This recording contains the official opening of the new studios and offices for 2XB, Masterton - Later 2ZD - on the 28 November 1959. [The station opened on 17 March 1958, but no recording of this event was archived.]
Introductory studio glockenspiel chime followed by orchestral version of 'God Save the Queen'.
W. G. "Bill" Judd, the Station Manager, delivers an opening address. Then, the Chairman of Masterton Trust Lands Trust, W. M. Seller, outlines history of the Land Trust. Mayor Norman Tankersley (at his first official engagement) comments on Trust Building and recalls attempts in 1948 to set up a radio station. The County Council representative, F. H. Bennett, comments on the 2XB service with flood warnings. Member of Parliament, Bertie Cooksley, tells of the battle to get a radio station for Masterton. The Minister of Broadcasting, Raymond Boord, offers his praise for the station work so far, and comments on the building before declaring the new studios open. And the Station Manager, Bill Judd, thanks speakers and staff.
A special studio programme is then played to mark the opening. Opening remarks are given by J. D. Galbraith (Belmount Furnishing programme) and several songs are performed:
Voices In Harmony - "Love Walked In"
Charlie Hare - "Chip Off The Old Block"
Jean Bassett - "Seiguella"
Cleft Quartet - "I'm Going To Write Myself a Letter" and "Stomping at the Savoy"
Charlie Hare - "Father O'Flynn"
Jean Bassett - "La Traviata"
Voices In Harmony - "Floral Dance"
[NB. The concert musical items have been removed from the online catalogue audio due to copyright restrictions].