PMN Fiji wins top radio honour as Pacific broadcasting pioneer recognised

A Pacific radio programme that has helped generations of Fiji families stay informed and connected has taken out one of the top honours at the 2026 New Zealand Radio and Podcast Awards.

PMN Fiji, part of Pacific Media Network (PMN), was named Best Pacific Language Programme at Thursday night’s awards in Auckland where PMN’s Pacific Mornings host William Terite was one of the event's co-hosts.

The award recognises more than 20 years of sharing news, information, and stories with Fijian communities across Aotearoa.

The award was a proud moment for producer and Pacific Days’ host Nemai Tagicakibau, who says it reflects the work of the entire PMN Fiji team: Susana Guttenbeil, Jioji Vai, Harrison Edwards, Elenoa Turagaiviu, Olivia Bolatagici, Malcolm Andrews, Mosese Cava, and Don Mann.

"It's a reflection of the passion, dedication, creativity and commitment of every member of the PMN Fiji team. We share our language, our culture, our stories and our voices with our communities," Tagicakibau tells PMN News.

"To be awarded Best Pacific Language Programme is the cherry on top. It shows people see the work that happens behind the scenes."

Tagicakibau joined the programme as a volunteer in 2003 when the station was based in Ōtāhuhu, presenting a show on Monday nights.

Over the past two decades, she has watched the programme grow alongside Fiji communities across Aotearoa.

Elenoa Turagaiviu is one of the PMN Fiji hosts.

Today, the bilingual programme does much more than play music and entertain listeners.

It helps people access information about passport renewals, immigration matters and consular services.

During Fiji elections, listeners also turn to the programme for updates on voting venues and electoral information.

"We are the mouthpiece of the people. We let everybody know where they need to be and what they need to do," Tagicakibau says.

"People look to us, whether they listen to us on the radio, meet us at church or at the shopping centre. We've got to have our ears on the ground."

Pacific Mornings host William Terite co-hosted the event at the Sky City Convention Centre in Auckland. Photo/Supplied

Tagicakibau says helping people find answers and connect with important services remains one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

"When people come to you with questions and you're able to help them, it's beautiful. It's rewarding … Radio is still a trusted medium these days."

The celebrations extended beyond the PMN Fiji team.

Veteran broadcaster Eti Fuimaono McCarthy received the Services to Broadcasting Award for her contribution to Pacific radio and community broadcasting.

Nemai Tagicakibau (nee Vucago) was awarded the Queen's Service Medal in 2023 for services to Fijian and Pacific communities. Photo/File

At 82, Fuimaono McCarthy still hosts two weekly programmes and has spent 27 years serving Pacific audiences.

Judges described her as a trusted voice who has supported and uplifted generations of Pacific listeners.

Mann, Chief Executive of PMN, says both honours reflect the strength and legacy of Pacific broadcasting.

"Seeing our language teams recognised, with PMN Fiji winning Best Pacific Language Programme alongside our Cook Islands and Tonga finalists, shows the breadth of Pacific broadcasting excellence,” he tells PMN News.

Eti Fuimaono-McCarthy was recognised for services to broadcasting. Photo/Supplied

"What makes this year truly special for us is seeing Mrs Eti Fuimaono McCarthy honoured for Services to Broadcasting. Pacific broadcasting language experts laid the groundwork for what PMN is today.

“Celebrating Mrs McCarthy's contribution on the same night our teams are carrying that torch forward means a lot," Mann said.

There was also recognition for Pacific storytelling in podcasting.

While Best Pacific Podcast was not awarded this year because of low entry numbers, RNZ Pacific's Pacific Waves, hosted by Susana Suisuiki, received a Special Commendation from judges.

Eti Fuimaono McCarthy is a regular contributor on PMN Sāmoa.

The Radio Broadcasters Association says this year's awards attracted 636 entries with New Zealand's radio and podcast sector now reaching more than 3.7 million listeners every week.

For the full list of winners, click here.