The Past, Present and Future of RDU

On the 20th February, Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū will host a celebration of origins. Of community. Of broadcasting. A homage to those who came before and those who will come after.

50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENT CULTURE 

In 2026, RDU98.5FM marked half a century on the airwaves. Since 1976, RDU has been the beating heart of Christchurch’s alternative music scene. Championing local talent, breaking emerging artists, and serving as an uncompromised beacon for independent music culture in Aotearoa. Turning 50 is a momentous milestone, celebrating five decades of broadcast legacy, musical discovery, and community connection.

With live musical performances from (alphabetical):

Docjoc, Dj Global Influence, Kool Aid, MC Tali, Messenjah, Pacific Heights, Ruse, Sentient Mud, So So Modern, The Perfect Gun, Toyota And Woosh.

Supported by live RDU radio shows from (alphabetical):

Club Persona, Dubbers Anonymous, Echo Train Records, Flammable Material, Girlschool , Hang The Saints, Liquid Exchange, Noise Kontrol, The Hit List And Vintage Cuts.

RDU50

Saturday 20 February 2027 @ Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna O Waiwhetū Ōtautahi Christchurch

Tickets available from SALTBOX.FLICKET.CO.NZ