletter|publisher=Radio Rhema|date=June 1975}}</ref><ref name=rhemanewsletter>{{cite web|title=Radio Rhema newsletter, about 1975|url=http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/ephemera/42831/radio-rhema-newsletter-about-1975|website=[[Te Ara: The Encyclopedia of New Zealand]]|publisher=[[Alexander Turnball Library]]|location=[[Wellington|Wellington, New Zealand]]|format=Historical artefact|access-date=2015-07-08|archive-date=2015-07-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150709064258/http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/ephemera/42831/radio-rhema-newsletter-about-1975|url-status=live}}</ref> and launched a monthly publication, ''Frequency'', in 1977.<ref name=frequency1>{{cite news|title=Frequency|issue=1|publisher=Radio Rhema|date=December 1977}}</ref>

Radio Rhema gained a permanent licence in 1978 after about 55,000 people pledged their support to the station. It was launched by prime minister [[Robert Muldoon]], who said the station promoted "a faith that moves mountains",<ref name=history /> and made its first broadcast officially on 11 November 1978.<ref name="paullittle" /> The station was allowed to broadcast six hours a day on weekdays and 18 hours a day on weekends, making it the first permanent Christian station in the [[British Commonwealth]] and one of the first Christian broadcasters in the world.<ref name=halshortdove />

===1978–1997===

In 1980 the station was allowed to broadcast 18 hours every day, and had thirty five full-time and ten part-time workers. In 1982 it gained a license in Wellington. and purchased a property in Auckland where it employed six staff.<ref name="history"/> In 1986 it began broadcasting in Auckland and attracted a niche following.<ref name=tuningin>{{cite news|last1=Graves|first1=Joanne|title=Tuning in to the lord|agency=[[Metro (magazine)|Auckland Metro]]|issue=63|date=September 1986|page=198}}</ref><ref name=narrowcasting>{{cite news|last1=McLauchlan|first1=Mark|title=The age of narrowcasting : why the song remains the same|agency=[[Metro (magazine)|Auckland Metro]]|issue=128|date=February 1992|pages=84-82}}</ref> and in 1989 it received approval to begin broadcasting in Dunedin.<ref name=taieri1>{{cite news|title=Radio station plans aerial base|publisher=Taieri Herald|date=24 January 1989|page=3}}</ref><ref name=taieri2>{{cite news|title=Radio Rhema making waves|publisher=Taieri Herald|date=7 March 1989}}</ref>

Radio Rhema was one of the largest private radio networks in the country by the late 1980s.<ref name=shuttlecocks>{{cite news|last1=Riley|first1=Brett|title=Radio review : Shares like shuttlecocks|agency=[[New Zealand Listener]]|issue=117|date=28 March 1987|page=83}}</ref> According to radio reviews in the [[New Zealand Listener]], its programming included evangelical programmes,<ref name=mountjoy>{{cite news|last1=Mountjoy|first1=Lora|title=Radio review : On the outlook for converts|agency=[[New Zealand Listener]]|issue=123|date=18 April 1987|page=82}}</ref><ref name=sheridan>{{cite news|last1=Keith|first1=Sheridan|title=Faith and works|agency=[[New Zealand Listener]]|issue=126|date=26 February 1990|page=67}}</ref> Biblical teachings,<ref name=ohbother>{{cite news|last1=Hurley|first1=Jane|title=Oh bother|agency=[[New Zealand Listener]]|issue=135|date=31 October 1992}}</ref> and politically conservative talkback.<ref name=listenup>{{cite news|last1=Riley|first1=Brett|title=Listen up, sinner|agency=[[New Zealand Listener]]|issue=123|date=25 March 1989|page=30}}</ref><ref name=praisebe>{{cite news|last1=Riley|first1=Brett|title=Praise be|agency=[[New Zealand Listener]]|issue=134|date=18 July 1992|page=71}}</ref> Sociologists [[Sue Middleton]] and Allanah Ryan argued the expansion of Radio Rhema was evidence of the growth of the [[Christian right]].<ref name=middletonsue>{{cite book|last1=Middleton|first1=Sue|title=The 'moral right', sex education and populist moralism|date=1998|publisher=Allen & Unwin|location=Wellington}}</ref>

In 1987, vice-presidents Richard Berry, Hal Short and Frank Salisbury also set up a separate organisation, [[United Christian Broadcasters]] (UCB) to support similar stations in other countries. The organisation's Australian branch supported Christian radio stations, many called Radio Rhema, before it set up its own broadcaster, the [[Vision Radio Network]]. Other affiliates followed in the United Kingdom, Europe, Africa, Pacific countries and South America. [[KDOV (FM)|The Dove]] was set up as an affiliate in [[Oregon|Oregon, United States]]. Smaller broadcasters were also established in Madagascar, Brazil, the Philippines and Estonia.<ref name=halshortleaves>{{cite news|title=Rhema Broadcasting Group Chairman steps down|url=http://www.voxy.co.nz/business/rhema-broadcasting-group-chairman-steps-down/5/149540|access-date=8 July 2015|agency=Rhema Broadcasting Group|publisher=Voxy.co.nz|date=8 March 2013|format=Press release|archive-date=10 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150710011841/http://www.voxy.co.nz/business/rhema-broadcasting-group-chairman-steps-down/5/149540|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1994, UCB was granted the right to publish ''The Word For Today'', a quarterly catalogue of daily Biblical teachings by American preacher Bob Gass, in the United Kingdom. After an initial trial, Gass granted UCB the rights to broadcast, publish and distribute the devotional anywhere outside the United States free of charge.<ref name=halshortdove />

In 1993 Radio Rhema launched its second station, Life FM in Christchurch.

The Christchurch Radio Rhema building was sold to [[NZI]] for $5 million in 1995.<ref name=nzipays>{{cite news|title=NZI pays $5ml for former Radio Rhema building|agency=[[Christchurch Press]]|date=15 June 1995|page=38}}</ref>

===1997–2002===

The Radio Rhema company changed its name to Rhema Broadcasting Group in 1997, when it moved its sister station Life FM from Christchurch to Auckland, as well as launching another sister network, Star. They used frequencies secured in 1991, swapped frequencies with [[The Radio Network]], and leased some frequencies from other companies.<ref name=history /> Star lost its frequencies in Auckland and Christchurch in 1998, but was able to continue broadcasting in both centres by leasing airtime from the [[AM Network]] outside of the sitting hours of the [[New Zealand Parliament]].<ref name=star2008>{{cite web|title=Southern Star|url=http://www.sstar.co.nz|website=sstar.co.nz|publisher=Rhema Broadcasting Group|access-date=8 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080216021130/http://www.sstar.co.nz/|archive-date=16 February 2008}}</ref> Rhema celebrated 20 years on air with a function in Christchurch in 1998.<ref name=star1>{{cite news|title=20 years on air|publisher=[[Christchurch Star]]|date=23 October 1998|page=A4}}</ref>

Rhema Broadcasting Group took over the operation of local Christchurch television channel Freedom TV in 2002, relaunching it as Shine TV in December 2002.<ref name=shinetv2002>{{cite web|title=Shine TV|url=http://www.shinetv.co.nz|website=shinetv.co.nz|publisher=Rhema Broadcasting Group|access-date=26 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021002073708/http://www.shinetv.co.nz/|archive-date=2 October 2002}}</ref> It began broadcasting on [[SKY Network Television|Sky TV]] from its launch, and later expanded to UHF in [[Nelson, New Zealand|Nelson]] and [[Freeview (New Zealand)|Freeview]] in Christchurch.<ref name=shinenelson /> [[United Christian Broadcasters]] previously owned a network UHF station licences, but sold them to [[Prime Television New Zealand|Prime TV]].<ref name=shinetvdetails2002>{{cite web|title=Shine TV More Details|url=http://www.shinetv.co.nz/details.html|website=shinetv.co.nz|publisher=Rhema Broadcasting Group|access-date=26 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021002075209/http://www.shinetv.co.nz/details.html|archive-date=2 October 2002}}</ref>

===2002–2012===

The [[Fifth Labour Government of New Zealand|fifth Labour government]] put forward plans to renew radio frequencies in 2003, but Rhema Broadcasting Group and the Crown did not agree on the value of re-licensing until 2006. In July 2010, RBG announced it needed to raise $6.4 million over and above its normal operating costs to renew its commercial radio frequencies for the following 20 years.<ref name=woodingassist>{{cite news|last1=Wooding|first1=Dan|title=The future of Christian radio in New Zealand is 'at stake'|url=http://65583.stablerack.com/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=69428&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0|access-date=17 July 2015|agency=ASSIST Ministries|publisher=Identity Network|date=2010|archive-date=21 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150721010730/http://65583.stablerack.com/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=69428&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0|url-status=live}}</ref> By the end of November, the company still needed $2.4 million and was not in a position to seek external finance,<ref name=radiotaranaki>{{cite news|last1=Smith|first1=Blanton|title=Christian radio group seeks $2.4m|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/taranaki-daily-news/news/4391233/Christian-radio-group-seeks-2-4m|access-date=17 July 2015|agency=[[Taranaki Daily News]]|publisher=[[Fairfax New Zealand]]|date=26 November 2010|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924170351/http://www.stuff.co.nz/taranaki-daily-news/news/4391233/Christian-radio-group-seeks-2-4m|url-status=live}}</ref> with the frequencies to be returned to the Crown and resold at auction if the money was not raised.<ref name=nicolebennik /> The Crown recognised the organisation as a non-profit with limited access to funds and gave it a three-month extension on payment,<ref name=extratime>{{cite news|title=Extra time to save broadcasting group|url=http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=61376|access-date=17 July 2015|agency=[[Rhema Broadcasting Group]]|publisher=infonews.co.nz|date=30 November 2010|archive-date=21 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150721034145/http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=61376|url-status=live}}</ref> allowing Rhema Broadcasting Group to cover the cost with no interest loans.<ref name=drinnandeal>{{cite news|last1=Drinnan|first1=John|title=Media: Radio deal a mockery of free market|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=10711540|access-date=17 July 2015|agency=[[The New Zealand Herald]]|publisher=[[New Zealand Media and Entertainment]]|date=11 March 2011|archive-date=21 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150721021342/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=10711540|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2007, Rhema Broadcasting Group launched The Word, a network of relay stations broadcasting uninterrupted, automated Bible readings.<ref>{{Cite web|title=The Word|url=http://www.rbg.co.nz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=9&Itemid=16|publisher=RBG|access-date=September 24, 2014|archive-date=October 14, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081014022214/http://www.rbg.co.nz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=9&Itemid=16|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Zondervan|url=http://www.zondervan.com/Cultures/en-US/Product/ProductDetail.htm?ProdID=com.zondervan.9780310926306&QueryStringSite=Zondervan|publisher=RBG|access-date=October 7, 2014|archive-date=February 17, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120217001618/http://www.zondervan.com/Cultures/en-US/Product/ProductDetail.htm?ProdID=com.zondervan.9780310926306&QueryStringSite=Zondervan|url-status=live}}</ref> The station was similar to a digital station UCB was already operating in the UK.<ref>{{Cite web|title=UCB Bible|url=http://www.ucb.co.uk/listen/bible.html|publisher=UCB Media UK|access-date=October 7, 2014|archive-date=October 9, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141009192829/http://www.ucb.co.uk/listen/bible.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The network's original [[Hamilton, New Zealand|Hamilton]] 576 AM and [[Invercargill]] 1026 AM frequencies were acquired for Star, but became available when Star starting broadcasting on new [[AM Network]] stations in both cities.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Radio Vault Invercargill|url=http://www.theradiovault.net/invercargill.htm|publisher=Radio Vault|access-date=September 24, 2014|archive-date=October 6, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111006024153/http://www.theradiovault.net/invercargill.htm|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Radio Vault Hamilton|url=http://www.theradiovault.net/hamilton.htm|publisher=Radio Vault|access-date=September 24, 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110724104702/http://www.theradiovault.net/hamilton.htm|archive-date=July 24, 2011}}</ref> The Word was later extended to [[New Plymouth]] 1278 AM, [[Christchurch]] 540 AM, [[Dunedin]] 1377 AM, [[Te Anau]] 88.0 FM, and an independently-owned low-power FM station in Tokoroa.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Low Power FM Radio Stations|url=http://www.low-power-fm-radio.spacejunk.co.nz/lpfm-radio-station-list.asp|publisher=Web Wiz Guide|access-date=October 7, 2014|archive-date=October 9, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141009033042/http://www.low-power-fm-radio.spacejunk.co.nz/lpfm-radio-station-list.asp|url-status=live}}</ref> The station was also streamed over the Internet.<ref name="The Word">{{Cite web|title=The Word|url=http://www.bibleradio.co.nz|publisher=Bible Radio|access-date=September 24, 2014|archive-date=July 8, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150708123930/http://www.bibleradio.co.nz/|url-status=live}}</ref>

By 2011, UCB consisted of 32 organisations which claimed to reach millions of people in at least 24 different languages through radio, television, printed devotionals and websites. The group was publishing several million copies of ''The Word for Today'' were published every quarter, in about a dozen languages.<ref name=halshortdove /> {{Further|Empire Christian Group}}

===2012–present===

Andrew Fraser served as CEO of Rhema Media until September 2024.<ref>{{cite web |title=A Remarkable Career in Audio, Tech and Christian Media: Andrew Fraser |url=https://mediaarts.org.au/legacy-award-andrew-fraser/ |publisher=Christian Media & Arts Australia |access-date=22 April 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250326135908/https://mediaarts.org.au/legacy-award-andrew-fraser/ |archive-date=26 March 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref> He was appointed to the role in December 2016, after joining as general manager operations in 2002 . In December 2012, chief executive John Fabrin left the organisation and Mike Brewer, former general manager of [[Fairfax New Zealand]]'s Taranaki Newspapers company, became chief executive.<ref name=mikebrewerstarts>{{cite news|last1=Anthony|first1=John|title=Newspaper boss moving on|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/taranaki-daily-news/news/7203228/Newspaper-boss-moving-on|access-date=8 July 2015|agency=[[Taranaki Daily News]]|publisher=[[Stuff (company)|Fairfax New Zealand]]|date=2 July 2012|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924170445/http://www.stuff.co.nz/taranaki-daily-news/news/7203228/Newspaper-boss-moving-on|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2019, Fraser said 80 percent of the organisation's income was through donations, from a pool of about 25,000 supporters.<ref name="paullittle" />

Shine TV ceased broadcasting on UHF in Christchurch and Nelson on 28 April 2013, when South Island analogue television was switched off.<ref name=shinenelson /> RBG was rebranded as Rhema Media in February 2014.<ref name=rbgrhemamedia>{{cite news|title=Rhemia Broadcasting Group rebrand to Rhema Media|url=http://www.voxy.co.nz/business/rhemia-broadcasting-group-rebrand-rhema-media/5/180463|access-date=8 July 2015|agency=Rhema Media|publisher=Voxy.co.nz|date=3 February 2014|format=Press release|archive-date=10 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150710020025/http://www.voxy.co.nz/business/rhemia-broadcasting-group-rebrand-rhema-media/5/180463|url-status=live}}</ref> Short, UCB's president, stepped aside from RBG and UCB in March 2013.<ref name=halshortleaves /> The Word closed down in the first half of 2015.<ref name=thewordjuly2015>{{cite web|title=The World - Bible Radio 24/7|url=http://www.bibleradio.co.nz/|website=bibleradio.co.nz|publisher=Rhema Media|access-date=14 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150708123930/http://www.bibleradio.co.nz/|archive-date=8 July 2015}}</ref> In June 2019, Rhema Media sold its 7,000 Christian and [[Gospel music]] records on the auction website [[TradeMe]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Blast from the past: Radio Rhema selling old LPs |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/392730/blast-from-the-past-radio-rhema-selling-old-lps |access-date=22 April 2025 |work=[[RNZ]] |date=23 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241113031917/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/392730/blast-from-the-past-radio-rhema-selling-old-lps |archive-date=13 November 2024}}</ref>

By late 2024, Luke Weston had been appointed as CEO of Rhema Media following a search by the company's board.<ref>{{cite web |title=Rhema Media Hire new CEO - Luke Weston |url=https://www.tribegroup.com/tribe-leadership/employer/storytelling/rhema-media-hire-new-ceo-luke-weston/ |website=Tribe Leadership |access-date=22 April 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250201033817/https://www.tribegroup.com/tribe-leadership/employer/storytelling/rhema-media-hire-new-ceo-luke-weston/ |archive-date=1 February 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref> By April 2025, Rhema Media under Weston's leadership had launched a new [[FM broadcasting|FM]] radio station called "Sanctuary" and several new mobile apps. The company operates a subscription model based on donations, bequests and advertising. As of April 2025, Rhema Media had about 30,000 donors.<ref name="RNZ 20 Apr 2025">{{cite news |last1=Donnell |first1=Hayden |title=Christian broadcaster Rhema expanding, bucking the media trend |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/558646/christian-broadcaster-rhema-expanding-bucking-the-media-trend |access-date=22 April 2025 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=20 April 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250422020014/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/558646/christian-broadcaster-rhema-expanding-bucking-the-media-trend |archive-date=22 April 2025|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Services==

===Rhema=== [[File:Map of Rhema frequencies.png|thumb|This is a map of Rhema frequencies.]] Rhema (formerly known as Radio Rhema and New Zealand's Rhema) is an [[Evangelicalism|evangelical]] [[Christian contemporary music]] radio network targeted towards families.<ref name="rhemahistory"/> It broadcasts a range of music, current affairs interviews, conversations, teaching programmes and on-air charity fundraisers, with a focus on relationships, marriage and parenting.<ref name=rhemahome>{{cite web|title=Rhema|url=http://www.rhema.co.nz/|website=rhema.co.nz|publisher=Rhema Media|access-date=10 July 2015|archive-date=11 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150711013725/http://www.rhema.co.nz/|url-status=live}}</ref>

The network's programmes include entertainment programme 'Rhema is super excited to announce a brand new line up! After 2.5 years of simulcasting the Morning Wakeup on Rhema and Life FM, Rhema now has its very own Breakfast programme hosted by Andrew Curtis and Nerida Ashcroft! Rhema 'Days' join Kat McCormack and Tom Francis for Rhema’s Day Show., 'Afternoons' with hosts Di Campbell and Andrew Urquhart and 'Nights' with Luke Weston .<ref name=rhemahome /> The network also broadcasts teaching programmes from [[Joyce Meyer]], [[Focus on the Family]] and [[Adventures in Odyssey]].<ref name=tgbksstations>{{cite web|title=TGBKS Stations|url=http://tgbks.enter.co.nz/FindUs/TuneIn/tabid/56/Default.aspx|website=tgbks.enter.co.nz|publisher=Treehut Limited|access-date=3 January 2016|archive-date=23 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160123011211/http://tgbks.enter.co.nz/FindUs/TuneIn/tabid/56/Default.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref> Some hosts also work as counselors, church pastors, stand-up comedians and MCs.<ref name=strength>{{cite web|title=Meet the Team|url=http://www.strength2strength.co.nz/#!meettheteam/cqpy|website=strength2strength.co.nz|publisher=Strength to Strength|access-date=10 July 2015|archive-date=11 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150711105317/http://www.strength2strength.co.nz/#!meettheteam/cqpy|url-status=live}}</ref> Hosts have also endorsed events.<ref name=valleydrybones>{{cite web|title=The Valley of Dry Bones|url=http://events.stuff.co.nz/auckland/2013/the-valley-of-dry-bones/auckland/freemans-bay|website=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]]|publisher=eventfinda.co.nz|access-date=6 July 2015|archive-date=7 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150707060401/http://events.stuff.co.nz/auckland/2013/the-valley-of-dry-bones/auckland/freemans-bay|url-status=live}}</ref> Previous hosts include Aaron Ironside,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-07-05 |title=Myths about forgiveness exposed |url=https://nzcatholic.org.nz/2016/07/06/myths-forgiveness-exposed/ |access-date=2022-03-09 |website=NZ Catholic Newspaper |language=en-US}}</ref>[[Bob McCoskrie]], Rob Holding, Tim Sisarich and [[Pat Brittenden]].<ref name=radiorhemawayback>{{cite web|title=Radio Rhema Home |url=http://www.radiorhema.co.nz |website=[[Internet Archive]] |publisher=Rhema Media |access-date=21 March 2017 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011127173122/http://www.radiorhema.co.nz/ |archive-date=27 November 2001}}</ref>

{{div col}} * [[Kaitaia]] - 549 AM * [[Kaikohe]] - 99.9 FM * [[Bay of Islands]] - 99.9 FM * [[Whangarei]] - 621 AM * [[Auckland]] - 1251 AM * [[Hamilton, New Zealand|Hamilton]] - 855 AM * [[Bay of Plenty]] - 104.6 FM * [[Rotorua]] - 93.5 FM * [[Tokoroa]] - 99.7 FM * [[Gisborne, New Zealand|Gisborne]] - 103.7 FM * [[Wairoa]] - 92.5 FM * [[Taupō]] - 95.2 FM * [[Taumarunui]] - 97.5 FM * [[Hawke's Bay Region|Hawke's Bay]] - 99.1 FM * [[Taranaki]] - 540 AM * [[Ōpunake]] - 93.6 FM * [[Raetihi]] - 95 FM * [[Whanganui]] - 104.8 FM * [[Manawatū-Whanganui|Manawatū]] - 91.4 FM * [[Kāpiti Coast]] - 103.9 FM * [[Wairarapa]] - 97.5 FM * [[Wellington]] - 972 AM * [[Picton, New Zealand|Picton]] - 103.5 FM * [[Blenheim, New Zealand|Blenheim]] - 104.1 FM * [[Kaikōura]] - 105.1 FM * [[Nelson, New Zealand|Nelson]] - 801 AM * [[Murchison, New Zealand|Murchison]] - 97.3 FM * [[Westport, New Zealand|Westport]] - 94.9 FM * [[Reefton]] - 95.9 FM * [[Greymouth]] - 92.3 FM * [[Christchurch]] - 540 AM * [[Timaru]] - 104.3 FM * [[Twizel]] - 91.8 FM * [[Oamaru]] - 106.4 FM * [[Wānaka]] - 89.0 FM * [[Queenstown, New Zealand|Queenstown]] - 94.4 FM * [[Cromwell, New Zealand|Cromwell]] - 89.5 FM * [[Alexandra, New Zealand|Alexandra]] - 92.7 FM * [[Te Anau]] - 94.4 FM * [[Dunedin]] - 621 AM * [[Balclutha, New Zealand|Balclutha]] - 96.1 FM * [[Gore, New Zealand|Gore]]/[[Tapanui]] - 99.2 FM * [[Clinton, New Zealand|Clinton]] - 88.3 FM * [[Invercargill]] - 1404 AM {{div col end}}

===Life FM=== [[File:Map of Life FM frequencies.png|thumb|This is a map of Life FM frequencies.]] Life FM is a [[contemporary Christian music]] evangelical youth-oriented radio network.<ref name=rbz2013>{{cite web|title=RBG New Zealand|url=http://www.rbg.co.nz|website=rbg.co.nz|publisher=Rhema Media|access-date=8 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131023181837/http://www.rbg.co.nz/|archive-date=23 October 2013}}</ref> According to [[Colmar Brunton]] research commissioned by Rhema Media in 2010, listeners credit the station with helping them make positive life choices.<ref name="nicolebennik"/> The station's programmes include 'The All New Morning Wake Up' with Sela Alo, Bjorn Brickell & Becks Birmingham 'Days' with Eloise Packham, New 'Afternoons' with Leanna Cooper & Josh Coombridge & New 'Nights' with Baty .<ref name=lifefmshowsdjs>{{cite web|title=Shows & DJs|url=http://lifefm.co.nz/shows-djs|website=lifefm.co.nz|publisher=Rhema Media|access-date=21 January 2016|archive-date=21 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160121061247/http://www.lifefm.co.nz/shows-djs|url-status=live}}</ref>

Life FM was launched in Christchurch and came on-air on 6 March 1993. Then four years later it was moved to broadcast from Auckland into [[Auckland]], [[Waikato]] and the [[Bay of Plenty]] on the 26th of October 1997.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.rhemamedia.co.nz/information/history#S15 |title=Rhema Media - Christian Media for New Zealand |access-date=2018-10-14 |archive-date=2018-10-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181014165108/https://www.rhemamedia.co.nz/information/history#S15 |url-status=live }}</ref> Since then hosts have included Aaron Ironside, Clinton Randell, Holly Wiseman, Diane Campbell, Ken Green, Mike OB, Elmo Johnstone, Luke Weston, Paul Burnett, Becci Johnstone, Frank Richie, Tom Francis Jason Strong, Sherryn Tai and Charlie Moreland.<ref name=lifefmwayback>{{cite web|url=http://www.lifefm.co.nz |title=Life FM |website=www.lifefm.co.nz |publisher=Rhema Media |access-date=21 March 2017 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19981206024941/http://www.lifefm.co.nz/ |archive-date=6 December 1998}}</ref>

The network draws 75% of its operating costs from listener donations, and uses an annual fundraising appeal event to cover most of those costs. The 2011 fundraising appeal, which occurred just two weeks after the [[2011 Christchurch earthquake]], was used to raise funds for church-led disaster relief.<ref name=quakecampaign>{{cite news|title=Rhema Broadcasting Group fundraises for Christchurch Earthquake|url=http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=64559|access-date=10 July 2015|agency=Rhema Broadcasting Group|publisher=infonews.co.nz|date=8 March 2011|archive-date=11 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150711070301/http://www.infonews.co.nz/news.cfm?id=64559|url-status=live}}</ref>

{{div col}} * [[Kaitaia]] - 103.5 FM * [[Kaikohe]] [[Waimamaku]] - 106.3 FM * [[Whangarei]] - 98.8 FM * [[Dargaville]] - 104.2 FM * [[Auckland]] - 99.8 FM * [[Waikato]] - 94.6 FM * [[Tauranga]] - 94.6 FM * [[Whakatane]] - 104.9 FM * [[Rotorua]] - 106.3 FM * [[Taupō]] - 105.6 FM * [[Gisborne, New Zealand|Gisborne]] - 100.5 FM * [[Taumarunui]] - 96.7 FM * [[Raetihi]] - 98.2 FM * [[Hawke's Bay Region|Hawke's Bay]] - 93.5 FM * [[Taranaki]] - 99.6 FM * [[Whanganui]] - 100.8 FM * [[Manawatū-Whanganui|Manawatū]] - 96.2 FM * [[Kāpiti Coast]] - 96.7 FM * [[Wairarapa]] - 88.7 FM * [[Wellington]] - 98.1 FM * [[Nelson, New Zealand|Nelson]] - 93.6 FM * [[Picton, New Zealand|Picton]] - 91.5 FM * [[Blenheim, New Zealand|Blenheim]] - 93.7 FM * [[Golden Bay, New Zealand|Golden Bay]] - 93.4 FM * [[Westport, New Zealand|Westport]] - 104.5 FM * [[Greymouth, New Zealand|Greymouth]] - 94.7 FM * [[Rangiora]] - 106.8 ''(low-power)'' * [[Christchurch]] - 94.1 FM 87.6 FM ''(low-power)'' * [[Ashburton, New Zealand|Ashburton]] - 91.7 FM * [[Timaru]] - 105.1 FM * [[Oamaru]] - 95.2 FM * [[Wānaka]] - 105 FM * [[Cromwell, New Zealand|Cromwell]] - 91.1 FM * [[Alexandra, New Zealand|Alexandra]] - 103.9 FM * [[Te Anau]] - 91.2 FM * [[Dunedin]] - 94.2 FM * [[Balclutha, New Zealand|Balclutha]] - 92.1 FM * [[Gore, New Zealand|Gore]] - 105.6 FM * [[Invercargill]] 100 FM {{div col end}}

===Star=== [[File:Map of Star frequencies.png|thumb|This is a map of Star frequencies.]] Star (known as Southern Star until 2015) plays [[contemporary Christian music]], [[hymns]] and Biblical teachings. It is owned and operated by Rhema Media. Rhema Media describes it as "a smooth and easy blend of music from people you know and trust", including modern hymns, easy listening tracks and instrumentals.<ref name="star2008"/> Star broadcasts on the [[AM Network]] outside the sitting hours of the [[New Zealand Parliament]]<ref name=starabout>{{cite web |url=https://www.star.net.nz/shows |title=Shows on Star |publisher=star.net.nz |access-date=2011-01-04 |archive-date=2019-12-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191218175339/https://star.net.nz/shows |url-status=live }}</ref>

The station's programmes include Breakfast with Cathy Jenke and Peter Shaw, Days with Lizzie Oakes, Drive with a very tall man Gary Hoogvliet and Nights with Rosemary Jane.<ref name=starabout /> Previous hosts include Aaron Ironside,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Set Free Men's Breakfast – Promise Keepers |url=https://www.promisekeepers.org.nz/mensministry/more-than-bacon/setfree-breakfast/ |access-date=2022-03-09 |website=www.promisekeepers.org.nz}}</ref> Rachel Thomas, Brian Ferguson, Glen Stephenson, [[United Christian Broadcasters|UCB]] staff James Totton, [[List of radio stations in Bay of Plenty|Katikati His FM]] manager Rob Holding, Andrew Urquhart and Diane Campbell. Contributors include landscape designer and gardening expert Debbie Olsen, who previously hosted a gardening show on sister station Rhema.<ref name=sanctuarygardens>{{cite web|title=About us|url=http://sanctuarygardenslandscaping.co.nz/about/|website=sanctuarygardenslandscaping.co.nz|publisher=Sanctuary Gardens|access-date=6 July 2015|archive-date=13 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150113041711/http://sanctuarygardenslandscaping.co.nz/about/|url-status=live}}</ref>

{{div col}} * [[Kamo, New Zealand|Kamo]] - 106.7 FM * [[Dargaville]] - 107.7 FM * [[Auckland]] - 882 AM ''(AM Network)'' * [[Hamilton, New Zealand|Hamilton]] - 576 AM and 1494 AM ''(AM Network)'' * [[Tauranga]] - 540 AM and 657 AM ''(AM Network)'' * [[Taupō]] - 88.3 FM / 106.9 FM * [[Gisborne Region|Gisborne]] - 92.5 FM * [[Taumarunui]] - 95.9 FM * [[Taranaki]] - 612 AM * [[Raetihi]] - 92.6 FM * [[Hawke's Bay Region|Hawke's Bay]] - 909 AM ''(AM Network)'' * [[Wanganui]] - 594 AM * [[Wairarapa]] - 100.7 FM * [[Wellington]] - 657 AM ''(AM Network)'' * [[Nelson, New Zealand|Nelson]] - 612 AM * [[Murchison, New Zealand|Murchison]] - 88.3 FM * [[Westport, New Zealand|Westport]] - 103.7 FM * [[Greymouth]] - 104.3 FM * [[Christchurch]] - 612 AM and 963 AM ''(AM Network)'' * [[Timaru]] - 594 AM * [[Wānaka]] - 87.6 FM * [[Queenstown, New Zealand|Queenstown]] - 107.0 FM * [[Cromwell, New Zealand|Cromwell]] - 87.6 FM * [[Alexandra, New Zealand|Alexandra]] - 100.7 FM * [[Te Anau]] - 89.6 FM * [[Dunedin]] - 900 AM ''(AM Network)'' and 1377 AM * [[Balclutha, New Zealand|Balclutha]] - 88.9FM * [[Invercargill]] - 1026 AM and 1314 AM ''(AM Network)'' {{div col end}}

===Shine TV===

Shine TV station broadcasts on [[Freeview (New Zealand)|Freeview]] Channel 25 and [[SKY Network Television|Sky TV]] channel 201, and features locally made and overseas news and current affairs, documentaries, movies, children's programmes, teaching programmes, and youth and music programmes.<ref name=shinenelson>{{cite news|title=Shine TV now free on channel 44|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/news/688629/Shine-TV-now-free-on-channel-44|access-date=6 July 2015|agency=[[Nelson Mail]]|publisher=[[Fairfax New Zealand]]|date=24 October 2008|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924154813/http://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/news/688629/Shine-TV-now-free-on-channel-44|url-status=live}}</ref> Some of Shine's programmes cover the international work of [[Christian missions]], while others include [[Testimony#Religion|personal testimony]].<ref name=shinetvlistings>{{cite web|title=TV Listings|url=http://www.shinetv.co.nz/tv-listings|website=shinetv.co.nz|publisher=Rhema Media|access-date=3 October 2015|archive-date=13 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151113105222/http://www.shinetv.co.nz/tv-listings|url-status=live}}</ref>

===The Word for Today===

Rhema Media is the New Zealand publisher of ''The Word For Today'', a free daily [[prayer|devotional]] written by [[Bob Gass]] and published around the world by the [[United Christian Broadcasters]] group.<ref name="WFT"/> An initial print run of 3,500 copies was made in April 1994 in the [[United Kingdom]] before it was expanded to New Zealand in 1997.<ref name=WFT>{{cite web|title=The Word For Today & Bob Gass|url=http://www.ucb.co.uk/index.cfm?itemid=2302|website=www.ucb.co.uk|access-date=2 May 2009|archive-date=12 May 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090512002127/http://www.ucb.co.uk/index.cfm?itemid=2302|url-status=live}}</ref> An estimated 3.5 million copies are distributed quarterly worldwide, with country-specific and translated versions also produced in Albania, Australia, Canada, Czechoslovakia, Caribbean, the Netherlands, Estonia, Portugal, Philippines, Nigeria, South Africa, Spain and the USA.<ref name="WFT"/>

In conjunction with The Message Trust, a Christian youth ministry based in [[Manchester]], ''The Word For Today'' has been adapted for younger audiences with ''Word For You Today''. The devotional began in August 2003, and has been printed in New Zealand since February 2010. An audio version is also broadcast on Life fm.<ref name="WFT"/>

==References== {{Reflist}}

==External links== *[http://www.rhemamedia.co.nz Official website] *[http://www.rhema.co.nz Rhema official website] *[http://www.lifefm.co.nz Life FM official website] *[http://www.star.net.nz/ Star official website] {{Radio in New Zealand}} {{Television in New Zealand}} {{Authority control}}

[[Category:Rhema Media| ]] [[Category:Christian organizations established in 1978]] [[Category:Christian television]] [[Category:Christianity in New Zealand]] [[Category:Mass media in Auckland]]