531pi receives first ever acknowledgement at NZ Radio Awards

In a room among the likes of Newstalk ZB, Radio Hauraki and The Breeze - 531pi Programme Director George Moungatonga says he did not care that he was very obviously the minority.

Instead he was proud that Pacific Media Network was finally being recognised after 30 years.

“I just happened to be the person to receive it, it’s a win for Pacific Media - not just me.”

Last night, Moungatonga, (Fasi moe Afi, Nuku’alofa, Ha’afeva and Houma Tongatapu) received the Services to Broadcasting Award this year.

It was the first time that PMN was acknowledged at the New Zealand Radio Awards, a feat which PMN's Programme Director Lui Vilisoni-Oliver calls special.

“George is one of those people you really can’t operate without. He’s such an important piece - not only operationally, as a friend, as someone who knows the history - but also in the way he contributes to our internal culture here at PMN.”

Vilisoni-Oliver says it was good to see PMN in the same room as other commercial radio stations.

“I’m glad that the first time we’ve been recognised in these awards was for this category, which George received. That’s what makes it super special. George has been involved for so long, it means he is so intertwined with this network. It’s more than just a job or career - it’s part of George’s life now.”

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Moungatonga was joined by Sefita Haouli, the founder of Radio 531pi and both Tongans acknowledged that they would not have been at the Radio Awards, if it wasn't for the support of names like Gordon Dryden.

Moungatonga remembers a time in radio where he and his peers were just starting out, figuring out how to utilise tape recorders and cassettes to broadcast - while other radio stations had shifted into digital mode.

“The equipment we used to have wasn’t the best equipment but we made do.”

The introduction at the awards ceremony pointed out how Moungatonga was expected to be available for long hours and on the weekends during the early days.

“His dedication and willingness is the heart of 531pi and NiuFm brands and he is a treasured station stalwart to this day.”

Moungatonga emphasises that Pacific people have always been resourceful - a strength that has served him well during his 29 year career in radio.

“Money was a problem, but we stuck around because we love serving the Pacific. That’s what we’re here for - to serve our Pacific communities. PMN is the biggest Pacific Island network in the world. It’s good to have a platform so we can tell our stories in our languages.”

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