Radio Active 88.6FM (formerly 89FM) is Wellington's independent alternative radio station, founded in 1977 as Victoria University of Wellington's student station and named in protest against the visit of nuclear warship USS Truxton. Granted New Zealand's first FM licence in 1981, it became the second station in New Zealand to broadcast on FM on February 22, 1982. The station was the first to play Shihad and Head Like A Hole, launched New Zealand's first hip-hop show in 1983, released early Fat Freddy's Drop recordings on its own label, and ran the landmark One Love Waitangi Day festival. Rescued from closure in 2017 by a charitable trust, it continues to broadcast as New Zealand's longest-serving FM station.
Wellington indie pop four-piece formed by twin brothers Oliver and Callum Devlin. Signed to Carpark Records (US), their 2022 album No Drama was nominated for the Taite Music Prize and earned international praise. Known for eclectic influences spanning 60s pop, musical theatre, and 70s disco.
Wellington psychedelic rock trio formed in 2005 by Will Rattray (guitar, vocals) and Danny Brady (bass, synth), with drummer Peter Copeland. Released four records across 2005–2018 including debut LP Teleport Palace (2008) and Ocean Dream (2018, Fantasy Fiction Records), recorded in the hull of Wellington's iconic Tug Boat.
