In this episode, host Paddy sits down with Ross Copland - an engineer, infrastructure leader, and passionate local - to explore the unique challenges and opportunities that come with Queenstown’s rapid growth. Together, they dive into Ross Copland’s journey from a Southland farm to the helm of Southern Infrastructure Limited, discussing why Queenstown is such a special place and what it takes to keep pace with its booming population and tourism.

You’ll hear candid insights about infrastructure delivery, funding, and planning - think cable cars, the future of local healthcare, and the big lessons learned from both the public and private sectors. Ross Copland and Paddy share real talk about political courage, valuing engineering know-how, and how Queenstown can become a model for growth across New Zealand. Whether you’re interested in business leadership or passionate about the future of the region, this episode is packed with inspiration and straight-up home truths.

In this episode, Paddy sits down with Sam Stubbs, the founder of Simplicity, for an insightful conversation about creating connection, community, and impact - both in business and everyday life.

Together, they explore the origins and growth of Mountain Club, the flourishing Queenstown community, and the role of shared passions like mountain biking in breaking down social barriers.

Sam Stubbs shares how Simplicity’s mission as an “anti-poverty machine” is helping to shape a more equitable New Zealand through innovative investment vehicles, accessible housing, and infrastructure projects that are designed with longevity and quality in mind.

The episode covers everything from why long-term renting could be the future for Kiwi communities, to the importance of giving - not just money, but skills and time - to create true change. Get ready for a wide-ranging chat that touches on housing affordability, the power of purpose, and how intentional connections can shape happier, more resilient societies.

Whether you’re a business leader, mountain bike enthusiast, or someone looking to live well and give back, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical insights. So grab your headphones and join us for a deep dive into what it means to build places - and lives - where everyone has the chance to thrive.

In this special "Christmas Wrap" episode, host Clare looks back on an incredible year of connection, growth, and adventure in the Queenstown Lakes region. From unforgettable heli-skiing powder days with family and friends, to mountain biking, adventure races, and insightful conversations with inspiring guests, Clare and the Mountain Club community have plenty to celebrate.

This episode dives deep into the highlights of 2025 - sharing stories of resilience, creativity, and the evolving power of human connection that makes this community so unique. Clare discusses the importance of being present, staying thankful, and fostering intentional relationships, both within Mountain Club and the wider region. You'll hear reflections on favourite moments, lessons learned, and honest, vulnerable encounters from throughout the year’s podcast episodes.

Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the show, "Christmas Wrap" is a celebration of the people, places, and purposeful future that define Mountain Club. Get ready for inspiring anecdotes, thoughtful takeaways, and a heartwarming reminder to appreciate the now and look forward to what's next.

In this episode, host Clare Irons sits down with Benje Patterson - economist, strategist, storyteller, and local community leader - to unravel the fast-changing landscape of Queenstown and the surrounding region.

Benje Patterson, who serves on the boards of both the Arrowtown Promotion and Business Association and the Queenstown Trails Trust, shares his unique perspective on what it means to belong in Queenstown, the challenges of rapid growth, and the entrepreneurial spirit that defines life in the mountains.

Together, Clare and Benje Patterson dive into big questions: how can Queenstown plan for its explosive population growth? What does housing security really look like in a place where affordability is a constant concern? They explore the critical role of infrastructure, public transport innovation, and the impact of tourism and investment on shaping the region’s future.

Join us for a conversation that moves from backcountry trail runs to boardroom decisions, weaving in stories of community resilience, the power of local organisations, and hopes for a prosperous, balanced future in the mountain playground. Whether you’re a local, a visitor, or just mountain-curious, this episode will leave you inspired by the energy and possibilities of life in Queenstown.

This episode is a deep dive into journeys - geographical, entrepreneurial, and personal wellbeing. Paddy sits down with Matt Chapman, a globetrotter turned Wanaka local, whose story stretches from a small town in Australia, through the bustling streets of Singapore, and finally, to the stunning landscapes of the Queenstown Lakes region. Matt shares his path from a highly scheduled, high-performing corporate life to finding balance and meaning in remote work, start-ups, and community building. We’ll hear how ultra marathons and business challenges led to the creation of ChapmanCG, and how that company’s growth and eventual exit paved the way for Matt's reinvention in New Zealand. This episode explores the importance of spontaneous adventure, nurturing wellbeing, and building connections - both professional and personal - in a place that inspires creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.

From the thrill of founding global businesses to the serenity of planting thousands of trees and building a new collective for wellbeing, Matt's journey is a testament to embracing change, fostering community, and living life with intention. Get ready for a conversation about reinventing yourself, trusting in the unknown, and the magic of the mountains - right here in the heart of New Zealand.

In this heartfelt episode, Claire Turnbull, founder of Mission Nutrition and Feel Good the Find Wellness Programme, joins our host Clare Irons to talk about mental health, food, and the messy, beautiful reality of balance.

Claire opens up about her personal journey - from burnout and eating disorders to helping others find true wellbeing. She shares how to end your fight with food, why sleep and morning light matter more than diets, and how to build a life that actually feels good inside and out.

🎧 Honest, practical, and full of hope - this is wellbeing, without the wellness hype.

On this episode of the Mountain Club Podcast, we brought together New Zealand’s comedy legends for an honest, hilarious, and inspiring conversation. In our first live podcast we heard from Jeremy Corbett, Michèle A’Court, Emma Lange, and David Downs.

We heard wild tales from their early days, how they built a career from scratch, and how comedy helped them through life’s toughest moments, including stories of overcoming cancer. With touching insights about resilience, the power of community, and plenty of laughs, this session is a masterclass in turning passion into purpose - and proof that laughter truly is the best medicine.

On this episode of the Mountain Club Podcast, Paddy sat down with Quentin, the visionary behind Snow Machine and Arrival, to talk all things Queenstown, entrepreneurship, and event innovation. Quentin shares how his love for travel and adventure transformed Queenstown’s shoulder seasons, boosting the local economy with world-class events. We dive into the power of collaboration, building community, and turning big ideas into reality. If you’re interested in the intersection of lifestyle, business, and creating experiences that matter, this conversation is packed with inspiration and insights.

It’s Wills Month, and we couldn’t think of a better guest than Jennifer Belmont - CEO of the 45South Community Foundation who quite literally brought her famous cookies (yes, cookies 🍪) to the podcast with Paddy.

Jennifer shares how she’s redefined philanthropy in Queenstown, scaling from a DIY startup to a regional force with billion-dollar ambitions. At the heart of her message this month? Legacy giving. Even a simple 10% gift in your will can create generational impact without taking away from your family’s future.

From Impact100’s $200k community power move to youth philanthropy (the “gateway drug to giving”), Jennifer shows how generosity, big or small, becomes a legacy. This Wills Month, she’s here to remind us: your story can live on, one thoughtful decision at a time.

In this episode, Vic Crockford, director of Heft Communications and founder of the Coalition to End Women's Homelessness, shares her journey across sectors, from community advocacy to cultural leadership. She unpacks the often-overlooked crisis of women’s homelessness in Aotearoa, where more than 57,000 women live in severe housing deprivation with wāhine Māori most affected.

Vic introduces the Papatuanuku paradigm, a Māori-led housing toolkit grounded in Te ao Māori values, and urges for gender analysis to be built into policy from the start. Her work bridges housing, culture, and creativity - including supporting over 65 creative spaces through Arts Access Aotearoa.

With deep roots in Queenstown and a love for the mountains, Vic brings both personal perspective and national impact. From couch surfing to community art, she challenges us to rethink what "home" really means and where creativity can belong.