Podcasts about Queenstown

Phytophthora Infestans: The Science of the Blight. Guest: Patrick Scanlan. The discussion turns to the biological cause of the famine: Phytophthora infestans, or the potato blight. Scanlan explains that Irish potatoes were grown from cuttings (clones), and this lack of genetic diversity made them uniquely vulnerable to pathogens. While Ireland had experienced localized crop failures before, the blight was a "novel pathogen" originating from Mexico. It traveled through the Americas before crossing the Atlantic to Europe in 1844–45. As a "water mold" that reproduces through spores, it spread rapidly on the wind across Ireland's dense monocrops. While the blight struck across Europe, the impact was most catastrophic in Ireland due to the population's profound dependence on the crop and a lack of alternative food sources. The organism encountered fields that had been separated from such pathogens for centuries, allowing it to sweep across every field it reached and destroy crops with unprecedented speed. 71873 QUEENSTOWN

This week, I’m joined by hairstylist and bride Sherrie from Messy Bun, who shares the story of her beautiful autumn wedding at Winehouse in Queenstown. After being together for 12 years, Sherrie and her husband planned a wedding that felt completely true to them, bringing together their favourite people for a three-day celebration in one of New Zealand’s most stunning destinations. As someone who has spent years helping brides get ready on their wedding mornings, Sherrie also shares what it was like experiencing it all from the other side. Sign up for ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠THE LOVE LETTER BY LYDIA RACHEL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, a fortnightly note from me with wedding inspiration, podcast highlights, real weddings I’m capturing, and a few things I’ve been loving. We chat about:

For nature lovers, the West Coast of Tasmania is a paradise: Heritage Listed — here you'll find mountains, deep valleys, untamed rivers and wind-blown plateaus. But mining has also left its mark here. Queenstown is one of the larger towns on this coast and Ralph Wildenauer runs a hotel here. - Für Naturliebhaber ist die Westküste von Tasmanien ein Paradies: Heritage Listed - findet man hier Berge, tiefe Täler, ungezähmte Flüsse und windverblasene Hochebenen. Doch auch der Bergbau hat hier seine Spuren hinterlassen. Queenstown ist eine der größeren Orte an dieser Küste und hier betreibt Ralph Wildenauer ein Hotel.

The first Michelin rankings of New Zealand restaurants are out later this month Yesterday Jesse Mulligan, the Herald's restaurant reviewer, pointed out it's going to be a very incomplete list of our best restaurants and worth little to most, including the high wealth tourists it's supposed to attract There's a couple of reasons. Firstly, geographic. The reviewers have only visited Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown. So restaurants outside that area, many in our wine growing districts, won't even be visited. His examples are Craggy Range in Hawke's Bay and Arbour in Marlborough, which he reviewed as being most probably New Zealand's best restaurant. He also argues that that local word-of-mouth and trusted, down-to-earth recommendations hold more practical value for diners than anonymous international inspectors. He reckons 35 restaurants might be reviewed, and we'd be lucky to see any get a star. Now normally I wouldn't care, except Tourism New Zealand paid $6.3 million to bring the Michelin Guide to the country in a three-year partnership agreement. That's an awful lot of taxpayer's money to get a very incomplete and small guide of New Zealand restaurants that miss our best and much of our country. You know what that sounds like to me? That sounds like wasteful government spending.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's been a spike in the number of wealthy Australians expressing interest in property across the ditch. New reports show there's a surge in interest in homes in and around Queenstown since the Australian budget was released in May. Queenstown real estate agent Hamish Walker says Trade Me and similar property websites are seeing more demand from Aussies than ever - with older buyers especially interested. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

K makes only her 3rd appearance on GTWM, and first time in 3 years and the two friends team up for some eye-opening female dominate caller list. It's a back-to-back set that we are certain you will enjoy!Caller #1 Dee 48yrs from Queenstown, New Zealand. Dee absolutely loves her partner -- just the sight on him who make her wet. He has an awesome career and is an all-around great guy. But he can't match her sex-drive and he is very vanilla in the bedroom. So Dee hooks up with old French-African fling who can easily hit her needs. Caller #2 is Ellie 28yrs from Manila. Ellie is in a mutually abusive relationship. In a recent fight, Ellie pushed her partner down the stairs that could have nearly killed the person. They have decided to get therapy but Ellie's issues trace back from an abusive childhood trauma. Caller #3 is B 33ys from Angeles City. B is also in an abusive relationship but she has decided to hook up with a guy from her past as well. GTWM and Good Times Radio are now streaming exclusively live on Discord!Join the Discord community by going to ⁠⁠⁠www.discord.gg/goodtimesradio

Now in remission, Nicole White is training for her second Queenstown marathon to raise awareness for Brain Tumour Support.

In this episode, I sit down with Lewis Brindley, founder of Adventure Fuel, a professional bike guide with Adventure South NZ, and a New Zealand mountain biking expert.Originally from the UK, Lewis shares how a rough first ride in Queenstown sparked a lifelong passion for mountain biking that would eventually take him around the world. From seasons in Whistler and Morzine to riding the length of New Zealand and guiding riders through some of the country's most remote terrain, Lewis has built a unique perspective on progression, adventure, and what makes mountain biking such a powerful vehicle for growth.Together, we explore the value of coaching, the mental skills required for riding unfamiliar trails, and how to navigate fear, uncertainty, and decision-making on the bike. Lewis shares practical strategies for building confidence, using points of commitment, and recognizing when to push versus when to listen to your intuition.We also dive deep into New Zealand's mountain biking culture, why guided experiences can unlock a completely different level of riding, and what riders can expect from an unforgettable journey through the Southern Alps. Whether you're planning your own MTB adventure or simply looking to improve your riding mindset, this episode is packed with lessons from years of exploration, coaching, and trail experience.Check out the NZ MTB Expedition here.https://www.adventuresouth.co.nz/https://adventurefuel.org/Timestamps00:00 Welcome & Introduction to Lewis Brindley02:05 Lewis's First Mountain Bike Experience05:00 The Coaching That Changed Everything07:10 From Chef to Professional Bike Guide09:30 Building Adventure Fuel & Teaching Bikepacking12:20 Why Guiding Mountain Bikers Is So Rewarding14:15 What Makes New Zealand Riding Special15:30 Riding Blind & Making Better Decisions on Trail19:15 Managing Fear, Doubt & Uncertainty22:45 Knowing When to Push and When to Back Off25:00 Pre-Ride Mindset & Self-Assessment27:00 The Power of a Point of Commitment29:45 Physical Reset Cues for Technical Riding32:20 New Zealand MTB Culture & Community35:20 Why Guided MTB Expeditions Are Different38:30 The Reality of Riding in New Zealand's Mountains40:40 Preparing Riders for Remote Terrain42:10 Exploring Wanaka on a Rest Day44:15 Riding Glenorchy Bike Park46:20 Cardrona & the Peak-to-Pub Experience49:30 Managing Energy on Multi-Day MTB Trips53:15 Why Queenstown Belongs on Every Rider's Bucket List54:00 Final Thoughts & Closing Conversation___________________________ FREE Mental About MTB Community with direct access to me

A thousand new homes in Queenstown are being targeted at "high quality, long term" renterns, with seasonal workers warned not to apply. Housing developer Simplicity living has the project on the fast-track pathway, and if it gets the green light the first 200 homes should be available within 18 months. Chief executive Sam Stubbs spoke to Lisa Owen.

Jeannette McGill is a seasoned mountaineer and executive leader who, at 52, became the oldest South African woman to summit Everest in May 2025. With more than 30 years of global climbing experience—including leading expeditions across four continents—she knows deeply that the summit is never just about standing on top.  Jeannette's journey is a testament to patience, resilience, and the quiet power of backing yourself, no matter how many setbacks you face. Beyond her personal achievements, she is passionate about demystifying the modern-day myths of Everest and advocates instead for the very real challenges mountain terrains face through climate change globally. Having been there herself, she brings an informed, honest perspective on what is truly happening above 8,000m.  Today, Jeannette combines her love for high-altitude adventure with leadership on Boards and helping others explore their own limits. She also supports future generations through leading snow camps in the Victorian Alps and mountaineering scholarships, believing that mountains are powerful teachers of courage and humility. Her story is not just about conquering peaks but about becoming the kind of person who dares to try. We first spoke with Jeannette on 7th January 2021 - Jeannette McGill - 1st South African woman to summit Manaslu, the 8th highest mountain in the world ***  New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries.  Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.  Your support makes a difference.  Thank you x *** Show notes Who is Jeanette Corporate executive, board director and most importantly a mountaineer South African by origin,  located in Melbourne and spending up to 5 months in Nepal TGP Episode - January 7th 2021 - - 1st South African woman to summit Manaslu, the 8th highest mountain in the world Her Mt. Everest dream  A one day - someday project… How climbing Mt. Everest came to the forefront of her mind To be a real mountaineer you needed to tick Mt. Everest off the list Deciding to go in a different direction in 1995  The pivotal moment - university and having a career or entering the climbing competition  Pursuing her career  Was Mt. Everest a realistic goal? Growing into the project Adding Mt. Everest to the bucket list after covid Going through a back surgery and perimenopause and deciding that 2023 would be her Mt. Everest year Using Mera Peak as an acclimatisation strategy  Getting sick and not recovering well, getting to camp 2 and not being able to continue. Heading back to Australia and deciding to go back in 2024 Deciding to gift herself the power of a mid-life sabbatical  Exciting her role in December 2023 and starting to train properly for Mt. Everest in 2024 Joining a small team Mechanical failure on the mountain - her jumar not working and getting word that her house in Australia had burnt down.  Getting to the South Col and not being in the right head space.  Knowing she was making the right decision to turn around and head back down the mountain  Dealing with the frustration and disappointment and why it was difficult  Not being in a good head space. Needing to pivot and become nomadic during the winter  Floundering and not knowing what was next Deciding that she would regret it if she didn't back herself one final time.  Pivoting and making the best of the situation  Having flexibility and deciding to do Mt. Everest one last time  Figuring out where to do the winter work - in either Scotland or New Zealand  Packing up and heading over to New Zealand to do training  Doing more mountain work, on the NZ Alps in the South Island  How it became a more personal/internal  objective/goal  What training looked like  Working with a mental and physical coach Using Training Peaks  Evoke Endurance Coach  Returning to Manaslu in the fall of 2024 Muscle endurance - steep hills in NZ out of Queenstown carrying 20kgs  Following a structured gym program  Her 'A' Team  Figuring out through processes and what could derail her Having cheat sheets e.g. a mopey list to keep her focused on her goal and what she needed to do Heading back to Mt Everest in 2025 and wanting to do the Everest - Lhotse Double (having 2 permits)  Acclimatising on Mt. Mera Peak  Being an older climber and the changes she made Sleeping at camp 3 on her rotation  Heading up to the balcony  The challenge of the 2025 season  Dealing with extreme winds and not being able to stand up Having to turn around - returning to her tent on the South Col and being hit with disappointment.  Maybe climbing Mt. Everest just isn't going to happen again - shedding a tear  Having her main sherpa needing to head back down to camp 2 Having the opportunity to go for the summit of Mt. Everest the following night  Now or never!!!!! Starting to prepare, getting herself together and heading back to the balcony before reaching the summit Reaching the summit - A surreal, glorious moment.  Crying on the summit and why she will never forget it The descent back to base camp - dealing with fatigue  Being able to look after herself on the descent  The afterwards - Relief? Adventure blues? The pressure on herself to achieve the goal Being at peace with herself  Needing to rest this calendar year and savour her summit Wallowing in the peace and knowledge of achievement  How to connect with Jeannette  Final words of advice for other women who want to take on their own mountains and challenges Keep stretching your fear muscle    Social Media Website: www.mcgillsmountains.com Instagram: @mcgills_mountains   

Tempers flared in Queenstown last night as residents questioned the developer behind a sprawling gondola, housing and tourism proposal. Otago Southland reporter Katie Todd reports.

Your life moves in the direction of your strongest thought. So what's yours right now? Mine is lucky. This week, I'm talking about why that one word is changing everything, plus a moment at a women's conference in Queenstown that absolutely got me, and why everything, the tea you drink, the person you sit next to, the time you go to bed is an energy decision.

More people are interested in living with family – even at the top end of the property market. Housing Survey data shows about one in 10 people want, or plan to, live with multiple generations in their next home. Sotheby's International Realty says wealthy buyers, like Active Investor Plus visa holders, often look for properties to accommodate this. Managing Director Mark Harris told Heather du Plessis-Allan the areas they're seeing this in currently are places Queenstown, Wanaka, and the Bay of Islands, and while some are buying holiday homes, there is a longer term element as well. He says there's definitely a view towards intergenerational wealth protection, with people pooling resources and looking at New Zealand from a long-term point of view. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NZSki has lodged an application with the Environmental Protection Agency to upgrade Queenstown ski field The Remarkables and expand into neighbouring Doolans Basin which would increase the size of the ski area from 449 hectares to 711 hectares. The expansion would almost double the daily visitor capacity for from 3500 to 6000. NZSki CEO Paul Anderson told Andrew Dickens some of the growth is coming from Queestown's population growth, "we think about half of the growth of the remarkable ski area is going to come from our local community alone." LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast with Andrew Dickens for Thursday, 4 June, 2026, Speaker of the House Gerry Brownlee is bemused by a ban on four MPs from entering China for a year because they visited Taiwan. A former police detective tells us about Spark's new way to detect spammers on your phone. We hear about plans to almost double the size of the Remarkables skifield in Queenstown. And on The Huddle, Oscar Kightley and David Farrar on how our voice of rugby is changing. Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Foreign Affairs Minister responds to latest tariff threat; Selwyn District mayor discusses amalgamation plans; Outgoing chair of Remuneration Authority on MP entitlements; Queenstown tourism boss discusses new tourism figures; Beige Bridge co-founder excited for upcoming summer of cricket

Tourism has been given a welcome boost, with new figures suggesting overseas visitors are spending more and helping drive export growth. Mat Woods from Destination Queenstown spoke to John Campbell.

The sound of bittersweet strings will be ringing out in the lower South Island this long weekend. Queenstown is playing host to a special competition celebrating a quarter century milestone. But it's missing a special guest this year. Checkpoint producer Johnny Sutherland spoke to Lisa Owen.

Destination Queenstown and Lake Wanaka Tourism CEO Mat Woods spoke to John Campbell about the start of Snow Fest and the opening of Coronet Peak.

I'm immeasurably uplifted by some Trade Me data. Could it be we are finally getting the message on rural or provincial New Zealand? Job data increasingly shows we're looking to the regions for work. More people (68%) are prepared to move, supposedly. Always be careful of surveys because what people say versus what they do doesn't always equate. But at least some of the 68% must actually pull the trigger. There has been a 12% month-on-month search increase in job ads. The likes of New Plymouth is up 40%, Invercargill is up 37%, and Palmerston North is 23%. I have said for years, if you can do what you do anywhere, why would you do it in a place you can't afford to live in? A lack of money makes life miserable. It limits choices, makes us stressed, and closes financial doors. Too many people are stuck in places like Auckland. Auckland is disproportionately large and the salaries that this country pays, on average, do not support a decent life in a place like Auckland, or Queenstown, or possibly even a large slice of the Bay of Plenty. But there are a lot of jobs where the wage is the same no matter what the location. In fact, one of the most glaring pieces of intel is your average wage and it's broadly the same in most places in the country. It's a little higher in Wellington because of the public service, but overall, between $70,000-80,000 is where we sit on average. You don't need to be a rocket scientist to know that if, as a couple, you earn two lots of $70,000-ish a year, $140,000-ish together, it goes a hell of a lot of further in Nelson than it does in Auckland or Queenstown. The house on the West Coast is nothing like the north of the country. This land is festooned with amazing provincial cities that have a lot of the big city access and choices. Even Christchurch, which is booming, is still comparatively affordable and by the time you get to small town New Zealand you are rolling in it in your $500,000 house, no commute, later get-up, less stress, and all the while doing the same job. So I hope the stats are real and the move is on. There is a lot of New Zealand that has never been fully utilised or appreciated. If your lot is too hard, move. You won't know yourself. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The real cost of living in paradise: the Queenstown housing crisis is leaves locals priced out and strugglingQueenstown's million-dollar dream is turning into a housing nightmare as locals are priced out, homes sit empty, and homelessness growsFind The Detail on Newsroom or RNZGo to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Queenstown group happy about funding for wilding pines effort; Rent prices starting to soften; WHO says Ebola outbreak "deeply worrisome"; Funding boost for maritime security; "No lolly scramble in budget" - PM

A group cutting down wilding pines in Queenstown is thrilled the government's doubling its funding to control the invasive trees. Grant McMaster from the Whakatipu Wilding Control Group spoke to John Campbell.

Health investment for  Queenstown and Central Otago District, electricty conference, feasibility study on the Whoosh gondola system, the film and TV village at Ayrburn and snow making at Coronet Peak .

On today's episode of The Agenda, Finn Caddie joins ACC Head G Lane to discuss the flaming hot take in the NZ Herald this morning about Richie Mo'unga (00:00)...Then, the fellas discuss Auckland FC selling out their Grand Final in minutes (05:55), and the drama in the NZ Stone Skimming Champs in Queenstown (15:15). Plus, they debate the Top 5 Fictional Athletes of all Time (24:10)...Finally, they get to your feedback in 'Yours Please' (28:55)... Did you know that we've launched a new Facebook Group called 'The Caravan' JOIN HERE! Brought to you by Export Ultra! Follow The ACC on Instagram or Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to The Agenda Podcast now on iHeartRadio, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! iHeartRadio Apple Spotify YouTube THANKS MATE! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Queenstown will need to double its infrastructure within 15 years to keep pace with growth, according to Southern Infrastructure chief executive Ross Copland. Copland warned the resort town's roads could reach capacity by the end of the decade - and said changes need to be made. Infrastructure NZ chief executive Nick Leggett says Queenstown draws in a lot of visitors and it'll leave a bad taste if people can't get around properly. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Prince of the Provinces, the Mighty Matua, reflects on his debate yesterday in Queenstown, where he was outnumbered on electrification vs fossil fuels. We also discuss the fuel crisis, Lake Onslow, the public service, regional councils, and whether he and Winston are barking up the wrong tree and are barking mad in wanting to buy the BNZ.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Queenstown experience could be elevated even further, if a futuristic transport project gets off the ground. Whoosh is a system of autonmous electric passenger pods that move along a static overhead network of cables and rails. Queenstown business consortium spokesperson Matthew Day spoke to Lisa Owen.

"'Slow down and soak up the truly remarkable surroundings'. That simple tourist maxim has taken on new meaning in Queenstown, as the wellness wave washes over our premier resort town with unprecedented relish." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

March visitor numbers were up nearly 15 percent compared to the same period last year. Paul Button, general manager of Rotorua Canopy Tours and Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown spoke to John Campbell.

Poem by Shirley O'Shea a writer from Carrick-on-Suir and a Teacher of English and German at St. Declan's Community College, Kilmacthomas since 1999. She is an active participant of Poetry Plus in Brewery Lane Theatre. Her poem ‘With Grace and with Gratitude' about Dr. Mary Strangman was published for SETU Blue Plaque unveiling at Carriganore House in Waterford in 2023. This poem and another ‘PJ 07', was shortlisted for the Sean Dunne Literary award in June 2024. Seven Years Transportation (Taken women) I wonder what they saw as they looked back over the stern of the Isabella or Sea Queen? The ships conveying them eleven thousand miles away from home. The convict girls, taken from Waterford city and county. Offenders, mothers, mistresses, daughters, Thievers and givers of food, cloaks and blankets, Swapping petticoats and shawls for a life behind bars and a colony. Culprits adjudged and condemned to Spike Island or Grangegorman, Vagabond girls, subjected to earn their own living in felony, Serving time till their freedom papers and tickets of leave. Risk takers. Lawbreakers. No pardons or pleas. Mary Moon. Deported 1834 The widow Mary stole a kerchief, and her child was taken from her. A convict dressmaker traded in Van Dieman's Island in Tasmania. Hard labour or toil, nor her crude tongue could tame her, The mischievous vixen escaped times over, as a deep poverty mania Drove her forth in her anger and grief. Better than the penalty of death but no less, Not worth the mantilla, or the price she paid too steep. In waters deep. Ellen Lennehan. Deported 1842 Like Mary, Ellen had an eye for the style and fancied a petticoat, That cost her more than the penny she would have paid for it, And a shawl to go with it, pretty slippers, ten more months, was made pay With no conditional or absolute pardon. The shoes she required for her night on the town, and she did not drown on her journey from Kingstown or Queenstown, to Hobart female penitentiary, and a life of continued brutality. Margaret Daly. Deported 1847 This girl was one and twenty years, illiterate and abandoned, stole a cloak and so exiled on the boat from Grangegorman, Her convict trade to be made toil and scrub as a housemaid. A freckled girl, with a gap in her smile, all the while, Her 7 children did not survive or were orphaned. 7, the number unlucky for Margaret of Dungarvan. Her Hemiplegic body paralysed by the loss and the grief. 37 the number of years in her life. Bridget Crotty. Deported 1849 The Lismore girl stole three geese from Pat Walsh of Portlaw, Made an outlaw of her and her friend Judith Sent first to Grangegorman workhouse to await her passage, Yet a quiet girl like Bridget understood the message and good behaviour cut short her servitude, with her modest attitude, and the flesh of the geese never made it to her belly from Ballyduff to the rough seas, going under to the hell of a retributive colony. Judith Farrell. Deported 1849 Of Lismore and a friend of Ms Crotty, the geese stealer She sailed down to hard labour without favour from healing herself from the dysentery on the boat of transportation, Frequented disorderly houses and stations Where she took up with a fellow, a drunken braggard boaster, Her black tale of woe ends with her rape and her murder. No absence permitted or sanctitude or saviour, She couldn't escape from his fervour and venture. Bridget Brien. Deported 1852 Ms Brien stole a hen at the height of the famine To sustain starving children, 7 years transportation. Transformed to a penal servant girl, dark haired and blue eyed Her boy John Brien, age 4 by her side was taken into the orphanage on arrival, the pain of survival. Bereft Bridget heartbroken, caught drunk and absconding One of 9000 women, repentant remanding. The women of Waterford and Van Diemen's landing. What did they see when the glanced back over the stern? They saw Ireland, to where they would never to return.

"No matter the season, the mesmerising lakeside setting of Wānaka is a supreme body of beauty. Clad in floor to ceiling windows, I was staying at Marina Terrace Apartments on Lakeside Road, waking up to the yolky dawn of a new day as the first rays of sunlight torched the sprawling sweep of Lombardy poplars strutting the western shoreline, beneath Roy's Peak. Gazing across to the gilded glory of the morning light show, it vividly underscored to me Wānaka's elemental brag-power as one of our greatest natural playgrounds. And it beats to a less frenetic tempo than the throb of Queenstown. Unsurprisingly, most of the locals look strikingly fit, lithe and active. I guess it becomes second nature – as does using the Mt. Iron loop track as your open-air gym." Read Mike's full article. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A developer says this property gets a 15.4% gross yield… but does it actually stack up?In this episode, Ed and Andrew break down a real-world Airbnb deal in Queenstown to show how headline numbers can look incredible... until you dig into the assumptions behind them. You'll learn: How a 15.4% yield is calculated Whether the numbers check out… or are just a flat-out fabrication Why looking at net yield (not gross) gives a much clearer picture What this really comes down to: the numbers aren't always wrong… but they're often presented in a way that makes them look better than they are. If you don't run the full calculation yourself, it's easy to be misled.Book a meeting⁠ to start your path to financial freedom with a detailed financial plan for $0.For more from Opes Partners:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up for the weekly Private Property newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Queenstown's winter is getting a head start, with a ski field turning on the snow in autumn. Otago Southland reporter Katie Todd reports.

New figures from Stats NZ show the number of marriages and civil unions in New Zealand has fallen again, down 3% in 2025 to just over 17,500. Kirsty Ussher, Wanaka and Queenstown-based celebrant and planner, spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

A plan to transform Queenstown's hills with three gondolas, more than 1300 housing units and two predator-free sanctuaries has cleared the first hurdle of the fast-track process. Otago Southland reporter Katie Todd reports.

"Tucked beneath the rugged Crown Range and richly wreathed in the charm of its gold-rush legacy, my abiding love-affair with Arrowtown is fully renewed with every visit. Long famed for its ravishing fall foliage, autumn's full flush is still on radiant display. The annual Arrowtown Autumn Festival celebrated its 40th anniversary a fortnight ago – no mean feat when so many events and cherished festivals around the country have struggled to continue. I happened to be in town for the tail end of the festivities. "This year's cooler temps have been a boon for leaf-peepers, because the cooler, crisp nights help trees retain their colourful leaves longer, while also producing even more vibrant hues. So even though it's now May, you can still feast on the flamboyantly coloured foliage if you hot foot it to Arrowtown in the next few weeks. The flaming colour palette moves like morning mist through the trees in the Arrow Valley: from mossy green and petal rose, to flaming copper and soft honey gold, all part of the unfolding medley." Read Mike's full article here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rooftop residential solar is having a moment in the sun, with one company reporting a 50 percent increase in sales. Lightforce Solar, a nationwide installer, is opening a new branch in Queenstown. The company says its sales are up 50 percent this month on the same time last year. Figures from the Electricity Authority also show in the 12 months to March, there have been 10,344 new residential solar installations, up four percent on the previous 12 month period. Canterbury is leading the pack with 2101 new residential solar installations, followed by Auckland with 1200 and Wellington with 1099. John Harman, owner of Light Force Solar, spoke to Lisa Owen.

There's a warning that Queenstown's beautiful vistas could be decimated in a decade if there's not more funding to stop the spread of wilding pines. Otago Southland reporter Katie Todd reports.

Amy Williams spoke to a Queenstown farmer who has offered to pay for the installation of a lift for the family of a disabled teenager.

It looks like Queenstown is about to get even busier with a new film and TV production village getting fast track approval from the Government. It'll be known as the 'Ayrburn Screen Hub' and it is planned as a 7,200 square-metre space for studios, offices, and accommodation units. To find out what this means for the local economy and New Zealand's screen industry, Film Otago Southland chair George Dawes chats to Jesse.

Trevor Topfer, from Blockchain New Zealand and Avatars Global, explores whether New Zealand risks missing the next boom in digital assets like tokenized real-world property, shares, and businesses. We're also covering opportunities for fractional ownership, liquidity, and accessibility for everyday investors, while touching on regulation, CBDCs, NFTs, AI's impact, and the upcoming Crypto Winter 2026 event in Queenstown.Book in a free 15-min phone call with Darcy Ungaro (financial adviser).Sign up to the fortnightly newsletter!Thank You Swyftx: With over 1 million customers across New Zealand and Australia. Ask yourself …”Where can crypto take you?". Check out Swyftx.Provincia: Whether you're looking to invest, or you have a commercial property that needs better management - they the true one-stop shop for wholesale industrial investors. Check out Provincia.co.nz for more.Affiliate Links!The Bitcoin Adviser: Plan for intergenerational digital wealth.Hatch: For US markets.Revolut: For a new type of banking.Sharesies: For local, and international markets.Loan My Coins: Bitcoin lending product.Exodus: Get rewards on your first $2,500 of swapsOnline courses:Take the free, 5-part online course Crypto 101: Crypto with ConfidenceGet Social:Check out the most watched/downloaded episodes hereFollow on YouTube , Instagram, TikTok: @theeverydayinvestor, X (@UngaroDarcy), LinkedIn.www.radicalinvestment.co.nz________________________Disclaimer: Please act independently from any content provided in these episodes; it's not financial advice, because there's no accounting for your individual circumstances. Do your own research, and take a broad range of opinions into account. Ideally, engage a financial adviser / pay for advice!

Jared talks about the fuel surcharges being brought in by some Queenstown tour operators, permit charges for the historic Macetown Rd.

Max talks with Russell Ladbrook about a chance meeting in New Zealand that turned into one of the most delightful episodes of Aviation News Talk. Max was taking a glowworm cave tour when Russell noticed his Cirrus jacket, struck up a conversation, and soon realized he was talking to the host of a podcast he had followed for years. By the end of the day, the two were sitting down at the Fjordland Aero Club near Manapouri Airport for a conversation about flying in one of the most scenic and demanding parts of the world. How aero clubs keep flying affordable Russell explains that aero clubs fill a role in rural New Zealand that would often be handled by a flight school or FBO in the United States. In smaller towns, there may not be enough demand to support a traditional aviation business, so clubs become the way local flying survives. The Fjordland Aero Club has about 85 members, a hangar, and club-owned aircraft, along with privately owned airplanes brought in by members. What makes the model especially interesting is the economics. Russell says the club rents its aircraft wet for about 150 New Zealand dollars per hour, plus GST, and that includes fuel. The airplanes are microlights rather than larger certified aircraft, which helps reduce costs. Even more striking, much of the labor is donated. Club members help with maintenance, instruction, and field work. Russell himself mows the runway, and the club also earns revenue by mowing airport property and baling hay from the surrounding grass. It's a practical, community-based approach that makes flying accessible in a part of the world where a normal commercial model might fail. Flying near Milford Sound The conversation then shifts to the geography of New Zealand's South Island and the challenges of flying there. Russell describes the area around Te Anau and Manapouri as farmland on one side and steep mountains on the other, right on the edge of a huge national park. The terrain is beautiful, but it also makes aviation more demanding. ADS-B coverage can be spotty because mountains block signals, some aircraft operate without transponders, and local knowledge matters enormously. Russell gives an example of a nearby valley where 4,500 feet might provide a smooth ride while 3,500 or 5,500 feet can be rough. That local knowledge becomes even more important around Milford Sound, where tourism flying is a major part of the aviation scene. Russell says many of the flights into Milford use Cessna Caravans from Queenstown, and that it is not unusual to see dozens of aircraft lined up there. Helicopters are also everywhere, supporting sightseeing and practical work in remote terrain. Russell talks about helicopter flights into the mountains, helicopter barbecues in remote valleys, and the many ways rotary-wing aircraft are woven into daily life in the region. Weather, waterfalls, and helicopter work One of the strongest parts of the episode is Russell's description of the weather around Milford Sound. He confirms that many planned flights never happen because low clouds, wind, avalanche danger, and poor visibility can shut things down completely. He describes Milford as one of the wettest places in New Zealand and says it can receive astonishing amounts of rain, with conditions that may be dramatically different only a short distance away on the other side of the mountains. On wet days, entire mountainsides fill with temporary waterfalls, while only a few permanent waterfalls remain visible when the rain stops. Russell also explains that helicopters in New Zealand do far more than scenic flights. They recover deer, resupply backcountry huts, and haul waste out of remote wilderness areas where it would be impractical to carry supplies in and out by hand. That operational detail gives the episode a more grounded feel. This is not just a postcard version of New Zealand. It's a working aviation environment where flying is both practical and essential. Glowworm caves and an unexpected connection The final section of the episode brings the story back to where it started: the glowworm caves. Russell says his first full-time job in the mid-1980s involved both flying Cessna 172s and working as a cave guide, and that decades later he is once again guiding visitors through the same cave system. He explains that glowworms are tiny insects that live in dark, damp spaces and use light to lure prey into sticky threads. The cave tour includes a boat ride, narrow walkways, an underground waterfall, and a final passage through deep darkness where the glowworms shine overhead. Russell's description of guiding the boat through the cave is especially memorable. He compares it to a kind of cave IFR, navigating in darkness by feel and by markers on chains overhead. It's a funny comparison, but also a revealing one. The whole episode is built on that same blend of aviation mindset, local knowledge, and sense of wonder. Russell also shares his own story of returning to flying after doubting himself for years, and the joy he now gets from taking others aloft, especially children seeing aviation up close for the first time. That gives the episode a strong emotional finish and makes it about more than scenery. It becomes a story about community, confidence, and how aviation creates connections in the most unexpected places. If you're getting value from this show, please support the show via PayPal, Venmo, Zelle or Patreon. Support the Show by buying a Lightspeed ANR Headsets Max has been using only Lightspeed headsets for nearly 25 years! I love their tradeup program that let's you trade in an older Lightspeed headset for a newer model. Start with one of the links below, and Lightspeed will pay a referral fee to support Aviation News Talk. Lightspeed Delta Zulu Headset $1299NEW – Lightspeed Zulu 4 Headset $1099 Lightspeed Zulu 3 Headset $949Lightspeed Sierra Headset $749 My Review on the Lightspeed Delta Zulu Send us your feedback or comments via email If you have a question you'd like answered on the show, let listeners hear you ask the question, by recording your listener question using your phone. News Stories Latest ALERT Bill Allows Portable ADS-B In Digital Airman Certificate Bill Clears U.S. House Potential Investors Looking At Sonex Mayor excludes FAA from hearing on closing Burke Lakefront Report Calls for Major Flight Training Changes Michael Graham Named NTSB Vice Chairman Idaho pilot sentenced to jail time for flying drunk, crashing near Boise airport Pilot sentenced for fatal 2021 Sevier County helicopter crash Mentioned on the ShowBuy Max Trescott's G3000 Book Call 800-247-6553 NTSB News Talk #13 - NTSB Member Graham InterviewGarmin Service Alert - Use of Advisory Vertical Guidance (+V)NTSB News Talk #26 - LaGuardia and Losing Friends in Aircraft AccidentsFjordland Aero Club website Fjordland Aero Club Facebook pageWings and Water Fiordlands by Seaplane Over the Top - Helicopter Tours Free Index to the first 282 episodes of Aviation New Talk So You Want To Learn to Fly or Buy a Cirrus seminars Online Version of the Seminar Coming Soon – Register for Notification Check out our recommended ADS-B receivers, and order one for yourself. Yes, we'll make a couple of dollars if you do. Get the Free Aviation News Talk app for iOS or Android. Check out Max's Online Courses: G1000 VFR, G1000 IFR, and Flying WAAS & GPS Approaches. Find them all at: https://www.pilotlearning.com/ Social Media Like Aviation News Talk podcast on Facebook Follow Max on Instagram Follow Max on Twitter Listen to all Aviation News Talk podcasts on YouTube or YouTube Premium "Go Around" song used by permission of Ken Dravis; you can buy his music at kendravis.com If you purchase a product through a link on our site, we may receive compensation.

You can regulate your nervous system all you want…But if what you're building doesn't actually fit you—it will never fully settle.In this episode, Brittney breaks down the missing piece in the industry's obsession with nervous system work—and why so many women are still stuck in cycles of:→ growth → collapse → rebuildeven when they're “doing everything right.”This conversation reframes what's really happening when your success won't stabilise—and why it has nothing to do with discipline, mindset, or how much work you're doing.Inside this episode:Why nervous system work does work—but doesn't always stabilise successThe hidden reason you still feel on edge (even when regulated)How building from the wrong blueprint keeps your system activated The truth about “doing everything right” and still not seeing it holdWhy internal conflict—not capacity—is the real issueThe shift from performance → structureWhat actually creates stability, certainty, and sustainable successIf you're done doing everything right…and still not seeing it hold—This is where it changes.Secure your spot inside Inevitability, By Design for Queenstown and Sydney here

Cable cars could be carrying commuters across the rooftops of Queenstown if a new mass transit proposal gets the fast-track green light. Southern Infrastructure chief executive Ross Copland spoke to Corin Dann.

Summary In this solo episode, Gary Pinkerton reflects on his recent trip to Sydney and Queenstown, sharing personal observations on culture, freedom, and economic systems. He then shifts into the core topic: advanced tax reduction strategies for high-income earners and business owners. Gary breaks down how tools like cash balance plans and 401(h) accounts can significantly reduce taxable income—sometimes by hundreds of thousands of dollars—while building long-term wealth. The episode focuses on actionable, time-sensitive strategies that can still be applied retroactively through extended tax deadlines, making it especially relevant for entrepreneurs, self-employed professionals, and high earners. Links & Resources Connect with Gary Pinkerton https://www.paradigmlife.net/  gpinkerton@paradigmlife.net https://garypinkerton.com/  Keywords tax strategy cash balance plan 401h retirement planning high income earners tax reduction wealth building defined benefit plan HSA advanced tax planning business owners financial optimization Episode Highlights 00:00–00:42 – Gary returns from international travel and reflects on the experience 00:42–01:34 – Observations on freedom and societal differences across countries 01:34–03:00 – Thoughts on environmental policies and human ingenuity 03:00–04:10 – Cultural and political differences observed abroad 04:10–05:46 – Commentary on governance, control, and individual liberties 05:46–07:08 – Reflections on entitlement systems and human potential 07:08–08:25 – Transition into financial topic and episode focus 08:25–09:41 – Introduction to cash balance plans and who they're for 09:41–10:32 – How defined benefit plans differ from traditional 401(k)s 10:32–11:19 – Explanation of 401(h) accounts and tax advantages 11:19–11:51 – Combining strategies for maximum tax efficiency 11:51–12:40 – Timing advantage: retroactive tax planning via extensions 12:40–13:02 – Advanced strategy: life insurance-based tax deductions 13:02–13:19 – Comparing flexibility and commitment levels of strategies 13:19–End – Final advice: act early and consult specialized professionals

Queenstown is one of the world's most iconic mountain biking destinations, but few people know the story behind its evolution. Today, we're joined by Pang and Tim from Vertigo Bikes, the shop that's at the very centre of Queenstown's MTB scene. From shaping local trails, to influencing the evolution of the area and supporting local racing and racers, there’s a lot to thank them for. In this episode, we dive deep into the history, the culture, and the legacy of Vertigo Bikes, and what it means for mountain biking in Queenstown over the coming years. So sit back, hit play and check out this episode with Pang and Tim. You can also watch this episode on YouTube here. Follow Vertigo bikes on Instagram @vertigo_bikes_queenstown and at their website here. You can watch all the Huck Wizard videos here and support the local bike club by heading to their website here, downloading the QMTBC app and purchasing a membership for the time you’re there. If you’d like to donate to help their amazing work, you can do that here. Podcast Stuff Sponsoring Partner This episode is sponsored by PNW Components. I’ve been riding their Loam Carbon Handlebar and have been impressed with the ride quality, maintaining a positive steering feel, while reducing the vibration you feel through the bar. Tested to the highest standards, shaped to give you all day comfort with modern bike geo and with a lifetime warranty. It’s no surprise that it’s fast become PNW’s best selling product. Check them out at pnwcomponents.com. Patreon I would love it if you were able to support the podcast via a regular Patreon donation. Donations start from as little as £3 per month. That's less than £1 per episode and less than the price of a take away coffee. Every little counts and these donations will really help me keep the podcast going and hopefully take it to the next level. To help out, head here. Merch If you want to support the podcast and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that's using renewable energy. We now also have local manufacture for most products in the US as well as the UK. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop. Newsletter If you want a bit more Downtime in your life, then you can join my newsletter where I'll provide you with a bit of behind the scenes info on the podcast, interesting bits and pieces from around the mountain bike world, some mini-reviews of products that I've been using and like, partner offers and more. You can do that over at downtimepodcast.com/newsletter. Follow Us Give us a follow on Instagram @downtimepodcast or Facebook @downtimepodcast to keep up to date and chat in the comments. For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast. Are you enjoying the podcast? If so, then don't forget to follow it. Episodes will get delivered to your device as soon as it's available and it's totally free. You'll find all the links you need at downtimepodcast.com/follow. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google and most of the podcast apps out there. Our back catalogue of amazing episodes is available at downtimepodcast.com/episodes Photo – Vertigo Bikes

Tess discusses the impact of the fuel shortages on Stewart Island, a stoush over behaviour at Dunedin City Council, plans to pump water water in Queenstown's Kawarau River, and the Dunedin croquet club looking to cheese rolls and tea towel sales to move from a container clubroom to proper facilities.

Would you rather be riding epic bike parks in Queenstown, downhill trails in Laguna or sitting in the ER because you can't pee? Jason Schroeder, Lars Sternberg and Shawn Spomer reflect on their last couple of weeks in this episode of Bikes Unaff.......The 9th Street Documentary on YouTube0:00 - Intro1:52 - Help Us Change the Podcast Name3:34 - Jason's What's In What's Out, Max Alran Rips6:35 - Jason Met Queenstown_NPC12:30 - Lars' What's In What's Out, Ride New Places20:23 - Spomer What's In What's Out, Olympics & 9th Street Doc25:30 - Spomer Can't Pee and Misses Asa Destroying Telonics41:54 - Jason Meets Sven43:50 - Loic Bruni and His Tire Pressure48:51 - Lars Got a Frameworks DH & Headsets Suck1:00:53 - Does Santa Cruz Sell More V10s Than Any Other Pedal Bike in Their Lineup?1:07:17 - Will Specialized Stop Making Alloy Full Suspension Bikes?1:08:37 - Jason Wouldn't Let Loris Vergier Follow Him1:10:21 - Crazy Commencal Team Brake Setups in NZ1:20:37 - Packing a Bike To Travel & Frameworks' Nifty Boxing Technique1:27:31 - Don't Travel with Jason1:29:25 - Why 17 Questions?