Plains FM announces name change after 37 years

The Community Access Media Alliance (CAMA) is proud to support Plains FM as the latest station to unveil a new brand identity. It joins a growing number of Community Access Media stations across Aotearoa that are refreshing their look to better reflect their unique communities and values.

This rebrand marks a significant step for Plains FM as it continues to amplify local voices, celebrate diversity, and provide a vital platform for underrepresented communities in Ōtautahi Christchurch.

“We’ve outgrown our name as we’re so much more than just an FM station,” says station manager, Nicki Reece.

“Our new name, Plains Media, captures the full scope of what we do on-air, online and through our broad community engagement, and we’re thrilled to share it with everyone.”

“Media reform by the Coalition Government is underway, and we want to ensure it results in a funding framework that continues to support us to amplify the voices of under-represented communities in the regions through the diverse content we make”, adds Reece.

“A fresh, new look is a fitting reflection of where we are at right now, and we’re ready to face this new challenge by looking and sounding great!”

CAMA chair Phil Grey says the representative body is thrilled to see Plains Media embrace this exciting new chapter.

“Across the country, we’re seeing access stations reimagine how they connect with their communities — visually, digitally, and culturally. These rebrands are more than cosmetic; they’re a reflection of a dynamic, evolving sector committed to inclusion, innovation, and local storytelling.”

The rebranding trend speaks to a broader momentum within the sector, as stations respond to changing audience needs, digital opportunities, and renewed commitments to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and tangata whenua engagement.

CAMA continues to support its member stations as they strengthen their identities, deepen community engagement, and champion media by the people, for the people, and about the people.

To celebrate this milestone, the station hosted a special event at the Multicultural Recreation and Community Centre to unveil its new identity. The event brought together many of its 120+ multicultural content creators and supporters and featured the launch of a revamped website.