Community Conversations

A kōrero with Brenda McQuillan of Te Piki Oranga about supporting whānau wellbeing across the Top of the South, with a focus on gambling harm. In this conversation, Brenda shares how gambling can affect the brain and addiction pathways, and how Te Piki Oranga can support and assist those experiencing gambling addiction.

Lucinda Jimson joins Andi to talk about the Nelson Provincial Museum Gala Royale fundraiser dinner on June 13 2026

Rory Paterson, new Labour Candidate for West Coast Tasman

Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.

Andi talks to Chris and Shane to learn about about An Afternoon with Yuan Tze: Improving Health, Happiness and Wellbeing, happening in Stoke, Nelson on April 12.

The event is hosted by Ren Xue Australasia & Top of the South Ren Xue QiGong Teachers.

Chelsea Routhan, CEO of the Top of the South Community Foundation, joins us to talk about the newly launched Giving in Aotearoa New Zealand Survey—the first of its kind exploring why and how Kiwis give. The survey aims to better understand generosity in all its forms, from donations to volunteering and community support, helping organisations make more informed decisions. Participants can also nominate a charity to win $1,000.

Emma Matthews talks about Music Therapy Week and the opening of her new music therapy space, The Nest, at the Nelson Centre of Musical Arts.

Emma shares insight into the power of music therapy and how it supports children with communication, connection, and wellbeing — as well as the inspiration behind creating a safe, nurturing space designed especially for young people and their families.

It’s a thoughtful and uplifting kōrero about the role music can play in everyday life, and the growing need for services like this in our community.

Nikki and Mandy from RISE’s Hikitia! chat to Fresh FM about their upcoming event, Beyond Belief: Understanding Cult Dynamics, happening in Whakatū this week.

They discuss the purpose behind the event, exploring important topics like coercive control, high-control groups, and the hidden impacts these environments can have on children and whānau. Nikki and Mandy also share who the event is for, what people can expect on the day, and why conversations like this are so important for our community.

A powerful and informative kōrero that sheds light on an often misunderstood topic.

Purple Day is Epilepsy Awareness Day on March 26th

Shannon finds out about the Sublime Open day in Bridge St happening this Saturday, March 28th