A Vision is Born (1960s–1970s)
Rhema began with a young man, 'Richard Berry', who felt called by God to establish Christian radio in New Zealand at a time when private broadcasting didn’t even exist. Despite illness, financial pressure, and widespread scepticism, he stepped out in faith. Early studios were built in a Christchurch garage, and a small group committed themselves to prayer and persistence, laying the spiritual and organisational foundation for what would follow.
Faith Through Resistance (1970s)
The journey to broadcast was anything but smooth. Multiple licence applications were rejected, resources were scarce, and progress often felt impossible. Yet through one-day broadcasts, growing public support, and relentless determination, momentum built. In 1978, after 18 years of effort, Radio Rhema was finally granted a permanent licence, becoming New Zealand’s first Christian radio station.
From Local Station to National Movement (1980s–1990s)
Following the breakthrough, Rhema expanded across the country, establishing stations in major centres and building a nationwide network. Advances in technology, including satellite distribution, enabled wider reach and efficiency and in 1997, the once small ministry expanded its radio networks with the addition of Life FM, and Southern Star. Each designed to connect with different audiences while carrying the same core message.
A Multimedia Ministry for Today (2000s–Present)
With the addition of Shine TV in 2002, a rebrand to Rhema Media in 2014, and the launch of Sanctuary in 2025, the organisation evolved into a multi-platform ministry. From grass roots origins as Radio Rhema, the entire ministry of Rhema Media now reaches audiences through radio, television, publications, digital platforms and apps, continuing its mission to share hope and faith across New Zealand.
But this is far from the finish line. As media continues to shift, Rhema Media is committed to meeting people where they are, innovating in digital spaces, creating content that cuts through, and building platforms that connect more people to the message of Jesus than ever before.
What began as a bold step of faith is now a movement toward an aspired digital media future, focused on deeper impact, wider reach, and lives transformed for generations to come.