Make a programme
We want to hear your voice
We’re always looking for passionate creators across Te Tauihu to bring fresh ideas to the airwaves. Whether it’s a programme in your native language, a climate change discussion, or something entirely new—your voice has a place here.
At Fresh FM, we welcome anyone with a vision and passion for sharing their stories or ideas with their community. We’re here to help you turn that passion into an engaging podcast and radio programme that resonates with your community.
If you already have a podcast created in the Top of the South, get in touch with us to grow your audience and become part of our on-air community.
How it works
Step 1: Submit Your Idea
Share your programme idea with us through our simple online form. It doesn’t need to be perfect—just tell us what you want to share with the community.
Step 2: Meet with Us
We’ll schedule an initial meeting to discuss your concept. Together, we’ll see how your idea fits within our existing programming and whether it aligns with Fresh FM’s mission to amplify diverse community voices. This is a mutual exploration to ensure the programme has a strong foundation.
Step 3: Approval and Training
Once your idea is approved, we’ll take you through the formal steps—reference checks and a police check—to ensure the safety and integrity of all our volunteers. After that, we’ll provide training on technical skills (using the desk, mics, and editing), programme development, storytelling, and basic marketing to help you succeed.
Why Become a Fresh FM Programme Creator?
Be the Voice of Your Community: Share stories and experiences that reflect the unique perspectives of your community.
Learn New Skills: Gain hands-on experience in broadcasting, public speaking, and audio production—valuable skills that can enhance your CV.
Get Support: We offer guidance to help grow your audience and improve your programme through workshops and mentoring.
Join a Supportive Team: Become part of a passionate group of volunteers who are dedicated to making a difference in Te Tauihu.
Make a Real Impact: Your voice can spark change, and community radio gives you the platform to be heard.
Our Commitment to Diversity and Accessibility
Fresh FM is committed to making radio and podcasting accessible to everyone. If your community speaks a language other than English, or if you represent a group that isn’t often seen in mainstream media, we’d love to amplify your voice. We also provide support for individuals with disabilities or mental health conditions to ensure everyone can participate in creating meaningful content.
Programme Creator Role Overview
Title: Programme Creator
Purpose: To create engaging radio programmes that reflect the diverse voices of Te Tauihu communities.
Tasks: Concept development, recording and producing programmes, basic editing, and promotion.
Time Commitment: Minimum of 8 episodes per season (in most instances these are 15-60 minutes each), with flexible recording times.
Location: Programmes are primarily recorded at Fresh FM studios, however, we do have options for you to record remotely. Prep work can be done remotely.
Training: Full technical and creative training provided, including broadcasting, storytelling, and programme marketing.
Important Information
Reference and Police Checks: To ensure a safe and respectful environment for all our volunteers, we require reference checks and a police vetting process.
Costs: All costs related to programme production are covered by Fresh FM. However, volunteers are responsible for their own transport to the studio.