
With approximately 90 percent of Cook Islanders living outside their native land, it became very important for Matariki FM to have the ability to stream local news and Polynesian Music (predominantly Cook Islands and Tahitian) to every part of the world. This would also allow intending visitors and tourists to sample a bit of the Cook Islands’ culture.
Pactel International was able to respond to Matariki FM’s demand by providing an internet radiocast service. This service is now uplinked on GE-23 KU-Band platform from Rarotonga, Cook Islands and down linked in Pactel’s hub in Hawaii, allowing for the radio station to be listened to via internet from any part of the world. Andrew Taylor, CEO of Pactel International said: “We are pleased to provide this service to Matariki FM to allow them to take their listening audience from the Cook Islands to the rest of the world. Many Cook Islanders who reside in New Zealand, Australia and elsewhere can now hear live streaming of their Number 1 radio station.”
William Framhein, Director of Matariki FM thanked Pactel International for helping their radio station reach new horizons: “We are pleased with Pactel’s professional and timely approach in providing this new service to us. Our listeners from all over the world can now enjoy news and music streaming live from Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Furthermore we hope to extend our services to video streaming, which will allow our audience watch us live in real time.” “Pactel International is well-known for their customized approach and flexibility. Therefore, we have no doubt they will be able to respond to our growing demand in the future”, Mr Framhein added.