Podcasts about south islands

If you think it's expensive to travel around the country now, it's about to get more expensive with KiwiRail ditching one of its ferries. But even though flying isn't cheap, KiwiRail can forget about me making any interisland ferry bookings. Because why would ya? Two dungers —either of which can be out of service on any given day— no thanks. This all goes back to the decision by the Government not long after it came to power to pull the plug on the mega ferry project that Labour seemed to have an open cheque book for. Originally, the cost of getting the new mega ferries and bringing the portside infrastructure up-to-scratch was going to be around $1.5 billion. But that blew out to $3 billion and Finance Minister Nicola Willis said “no” when KiwiRail came knocking asking for more money. She said at the time that Cabinet wasn't confident that there wouldn't be further cost blow-outs. A bit further down the track, she washed her hands of the whole thing and handed-it over to Winston Peters who became the Minister for Rail with his number one job being to find cheaper ferries and fast. And, as we now know, they're expected to be here in 2029. In fact, pretty much all we know. We don't know how much they're going to cost. We also don't know how much it has cost or is going to cost the Government to get out of the original ship building contract. But this isn't about the politics today. The conversation today is about KiwiRail running just two ferries on Cook Strait for the next four years, and what that's going to mean. What it's going to mean for passengers, and what it's going to mean for people shifting freight up and down the country. Let's start with passengers: there's no doubt it's going to get more expensive to cross the Strait. That's just how business works. The Aratere does two crossings a day and can carry up to 400 passengers. So there's 800 passengers a day that won't be crossing. To be fair to KiwiRail, they are saying that they think the most impact on passengers will happen during the peak season. But, either way, it's only going to lead to increased prices and decreased reliability. Then there's the freight issue. There's already no shortage of people saying how unreliable the Interislander has become for them getting their products to and from the North and South Islands. I see that road freight lobby group Transporting New Zealand is saying that the Aratere going out of service will create more risk for freight. Chief Executive Dom Kalasih is saying today that it will be "fascinating” to see what happens with freight with no rail-enabled ferries. But it's not the lack of rail that's going to be an issue, because guess how much freight in New Zealand is carried on trucks? Ninety percent. And a lot of them will be trucking operators that cross Cook Strait on the Interislander, competing for space paying higher prices. And businesses paying more will mean everybody paying more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand is a dream destination for many travellers, but choosing between the North and South Islands can be a tough call! In this episode, Veena World's Neil Patil and Sunila Patil break down what makes each island unique and which one is the perfect fit for different types of travellers.

New Zealand is a dream destination for many travellers, but choosing between the North and South Islands can be a tough call! In this episode, Veena World's Neil Patil and Sunila Patil break down what makes each island unique and which one is the perfect fit for different types of travellers.

Kia Ora! Adam's in Queenstown after making the big move to New Zealand. He's currently road tripping around the country, visiting both the North and South Islands, in search of somewhere to base himself. Issues with a rental vehicle see Adam receive a double upgrade, resulting in him travelling in more luxury than he's used to.Tripping Point's back with a New Zealand special. Alun may have an impressive record but how much does he know about New Zealand? You'll find no kiwis but plenty of Fergburgers!As always, if you have any questions, we'd love to hear from you. Send us a message using the contact form on our website: ⁠tripologypodcast.com⁠Need travel insurance? We recommend SafetyWing! Click here to get started: ⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/tripsafetywing⁠⁠⁠Require an onward flight? Please use this fantastic flight rental service: ⁠⁠⁠https://onwardticket.com/tripologypodcast⁠⁠⁠Looking for accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand? Stay with Nomads: https://nomadsworld.com/new-zealand/nomads-queenstown/Follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/tripologypodcast/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to our YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@tripologypodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Please rate the show and help us grow! Recommend the podcast to family & friends (all of them). It makes a HUGE difference. Thank you for your continued support. It means the world.

One of the country's most iconic multi-sport events returns today. The first day of the South Islands' Coast to Coast kicks off from Kumara Beach, with athletes biking, kayaking, and running to Christchurch's New Brighton Beach. Around 1,700 participants are competing in the 43rd edition of the event. Race director Glen Currie told Andrew Dickens Klondyke Corner will be an unusually busy spot, full of spectators and competitors. He says the odd tramper is normally the only one at the Arthurs Pass National Park campsite, but there will be seven thousand people there tonight. Records could also be broken this year. Currie says that Simone Maier is going for a sixth win in tomorrow's Longest Day event, which would give her the most wins for any female ever. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Famed British-Australian actress Miriam Margolyes has been spending the last few months in New Zealand to prepare for her latest film role - but she took the time to explore the nation as well. To learn more about the Kiwi way of life, she embarked on a road trip across New Zealand's North and South Islands, with a camera crew following her along the way. Miriam Margolyes in New Zealand is set to be available for Kiwi fans on Neon and Sky Open this week - but she felt the need to talk about the highlights from the trip ahead of February 9. "If I'd come to New Zealand first, I would have definitely settled here - definitely. I've gone off Australia, and that's the truth." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is what Wikipedia says about Andy Donaldson: Andrew Donaldson (born 10 February 1991 in Irvine, Scotland) is a Scottish-Australian marathon swimmer, motivational speaker, and mental health advocate. Donaldson is a three-time world record holder,[1] most notably for the fastest time to complete the Oceans Seven marathon swim challenge.[1] On 19 September 2024, he broke the world record for the Manhattan Island Swim, completing the 45.9 km course in 5 hours, 41 minutes and 48 seconds.[2]  He also holds the fastest swim across the Cook Strait - the waters between New Zealand's North and South Islands.[3][4][5] Andrew was voted Man of the Year and Performance of the Year in the World Open Water Swimming Association awards for 2023.[6] In this podcast we go deep inside the mind, the motivation, the passion and the drive of Andy Donaldson. Be inspired. Learn.  Get Moving. Summary The Ocean Seven challenge @ 4:19 Inspired by his Rottnest Channel success, Andrew set an ambitious goal to complete the Ocean Seven, a challenge to swim the world's 7 toughest open water channels, all within a single year. This required extensive planning, a dedicated support team, and significant fundraising, as each swim cost around $10,000. Despite facing many logistical and physical challenges, Andrew was able to complete all 7 swims in the target timeframe, setting a new world record. Lessons learned from the Ocean Seven @ 24:08 Each of the Ocean Seven swims taught Andrew valuable lessons that applied to life beyond swimming. Key lessons included the importance of a strong support team, being adaptable in the face of adversity, not getting caught up in external noise or doubts, and focusing on what he could control rather than worrying about uncontrollable factors. Contact Andy at - Facebook https://www.facebook.com/andy.donaldson.50 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/andy.swimming/?hl=en   ABOUT OUR CHANNEL  When you want simple, easy but powerful micro steps - small steps you do each day to transform your Life, Career Advancement or your Business Growth and results.. We have 40 years of experience working with over 400 different companies from 47 different industries.  Our Award winning coaching, learning and empowerment programmes are not just about online learning - we help you implement and embed smarter systems and solutions into your life, career and business. Most projects start with a speaking engagement at your Leadership or Sales Retreat or conference. Find out more at www.leighfarnell.com or book a 15-minute free exploratory coaching meeting https://calendly.com/lfbb/exploratory-meeting-15mins ✅✅✅ Please like, subscribe, and share! ✅✅✅

Tara and Naomi set off on a 46 day journey across the NZ North and South Islands to visit every ski field while bikepacking. The duo, @pedals2powder both loved and enjoyed skiing, yet the bikepacking and logistics of planning a 7 week adventure was a new challenge. Tara and Naomi share about their favourite club fields, including Mt Olympus, Fox Peak, Awakino, Broken River and Craggy Burn. Winter presented challenges due to short days, unpredictable weather and cold temperatures, but the pair enjoyed so many memorable moments, including finishing the journey at Treble Cone with over 100 other skiers-cyclists! They say, "if you have an idea, you're the only one getting in the way... so just do it!" A documentary of their epic journey will be featured at various film festivals in 2025. KEA Outdoors is a kiwi brand, building great gear that you need to be fully prepared. Visit keaoutoors.com to see their full range of survival gear and outdoor accessories. Thank you so much for tuning in and coming along for the ride. If you love the show and enjoyed listening, please take the time to leave a review on Apple or Spotify. I would also love to connect with you, so send me a DM on Instagram, leave me a voice message and I can't wait to see you next time. Until then, keep adventuring :) Follow Pedals to Power on Instagram: instagram.com/pedals2powder/ Read the Blog: www.abigailhannah.nz Follow Abigail on Instagram: instagram.com/abigailhannnah/ Follow Abigail on TikTok: tiktok.com/@abigailhannnah/ Get my NZ Map & Guide

Through the Canadiain Rocky Mountains to the North and South Islands of New Zealand and finishing in Australia we have been on some epic Campervan adventures as we navigate our way around the world.Abby and I have a blether while the kids sleep about life on the road and share some hints and tips that worked for us.Please leave comments with any questions you may have about RV life and if you can give this episode a share it would be greatly appreciated.Follow us around the world!Insta - @the_getafterit_familyNashy @getafterit_nashy Supported by www.saltrock.comwww.yeti.comwww.vango.co.uk Please follow, subscribe and share as we travel the world!

More than 40,000 people gathered in Wellington on Tuesday to protest the Treaty Principles Bill - ending a historic nine-day hīkoi spanning North and South Islands. Deputy political editor Craig McCulloch spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

Foodstuffs North Island chief executive Chris Quin has confirmed that the company will appeal the decision by the Commerce Commission to block its proposed merger. Speaking on Newstalk ZB this morning, Quin said the company's advisers had been working their way through ComCom's reason for the decision for the last few weeks. “The biggest concern in the document seems to be about whether suppliers would be worse off as a result of the co-op merging between the North Island and South Island,” Quin said. “Our internal teams have the view that we passed that legal test and that the proposition we put up should have been cleared.” Foodstuffs will appeal the decision in the High Court and expects to have officially filed its appeal by November 21. Quin reiterated Foodstuffs' position that the two regional co-operatives in the North and South Islands don't compete with each other in any way. He said that if the co-operatives were merged it would make them “incredibly more efficient”. On the suggested impacts on suppliers that ComCom posited, Quin said he briefed hundreds of suppliers after the decision last month. “We get a lot of conversation with them almost every day on meeting with one or other and the advantages for suppliers would be dealing with one not two,” Quin said. “The possibility would be you could do a deal to be nationally ranged, so we see a number of advantages for suppliers.” He believed a merger would allow Foodstuffs to make prices much more competitive, ultimately benefiting consumers. Mary Devine, chief executive of Foodstuffs South Island, also said the merger woujld bring long-term benefits to customers and communities, citing increased efficiency and faster innovation. “Combining our operations allows us to streamline operations, reduce overheads and better invest in new technology and services that our customers want,” Devine said. “This isn't just a merger - it's an evolution to ensure we remain competitive and sustainable for the future.” The original decision Now that Foodstuffs has confirmed its appeal, the process will likely be a lengthy one. Foodstuffs North Island and Foodstuffs South Island operate some of New Zealand's best-known supermarket banners – New World, Pak'nSave and Four Square – and while each retails only in its respective island, the companies already collaborate across various business areas, including marketing and home-brand purchasing. Their combined revenue was nearly $13 billion in the last fiscal year. In their application to the commission for clearance to merge, the parties essentially argued that they do not compete at either the retail or wholesale level and they would be more efficient and better equipped to drive down grocery prices as a single streamlined entity. However, the commission was not convinced the benefits of such an arrangement would flow to customers and moreover, its main concern was that a merger would reduce the number of buyers in the “upstream market” for grocery supply from three to two – this market is currently dominated by the two Foodstuffs entities and Woolworths NZ. In its decision, the commission noted that this reduction would be a structural change and would likely lessen competition in multiple acquisition and retail markets. It also emphasised that competition in the country's highly concentrated grocery market was already weak. Tom Raynel is a multimedia business journalist for the Herald, covering small business and retail. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us in this episode of Never Been Sicker as world record freediver William Trubridge shares his journey from breaking records underwater to helping people manage stress and anxiety. Discover how the techniques he developed for freediving can be applied to everyday life to achieve mental calmness and improve overall well-being.

Join Nina as she leaves city-life behind to embark on an adventure across New Zealand, discovering cultural wisdom and breathtaking landscapes that renew her spirit and deepen her connection to nature. Her journey includes exploring both the North and South Islands, culminating in a transformative trek through the Routeburn Track. Your support is the cornerstone that allows me to continue crafting tranquil stories and meditations for you. For just $4.99 a month, you'll unlock an oasis of over 400 ad-free Listen To Sleep episodes, including 8 subscriber-only full length sleepy audiobooks like Winnie the Pooh and Alice in Wonderland. Ready for a more serene, uninterrupted listening experience? To subscribe, visit⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://listentosleep.com/support⁠⁠ To join my email group and get a bunch of goodies, go to ⁠⁠https://listentosleep.com⁠⁠. Sleep well, friends.

Episode 72 of The Mental Game brings on a guest that will blow your mind. Andy Donaldson is among the most impressive open-water swimmers in history. Last year, Donaldson set the Guinness World Record for fastest time completing the Oceans Seven marathon swim challenge, which consists of seven of the most challenging open water channel swims on Earth, including: The Cook Strait between New Zealand's North and South Islands, 22.5 km (12.1 mi) The Moloka'i Channel in Hawaii, 42 km (23 mi) The English Channel between England and France, 33 km (18 mi) Four more, ranging from Europe to Asia to the U.S. Donaldson is the only swimmer to complete all seven within a single year. And in doing so, he raised tens of thousands of dollars for mental health charities, a cause near and dear to his heart. Donaldson says he's motivated to impact what he sees as the great challenge of our generation — combatting mental health — because of his grandfather's long battle with depression and his own mental health struggles. Born in Scotland and now living in Australia, Donaldson retired from swimming in 2016 when his Olympic dreams were washed out and took up a job in accounting. In 2020, he moved to Perth, Western Australia and immersed himself in open-water swimming. He has since set three world records, raised meaningful funds for mental health causes and touched millions of lives. On The Mental Game, Donaldson dives deep on: His daunting journey through the Oceans Seven challenge. How mental fortitude — more than physical strength — pushed him through the challenge. Why he chose to fundraise for mental health. His future goals. And much, much more. The Mental Game podcast is produced by Sam Brief and music is courtesy of David Brief and Channel J. You can subscribe on ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠, ⁠Spotify⁠, ⁠Google Podcasts⁠, ⁠TuneIn⁠ and ⁠Stitcher⁠. The Mental Game is a proud partner of Laaser's Ladybug Society, which is a designated 501c3 organization combatting the stigmas that surround mental health by actively fundraising to support mental health initiatives and innovations in our school system. The mental health challenges faced by our youth are unprecedented and it is time to get off the bench and get in the game as we fight for the mental well-being of the next generation. Learn more and join the fight at LaasersLadybugs.org! The Mental Game is now on Patreon. For just a few bucks per month, you can become a Mental Gamer and unlock access to exclusive bonus episodes, Q&As and more: patreon.com/TheMentalGamePod --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sam-brief/support

Imagine cycling from Finland to Singapore? A 15,000km journey through 21 countries. In this episode I speak with Vallu Heinilä who set off on this adventure with his good friend Alvari in 2022. Despite facing numerous challenges, including sickness and closed border crossings, Vallu encountered countless acts of kindness from strangers, shattering any previous misconceptions about travelling through so-called dangerous countries.Vallu shares the transformative experiences he had during the trip, from the high mountains of Tajikistan to the crowded cities of India, and the physical challenge of traversing the Annapurna trail. Vallu's journey didn't stop in Singapore; he has since paddle-boarded 320 kilometres across the Baltic Sea and spent 74 days cycling and hiking across New Zealand's North and South Islands.Watch the Curious Pedals documentary on YouTube and keep up with Vallu's future adventures on Instagram at @curiouspedals.Support the Show.Enjoying Seek Travel Ride? Then you can help this Independent Podcaster out by clicking this link to Buy me a coffee and help support the show!Seek Travel Ride NewsletterHave you signed up to the Seek Travel Ride Newsletter yet? If not click here to sign up and receive news direct to your inbox each month. Join the Seek Travel Ride Facebook group - a place where you can discuss episodes in more detail, learn more about our guests and also where you can share more about your own adventures on a bike! Seek Travel Ride Music Playlist - an eclectic mix with each song selected by a guest of the show. The playlist is available now on both Spotify or Apple Music Enjoying listening to Seek Travel Ride? Then please give the show some love and leave a rating and review on your podcast player.Also be sure to follow us on your favourite Podcast Player so you get notified when new episodes a...

We've all become amateur aurora experts over the past couple of days - with a rare solar storm causing dazzling displays in the sky over North and South Islands. 

Send us a Text Message.The BC Nurses' Union protects and advances the health, safety, social and economic well-being of their members, the profession, and communities (BCNU, 2024). Listen as BCNU President, Adriane Gear discusses the recently negotiated minimum nurse-patient ratios, led by BC, as well as how she sees nursing as "ready for takeoff", with all the current synergies of collaboration. Adriane Gear was elected president of BCNU in 2023. As union president, Gear is committed to ensuring that health employers treat BC's nurses with respect and provide patients with the care they deserve.Adriane has been an RN since 1993. She has worked in long-term care at Saanich Peninsula and general surgery at Royal Jubilee and Victoria General (VGH) hospitals. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, she worked in case contact management and surveillance for Island Health.Adriane first became active in BCNU in 2004, when she felt her employer had not taken her health and safety seriously after she received a needle stick injury while pregnant with her second child. She became a steward at VGH and was elected as the South Islands region occupational health and safety (OHS) representative in 2010. She later served as one of the region's council members.In 2015 members elected Adriane as the union's executive councillor for OHS and mental health. One of her proudest moments occurred in 2019 when, after an extended BCNU campaign, the province amended the Workers' Compensation Act to make it easier for nurses diagnosed with a mental injury to access WorkSafeBC compensation.Adriane served as acting vice president from 2018 to 2019 and in 2022 was elected vice president following a special election. In that role, she served as BCNU's provincial lobby coordinator, where she led campaigns to raise awareness of the province's critical nursing shortage and pressure all levels of government to address nurses' issues. More recently, she chaired the union's Human Rights and Equity Committee and fostered BCNU's renewed a relationship with other provincial nurses' union and membership in the Canadian Federation of Nurses' Unions.Adriane is committed to championing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, and advancing diversity, equity and inclusion within the union and the health-care system. She is dedicated to upholding the Nurses' Bargaining Association provincial collective agreement and ensuring that the province implements nurse-patient ratios, which will improve the staffing and practice conditions needed to keep nurses in the profession and improve patient care. She also wants to encourage more nurses to get involved with the union by continuing to share the importance of nurses' collective power.Adriane is a mother to two young adults, both attending post-secondary school. She lives with her husband and boxer Phoebe.  Adriane is grateful for the opportunity to live on the traditional territory of the W̱SÁNEĆ people which includes W̱JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip) and SȾÁUTW̱ (Tsawout) First Nation.Instagram: @calling.all.nursesComments and feedback can be sent to our email: callingallnurses.podcast@gmail.com

In episode 16 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, I chat with Abigail Hannah, the knowledgeable and passionate podcaster from Aotearoa Adventures. Together, we unravel the secrets of exploring New Zealand by van, from practical considerations and must-visit destinations to expert tips for a memorable journey. Abigail shares her top month-long itinerary that spans both the North and South Islands, offering a comprehensive guide for travellers seeking a diverse and awe-inspiring experience. Tune in for insider insights, trip highlights, and responsible travel tips from Abigail's extensive travels in New Zealand. So, buckle up and get ready to be inspired to plan your own New Zealand Aotearoa adventure!Guest - Abigail Hannah of Aotearoa AdventuresShow notes - Episode 16Listen to these episodes next:Episode #02 - Exploring New Zealand's North IslandEpisode #03 - Exploring New Zealand's South Island

Hey Hey, it's Sarah Williams from the Tough Girl Podcast, and I'm thrilled to share with you my latest solo episode reflecting on my unforgettable journey hiking the 3,000km Te Araroa Trail in New Zealand. Sponsored by Zoleo #ChallengeWithZOLEO, this episode dives deep into the highs, lows, and everything in between of my epic adventure. Join me as I address questions from listeners about a wide range of topics, including solo hiking as a woman, hitchhiking, hygiene, nutrition, and more. I share it all. I'll take you on a journey through the stunning landscapes of both the North and South Islands, highlighting memorable moments like canoeing adventures and breathtaking views on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or dreaming of your first big adventure, this episode offers inspiration, practical advice, and a glimpse into the transformative power of outdoor exploration. Listen now and be inspired to take on your next personal challenge or adventure. *** Show notes Intro Sponsored by Zoleo #ChallengeWithZOLEO  Who am I?  The challenge - to hike 3,000km on the Te Araroa Trail Planning & Preparation episode 2nd November 2023 Why it's not your typical wilderness thru hike North Island Stats  Questions from listeners, tribe members etc Safety for a solo women - men on the trail, wild camping, hitching Hitching Purist and EFK (Every F***king Km) Inov8 trainers - get a 15% discount here  Trail Angels V Trail Entrepreneurs  Koha V Donations Enjoyment of the North Island Canoeing  Highlights - Timber Trail, Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Colonial Knob Walkway Costs from the North Island  Reaching Wellington and having a Christmas break South Island 1st January 2024 - 6th March 2024 Planning…. Verses being spontaneous Breaking down the challenging days Rivers in New Zealand Hiking in Wales, Tryfan and Welsh 3000s  TA - Navigation and GPS Whittakers Creamy Caramel Chocolate  Food, resupply, bounce boxes, being gluten free Wildlife encounters, sandflies  Hygiene - Pee, Poo Periods Equipment - loves and hates Department of Conservation (DOC) Hut pass   Highlights from the trail Advice for hiking the trail TA Resources page on the Tough Girl Website  Final stats  Regrets Learnings What's next    Social Media Instagram: @toughgirlchallenges   Facebook: @ToughGirlChallenges  Youtube: @ToughGirlChallenges   

From the rain-soaked dreams of a young girl in Manchester, New Hampshire, to swimming in some of the world's most formidable waters, open water swimmer, writer, motivational speaker, and beacon of inspiration, Lynn Cox has lived a tale of endurance.Over the course of more than 35 years, Lynne accomplished swims setting world records, opening borders, contributed to medical research, supported environmental causes, and inspired people to pursue their dreams.  At age 14 she swam 26 miles from Catalina Island to the California mainland. At ages 15 and 16, she broke the men's and women's world records for swimming the English Channel—a 33-mile crossing in 9 hours, 33 minutes, achieving her first record as the youngest and fastest in 1972. At age 18, she swam the 20-mile Cook Strait between North and South Islands of New Zealand. She was also the first to swim the Cape of Good Hope and the Strait of Magellan, the latter being the most treacherous 3-mile stretch of water in the world.Lynne is best known for her swim across the Bering Strait on 7 August 1987. The swim opened the border between the US and Soviet Union. Both US President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev hailed her accomplishment at the signing of the INF Missile Treaty at the White House. As a world-class athlete, Lynne has championed the sport of open-water swimming, advocated for Title IX, and managed the U.S. women's water polo and led efforts to establish women's water polo as an Olympic sport.Lynne's books include Swimming to Antarctica, Grayson, Open Swimming Manual, Elizabeth, Queen of the Seas, Swimming in the Sink, and Tales of Al The Water Rescue Dog. Lynne CoxLynne Cox BooksThis Is Love Swimming to Antarctica: Tales of a Long-Distance Swimmer, Lynne CoxGrayson, Lynne CoxYoshi, Sea Turtle Genius, Lynne CoxTales of Al:The Water Rescue Dog, Lynne CoxSwimming in the Sink: A Memoir, Lynne CoxSouth of the Sun: Roald Amundsen, His Polar Explorations, and the Quest for Discovery, Lynne CoxSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Jordan Pratt set himself a challenge that would test his physical and mental limits - 10 Great Walks in 10 days across the North and South Islands. The complex logistics meant that Jordan was supported by a team that were the 'glue' of the challenge. They provided a morale boost and banter at the end of every trail, as well as sorting transport, accommodation, food and telling Jordan when to eat, sleep and stretch. The hardest part were days 4-7 after the 78km Heaphy track with a window of wet weather. What surprised Jordan most about this challenge was the people that rallied around him - from a group cheering him on at the Milford Track to internet strangers donating to his fundraiser for Starship. This challenge has prompted Jordan Pratt to reflect on the power of bringing 'crazy' ideas to reality - what would happen if every person stepped outside their comfort zone and chased their ideas? For quick and easy meals for all your outdoor adventures, use the code ABIGAIL for free shipping on your next Back Country Cuisine order: bit.ly/44uFDAB >>> Come to Nepal with us on a group trip in October 2024: ⁠bit.ly/49AvnIz⁠

MetService meteorologist Karl Loots provides an updated forecast as a deep low wracks the country.

Our destination is the North Island of New Zealand with backcountry fly fishing guide and YouTuber, Alex Waller, Trippin on Trout, Taupo, NZ.  While the South Island often steals the spotlight, the North Island produces Disneyland-sized trout and more rivers than you could fish in a lifetime. Alex was born in the UK, came to New Zealand for skydiving, and stayed for the fly fishing.  After a sky diving accident that nearly took his arm and leg, Alex made fly fishing, guiding, and documenting his wild and remote backcountry adventures on YouTube his passion.  Today, Alex explains the differences between the North and South Islands, how to land big trout, seasons and fly patterns, and why remote, backcountry fly fishing recharges the soul. With host, Steve Haigh Be the first to know about new episodes.  Become a subscriber Destination Angler on YouTube Pictures from Alex Waller: @DestinationAnglerPodcast on Facebook and Instagram Contact Alex Waller https://www.trippinontrout.com/ YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok @Trippin_on_trout Please check out our Sponsors: Got Fishing - crafting world Class fly-fishing adventures specially designed to your level of experience and budget.   https://gotfishing.com/ | Facebook @GotFishingAdventures Instagram @GotFishing TroutRoutes - the #1 Trout Fishing app, helping you find new trout water so you spend less time on the road and more time fishing.  https://troutinsights.com/ | Facebook @troutinsights Instagram @TroutRoutes  Download the app here Adamsbuilt Fishing - THE trusted source for quality fly fishing gear, built to last at an affordable price. Waders, Nets, Outerwear. https://www.adamsbuiltfishing.com/ | Facebook & Instagram @Adamsbuilt Angler's Coffee - elevating the coffee experience for the fly-fishing community & anglers everywhere with small-batch coffee delivered to your doorstep.  https://anglerscoffee.com/   | Facebook & Instagram @anglerscoffeeco    Destination Angler:  Website ·       YouTube New podcast!  Destination Angler ADVENTURES Podcast     Instagram & Facebook  @DestinationAnglerPodcast Comments & Suggestions:  host, Steve Haigh, email shaigh50@gmail.com Available on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Recorded Jan 11, 2024.  Episode 112

Wherever you were on holiday —if you were lucky enough to get away— did you see the ‘Staff Wanted' signs in the windows of just about every business, North and South Islands?  A number of business owners I spoke to were having to reduce the days they were open because they simply couldn't provide the service they wanted, because they didn't have the staff.   Yes, they could stay open and run around like blue-arsed flies, but they wanted to give them the service, the experience, that people expect when they're paying a bit extra, and they simply did not have the staff to do that.   And yet we have a huge pool of people who should be able to alleviate at least some of those shortages.   According to a column written by Paula Bennett in the Herald on Sunday, former National minister and colloquially known as Paula Benefit, because she was in charge of benefits and slashed a few, she says there are 34,000 under 25s not in work, not in study, not in training.   They're simply languishing on job seeker benefits.   And I say languishing because if the benefit is all you're getting in the way of income and that is a big if (I well understand that there are other ways to supplement an income that are not entirely lawful, or indeed in any way lawful). But if all you've got is the benefit, it's a pretty miserable, meagre existence.   To be eligible for the job seeker benefit, you have to be looking for work. It can go to someone who has a health condition or a disability that affects their ability to work temporarily, but predominantly it goes to people who are out of work and looking for it.   Damningly, the number of young people (these are under 25s) on benefits has increased nearly 50% in the past five years. What are work and income staff doing? If you have got a young person who's turning up and they have to sign on, and they have to turn up to collect their benefit, what are work and income staff doing?   Do they have the time to drill down into why a young person isn't getting work when they're supposed to be looking for it?  Is it a lack of drivers license? Is it that they don't have the people skills to be able to do an interview? Are they lacking confidence? After the years of isolation, young people in particular aren't great when it comes to meeting people, meeting new people, being able to hold conversations with strangers.   So, what is it that work and income staff are doing to help these young people get into work? What are parents and caregivers doing? Back in the day, the antediluvian times, at 17 or 18 you're expected to make your own way in life. You went out, you trained for a job, you got a job straight out of school. You found a flat and you worked. You were responsible for paying your own bills.   The thought of going to your parents and saying give me some cash, or let me stay at home and not work while I get my confidence up... you just wouldn't do it. It just simply was not done. There was no safe haven at home really unless you were in dire straits. Not simply because you couldn't face getting a job.   So, what are parents and caregivers doing to give young people the confidence to get out there?   What about business owners? Are you willing to give young people a chance? They turn up, they're a bit stuttery, a bit hang dog. The eyes are down, the chins down because they're not expecting to get a job because who would take them anyway?   You know, it's hard. It's hard to put your best foot forward when it's your first time. It's hard to present as confident, and fabulous, and wonderful when your grades haven't been that great. School hasn't been brilliant because it's been shut for two years. You know, you're not sure what you can do.   Are business owners willing to take a punt on young people?   And for young people themselves, don't you want more for yourself? Don't you think you're worth more than the pittance you get from the government? Because you are.   I've heard from a couple of young people who said they can't quite face going into the office because they suffer from anxiety. So they get jobs, they start them, and then all the chat around the water cooler sends them fleeing for the suburbs and home. They just can't quite hack the interpersonal office relationships. I get that. But what about, you know, working from home? It is a thing now. Employers understand and make allowances for young people who want to work at home.   Why have we got 34,000 young people on a job seeker benefit? Life on a benefit is not a life, it's existing. No matter how good BBQ man made that life sound, IYKYK.   What is holding you back from getting a job? Labour removed sanctions, and sanctions sound so old fashioned and like, even the word it sounds like iron manacles around your ankles. Sanctions. They're a blunt tool, but they jolly well seem to work.   When Labour dropped sanctions, the number of beneficiaries, the number of young people drawing a benefit sharply increased. Coincidence? I think not.   So what is it? If you are a young person under 25, if you have one of those young people in your life, if you're a business owner looking for workers, why have we got 34,000 young people wasting their talents and their energy?   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Never-before-seen supermarket pricing data is revealing just how complicated finding value on groceries is. Back in October, on the same day promising grocery startup Supie collapsed, National Business Review was contacted by a business called Ordain, which had been quietly collecting information on prices for six months. It had taken 13 staple goods, and compared them across Pak n Save, New World, Countdown (recently rebranded as Woolworths), The Warehouse, and Supie, across both the North and South Islands, every single day. What it has revealed, is prompting suspicions that the seemingly random, ever-changing prices are a bid to confuse customers into believing they're getting a good deal. NBR journalists Hamish McNicol and Maria Slade, and Grocery Commissioner Pierre van Heerden, speak with Kathryn Ryan.

With NIWA's prediction of an El Nino weather pattern and a high likelihood of a drier summer, how are farmers preparing? In today's episode, we're talking to dairy farmer Trevor Hamilton, who has dairy farm operations across the North and South Islands, and Kevin McKinley, DairyNZ regional partner in the Bay of Plenty.  Trevor and Kevin will share their strategies for preparing for a dry summer including how to manage cow condition and pasture quality.More information:Summer managementSummer management plan template

This week on the podcast we have Cara Brosnahan from Beef and Lamb NZ (B+LNZ) discussing the latest research being done to gauge the prevalence and impact of facial eczema (FE) in New Zealand.As the global climate shifts, the disease is migrating further southward, causing new challenges for regions and livestock previously unaffected. B+LNZ are trying to understand the spread and severity of the disease, with the aim of devising effective strategies to manage it.North Island farmers will be very familiar with what FE is - for those that aren't, sheep and cattle consume a toxin known as sporidesmin, produced by a fungus living in the pasture, which causes liver damage and subsequent photosensitivity, resulting in the clinical sign of facial eczema. Subclinical signs of the disease can lead to significant liver damage, reduced production, fertility issues and - in dairy cattle - a drop in milk production.B+LNZ's three-year research endeavour aims to enhance understanding of the prevalence of facial eczema in New Zealand and the impacts on livestock in both the North and South Islands of New Zealand.B+LNZ need 350 dedicated farmers (with 22 participants from each of the 16 regions across New Zealand) to gather samples between October and May for three consecutive years. The objective is to obtain a comprehensive nationwide understanding of facial eczema, regardless of previous farm exposure to the condition.B+LNZ will provide sampling kits and cover the cost of shipping samples to the laboratory. Study participants will be responsible for collecting samples from the ground, approximately every two weeks, amounting to 16 collections from their flock of sheep each year during the research period.Farmers interested in participating in the facial eczema research study can express their willingness to participate by registering their details below.https://www.cognitoforms.com/BLNZGenetics/FacialEczemaThreeYearResearchStudyHead Shepherd is brought to you by neXtgen Agri International Limited, we help livestock farmers get the most out of the genetics they farm with. Get in touch with us if you would like to hear more about how we can help you do what you do best - info@nextgenagri.com.Thanks to our sponsors at MSD Animal Health and Allflex, and Heiniger Australia and New Zealand.These companies are leaders in their respective fields and it is a privilege to have them supporting the Head Shepherd Podcast. Please consider them when making product choices, as they are instrumental in enabling us to bring you this podcast each week.Check out Heiniger's product range HERECheck out the MSD range HERECheck out Allflex products HERE

The Daily Quiz - Geography Today's Questions: Question 1: What is the capital of the overseas department and administrative region of France, Reunion? Question 2: What is the capital of Monaco ? Question 3: Which North Yorkshire village is famous for both its Racecourse and its Barracks Question 4: Where is the original geyser? Question 5: What Capital Of Which Country Was Formely Was Formely Named Fort Salisbury Question 6: What Is The Deepest Lake In England Question 7: Name the expanse of water between New Zealand's North and South Islands. Question 8: What is the capital of Barbados ? Question 9: Linz, Austria is a leading port on which river? This podcast is produced by Klassic Studios Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode #003 Imagine traversing the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, from North to South, amidst the unpredictable weather and diverse cultural contrasts. My friend Geoff Irvine and I bring this experience to you, as we embark on a fascinating discussion about his homeland. We touch on the peculiarities of New Zealand's geography, the distinct hunting styles between the two islands, and the current weather patterns that are causing more rainfall than usual right in the middle of winter. Spoiler alert: I also reveal my plans to return to New Zealand to partake in some thrilling goose and duck hunting for my 40th birthday!New Zealand is known for many things, and its world-class waterfowl and Canada geese hunting opportunities are definitely high on the list. Geoff paints a vivid picture of the different hunting seasons across the regions, the history of Canada geese in the country, and the preparation that goes into hunting these birds. He also shares the reason why Canada geese can be hunted all year round in New Zealand - a fact that you may find quite intriguing! But our conversation isn't limited to hunting alone. As we delve deeper, we explore the cultural contrasts in hunting and dog training across the North and South Islands. Geoff shares the journey of his dog Jess and how she has grown from a timid pup to a bold hunting companion, thanks to some training tactics that I shared during my visit to New Zealand. We also touch on different dog personalities and their impact on hunting and training abilities. We wrap up with stories from our own hunting adventures in New Zealand and the USA, while eagerly looking forward to future conversations and hunting escapades together. Join us as we take you on an international waterfowl hunting experience like no other!

The Penang South Islands (PSI) project was initially a massive reclamation project to create three islands off the southern coast of Penang island. The RM10 billion reclamation project is a state government initiative to finance the RM46 billion Penang Transport Master Plan through the reclamation of the three islands covering 1,620ha off Permatang Damar Laut. The project has faced fierce and vociferous opposition from many, including environmentalists and local fishermen. We catch up with Meenakshi Raman, the President of Sahabat Alam Malaysia, to discuss the negative social and environmental impacts this project is expected to cause, and why concerned groups are still calling for the project to be scrapped, despite the project now being scaled down by 49% to one island, from the original three.Image Credit: FacebookSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week's guest on The New P&L Deep Discussion is the incredible William Trubridge - holder of 18 Freediving World Records and 6 World Champion titles. William is often referred to as the world's deepest man, having freedived unaided on a single breath to a depth of an unbelievable 102 meters (334 feet). To date, he is to date the only human being to have free dived to a depth of 100 meters with no assistance of any kind. In 2019 he also became the first person to complete an 'underwater crossing' of a major channel, swimming only underwater over the course of 934 breath holds to cross the Cook Strait between New Zealand's North and South Islands in 9 hours 15 minutes. William is the founder of Vertical Blue, the most prestigious freediving event in the world, held annually at Dean's Blue Hole, Long Island, Bahamas and creator of the Mental Immune System. To learn more about Willam Trubridge, go to: https://www.williamtrubridge.com/ To sign up for the Mental Immune System go to: https://bit.ly/3ZDLArO Insta: https://www.instagram.com/willtrubridge/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdcvVe2pDb4xF8E46fyY0IA To learn more about The New P&L's new ‘Transactional to Transformational Leader' programme and Mindset & Momentum Micro-courses, go to: https://www.principlesandleadership.com/transformational-leadership-programme https://www.principlesandleadership.com/mindset-momentum-micro-workshops If you'd like to join The New P&L movement for more principled leadership and more purpose-led business and keep up to date with all our latest news, go to www.principlesandleadership.com and subscribe. Twitter: @TheNewPandL Insta: @principlesandleadership LinkedIn page: Principlesandleadership --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/principlesandleadership/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/principlesandleadership/support

I thought I'd start with the fact that Consumer NZ has come out and said that stranded Cook Strait ferry passengers have a strong case for payout. And the thing that astonished me when I heard that story, that passengers may have a case for claiming reimbursement after having their ferry trips cancelled, is that there's any question at all of there being compensation.   Interislander and Blubridge both operate ferries between the North and South Islands, but they have been beset with breakdowns and engine problems over the past few weeks. Some ferry sailings have had to be cancelled, and given that ferries are already booked to full capacity, that's meant huge expenses for many passengers. Some have had to abandon their cars, find somewhere, anywhere to park them -not necessarily a safe place, just anywhere, and then fly back a month later to pick them up. Others have had to find medium term accommodation while they wait for a place on the ferry. The small town of Picton has been overwhelmed trying to find rooms at the inn for stranded passengers and it's not the fault of the customers. I could maybe accept that if bad weather prevents the ferry sailing, well, that's just the way the cookie crumbles and you accept that as part of travel, safety first, you know you don't operate in bad weather, so that's fine. You suck it up and accept it. But if a ferry doesn't sail because of a mechanical breakdown because they've got an engine that's pakaru, that's on the company, surely to goodness.   Airlines have to compensate passengers for unplanned costs brought about by flight cancellations, they accept that. People have plans and if you disrupt those plans then there's going to be expense involved. But no, all ferry companies have to do is refund the price of the ticket, which simply does not seem fair; so many people have been affected by this. And again, if the ferries aren't sailing because they've got crusty old ferries that are breaking down, that's on the company. They're selling a service. They're promising to provide a means of conveyance, and if they can't do it because of failings on their part then the costs of the passengers should be compensated.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mechanical issues on Cook Strait ferries are having a ripple effect on passengers. At one point today only one ferry was carrying passengers between the North and South Islands, with a number of engineering issues at Bluebridge and Interislander. It's triggered a wave of cancellations, with two more Bluebridge sailings being canned tomorrow. Passenger Robert Cross says he travelled from Tauranga to Wellington before finding out his trip across the Cook Strait wasn't going ahead. He says the lack of customer support is surprising, given he received no notification his journey would be cancelled. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand's iconic prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, has announced she's stepping down in the coming days. In honor of her 5+ years of Kiwi leadership, we're heading back 'down under' with a special reissue of our “Island Hopping: New Zealand” episode from November 2019. Enjoy! We're back with a special “island hopping” episode: between the North and South Islands of New Zealand! Dean and Tom dive into Dean's recent travels along the stunning TranzAlpine railway, and to the hub of extreme adventure activities in Queenstown on the South Island (where Dean may or may not have bungee jumped in the nude). Then, they visit the All Blacks rugby team and the haka, as well as cultural dynamics between ancestral Europeans and the Maori, the indigenous people of Aotearoa (Maori for New Zealand). Like the flightless kiwi bird – an icon of New Zealand – you'll want to stay grounded in this episode! Check out our NEW YouTube channel here (and/or the playlist below)! In honor of the pod's upcoming 5th anniversary in late March 2023, we're posting 2-3 of our original episodes, in the order they were released, each and every Wednesday into March. Our first TWENTY episodes are up now! If you haven't heard them yet, or even if you have, head there & click Play today, and bring a friend along with you - thanks! Listen today to “island hop” with Dean and Tom! Have a cultural question or episode idea? Reach out on Twitter and Facebook (@OopsCultureShow) or by email at oopscultureshow@gmail.com. Music: “Little Idea” – Bensound.com https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIn0wL8AODI7NhX9fIeX9IlXABKapDzaD

While some people find that they can't travel because they have to look after their pets, Courtney Mellow has a better idea - take your furbabies on your adventures. Courney is a dog-mum to two gorgeous Bernese Mountain Dogs, Koda and Kash, and has taken them on multiple roadtrips in the North and South Islands. Her advice to anyone who wants to travel with pets is to start them young and to do your research when planning out your trip! She shares advice on how to find suitable accommodation, pet-friendly activities and details their most recent Wānaka trip to experience the winter snow. Thank you so much for tuning in and coming along for the ride. If you love the show and enjoyed listening, please take the time to leave a review on Apple or Spotify. I would also love to connect with you, so send me a DM on Instagram, leave me a voice message and I can't wait to see you next time. Until then, keep adventuring :) Follow Courtney on Instagram: instagram.com/courtney.mellow/ Follow Koda and Kash on Instagram: instagram.com/two_brother_bears/ Follow Abigail on Instagram: instagram.com/abigailhannnah/ Follow Abigail on TikTok: tiktok.com/@abigailhannnah Read the Blog: www.abigailhannnah.com

Scientists have used artificial intelligence to map out how our predator-free dream can be realised – finding that smarter use of current tools could bring us much closer to the 2050 goal. But they've also confirmed what conservationists have long warned: these won't be enough to completely rid the country of possums, rats and stoats estimated to kill some 26 million native birds every year. The just-published study marks the first strategic assessment of how various predator-busting tools could be deployed across the country at scale over the next 10 to 15 years – but matched to different environments. Using machine-learning techniques and sophisticated modelling, the researchers broke down the country into small units, then looked at what methods used in some areas could also work in others. "The good news is that we can achieve much more with existing pest control tools," said the study's leader, Dr Zach Carter of the University of Auckland. "Our research showed large swathes of land in both the North and South Islands will be suitable for traps or toxin distributed by air." The team found that aerially-broadcast toxins already applied to about 12 per cent of New Zealand's land area – or 33,000sq km – could also be used to cover another 26,000sq km. The bad news: predator-proof "exclusion" fences were only suitable for about 500sq km – or 0.2 per cent of the mainland – and 29,000 sq km of pest-invaded land was likely unsuitable for any measures we currently had. In these typically rugged and remote places, poisoning, trapping and fencing wouldn't be enough to wipe out pest populations that had grown in the absence of intensive control. Aerially-broadcast toxins already applied to about 12 per cent of New Zealand's land area - or 33,000sq km - could also be used to cover another 26,000sq km. Photo / John Stone "There are some spots that are extremely difficult to get to," Carter said. "For these highly remote and inaccessible locations, we are going to need some new tools – new technologies, or the novel application of existing tools." The Government's wider 2050 strategy focuses on mobilising groups and setting up collaborations around the country; developing "new and transformational tools and techniques" to eradicate the pests; and then applying these at scale across the countryside. It also sought a "breakthrough science solution" capable of removing at least one small mammal predator from the mainland – and an accompanying action plan to the strategy set out seven specific goals for 2025. A report last year found that just one of those – increasing the area in which predators were suppressed by one million hectares – had been achieved, with others still progressing. But another goal - clearing all our uninhabited offshore islands - wouldn't be achieved within the next four years, and there still wasn't a single science solution capable of changing the game. "Our research shows that there may indeed be limitations in our existing pest control toolbox," Carter said. "However, this study affirms many of the weaknesses that are currently being addressed – namely that we need tools capable of controlling pests in highly remote areas and for extended periods of time." Because we were working to overcome such hurdles, Carter saw New Zealand as making generally good progress toward the 2050 milestone. Study co-author Professor James Russell said there was already "excellent" pest control coverage across the mainland. Work by various groups, like Zero Invasive Predators in South Westland, had demonstrated it was possible to purge pests across tens of thousands of hectares, he said. "I think our large inhabited islands, like Aotea, Waiheke, Rakiura, Rekohu, are the opportunities we should immediately be pursuing for translating pest control over large areas into permanent eradication." Still, that we didn't have the tools needed to even suppress pest predators at national-scale was a "critically important finding", said Professor Dan Tompkins, the science director of Predator Free 2050, the Crown-owned company helping guide the effort. University of Auckland conservation biologist Professor James Russell. Photo / Supplied Tompkins said a focus on scientific breakthroughs was "urgently needed" to ensure the mid-century goal could be reached on time – a point scientists have repeatedly made. Last year, Carter led a study that found current efforts might only succeed in clearing rats from 14 out of the 74 islands they remain on, by 2050. A separate scientific review in 2019 also found today's approaches would fall short, and singled out some genetic techniques – although the most promising ones could still be a decade or two away. One ongoing project by Otago University scientists, and recently awarded more funding from Predator Free 2050, explored the possibility of creating and spreading specific genes among possums that led to reduced fitness and gradual population decline. Other oft-discussed genetic tools include producing a "Trojan female" - whereby all male offspring are infertile - and species-specific toxins, such as norbormide, which could be highly effective and target only rats. But using these in New Zealand's environment would likely require further development, legislative changes, and widespread public acceptance – and the Government has no plans to review regulatory settings around gene editing for pest control. In any case, the authors of the latest study, which didn't look at the efficacy of tools themselves but rather where they were used, emphasised there were many more gains we could make in the short-term. "Much of what we need to focus on is targeting pests at low densities," Carter said. "Tools such as highly-attractive lures – that are irresistible to specific pest species and can draw them in from far away – may be a game changer. "Our research lays the foundation for such transformative technologies that will be used in conjunction with existing toolsets." The purpose of these next-generation tools might be just to remove the last survivors in certain areas – especially remote ones, Russell said. "It might be monitoring devices with key design features such as real-time analytics and response - like identifying a rat has walked past and then delivering toxin while simultaneously satellite reporting this." Carter said New Zealand remained locked in a "war of attrition" with pest predators, which have largely obliterated our mainland native bird populations – while also helping drive 84 per cent of our remaining reptile species close to extinction. "Eradicating pests from New Zealand would benefit these species by order of magnitude in their numbers and locations," Russell added. "But the pest impacts are not only on biodiversity, rats are a major human nuisance while possums are a major agricultural pest through spreading bovine tuberculosis. "The costs are not only the damage they do, but also how much money we spend trying to manage them – costs currently in the millions of dollars per year." - by Jamie Morton, NZ HeraldSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we have Pat Peoples NZ Olympic rower, and now the Managing Director and owner of Schick Construction based in the North and South Islands. Pat shares about his rowing journey getting back into it after years of not competing in any sport, to representing NZ at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Hear how he joined Schick as General Manager in 2000 when there were 17 staff all focused on residential house pads, and how over the last 20 years he and the team have transformed the business into a construction company with over 200 staff. This is a conversation about leadership and living by your why I am so excited to share with you all.

Techniques to beat climate change, different approaches for different soils and even for different Islands, Alison Stewart talks to FAR's David Densley, who outlines some ‘new to New Zealand' maize research and updates her on the long term maize research programme, in the North and South Islands. For more information visit, 2022 Resilient Maize Systems conference booklet

Episode 014 - Solo Travel – Australia: where I discuss my 3-month trip to Australia and New Zealand and the forever friends I met there.I worked for the same company in the DMV (that's Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia) for 26 years but then I did something totally out of the ordinary. What did I do? I volunteered to be laid-off. The company was hurting financially, and they were laying off groups of people every month so… I volunteered at the age of 50 to be laid off. My upline was, of course, shocked but I figured that for 26 years of loyal and dedicated service, I deserved to be treated with respect as I walked out the door, unlike most people who get laid-off and are literally dragged out the door and can barely get their purse or their keys. And respect is what I got. I planned this lay-off exit over eight months…So what does this have to do with Australia? Well, one of my lifelong travel dreams was to visit Australia. However, I knew I wouldn't get my fill of the continent in a 2-week run-through as most people do, so I plotted for a longer stay.  I retired with nearly three million points and miles all for my 3-month Australia and New Zealand retirement trip. Almost every flight and hotel to and between Australia and New Zealand cost me slightly less than two million points and miles and because of my consulting strategies, I had high status in the four major US hotel groups and two of the three major US airline alliances.  So from February 1, 2018 through April 29, 2018, I visited the following cities and met some incredible people:(1) Sydney, Australia;(2) Launceston, Tasmania;(3) plus a 10-day escorted tour around Tasmania;(4) Hobart, Tasmania; (5) Melbourne, Australia; (6) one month in New Zealand visiting both the North and South Islands; (7) back to Sydney, Australia again; (8) Brisbane, Australia;(9) Cairns (Great Barrier Reef), Australia;(10) Perth, Australia;(11) Yulara (Uluru/Ayers Rock), Australia; (12) Adelaide, Australia;(13) Canberra, Australia;(14) Melbourne, Australia again; and (15) Sydney, Australia againI was truly saddened to leave. After 55 years, the freedom of waking up and getting ready for the day (or not), going where and when I wanted to, and not worrying about being pulled over by corrupt cops or someone shooting me down because of the color of my skin was, to say the least, a huge relief. I truly made some “forever friends” on my Australia and New Zealand 3-month odyssey. We are all facebook friends but for the majority of them we also email and/or message each other on a regular basis, just to keep up-to-date on our lives.Follow me on Facebook, The Slow Traveling Soul Sister podcast is sponsored and hosted by SelfishMe Travel. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, or join my travel agency email list. You can also email me at info@selfishmetravel.com and/or check out my website.

In one week, there have been positive Covid cases in the Waikato, Northland and now Bay of Plenty.University of Otago's Michael Baker wrote a blog on what the country needs to do to stop more cases from getting out, from tightening the Auckland border.But with more people in Auckland getting double vaccinated, they need Auckland to be reopened for livelihoods, business and mental health.Whilst Covid elimination may no longer be possible in Auckland, it may still be possible to continue with that method in more rural parts of New Zealand, especially with vaccination.The South Island is still in Alert Level 2 despite not having a Covid case in over a year. There have been calls for a restriction of travel between the North and South Islands to just freight to protect the South Island from Delta.Listen above as Morgan Godfery and Lorna Subritzky discuss the week's news with Francesca Rudkin on The Sunday Panel

Learn about cooking, selecting, and raising lamb with two experts: Chef Wilson da Costa of Misto and Nicole Scott of Glynwood. Nicole Scott is the Livestock Manager at the Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming. She is responsible for all aspects of Glynwood's diversified, certified Animal Welfare Approved livestock operation. In this role she manages herd health and nutritional management of all stock, as well as teaching apprentices how to manage five different species in a pasture-based system. Nicole began farming on a small hog operation in the Finger Lakes Region. Nicole moved to New Zealand in 2018 to work on different sheep, beef, and deer operations that ranged in size from 1,000-hectare lowland to 18,000-hectare high country stations throughout the North and South Islands. https://www.glynwood.org/ Chef Wilson da Costa, who was born in Brazil, felt a passion for food at an early age and, when he moved to New York at 11, spent much of his youth watching cooking programs with his grandmother and learning from her. After a stint working as part of a pit crew for an import car racing company, he dove headfirst into New York's restaurant scene. He started at Neuville-Sur-Seine, a French restaurant in Long Island, then hopped to Manhattan Bistro in SoHo. Wilson and his wife Nadia presently run the wildly popular Hudson Valley popup restaurant and catering company, Misto. Misto is a new culinary project that focuses on their unique cultural heritages and wood-fired food. Learn more https://www.misto-eats.com/ Lamb preparation ideas: One of the many ideas Wilson shares is milk braised lamb. Here is one recipe. KOHLRABI is brought to you by GrownBy and the Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming

Mark Everard is just who you would imagine a New Zealander to be: warm, fit, open, informative, hospitable, polite -- and extremely proud of his very special homeland. He is one of New Zealand's most sought after private guides, and on this episode we speak to him in Auckland, as he tours us through the North and South Islands of this stunning Pacific country.We first discuss the joys of the North Island of New Zealand-- beaches, bays, Maori culture, Hobbiton, Rotorua's hot springs -- and cities including the largest in NZ: Auckland; and artsy Wellington, the capital.Then we focus on the exceptional beauty of the mountains and fiords of the North Island, including Milford Sound.  Christchurch and Queenstown are the primary small cities of this island of vineyards, sheep farms, national parks and exceptional vistas, perfect for  outdoorsy tourists.Lodging, foods best amount of time and best time to visit are talked about, of course. And Mark ends with a special memory._____Mark Everard is Managing Director of the Adrenalin Group in New Zealand, specializing  in premium executive offsite event management. For over 20 years he has individually guided hundreds of people throughout New Zealand. Mark's private clients have included Russian oligarchs, celebrities, politicians, business leaders, sheiks, crown princes and princesses, barons and baronesses. And  just plain folks!_____Podcast host Lea Lane blogs at forbes.com, has traveled to over 100 countries, written nine books, including Places I Remember, and contributed to guidebooks. She's @lealane on Twitter; Travelea on Insta; on  Facebook, it's Places I Remember by Lea Lane. Website: placesirememberlealane.com.  Please follow, rate and review this weekly travel podcast!

This week on The Wine CEO Podcast we are finishing our 2 part Beginner's Guide on New Zealand by chatting about the South Island Wine regions, food pairings, and more!  Check out my blog post on the wineceo.com HERE to read more about New Zealand and to see a map of the top wine producing regions. ------------- Sponsor of Episode #35: Wash & Wik Candle and Soap Co.  Enter code: THEWINECEO at checkout for 20% off your purchase -------------- In the South Island, the main regions of note are Marlborough, Caterbury, Waipara, and Central Otago. Marlborough is known almost exclusively for Sauvignon Blanc. It produces 70% of New Zealand wine and over 85% of the country's Sauvignon Blanc. It's also fitting that we discuss Marlborough first because it was actually the first area on the South Island where grape vines were planted. The region is made up of multiple valleys and each imparts specific flavor profiles to the grapes. (For example, some areas offer more irrigation while others have unique soil blends.) Often winemakers in Marlborough will harvest Sauvignon Blanc grapes from multiple valleys and blend them to find a balanced flavor. Marlborough does have some Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Gris; but, it's mostly known for Sauvignon Blanc. Many producers here age their wine in stainless steel tanks while some age on old French oak barrels that impart little flavor to the wine. Basically, there's little to no oak influence so these wines taste clean, crisp, and refreshing. Up next are  the regions of Caterbury and Waipara. I combined these two because they are fairly small producing regions located on the central eastern coast of the South Island. They're also both located right next to the large city of Christchurch. These areas are known predominantly for Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc,  but there is some Riesling and Pinot Gris grown here as well. Last but not least is Central Otago, which is in the south east region of the South Island. This area is known for Pinot Noir and is definitely the second most well known region in the South Island, next to Marlborough. There is a small amount of Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Riesling grown here - but Pinot Noir is definitely the main attraction. The reason for this is the unique red colored soil made of clay, lime, and gravel; which imparts unique minerality to the grapes. Additionally the climate in Central Otago is rather dry and sunny, helping the Pinot Noir grapes to develop nice fresh fruit flavors.  Typically New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs are stylistically known for having notes of grapefruit, passionfruit, ripe pear, tropical fruits, kiwi, and herbal notes that a lot of folks equate to fresh cut grass and herbs.  The Pinot Noirs can range in flavor across the North and South Islands, but they tend to have notes of cherry, cranberry, mushroom, raspberry and spices or vanilla.   Food Pairings: With these unique flavor profiles, you have a lot of great options to pair New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noirs with food. NZ is surrounded by ocean, so there's a lot of seafood in their cuisine. New Zealand Sauvignon blancs go really nicely with oysters, shrimp, light white fish, and almost anything that is light and needs acid. Because of the herbal flavors, they also pair nicely with heavily herbed light dishes. So for example, think about a shrimp pasta with lemon and fresh parsley - this would be great with New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Additionally, New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs pair nicely with salads because of the herbal and vegetal flavors. One thing that a lot of folks don't expect is that New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs actually go really well with asian foods. The tropical fruit and lime notes are delicious with South Pacific island cuisine. (And if you aren't familiar with Fiji and the Polynesian islands, think about fish with soy sauce or lime and coconut milk as this is classic cuisine to the region). New Zealand Pinot Noirs pair nicely with lamb because of the earthier and spicier notes. But, because they are also light, fruity, and acidic, they also pair well with duck and chicken. My personal favorite though is salmon. New Zealand Pinot Noir is light enough to not overpower salmon making for a delicious combination. Fun Fact: One of the things that New Zealand is known for is utilizing the Stelvin Closure or Screw Cap in almost all of their wines. You would be hard pressed to find a wine with a cork in it in this country and culturally it's more odd to see a wine with a screw cap than a cork throughout the islands. This may seem counterintuitive, but if you remember listening to The Wine CEO Podcast Episode #18, then you know that screw caps are becoming more and more popular around the world because they are actually a safer way to seal bottles than natural corks.  Screw caps have been widely accepted in New Zealand for this reason for years and it's truly just a common practice in the winemaking culture and for all of the New Zealand wine consumers to expect screw caps.  Wines to try: Sauvignon Blancs: Cloudy Bay was the first New Zealand winery to put Sauvignon Blanc on the global map. It's a bit of a legend! Brancott also makes delicious Sauvignon Blanc in Marlborough. Kim Crawford is a classic label that always has consistent and great quality Sauvignon Blanc. Palliser Estate also has some delicious Sauvignon Blanc. Pinot Noirs: Ata Rangi is a top producer with delicious Pinots. Oyster bay is really affordable, but good quality and consistent. Dog Point is a delicious Pinot Noir maker from Marlborough. Check out thewineceo.com to sign up for my newsletter and to receive my free guide to food and wine pairings!

Today's episode is the first of many wine region spotlights! You all asked for more episodes on specific wine regions and today I'm discussing New Zealand. This 2 part series covers an overview of New Zealand wine history, fun facts and legends, as well as the main wine growing regions on the North and South Islands.  Check out my blog post HERE if you're a visual learner and want to look at a map while you listen to the show. Episode #34 focuses on the North Island wine regions listed below and next week we'll cover the South Island, food pairings, and more! *SPONSOR from today's show: Wash + Wik Candle and Soap Co. Be sure to enter code: THEWINECEO at checkout for 20% off your purchase!* --------------- The North Island is predominantly known for the regions of Hawke's Bay, Gisborne, Auckland, and Wairarapa. This whole island is slightly warmer throughout the year than the South Island because it's closer to the equator. This makes it much easier for the wine makers in this region to grow Syrah, Merlot, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and other grapes that require a bit more sunlight. Auckland: Aukland is the most northwestern wine region in New Zealand and is mostly known for Chardonnay and red blends from Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. There has been an increase in Syrah plantings over the past few years in Auckland as well. The region spreads out all around the city of Aukland and although it doesn't produce the most wine in New Zealand, it actually has the largest number of wineries in the country. The climate in Aukland is warm, but rainy and humid. There's a lot of cloud cover in this region that can help moderate sunlight hours, but the intense amount of rain can also create problems with rot. For a smaller region, they are producing some really amazing wines.  Gisborne: Moving clockwise from Auckland we come next to Gisborne. This region sits along the north eastern coast and is known for Chardonnay and Pinot Gris. They're especially known for their unique Chardonnays that have tropical fruit and honey notes that make for really unique, bold wines. Gisborne gets a lot of rain along the coast, but is still warmer than most New Zealand regions. This weather makes it perfect for chardonnay. Overall it's a fairly small region and has a lower number of wineries compared to the other North Island regions. Hawke's Bay: Next up is Hawke's Bay which is along the central eastern coast of the North Island. It is known for Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, and a small amount of Syrah. Hawke's Bay is actually the second largest wine region in the country and also the driest of all of the regions in the North Island. The leading variety here is Chardonnay, but there's a long history of red wine as well. Cabernet Sauvignon put this region on the map due to the fertile and gravelly soil that reminded many winemakers of Bordeaux. Today Merlot and Syrah have overtaken Cabernet Sauvignon in the number of vines planted, but all of these red grapes are still used in many delicious blends coming out of this region. Wairarapa: Last but not least is Wairarapa. This region is in the southern tip of the North island, where the country's capital of Wellington is located. Wairarapa is known for Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and some Pinot Gris. The most important sub region within Wairarapa is by far Martinborough, which has gained world acclaim for outstanding pinot noirs. The region is compared often to Burgundy, which is also known for Pinot Noir, due to their similar climates. There's a large mountain range that helps create a really dry climate in Martinborough that is perfect for growing Pinot Noir. Overall, there aren't a ton of wineries here, but the few that are - make really delicious wines.   Great wines to try from the North Island: Palliser Estate: This winery offers Pinot Noir, Sauvignon blanc, and Pinot Gris from Martinborough. Ata Rangi: Amazing Pinot Noirs from Martinborough Dry River: Delicious Pinot Noirs from Martinborough

BECOME A PRODUCER! http://www.patreon.com/themidnighttrainpodcast   Find The Midnight Train Podcast: www.themidnighttrainpodcast.com www.facebook.com/themidnighttrainpodcast www.twitter.com/themidnighttrainpc www.instagram.com/themidnighttrainpodcast www.discord.com/themidnighttrainpodcast www.tiktok.com/themidnighttrainp   And wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.   Subscribe to our official YouTube channel: OUR YOUTUBE   Boarding the train in Japan we're taking the imaginary bridge and heading to a beautiful island. What island is that you ask? We are heading to a place that has been kicking ass with listener support recently, and as we learned from a listener, they are not all pussies. We are heading to the land of Peter Jackson, Taika Waititi, Sir Edmund Hillary, Ernest Rutherford, who if you're not up on your scientists, was a  physicist who came to be known as the father of nuclear physics. Encyclopædia Britannica considers him to be the greatest experimentalist since Michael Faraday, Jean Batten, a female aviator who made the first solo flight from England to New Zealand, and the list could go on. Since we gave it away in the last description… You've probably guessed it… We're heading to New Zealand! Not only that… Creepy New Zealand!   So you know by now how we do it here on our creepy series, we like to give you a history of the location we're at and then drive into all that is creepy about said place! Having said that, let's check out the history of New Zealand. It all started when Bilbo Baggins found a ring. It was the one ring to rule them all… Oh wait.. Sorry… Wrong history… oh ya here we go.. Māori were the first inhabitants of New Zealand or Aotearoa, guided by Kupe the great navigator. When did Maori first arrive in New Zealand? According to Māori, the first explorer to reach New Zealand was Kupe. Using the stars and ocean currents as his navigational guides, he ventured across the Pacific on his waka hourua (voyaging canoe) from his ancestral Polynesian homeland of Hawaiki. It is thought that Kupe made landfall at the Hokianga Harbour in Northland, around 1000 years ago. You will not find Hawaiki on a map, but it is believed Māori came from an island or group of islands in Polynesia in the South Pacific Ocean. There are distinct similarities between the Māori language and culture and others of Polynesia including the Cook Islands, Hawaii, and Tahiti. More waka hourua followed Kupe over the next few hundred years, landing at various parts of New Zealand. It is believed that Polynesian migration was planned and deliberate, with many waka hourua making return journeys to Hawaiki. Today, Māori are part of an iwi (tribe), a group of people who are descendants of a common ancestor and associated with a certain region or area in New Zealand. Each iwi has their own hapū (sub-tribes). Iwi can trace their entire origins and whakapapa (genealogy) back to certain waka hourua. The seven waka that arrived to Aotearoa were called Tainui, Te Arawa, Mātaatua, Kurahaupō, Tokomaru, Aotea and Tākitimu. Māori were expert hunters, gatherers and growers. They wove fishing nets from harakeke (flax), and carved fish hooks from bone and stone. They hunted native birds, including moa, the world's largest bird, with a range of ingenious traps and snares.   Māori cultivated land and introduced vegetables from Polynesia, including the kūmara (sweet potato) and often cooked hāngi (an earth oven). They also ate native vegetables, roots and berries. Woven baskets were used to carry food, which was often stored in a pātaka — a storehouse raised on stilts.  To protect themselves from being attacked by others, Māori would construct pā (fortified village). Built in strategic locations, pā were cleverly constructed with a series of stockades and trenches protecting the inhabitants from intruders. Today, many historic pā sites can be found throughout the country.   Māori warriors were strong and fearless, able to skillfully wield a variety of traditional weapons, including the spear-like taiaha and club-like mere. Today, these weapons may be seen in Māori ceremonies, such as the wero (challenge). You can also find these traditional weapons in museums. While Māori lived throughout the North and South Islands, the Moriori, another Polynesian tribe, lived on the Chatham Islands, nearly 900 kilometres east of Christchurch. Moriori are believed to have migrated to the Chathams from the South Island of New Zealand. In the late 18th century, there were about 2000 Moriori living in the Chathams. However, disease and attacks from Māori saw the numbers of this peace-loving tribe become severely depleted. The last full-blooded Moriori is believed to have died in 1933.The first European to sight New Zealand was Dutch explorer Abel Tasman. He was on an expedition to discover a great Southern continent ‘Great South Land' that was believed to be rich in minerals. In 1642, while searching for this continent, Tasman sighted a ‘large high-lying land' off the West Coast of the South Island.   Abel Tasman annexed the country for Holland under the name of ‘Staten Landt' (later changed to ‘New Zealand' by Dutch mapmakers). Sailing up the country's West Coast, Tasman's first contact with Māori was at the top of the South Island in what is now called Golden Bay. Two waka (canoes) full of Māori men sighted Tasman's boat. Tasman sent out his men in a small boat, but various misunderstandings saw it rammed by one of the waka. In the resulting skirmish, four of Tasman's men were killed.   Tasman never set foot on New Zealand, and after sailing up the West Coast, went on to some Pacific Islands, and then back to Batavia (now Jakarta) in the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia). His mission to New Zealand was considered unsuccessful by his employers, the Dutch East India Company, Tasman having found ‘no treasures or matters of great profit'. Captain James Cook, sent to Tahiti to observe the transit of Venus, was also tasked with the search for the great southern continent thought to exist in the southern seas. Cook's cabin boy, Young Nick, sighted a piece of land (now called Young Nick's Head) near Gisborne in 1769. Cook successfully circumnavigated and mapped the country, and led two more expeditions to New Zealand before being killed in Hawaii in 1779. Prior to 1840, it was mainly whalers, sealers, and missionaries who came to New Zealand. These settlers had considerable contact with Māori, especially in coastal areas. Māori and Pākehā (Europeans) traded extensively, and some Europeans lived among Māori. The contribution of guns to Māori intertribal warfare, along with European diseases, led to a steep decline in the Māori population during this time.  Signed in 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi is an agreement between the British Crown and Māori.   Around this time, there were 125,000 Māori and about 2000 settlers in New Zealand. Sealers and whalers were the first Europeans settlers, followed by missionaries. Merchants also arrived to trade natural resources such as flax and timber from Māori in exchange for clothing, guns and other products.   As more immigrants settled permanently in New Zealand, they weren't always fair in their dealings with Māori over land. A number of Māori chiefs sought protection from William IV, the King of England, and recognition of their special trade and missionary contacts with Britain. They feared a takeover by nations like France, and wanted to stop the lawlessness of the British people in their country. As British settlement increased, the British Government decided to negotiate a formal agreement with Māori chiefs to become a British Colony. A treaty was drawn up in English then translated into Māori.   The Treaty of Waitangi was signed on February 6, 1840, at Waitangi in the Bay of Islands. Forty-three Northland Chiefs signed the treaty on that day. Over 500 Māori Chiefs signed it as it was taken around the country during the next eight months. The Treaty had three articles:   that the Queen (or king) of Great Britain has the right to rule over New Zealand; that Māori chiefs would keep their land and their chieftainships, and would agree to sell their land only to the British monarch; and that all Māori would have the same rights as British subjects. The second and third articles have caused controversy through the years, mainly because of translation problems. Successive governments believed the Treaty enabled complete sovereignty over Māori, their lands and resources. But Māori believed that they were merely giving permission for the British to use their land. Disputes over ownership followed involving a series of violent conflicts during the 19th century. These became known as the New Zealand Land Wars, and were concentrated around Northland and the southern part of the North Island during the 1840s, and the central North Island in the 1860s. Both sides suffered losses, with the British Crown the eventual victor. Land confiscation and questionable land sales carried on through to the 20th century, until the vast majority of land in New Zealand was owned by settlers and the Crown. Following its signing, many of the rights guaranteed to Māori in the Treaty of Waitangi were ignored. To help rectify this, the Waitangi Tribunal was set up in 1975. It has ruled on a number of claims brought by Māori iwi (tribes) and in many cases, compensation has been granted.   While disagreements over the terms of the treaty continue to this day, it is still considered New Zealand's founding document.   The grounds and building where the treaty was signed have been preserved. Today, the Waitangi Historic Reserve is a popular tourist attraction. Here you can explore the museum, watch a cultural performance inside the carved Māori meeting house, and visit the colonial mission house, historic flagstaff, and beautiful waka taua (Māori war canoe). Throughout the 19th and much of the 20th century, the ‘homeland' of Britain had an enormous influence on New Zealand. Government administration, education, and culture were largely built on British models. New Zealand troops fought, and suffered severe casualties in the Boer War and the two World Wars. As Prime Minister Michael Savage said about England in 1939, ‘where she goes, we go, where she stands, we stand'. After World War II, cultural ties with Great Britain remained strong. However, successive New Zealand governments saw the USA as their major ally and protector. New Zealand signed the joined SEATO (South-East Asia Treaty Organisation) and signed the ANZUS (Australia, New Zealand, and United States) Pact. New Zealand troops also fought with US forces during the Korean and Vietnam wars. While New Zealand is still heavily influenced by its colonial heritage, the country now has its own strong sense of identity. While still a member of the British Commonwealth, and maintaining close, friendly relations with the USA, New Zealand now has a far more independent trading and foreign policy. Since the mid 1980s, New Zealand has been a nuclear free zone, with its armed forces primarily focused on peacekeeping in the Pacific region. This history of the country was taken directly from NewZealand.Com. It was the best summation without getting too overblown we could find!  So now with that history of the country down let's get into the creepiness!!   First up, a ghost town!  Now farmland and Bush, Tangarakau once was a thriving community of 1200 people. It's a tiny dot on the map 90 minutes' drive from both Stratford and Taumarunui - so remote that it isn't even on the Forgotten Highway. You must turn off State Highway 43 and drive 6km into bush and rugged farmland to reach all that's left of it, which is almost nothing. There's a campground with cabins and provision for motorhomes, a working farm, the heavily rainforested banks of the Tangarakau River and surrounding hills to explore and plenty of outdoor activities: fossil collecting, kayaking, hunting. The name, which translates as "to fell trees” seems appropriate, for there's nothing but paddocks where a community of 1200 tunnellers and railway workers once thrived. Tangarakau was the epicentre of an epic construction job accomplished with picks, shovels and dynamite - a project which it's said would have cost $9 billion in today's money. Construction of the Stratford-Okahukura railway line began from Stratford in 1901 and took more than three decades to complete. The link was mothballed in 2009, though you can still ride over it in tourist railcarts. For most of its life this railway thrived, with goods trains carrying coal, stock and wool and passenger railcars travelling both ways every day. One feature of visiting Tangarakau on the railcarts is that the railway ballast on this part of the track is full of fossils. For about 10 years, during the height of construction, Tangarakau boasted a drapery store, hairdresser and tobacconist, boot shop, tearooms, confectioner and fruiterer, social rooms, post office and savings bank, police station, a boarding house, resident doctor and dispensary (formed by a co-operative Tangarakau Medical Association), a maternity home, cinema and social hall, lending library and reading room, a well-equipped school, recreation ground and tennis court. The streets were lit by a power station provided by the Public Works Department. According to Taranaki's Ghost Town by Derek Morris, men who built the Stratford-Okahukura railway line earned only a few pounds a week. But everyone gave a day's wages to the victims of the 1931 Hawke's Bay earthquake. After the line was completed in 1932, the workers drifted away and most buildings were dismantled and removed. During the 1960s, the population dwindled to eight. Now only Bushlands Holiday Park remains.   Not far from the ghost town, in the spectacular Tangarakau Gorge, is the grave of pioneer surveyor Joshua Morgan who died in 1893. Morgan was an extraordinary man - the first European to cross the Urewera Ranges and an eyewitness to the 1886 Tarawera eruption. He spoke fluent Maori and often used English and Maori interchangeably. Morgan fell ill while surveying the road linking Stratford and Taumarunui and did not survive to see the historic railway line through to completion. Morgan's tomb has become a place for travellers to pause and reflect on those who built the Stratford-Okahukura railway line. There's not a ton of sightings from this place but there are a few ghost stories. Some have stated that they've seen apparitions wandering the ground. And there are reports of strange noises in the area as well. Some campers at the campground have reported creepy things happening while they've stayed there including odd noises and something messing with their tents andRVs, wildlife or spirits of  the tallest workers that died working hard to complete the railway?    So we started out light to whet your whistles. Let's get into more creepiness!   Next up we head to Auckland! There we find the Ewelme cottage, which from what we can tell is considered one of the most haunted places in the area! Built in the 1860s, this charming cottage in Parnell was once home to Reverend Lush and his wife. It also functioned as a bolt-hole during times of tribal conflict in Howick, where Reverend Lush preached. This house has remained largely intact and virtually unchanged in the years since when it was built. It is a glimpse into what life in New Zealand used to be like!   It is also rumoured to be haunted by the spirits of women and children, and in particular by the spirit of a young girl. We found a description of a paranormal investigation done at the house and we're gonna share some of those findings. Rather high EMF levels were detected in a few places within the house.

The Penang South Reclamation (PSR) megaproject is a massive reclamation project to create three islands off the southern coast of Penang island. The size of the proposed reclamation in question involves 4,500 acres of environmentally sensitive areas - that's about the size of Johor’s Forest City. Many Penangites and local civil society organisations have called for the project to be cancelled, raising concerns over how the reclamation will destroy the richest fishery in Penang, negatively affect the livelihoods of 4,817 inshore fishermen, but also saying that the Penang government has not been transparent about the project. We find out more from Meenakshi Raman, President Sahabat Alam Malaysia. Image source: Penang South Islands Masterplan Design Competition WebsiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Penang South Reclamation (PSR) megaproject is a massive reclamation project to create three islands off the southern coast of Penang island. The size of the proposed reclamation in question involves 4,500 acres of environmentally sensitive areas - that's about the size of Johor’s Forest City. Many Penangites and local civil society organisations have called for the project to be cancelled, raising concerns over how the reclamation will destroy the richest fishery in Penang, negatively affect the livelihoods of 4,817 inshore fishermen, but also saying that the Penang government has not been transparent about the project. We find out more from Meenakshi Raman, President Sahabat Alam Malaysia. Image source: Penang South Islands Masterplan Design Competition Website

Hostile weather is biting the country this week, with forecasters issuing heavy snow warnings today for the deep south of the country. At the same time, there are severe gale warnings in place for areas in both the North and South Islands. Metservice meteorologist Lewis Ferris spoke to Susie Ferguson.

Hostile weather is biting the country this week, with forecasters issuing heavy snow warnings today for the deep south of the country. At the same time, there are severe gale warnings in place for areas in both the North and South Islands. Metservice meteorologist Lewis Ferris spoke to Susie Ferguson.

Severe gales and heavy rain will affect much of the country this weekend and there could be a fresh dusting of snow for some of the ski fields in the North and South Islands. MetService is describing the forecast as a "significant severe weather event", driven by extremely low pressure to the south of the country. Chris Brandolino a meteorologist at NIWA speaks to Susie Ferguson.

Rachel loves roadtrips; Jeremy loves public transit. So what do they do during separate trips to New Zealand? The complete opposite! Follow along as Rachel recounts three weeks traversing the North and South Islands by bus, and as Jeremy roadtrips from Queenstown to Christchurch. The episode ends with advice for anyone who dreams of traveling there. Look for episode content and links on nerdbirds.co. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nerdbirds/support

An artist's residency in the Wairarapa has turned into a much longer stay for Kerri McGill, after her flight back to the US was cancelled. But paint and film set scenic artist Kerri McGill is making the most of her time at the NZ Pacific Studio. Even before the shutdown, she'd been exploring the North and South Islands, and incorporating maps into her work. She tells Lynn about the differences in the landscape between her home in urban America and here in Aotearoa.

Welcome to a special BONUS podcast, direct from the 2020 Int. GS Trophy in New Zealand. In #14 of Ride and Talk, we already spoke to many of the emotional participants from the teams, who literally had the ride of their lives on this unforgettable off-road adventure on the North and South Islands. But what about those who are responsible for actually making the Int. GS Trophy happen in the first place? For reporting the news back home, for presenting the daily highlights, and making sure those competing have the best experience imaginable? Listen to Head of BMW Motorrad Markus Schramm and many others give their impressions of a memorable seventh edition.

New Zealand is a small country in the South Pacific, for those who don’t know us. Comprising of two main Islands, the North and the South Islands. We are the last stop, and the main gateway to most countries in the world who have bases in the Antarctic. So geographically we are a fairly isolated country, however, our isolation does not preclude us from our fair share of UFO sightings and encounters…. This episode is about our most famous sighting. One that made the news all over the world and is widely regarded as being in the world's top ten credible, filmed UFO encounters. In this episode I go over a timeline of the events on both nights and basic rundown of the over all events. Also, I am very thrilled to have one of the last surviving professional witnesses to those encounters. My guest is a gentleman, now in his late eighties, who was on duty and in control of the Wellington Air Traffic Control Center at the time of these incidents. He is so kind as to share his recollection of the events with us all. His name is John Cordy. John shares with us his recollections of how the events unfolded and the ongoing effect this has had on his life --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/walking-the-shadowlands/message

Dean Summers has conquered the triple Crown of open water swimming and as I type this, is waiting for his chance to swim the Cook Strait between the North and South Islands of New Zealand, part of his attack on the Oceans seven. Only 18 people have completed this astonishing series of seven incredible channel and strait swims around the world, and Dean is five in. He has swum The English Channel, Catalina Strait, The North Channel, Moloka’i Channel The Strait of Gibraltar. He plans to conquer the remaining two, Cook Strait and the Tsugaru Strait in Japan, by 2020. You can sponsor Hunterlink here. Songs in this episode - all licensed under a Creative Commons License: Oceans - Petit Biscuit Seven - Ryan Deano - Roland MacIntosh Chasin' Summers - DJ Fro-Bot Sapphire - Tobu Image from SWIMDEAN

We're back with a special "island hopping" episode: between the North and South Islands of New Zealand! Dean and Tom dive into Dean's recent travels along the stunning TranzAlpine railway, and to the hub of extreme adventure activities in Queenstown on the South Island (where Dean may or may not have bungee jumped in the nude). Then, they visit the All Blacks rugby team and the haka, as well as cultural dynamics between ancestral Europeans and the Maori, the indigenous people of Aotearoa (Maori for New Zealand). Like the flightless kiwi bird - an icon of New Zealand - you'll want to stay grounded in this episode! Listen today to "island hop" with Dean and Tom! Have a cultural question or episode idea? Reach out on Twitter and Facebook (@OopsCultureShow) or by email at oopscultureshow@gmail.com. Music: "Little Idea" - Bensound.com

New Zealand is a small country in the South Pacific, for those who don’t know us. Comprising of two main Islands, the North and the South Islands. We are the last stop, and the main gateway to most countries in the world who have bases in the Antarctic. So geographically we are a fairly isolated country, however, our isolation does not preclude us from our fair share of UFO sightings and encounters…. This episode is about our most famous sighting. One that made the news all over the world and is widely regarded as being in the world's top ten credible, filmed UFO encounters. In this episode I go over a timeline of the events on both nights and basic rundown of the over all events. Also, I am very thrilled to have one of the last surviving professional witnesses to those encounters. My guest is a gentleman, now in his late eighties, who was on duty and in control of the Wellington Air Traffic Control Center at the time of these incidents. He is so kind as to share his recollection of the events with us all. His name is John Cordy. John shares with us his recollections of how the events unfolded and the ongoing effect this has had on his life. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/walking-the-shadowlands/message

On today's episode of All in the Industry®, host Shari Bayer's guest is Josh Emett, critically-acclaimed chef and restaurateur from New Zealand, who is the co-founder of Go-To Collection, which includes Rata in Queenstown, Madam Woo, and Hawker & Roll. For over 10 years, Josh worked with Gordon Ramsay. During his time at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, the restaurant was awarded three Michelin stars, making it the only three-star restaurant in London. He went on to help open Claridge’s, reopen The Savoy, which then earned a Michelin star, and more. In 2006, Josh moved to New York City to oversee Gordon Ramsay at The London NYC, which was awarded two Michelin stars. In 2012, he opened his first New Zealand restaurant Rata with business partner Fleur Caulton, and since the pair have gone on to open 6 restaurants across New Zealand’s North and South Islands. Josh has appeared in the US edition of Hell’s Kitchen as a guest judge; competed, and won, on the Food Network’s Chopped; and is a MasterChef NZ judge. Josh also has a new cookbook, The Recipe: Classic dishes for the home cook from the world's best chefs. In addition, today's show features Shari's PR tip, Speed Round, Industry News discussion, and Solo Dining experience at Aleppo Sweets in Providence, RI. Listen at Heritage Radio Network; subscribe/rate/review our show at iTunes, Stitcher or Spotify. Follow us @allindustry. Thanks for being a part of All in the Industry®! All in the Industry is powered by Simplecast.  

Christine Rose is a Campaign Advisor for World Animal Protection, continuing her decades-long advocacy for better protection for Māui and Hector's dolphins.  In her role in this global animal welfare organisation, Christine applies her knowledge of politics and love of philosophy into 'the new frontier' of animal ethics, working to move the world for animals' welfare and rights. The New Zealand Government has now released the public consultation draft for its Threat Management Plan, TMP, for Māui and Hector's dolphins – New Zealand’s only endemic dolphin species, and among the world’s most endangered. The proposed plan doesn't go far enough she says. It fails to protect all habitat for all Māui and Hector's sub-populations. You can make a submission below by August 19, 2019. MAUI AND HECTOR’S DOLPHINS Māui and Hector’s are the smallest (and among the rarest) dolphins in the world and are only found in New Zealand. These much-loved dolphins are friendly and often interact with surfers and swimmers. Māui and Hector’s dolphins are a New Zealand “taonga” (a highly valued treasure) and are celebrated in our culture and art. They deserve our respect and protection. The official population estimate for Māui dolphins is about 57 and, in 2018 alone, at least four Māui’s dolphins were found dead on North Island beaches. Some of the small South Island Hector’s dolphin sub-populations number as low as 40 individuals. The problem is simple – much of the Hector’s and Māui habitat is unprotected from human threats and human populations.  Areas they live in, travel through and need to survive have limited or no protection. Because of the fishing activity within their habitat, dolphins continue to get caught in nets and drown – sometimes whole families. WHAT IS THE TMP - THREAT MANAGEMENT PLAN  The TMP is a plan used by the Department of Conservation and Fisheries New Zealand to help make management decisions around threats towards protected species in New Zealand. The first Hector's and Māui dolphin TMP was created in 2007 to evaluate and manage the risks from threats such as fishing, tourism, vessel strike, pollution, climate change, and disease. Protection measures were established to help protect Māui and Hector’s dolphins. The Govt only reviews its Maui and Hector's dolphin Threat Management Plan once every 5-10 years and these dolphins are on the brink of extinction. There are only about 57 adult Maui dolphins and some of the small South Island subpopulations are even lower in number. The proposed TMP doesn't cover the whole dolphin range - it misses out off-shore range to 100m deep, and subpopulations on the North Island East Coast, between the North and South Islands, Marlborough Sounds, gaps around the East and South Coasts of the South Island. It allows seabed mining and oil and gas exploration in most of the dolphins' habitat. it fails to impose a rigorous and robust monitoring programme. It allows 80-100 dolphins to be killed as by-catch every year. It overstates the costs to the fishing industry of full protection, and understates the benefits according to the work that has been commissioned by World Animal Protection. It would seem that cameras need to be installed on all commercial fishing vessels. GILL NETS ARE THE MAIN PROBLEM Fishing nets have killed all but a third of the Hector's and Maui dolphins. It's time to stop! Gillnets are the most serious threat, followed by trawling. Scientific research has proven that the current protection measures are NOT enough. Fishing nets have killed all but a third of the Hector's and Maui dolphins. It's time to stop! Gillnets are the most serious threat, followed by trawling. SO FEW DOLPHINS LEFT About 45 Hector's dolphins live in Porpoise Bay in the Catlins, 42 off Otago, two or three hundred in Te Waewae Bay on the south coast, and about 200 off the north coast of the South Island. Hector's dolphin is rapidly following in the footsteps of Maui dolphin, with their populations becoming more and more fragmented. One after the other small, local population has dwindled, endangering the species as a whole. These dolphins range to 20 nautical miles offshore, so if protection is extended to all waters less than 100 metres deep we would see the populations grow and recover from the losses they have suffered over the last four decades. This would stop the continued dolphin by-catch (entanglement in fishing gear) problem.  WORLD ANIMAL PROTECTION Christine also spoke about the four aspects of the work done by World Animal Protection. Animals in Communities Animals play a vital role in communities worldwide – and we need  to protect them. Christine explains that they help governments to manage dog populations humanely and to vaccinate against rabies, instead of culling dogs. They share advice on responsible pet ownership. They prevent working animals being overworked and abused. They do whatever is necessary to protect animals in communities worldwide, including at home here in New Zealand. Animals in Farming Christine says, “The majority of animals farmed for food live in conditions that cause suffering and stress. It’s time to rethink farming. The treatment of farm animals is the world’s biggest animal welfare issue – and it’s getting bigger. By 2050, livestock production will be twice what it was in 2000. Right now, more than 70 billion animals are farmed for food each year – two-thirds in conditions that mean they can’t move freely or live naturally. We campaign for progress at every stage – from farming to transportation to slaughter.” Animals in Disasters It is necessary to move fast to protect animals affected by disasters, reducing suffering and helping governments and communities to recover and rebuild. Animals in the Wild World Animal Protection works around the globe to protect and save world animals, and to keep wild animals in the wild, where they belong. They try and stop elephants from being ridden and allow them to be wild animals, for example. You can find out more at https://www.worldanimalprotection.org.nz/ CHRISTINE ROSE Christine Rose is a Campaign Advisor for World Animal Protection, continuing her decades-long advocacy for better protection for Māui and Hector's dolphins. In her role in this global animal welfare organisation, Christine applies her knowledge of politics and love of philosophy into 'the new frontier' of animal ethics, working to move the world for animals' welfare and rights. Previously she has been a councillor for Auckland Regional Council and a board member for Rodney District Council. In her spare time, Christine spends as much time in and on the sea as possible. She's a writer often focusing on environmental ethics, and a ceramic artist and painter, inspired by nature and the ocean. MAKE A TMP SUBMISSION You can make a submission by either copying the submission below, or adapting it to one of your own, or sign this submission from World Animal Protection – but time is short. Consultation: Hector’s and Māui Dolphin Threat Management Plan Submission form:   Contact details - phone number, email Email to:  DolphinTMP@doc.govt.nz by August 19 2019 (Thanks to Suzanne Vincent for writing this.) “The proposal falls far short of what is required.  The best options described do not even approach the levels of protection for Maui dolphins recommended by the International Whaling Commission and the IUCN, or in the Green and Labour Party conservation policies. The options proposed to protect Hector’s dolphins fall even shorter, even though these dolphins are also endangered. It is essential that the following measures are taken: A total ban on set nets and trawls from both the entire Hector’s dolphin and the Māui dolphin habitat - to be applied in all waters less than 100 metres depth: Large numbers of these dolphins are dying in fishing nets.  For there to be any chance of these species recovering and thriving, human induced deaths must be reduced to effectively zero for both species. For this reason, only dolphin-safe fishing methods must be used in their habitat. Fishing is the most urgent threat, and these measures must be taken swiftly and decisively: it is not acceptable for fishing interests to prevail in this situation. Research commissioned by World Animal Protection found that in comparison to the benefits to be gained from full protection throughout the full Maui and Hector’s habitat, the costs to the fishing industry are minor. Cameras must be installed on all commercial fishing vessels to ensure compliance with the restrictions, and to ensure that bycatch is reported accurately: Monitoring is low in some areas, and more dolphins are being caught than is known; it is very important that we have an accurate picture of what is happening Of these threats, seismic surveying and seabed mining pose the greatest risk to Hector’s and Māui dolphins.   There must be an outright ban on seabed mining, oil exploration and drilling from the entire Hector’s and Māui dolphin habitat The severe pressures from noise and seabed disturbance from the activities of oil exploration, drilling and seabed mining, including sediment discharge, must be eradicated from the dolphins’ entire habitat. It is not sufficient to impose restrictions only for new activities, the threats must be removed from areas covered by existing permits. Government must take clear action to prohibit all activities that create disturbance to the habitat, and which could easily result in the loss of these species.   Thank you for the opportunity to make this submission.”  

Mary-Anne Guest joins Alan Hickey on FIVEaa with special guest Ruth Mains from Grand Pacific Tours to talk the best of the North & South Islands of New Zealand and how you can experience "Ultimate" touring with GPT, plus how to earn 150,000 Qantas Frequent Flyer Points and more!

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A shock admission from the Immigration Minister over Karel Sroubek's case. Iain Lees-Galloway has confirmed he took about an hour to decide on the convicted drug smuggler's residency, but he didn't read the whole file. Sroubek has also released his own statement today, in response to the Deputy National Leader telling Parliament yesterday, Sroubek was questioned in prison about the burglary of his ex-wife's home. Also today: flooding, slips and wind gusts have forced road closures in the North and South Islands. Over 800 lightning strikes were recorded in Hokitika in a 20-minute period this morning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you receiving elderly intubated patients where someone else says they want “everything” done? Are the doctors who refer patients to intensive care finding out what their patients really want towards the end of life? Does this frustrate you on a daily basis?   This is a huge topic in intensive care. Finding out the wishes of our patients before they end up on a ventilator with no one to speak for them is vital if we wish to deliver optimal healthcare. Yet so often we intensivists are left to deal with this situation. And whilst in most cases we do this very well, many of us like Dr Alex Psirides, a UK, New Zealand and Australian-trained intensivist, feel the despair as we hold another lengthy meeting with a patient’s family. In this episode I spoke with Alex about this topic, which he had just delivered a brilliant TED-like talk on at the DasSMACC international conference in June. Alex has a great perspective to share as two of his specific clinical interests are managing dying patients and rapid response systems for deteriorating patients. This is the fourth in a series of DasSMACC special episodes, where I interviewed speakers from the recent DasSMACC conference held in Berlin. Alex is an Intensive Care specialist at Wellington Regional Hospital in Wellington, New Zealand. His work and research in the area of rapid response systems has led to an appointment as the clinical lead for the New Zealand Health Quality & Safety Commission’s 5-year national ‘Deteriorating Patient’ programme. He is also the clinical lead for Wellington’s aeromedical retrieval service, which covers the lower North and upper South Islands of New Zealand. In his spare time, when not walking his dog or children, he builds websites & designs logos for Wellington ICU’s prodigious research department, as well as sending a few tweets via Twitter handle @psirides. Given Alex has been an ICU consultant for less time than most of my other guests, I had to talk him into doing an interview, but I’m really glad he agreed. There is so much to like about this conversation. Alex is honest and humble enough to say he’s not so sure he’s that good at predicting patient outcomes, at least in neurosurgical patients, which is the precise reason he has something to teach us on the podcast. We also cover topics including: Why Alex loves intensive care (with a great answer) How his consultant team work so cohesively The need to respect co-worker’s opinions and to avoid tribalism How a team of intensivists meeting with a team of neurosurgeons away from the patients can make practice more consistent and evidence-based How his team uses simulation to reduce rudeness and lack of respect How efficiently his hospital ran when there was a 3 day doctors strike A good ward round requires asking for and addressing the nurse’s concerns but also finishes with a clear plan to move the patient forwards Bringing his best self to work requires feeling loved at home and having a great team to work with Some of the non-textbook medical books Alex has been enjoying reading Hobbies allow him to escape from work and to use his creativity How far away he feels right now from burnout What he can get better at over the next 5 years How palliative care physicians can be helpful in teaching us and our trainees about end of life discussions This podcast is my quest to improve patient care, in ICUs all round the world, by inspiring all of us to bring our best selves to work to more masterfully interact with our patients, their families, ourselves and our fellow healthcare professionals so that we can achieve the most satisfactory outcomes for all. Please help me to spread the word by simply emailing your colleagues or posting on social media. Feel free to leave a comment or a question. I hope we can build community through Mastering Intensive Care so colleagues can share their thoughts and tell us how they are mastering their own skills. Leave a comment on the LITFL episode page, on twitter using #masteringintensivecare, on the Facebook “mastering intensive care” page or by sending me an email at andrew@masteringintensivecare.com. Thanks for listening. Please do the very best you can for your patients. Andrew Davies     Show notes (people, organisations, resources or links mentioned in the episode): Wellington Intensive Care medical team: http://www.wellingtonicu.com/AboutUs/Staff/SMO/ DasSMACC: www.smacc.net.au Alex Psirides talk on “Doing everything at end of life”: http://wellingtonicu.com/Data/Doing%20Everything%20DasSMACC.pdf Book “Being Mortal” by Atul Gawande: http://atulgawande.com/book/being-mortal/ Book “Do No Harm” by Henry Marsh: https://henrymarshdonoharm.wordpress.com/reviews/ Alex Psirides on Twitter: @psirides

Len Vitz is a DJ and producer from South Islands, Italy who has released music on labels including Zoo Lab, Optikal and SK Recordings. Tracklist: Apollo Powder - Lunar Landing (Original Mix) Len Vitz - Nept (Luixar KL Remix) Ahmet Mecnun, Luis Martinez - Levatian (Original Mix) Macromism - The Walk (Original Mix) M.in Feat. Bruno Gentile - Something (Original Mix) Wally Lopez & Hunzed - Sa Caleta (Paul Ursin Remix) Bryan Matthz - Mammoth Wasp (Original Mix) Kevin McKay - What You Gonna Do (Kaiserdisco Remix) Flashmob - My Instinkt (Original Mix) Dragosh - For Mepa Trate (Original Mix) Francesco Dinoia - This is one (Fabio Neural Remix) Daniele Travali, Avance - I Can (Original Mix) Flashmob - Inside (Original Mix) Follow Len Vitz on the web! https://soundcloud.com/lenvitzofficial https://www.facebook.com/lenvitzofficial Website: http://likemindedculture.com/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/likemindedculture Instagram: https://instagram.com/likemindedculture/

The South Islands mountainous valleys prove to the perfect place for a local 15 year old to hunt for a forest ringlet butterfly.

In the South Islands remote landscape, a mountain begins to understand its own mortality.