A group of Spotswood College students are making the most of having Access Radio Taranaki within walking distance of the school.
Jordan Smith, Jeremy Martin-Smith, Stefan McIntyre and Kyle P Banadera host the TechTalk NZ show on Wednesday afternoons.
On the show they discuss gaming updates, tech news and game reviews, and invite listeners to call in for tech support or join the general discussion.
Jordan Smith initially started out with a five-minute slot in 2012 before taking up an opportunity to do a half hour-long show with support from his mates.
In May this year the show was extended to an hour.
Jordan said station managers Daniel and Alessandra Keighley were great teachers who left them to get on with the job.
“It’s good to have loose reins to be able to do what we want. There are not many limitations – we are not told what we have to say as the station managers trust us not to break broadcasting standards.”
Jeremy said he was able to combine his interest in gaming and theatre while on air.
“I’m an actor so this gives me more experience of speaking about something that I enjoy doing.”
Stefan and Kyle give the show its gaming focus.
“I’m keen to share what I know about gaming with other gamers and just have fun,” said Stefan.
Kyle also talks about gaming related news.
“I enjoy having my own opinion on gaming and gaming news and having fun in the process.”
Access Radio Taranaki is run by the Keighleys and a team of committed volunteers. It’s funded through NZ On Air, theTSB and Lotto grants.
Mr Keighley said he was impressed with the enthusiasm and content the boys bring to their show which is sponsored by Primo Wireless.
“Jordan and his team are well organised and their information is relevant. They are one of the first live to air student shows at Access Radio.”
Mrs Keighley said Access Radio Taranaki was all about giving voice to those not heard on mainstream media.
“You don’t hear much from teenagers on radio. The boys are very dedicated and when it comes to gaming, they are specialists in their field,” she said.
Techtalk NZ is on air between 3.30-4.30pm Wednesdays on Access Radio 104.4FM. Listeners are invited to call-in on 751 2074.
This article was published in the North Taranaki Midweek on Wednesday, July 31, 2013