Podcasts about Southland

The number of international visitors to Queenstown is soaring above pre-pandemic levels but some locals say the town has reached a tipping point with crowding and congestion. Otago Southland reporter Katie Todd reports.

Send Us A Message! Let us know what you think.Adult kids moving into $31,000 flatpack studios? Investors completely bypassing Auckland to chase high rental yields down south? The standard New Zealand property playbook is being rewritten right before our eyes! In this episode of The Week in Review, Debbie Roberts (owner and financial adviser at Property Apprentice) breaks down the 5 biggest stories you need to know to make smart, risk-reduced property decisions. Inside This Episode:

Send us a question/idea/opinion direct via text message!In this special guest edition of the New Zealand Property Market Podcast, Head of Research Nick Goodall is joined by Ryan Hannigan and Ben Grant from Loan Market Dunedin. Together, they explore the unique dynamics of the Otago and Southland property markets, where housing values and sales activity continue to outperform many northern regions.Ryan and Ben break down the on-the-ground drivers in Dunedin, including how the multi-billion-dollar Dunedin Hospital build is attracting families, why first-home buyers are actively targeting the $600,000 to $700,000 price bracket, and how infill townhouse developments are transforming traditional suburbs. They also expose a key financing hurdle: why trading banks apply strict boarding house lending criteria to room-by-room student rentals, creating friction for investors despite high demand and steady yields.The conversation also covers broader mortgage trends across New Zealand, highlighting that over 50% of buyers in June purchased with less than a 20% deposit. Ryan and Ben share practical advice on navigating 2–3 year fixed rate terms (4.99%–5.19%), managing test interest rates, and avoiding common pitfalls when refixing online or relying on unverified AI mortgage advice.This week we discuss:Dunedin Market Resilience: Why median values around $623,000 keep the region highly accessible for first-home buyers and relocating families.Student Rental Financing: Why banks enforce boarding house rules on room-by-room student lets and how parents are stepping in to buy for studying children.Infill Development Growth: How developers are acquiring older homes to build modern townhouses, mirroring Christchurch's urban densification model.The Southland Boom: Why Invercargill and broader Southland continue to buck national trends with strong job security and affordable $400,000 starter homes.The Low-Deposit Reality: Unpacking data showing more than half of recent borrowers entered the market with under a 20% deposit, including Kāinga Ora 5% options.Mortgage Structuring Strategy: Why clients are locking in 2–3 year fixed rates for budget certainty rather than chasing short-term rate dips.Advisor Insights: How to secure a "real estate pre-approval" to stand out in multi-offer scenarios, and how to filter out social media mortgage advice.Sign up for news and insights or contact on LinkedIn, X @NickGoodall_CL or @KDavidson_CL and email ngoodall@cotality.com or kdavidson@cotality.comThis podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. The hosts are not licensed Financial Advice Providers in New Zealand. All information is of a general nature and does not take into account your personal situation or goals. Please consult a qualified professional before making any financial decisions.

Our exit today has us singin' songs about the Southland. This week, we are talking about Sweet Home Alabama, written by C. Jay Cox and directed by Andy Tennant. Along the way, we talk a lot about Southern movies and culture, along with small-town films, the rising star power of Reese Witherspoon, snobby New York mayors, love triangles, Jewel covers, Wet Hot American Summer, and of course, female directors at the Cannes Film Festival.Theme music by Jonworthymusic.Powered by RiversideFM.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CFF Films⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ with Ross and friends.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Movies We've Covered on the Show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Letterboxd.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Movies Recommended on the Show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Letterboxd.

Send Us A Message! Let us know what you think.Why are 10 percent more Kiwi homeowners choosing to rent out their properties rather than sell them? And how did organized crime syndicates convert 17 suburban Auckland rental homes into illegal grow houses right under self-managing landlords' noses?In Episode 22 of New Zealand Property Insights, financial adviser Debbie Roberts and experienced investor Paul Roberts (Owners of Property Apprentice) break down fresh June 2026 rental market data from realestate.co.nz and examine critical asset security safeguards for property owners.First, we analyze the nationwide surge in new rental listings (+10% YoY) driven by Kiwis relocating overseas who are choosing to hold onto their properties as a long-term capital buffer. We explore regional extremes including Wairarapa (+67.6%) and Southland (+32.8%), alongside the sharp stock contraction in Wellington (-25.7%).Next, we break down an urgent warning from police and tenancy experts following the seizure of 1,532 cannabis plants across 17 West Auckland rentals. We expose the subtle vetting red flags that self-managing landlords miss—from failing ID software to fake referees whose voices change across phone calls—while outlining how to perform rigorous due diligence without violating New Zealand's Human Rights Act.

In 1976, a group of Pacific women came together in Auckland to support Pacific women who were newly arrived into New Zealand. 50 years on Pacifica Incorporated is a UN affiliated NGO with branches throughout New Zealand from Northland to Southland. Pacifica national president Repeka Lelaulu joins us.

Join Pitt Girl, Commish, Corn Correspondent Andy and Beth, along with our VP of Podcast Production, Arthur. We talk about the sold out $5,200 cruise from Tulsa to Memphis and other options offered, Lane Kiffin said he has given up social media and it's been refreshing (REFRESHING FOR WHO), also Lane Kiffin said we're all gonna die. We start a new company that helps with PR called Getting a Dog, the Big Sky has Nevada surrounded, couch burning commitment video, we applaud Jon Sumrall for getting pedicures, MAYO COUNTY wins Gaelic football for the first time in 75 years, then we're on to season previews in the SUPER SICKO SHAKING SPECULATION SEASON PREVIEW FORECAST: SSSSSPF aka the 5SPF this time with DICE ROLLS, we attempt to preview the Southland and SoCon, we have snippets of interviews with Tennessee Tech and The Citadel's coaches along with WR AJ Colombo from Western Carolina, we roll to see how do the dice see your season shaping out, the squirrels have returned and oh so much, much more!Join our Patreon for just $3 or $5 a month. https://www.patreon.com/cw/SickosCommitteeBuy some of our officially licensed merch here https://thesickoscommittee-shop.fourthwall.com/NEW SICKOS FC JERSEYS FOR SALE https://oliveandyork.com/products/sickos-fcCheck out our Linktree for all our discount codes https://linktr.ee/sickoscommitteeSubscribe to our blog at https://sickos-newsletter.beehiiv.com/Subscribe to our YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@sickoscommitteeDonate here to help with the West Virginia floods/tornados:http://www.parishhouse.org/donate.htmlhttps://communityengagement.wvu.edu/programs/dollars-for-disasterhttps://www.unitedwayofglu.com/donateSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Green Party is calling for a one-year pause on new AI data centres, until stronger rules and regulations are put in place - with some pleased at the idea of tighter controls. Some Southlanders are opposed to the $3.5 billion data centre being built near Invercargill, while others welcome the investment. Samantha Gee reports.

Over the weekend, the Green Party announced their proposal to have a one year national moratorium on the consenting of new Artificial Intelligence Data Centres until proper regulations have been set up. Consent for a 3.5 billion dollar hyperscale AI data centre has already been approved for Southland, which is set to be the second highest consumer of electricity in the country, requiring 280 MW of power. While supporters claim that it will bring in jobs and allow New Zealand to be at the forefront of the AI industry, many have raised concerns about the harm it could cause to New Zealand's natural environment, the strain it will put on our energy and water resources, and the fact that projects have been seemingly approved with little public consultation.  I spoke to Dr Kerry McInerney from the School of Computer Science at the University of Auckland, about public perceptions towards AI Data Centres in New Zealand, concerns that have been raised and whether there can be a social license for data centres to be implemented.

Mercury has invested $53 million into a major data centre in Southland that's set to become the biggest in the country. Mercury CEO Stew Hamilton spoke to Corin Dann.

An infrastructure advocate says the introduction of new AI data centres requires careful consideration. The Green Party wants a one-year pause on new centres, while rules for the industry are developed. It says the already consented facility in Southland is expected to use about 6% of the country's total electricity supply. Infrastructure New Zealand Chief Executive Nick Leggett told Mike Hosking that the benefit to New Zealanders must have weight in any new consents. He says the door to data centres should be open - but with adequate checks and balances. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An infrastructure advocate says the introduction of new AI data centres requires careful consideration. The Green Party wants a one-year pause on new centres, while rules for the industry are developed. It says the already consented facility in Southland is expected to use about 6% of the country's total electricity supply. Infrastructure New Zealand Chief Executive Nick Leggett told Mike Hosking that the benefit to New Zealanders must have weight in any new consents. He says the door to data centres should be open - but with adequate checks and balances. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was the 1990s when many farms were looking to diversify. 'Why not llamas?', thought Southland spinner and farmer Janette Buckingham.You can find photos and read more about the stories in this episode on our webpage, here.With thanks to:Janette Buckingham, Thickthorne LlamasGo to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Southland will become a war zone tomorrow as close to 500 New Zealand Army and Australian Army Reserve personnel take part in a training exercise. Exercise Tauwharenīkau has been underway near Gore since last weekend with a major training battle planned for tomorrow. Tess Brunton headed to the frontline.

One of New Zealand's big power companies is throwing their support behind a firm planning to build a large data centre in Southland. Mercury has invested $53 million for a 12.7 percent minority equity stake in Datagrid NZ. Mercury CEO Stew Hamilton says the company's looking to invest in a new growth sector - and there's potential to make more investments like this down the track. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of New Zealand's big power companies is throwing their support behind a firm planning to build a large data centre in Southland. Mercury has invested $53 million for a 12.7 percent minority equity stake in Datagrid NZ. Mercury CEO Stew Hamilton says the company's looking to invest in a new growth sector - and there's potential to make more investments like this down the track. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does true, long-term obedience look like over decades of ministry, and how do you stay open when God asks you to pivot? This week on Off Script, Neil sits down with long-time Southland team member Mike "Vandee" Vandemark to reflect on 70 years of Southland's ministry. Vandee shares his 28-year personal journey from playing drums at college ministry to overseeing multiple departments across the church, offering a front-row seat to how Southland has evolved while staying anchored to its core mission. Together, they discuss the danger of taking spiritual shortcuts, the power of trusting leaders who see potential in you, and how an attitude of availability can transform a simple life decision into a lasting legacy. The ChallengeThis week, reflect on your own level of availability to God and the trusted leaders in your life. Is there an open door or a new responsibility you've been resisting because it stretches you outside of your comfort zone? Choose to step out in faith, trust where God is leading, and say "yes" to being used wherever you are needed. Hosts: Neil Gregory and Mike "Vandee" Vandemark What We Discuss Vandee's origin story at Southland: playing drums for the "Encounter" college service to leading music, production, and facilities Reflecting on Southland's 70-year history and the constant flexibility of methods while keeping the Gospel mission unchanged Conversations with former senior minister Wayne Smith about reaching central Kentucky Why avoiding shortcuts in ministry means choosing long-term obedience and flexibility over "the way we've always done it" How Gary Black's perspective on video tools shaped Neil's heart for ministry 15 years ago A life-changing conversation with Vandy's dad about stepping into leadership and trusting trusted mentors Overcoming the fear of stepping outside your comfort zone to step into unexpected "God moments" Reencountering a man in Richmond whose life was impacted by a simple parking lot prayer two decades ago ⸻ About Southland Christian Church Southland is one church meeting in multiple locations across central Kentucky. We believe Jesus came for the lost and the broken, which means there's a place for everyone here. Around here, that means we worship defiantly, speak truth unashamedly, and extend grace generously. To support this ministry and help us continue to reach across Central Kentucky and all around the world, visit: https://southland.church/give

Harriet has published four Gurt and Pops books which are full of lessons for rural youngsters to help them make good decisions. 

A Southland man who needs regular surgeries to repress the growth of cancer on his kidney says he ws left in the dark for months after his latest operation was abruptly cancelled. It follows the resignation of two urologists earlier this year, as well as what Health New Zealand describes as unanticipated absences in the department. Now, Southland health advocates are worried about what the future holds. Otago Southland reporter Katie Todd reports.

This Week on Just Freakin Wrestlin! Presented by Apex Research   The Midwest wrestling scene keeps rolling, and so do we!   We recapped all the action from: • Chicago Style Wrestling   THIS WEEK'S MATCH CARD We also previewed the upcoming shows from: • Southland Championship Wrestling • IPW - Illiana Pro Wrestling • Phoenix Pro Wrestling • IWA Productions • Ultimate Combat Gauntlet • POWW Entertainment   LOOKING TO STOCK YOUR MERCH?!?! Reach out to Rodriguez Graphix LLC for merchandise, graphics, promotional materials, and branding needs!   Drop your predictions in the comments and let us know which show you're most looking forward to this weekend!   #JustFreakinWrestlin #JFWPodcast #ApexNutrition #RodriguezGraphixLLC #IndependentWrestling #ChicagoStyleWrestling #SouthlandChampionshipWrestling #IllianaProWrestling #PhoenixProWrestling #IWAProductions #UltimateCombatGauntlet #SupportIndyWrestling   2026 PPV Wins: Apex: 19 Nubby/Turtle: 23 Travis-T: 23   As always, this episode was brought to you by: Carter Comics - CarterComics.Com - Use Discount Code "FreakNet" to save 10% on your order & Audible.com - Audibletrial.com/freaknet  - Get a 30 Day Free Trial of Audible!!!   We Have Merchandise!!!! Check out our merch at www.TeePublic.com by searching "JFW"   JFW Podcast is now part of Freak Net Studios!! Discord: Freak Nets Studios Facebook: Freak Net Studios Instagram: @freaknetstudios YouTube: Freak Net Studios    Follow us on Social Media! Website: http://justfreakinwrestlin.myfreesites.net Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JFWPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jfwpodcast

Episode Notes S7E23 -Join us as we welcome the amazingly talented Annie McKnight to the stage.. She'll be in the house telling tales from Stand up Comedy to TV shows like Southland and much much more. Annie McKnight, known in comedy circles around the world as "Annie McFunny", is a seasoned stand-up comedian, actor and writer from Columbus Ga. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in theater from Columbia College SC, and has since appeared in several theater productions including Macbeth, Purlie Victorious, and Negritude to name a few. Annie would later land her first movie role in the feature film Crimes of the Heart, starring Sissy Spacek and directed by Bruce Bereford. In 1993, Annie would display her comedic skillset by taking first place on the reality/comedy Tv show America's Funniest People, winning the top prize of $10,000.00. Award-winning actor, director, producer Bill Dukes was quoted saying "Annie McKnight is an exciting new talent with the rare ability to make you laugh or cry," As a direct result of her winning, Annie's star would begin to rise rapidly causing her to be internationally recognized almost overnight. She would then tour abroad to South Korea, Japan and Panama. HELPFUL LINKS: VETERANS: https://www.va.gov/.../mental-health/suicide-prevention/ ADDICTION: https://lp.recoverycentersofamerica.com/.../continuum-of.../ Due you know someone that has lost their lives due to addiction? Or even someone that has made a full recovery? Reach out to Johnny Whitaker so they can help to celebrate the lives lost/ lives recovered at overdoseawareness0831@gmail.com ___________________________________________ Follow our guest https://www.anniemcknight.com https://www.facebook.com/annie.mcknight.54 https://www.instagram.com/comediananniemcknight/ ______________________________ Toking with the Dead: https://www.stilltoking.com/ ————————————— Follow Still Toking With and their friends! https://smartpa.ge/5zv1 ————————————— Produced by Leo Pond and The Dorkening Podcast Network MORE ABOUT THE GUEST: To work her comedic muscle, Annie would perform at all of the popular comedy clubs in LA from The Laugh Factory, to The Comedy Store, HaHa Cafe, Hollywood Improv and Flappers; which would ultimately prepare her for sketch comedy shows and late night Tv on non other than The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Deon Cole's Black Box, The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien and "Martin Lawrence Presents 1st Amendment" as both a writer and comedian.. Amongst Annie's notable film and television credits are The Soloist, Southland, Everybody Hates Chris, The Soul Man, Two Degrees, Hair Show, Baskets, Next Time on Lonny, Eve Ensler's, The Vagina Monologues directed by Penny Marshall and "Bust Down" starring opposite Chris Redd from SNL. Annie also has seen commercial success starring in the Sirius XM national commercial “Move In” opposite Kevin Hart in 2020. As if her resume isn't impressive enough, Annie started her own podcast called Everything's Entertainment, where she interviews with various guests of different genres. Keep on the look out for Annie McKnight on a screen or stage near you. This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

The National Emergency Management Agency will investigate why the Civil Defence website crashed following last night's magnitude 5.9 earthquake in Southland. The site was down for several hours after the quake, which prompted a brief tsunami evacuation order for parts of the south-west of the South Island. Keiller MacDuff reports.

A farmer and mum-of-four has earned a scholarship to compete in a grueling multi-sport event. Southland's Liz Gill gave up smoking, and gave up weekends, so she can compete in and volunteer for multi-sport events. She spoke to John Campbell.

Newstalk ZB's Night Host Marcus Lush felt the 5.9 magnitude earthquake from his Invercargill studio. The quake struck 40km north of Te Anau at 9.14pm this evening at a depth of 53km. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has assessed the quake and says strong currents are possible on the West Coast of the South Island from Milford Sound to Puysegur Point. It has downgraded its tsunami warning to an advisory. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Class A drug use is soaring in New Zealand. The Drug Detection Agency's latest workplace testing results show amphetamines are increasingly showing up, making up 32.7% of positive results nationwide – rising to 44% in Southland. The use of cocaine specifically is also increasing, with positive tests up 68.5% year on year and a 375.8% increase in Canterbury. Chief Executive Glenn Dobson told Mike Hosking that cocaine use on a global scale is up massively, with stats from Australia and the United States showing a similar picture. He says the significant increase in the South Island shows the supply is potentially fluid – suppliers moving around the country more than they have in the past. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Country Podcast, brought to you by Ballance Agri-Nutrients, Hamish McKay catches up with Michelle and Tony Roberts of Top Deck Trading in Southland, winners of the 2026 Ballance Farm Environment Awards National Ambassadors for Sustainable Farming & Growing and the prestigious Gordon Stevenson Trophy. Together, they discuss their farming journey, the innovations helping drive sustainable outcomes on farm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tess updates on recent severe weather in the region and the latest with Waitaki's "painful" rates rise.

Diese Woche bei Oscars & Himbeeren:“Jack Ryan: Ghost War” zeigt exemplarisch, wie sich eine einst starke Marke in austauschbare Agentenkost verwandeln kann. Vorhersehbare Wendungen, blasse Figuren und eine Handlung, die mehr auf Geballer als auf echte Spannung setzt, machen den Film zu einer herben Enttäuschung; die Miniserie “I Will Find You” ist solide Unterhaltung mit einigen spannenden Momenten, erreicht aber weder die emotionale Wucht noch die erzählerische Raffinesse, die der Stoff eigentlich hergeben würde. Sehenswert, aber letztlich zu konventionell, um einen bleibenden Eindruck zu hinterlassen; “22 Bahnen” erzählt seine Geschichte mit großer emotionaler Ehrlichkeit und verzichtet auf billiges Pathos. Das Drama überzeugt durch starke Charaktere und eine Hauptfigur, deren Kampf um Verantwortung und Selbstbestimmung lange im Gedächtnis bleibt; und “Southland” gehört bis heute zu den besten Polizeiserien überhaupt: rau, kompromisslos und außergewöhnlich authentisch, mit einer dokumentarischen Nähe, die den Alltag der Cops in Los Angeles intensiver und glaubwürdiger zeigt als die meisten Genrevertreter.Oscars & Himbeeren - wie immer: schonungslos auf den Punkt gebracht.Hört rein!Wenn euch der Podcast gefällt und ihr tiefer einsteigen wollt, findet ihr auf Substack weitere Texte, Porträts und Filmkritiken vonRonny Rüsch – Filmkritiker. Lasst gern ein Abo da.Und wenn ihr unsere Arbeit unterstützen möchtet, freuen wir uns über eine kleine Kaffeespende via PayPal.Streaming-Plattformen, die die Inhalte dieser Episode anbieten (Stand: Juli 2026):“Jack Ryan: Ghost War” - Prime Video“I Will Find You” - Netflix“22 Bahnen” - Netflix“Southland” - Netflix Get full access to Ronny Rüsch - Filmkritiker at hausmeisterronny.substack.com/subscribe

23 year old Sadie Wech grew up in a small farming community in Southland, New Zealand. She can recall singing as far back and she can remember. After being invited to sing at an old friends wedding, the bug hit her and she began writing and releasing music. Saidie is our guest on this edition of Americana Music Profiles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A small southland community that doesn't have a permanent doctor is fundraising to keep a nurse at the local medical centre. The Nightcaps Medical centre has two visiting GP who work two and half days a week, in between times a nurse sees patients. The nurse was funded by Well South, the primary health organisation for Otago and Southland. But that funding ended in March last year. Nightcaps Community Medical Trust chair James Dixon spoke to Lisa Owen.

Tech New Zealand is trying to dispel fears about bringing more data centres here. Crown agency Invest New Zealand is looking to attract up to $30 billion in offshore investment in the centres, over five years. We already have 56 of the facilities here – using around 0.6% of our total power. Tech New Zealand Chief Executive Graeme Muller told Mike Hosking he hates hearing that data centres use a lot of water. He says it's an American issue with old centres, suggesting the new facilities like those built in Auckland using less water than the average dairy farm. Muller is also assuring that lots of jobs will be created by bringing new data centres here. Invest New Zealand claims the centres could employ up to three and a half thousand people, but local industry advocate Don Christie says the centres are largely automated and only employ a few people. Muller argues the new data centre being built in Southland is creating a lot of jobs – he says it's going to create more construction jobs over the next decade than the City Rail Link, and create 220 fulltime positions. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello and welcome back! It was a pleasure to chat with Corey Finn recently, who is the Director of Agronomy of Yas Links, Yas Acres and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club in Abu Dhahbi. Originally from Southland, Corey has had a fascinating career at courses such as The Hills and Doha Golf Club before his time in Abu Dhabi. Corey gave great insight into prepping Yas Links each year for the Abu Dhabi Championship on the DP World Tour, working with Kyle Phillips and much more!We are proud to be presented by Power Turf NZ. Who are New Zealand's leading providers in Turf Care Equipment and Club Car Golf Carts. Check them out here: https://www.powerturf.co.nz/

On this episode of The Bluebloods, Zach McKinnell and Timothy Rosario of FCS Football Central on SI preview the Southland Conference entering the 2026 college football season. The two discuss the biggest storylines and dark horse teams in the conference, while also projecting over/under win totals for every team in the Southland ahead of the 2026 FCS football season. All this & more right here on The Bluebloods! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send Us A Message! Let us know what you think.Are New Zealand property buyers quietly proving the mainstream headlines wrong? In this catch-up episode of New Zealand Property Insights, Debbie Roberts explains why Kiwi buyer intent has jumped despite flat national asking prices, how Auckland's upcoming density rollback could slide home values by up to 8% over time, and the policy differences keeping New Zealand's rental market stable while Australia faces a severe crisis.Plus, we look at a classic house-sharing feud that ended up in the Disputes Tribunal, and ask whether KiwiSaver rules should be updated to support modern buying strategies. Episode Highlights & News Sources1. Quiet Buyer Intent Gains Ground: National asking prices are flat, but regional markets like Southland are surging (+10.2%). First-home buyers led the charge, capturing 27.5% of all Q1 purchases. 2. CoreLogic Suburb Breakdown: 56% of New Zealand suburbs recorded stable or rising values (led by Southland and West Coast), while Auckland's Wesley and Glen Innes saw sharp drops under heavy supply. 3. Trans-Tasman Rent Comparison: New Zealand rental affordability is improving (Hawke's Bay down $53/wk) while Australian metros face extreme rental stress. New Zealand's interest deductibility restoration is actively helping supply. 4. Auckland's July Zoning Decision: Council is debating two density rollbacks. Projections show Scenario B (denser zoning) could lower home prices by 5% to 8% over time while generating $3.9B in economic benefit. 5. Co-buying and Property Sharing Pitfalls: A recent Disputes Tribunal feud over cleaning products and utility bills serves as a sharp warning against buying property with friends without a formal agreement.Interactive Question of the WeekWe want to hear from you! Should the Government change the rules and allow Kiwis to use their KiwiSaver to buy a regional rental property under a rent-vesting strategy? Or should it remain strictly for a home that you intend to live in? Let us know your thoughts and your experiences in the comments or reply to our Spotify Q&A poll!Connect with Property Apprentice

A Southland father who has lost his voice and movement to Motor Neurone Disease has found a new lease of life as a storyteller. Otago Southland reporter Katie Todd reports.

From a quiet Southland street to the catwalks of Paris and palaces of Oman, a Riverton factory is helping to transform paua shells into luxury goods enjoyed around the world. Otago Southland reporter Katie Todd reports.

Send Us A Message! Let us know what you think.First-home buyers are quietly rewriting the rules of the New Zealand property market. Despite a flat wider economy, a record 75% of first-home buyer purchases this year are standalone houses—the highest level since 2020.But as the market continues to fragment, we are seeing a fascinating regional split. While Auckland and Wellington face slower movements, areas like Southland, Taranaki, and Otago are showing surprising resilience. Meanwhile, mortgage arrears are falling, but financial hardship applications are spiking—pointing to a deeper credit squeeze on middle-aged Kiwis.In this episode of the Week in Review, Debbie Roberts (Financial Adviser at Property Apprentice) breaks down the five critical economic shifts shaping your property choices right now.

Older Southlanders could soon be jetting off to Europe, or swimming with dolphins without leaving home, thanks to virtual reality. For the past two months, Age Concern Southland has been running VR headset trials with their volunteers. Its manager Janette Turner spoke to John Campbell.

It's summertime which means it's financial report season at Scions of the Southland. We dive into the nitty grittys of where the Georgia Tech Athletic Association stands after a couple years of sustained financial growth viewed through our 2022 opus, Engineering a Program.Plus, our reactions to the surprise news that Georgia Tech President Ángel Cabrera will be stepping down in November 2026 to head up the Aspen Institute.Like the show? Drop a rating on your favorite platform and feel free to email us any time at fromtherumbleseat at gmail dot com with questions or topics you may want covered this summer.Hosts: Jake Grant, Akshay Easwaran, Jack PurdyProduction: Jack PurdyMusic: Georgia Tech Marching Band, Georgia Tech Glee Club

Come along on this episode of The Co-Write as we take a look back at Bleu Edmonson's debut album, "Southland", May's 25 in '26 selection on Galleywinter.  Check out Brad Beheler's article below! Download, Subscribe & Enjoy!  https://www.galleywinter.com/post/25-in-26-bleu-edmondson-southland

Jayden Broome is one of the most inspiring young rugby players you'll come across. A proud Gore local who spent his childhood with a rugby ball in his hands with a dream to become a professional rugby player. He was doing everything he could to reach that dream and everything was tracking that way. He captained all Southland age grade sides before leading New Zealand Māori Schoolboys to a historic victory over New Zealand Schools and even earned a preseason opportunity with his beloved Southland Stags.Then one moment changed everything for Jayden. After falling from a roof at a flat, Jayden suffered a traumatic brain injury that left him fighting for his life. He was placed in an induced coma, spent months in hospital and was ultimately forced to make the heartbreaking decision to walk away from the game he loved.Despite everything he's been through, Jayden's outlook on life, positivity and determination to keep moving forward is what makes this episode so special.Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were…- Walking 40 minutes to school and back every day and how that shaped him- Writing down his rugby goals as a teenager and dreaming of one day becoming an All Black- Getting his opportunity with the Southland Stags and realising he was good enough to compete at that level- The night of the accident and the reality of waking up after weeks in a coma- Learning just how close he came to losing his life- Coming to terms with the fact he would never play rugby again- Why he chose life over rugby and the powerful message he now wants to share with others- What his plans are in the future and how he wants to stay in the gameThis is a story about much more than rugby. It's about resilience, perspective, gratitude and finding purpose when the path you thought you were on suddenly disappears. Jayden's maturity, positivity and self-awareness at such a young age make this one of the most powerful conversations we've had on the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Wānaka GP fears the community could lose its after-hours service within weeks if proposed changes to rural healthcare funding are introduced. Under changes, which would see Wānaka reclassified due to its growing population, the rural funding for local general practices there could be slashed. Otago-Southland reporter Tess Brunton has more.

Crime coverage was heavily criticised in the past as too tabloid. Now it's getting greater respect and recognition. Mediawatch asks RNZ's award-winning crime correspondent Sam Sherwood what's changed. Also: 500-up for a dogged solo Southland newshound. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Guillermo and Christina Tolentino share the joys and challenges of migrating to rural New Zealand.With thanks to:Guillermo TolentinoChristina TolentinoMake sure you're following us on your favourite podcast app, so you don't miss new episodes every Friday evening.Want to chat to us or find out more about RNZ Podcasts? Join the RNZ Podcasts Discussion Facebook group where we share behind the scenes info about our series, and invite you to share feedback, recommendations and ask us questions.Send us your feedback or get in touch at country@rnz.co.nzGo to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Kirsty discusses a celebration of the role of the floatplane in Fiordland, a new "sausage" bait proving effective against stoats, and more. 

Oreti Beach is one of Southland's most iconic stretches of coastline, 26 kilometres in length, the bay lies between the town of Riverton and the outflow of the Aparima River. It's a place made famous by motorcycling legend Burt Munro who used it as his personal speedway while training to set his land speed records. Records that still stand to this day But now there's a growing debate about its future, with locals calling for the beach to be closed at night because of dangerous driving, fires, vandalism and other antisocial behaviour. Local Joyce Kolk joins us to explain what's going on.

Ché has the latest on job and development projects slated for Southland, code of conduct issues for two Gore councillors and celebrating another successful Golden Guitar Awards.

The Aotearoa Music Awards were held last night and among all the great performances, one stood out in particular. Dame Lynda Topp took the microphone after a tribute performance to the twins by Country Musician of the Year Tami Neilson with nominee Southland singer-songwriter Jenny Mitchell, and she lambasted the lack of spending on music and the arts. It's not the first time funding, or lack of funding, for music and arts has been called out, so we wanted to talk to someone who knows the music industry inside out about what's going on. Carmel Bennett is the General Manager for MusicHelps, and the recent recipient of the Taite Prize Independent Spirit Award. MusicHelps is a charity organisation that funds and supports projects like music therapy sessions and programmes that help people experiencing hardship.

Crypto is back—new hype cycles, rising prices, and fresh promises that this time cryptocurrency is changing the financial system for good. But the questions haven't changed: is this innovation or just another wave of speculation, scams, and financial fraud? That's why we're revisiting this conversation with actor and author Ben McKenzie—whose bestselling book Easy Money: Cryptocurrency, Casino Capitalism, and the Golden Age of Fraud and new documentary, Everyone is Lying to You For Money are once again fueling the debate over crypto's real impact. What started as curiosity became a deeper look at how the crypto boom blurred the line between investing and gambling—and what that reveals about an economy increasingly driven by speculation instead of real value. McKenzie joins Nick and Goldy to pull back the curtain on the hype, the believers, and the system that made it all possible. Ben McKenzie is an actor, author, and director best known for his roles on The O.C., Southland, and Gotham. A graduate of the University of Virginia with a degree in economics and foreign affairs, he has emerged as a leading critic of the cryptocurrency industry. He is the co-author, with journalist Jacob Silverman, of Easy Money: Cryptocurrency, Casino Capitalism, and the Golden Age of Fraud, and has expanded that work into a documentary, Everyone is Lying to You For Money , examining the rise—and risks—of crypto. Social Media: @benmckenzie.bsky.social mrbenmckenzie @ben_mckenzie Further reading:  Easy Money: Cryptocurrency, Casino Capitalism, and the Golden Age of Fraud When Prophecy Fails Mistakes Were Made (but Not By Me) ⁠Everyone is Lying to You For Money New York Magazine: Congress Just Injected Crypto Directly Into the Most Stable Part of the Economy. What could go wrong? Website: http://pitchforkeconomics.com Facebook: Pitchfork Economics Podcast Bluesky: @pitchforkeconomics.bsky.social Instagram: @pitchforkeconomics Threads: pitchforkeconomics TikTok: @pitchfork_econ YouTube: @pitchforkeconomics LinkedIn: Pitchfork Economics Twitter: @PitchforkEcon, @NickHanauer Substack: ⁠The Pitch⁠

Ben McKenzie joins Margaret Hoover to break down his new documentary about cryptocurrency, “Everyone Is Lying to You for Money,” and the dangers he believes crypto poses to investors and the economy itself.McKenzie–best known for his performances on “The O.C.,” “Southland,” and “Gotham”--explains why he grew skeptical of crypto while other men embraced it and reflects on what he learned from talking to fraudsters like Sam Bankman-Fried and investors who got scammed.  The six-time Teen Choice Award nominee defends his assertion that cryptocurrency is only good for crime and gambling, highlights Jeffrey Epstein's role in crypto's development, and comments on the challenges of regulating the industry.McKenzie also discusses President Trump's crypto ventures and the conflicts of interest they present, and he criticizes fellow celebrities who have endorsed crypto products without understanding the risks.Support for Firing Line with Margaret Hoover is provided by Robert Granieri, Vanessa and Henry Cornell, The Fairweather Foundation, The Tepper Foundation, Peter and Mary Kalikow, The Beth and Ravenel Curry Foundation, Pritzker Military Foundation, Cliff and Laurel Asness, The Margaret and Daniel Loeb Foundation, Katharine J. Rayner, Charles R. Schwab, Lindsay and George Billingsley, The Meadowlark Foundation, Jared Stone, Al and Kathy Hubbard, and Craig Newmark Philanthropies.