The Wao Summit returns for its ninth year, bringing five days of inspiring conversations, practical workshops, films, tours, and real-world solutions to Queenstown and Wānaka.

In this episode, WAO Summit founder Babu Blat joins us to share what's planned for this year's theme, Resilience in Action, and why the summit is focused on turning ideas into action. From food resilience and sustainable building to energy, business, and climate, the summit highlights practical solutions and the people already making a difference.

We also chat about one of the standout events, Food Resilience Day, where attendees can experience local food systems firsthand through a guided bus and boat tour, meeting the growers, producers, and innovators helping build a more resilient future.

If you're interested in sustainability, community, innovation, or simply want to see positive change happening close to home, this episode is a great introduction to one of the region's most inspiring annual events.

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government investment to strengthen key local roads against severe weather, and the sale of Wānaka's Health Hub. Plus, there's a look at a stunning Christchurch dessert destination that's getting plenty of attention for creations that are almost too beautiful to eat.

If you want to stay in the loop with what's happening around the region, this episode delivers a quick, informative, and easy-to-follow update on the stories that matter most.

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Looking for ways to cook great food without spending a fortune? This episode is packed with practical tips, clever kitchen hacks, and easy meal ideas.

Local chef Del joins us to chat about her Savvy Suppers series, where she creates flavour-packed meals that are affordable, simple to make, and often leave enough for lunch the next day. We cover everything from meal planning and making the most of pantry staples to reducing food waste and shopping smarter.

Del also shares one of her favourite winter recipes, a comforting Greek lemon soup, along with advice on cooking with seasonal ingredients, stretching your grocery budget, and building confidence in the kitchen.

Whether you're cooking for one, feeding a family, or just looking for fresh dinner inspiration, this episode is full of ideas to help you create delicious meals for less.

You can find more of Del's recipes, cookbooks, and cooking inspiration on her website and social media.

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Whether you've always dreamed of writing a book or you've never written more than a shopping list, this episode might just change the way you see yourself.

Author Steffanie Fieldsend joins us to chat about her upcoming Get Started Writing workshop in Lake Hāwea, a hands-on session designed to help people unlock their creativity and take the first step into writing.

We talk about overcoming self-doubt, discovering what kind of writer you are, and why there's no single path to telling a great story. From micro fiction and short stories to novels, Steffanie shares practical advice, creative tips, and explains how writing can be a powerful outlet for self-expression and wellbeing.

If you've ever thought, "I'd love to write, but I don't know where to start," this conversation is the perfect place to begin.

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Here's a quick look at what's making headlines today. A metal concert in Dunedin turned chaotic after human waste ended up in the mosh pit, two iconic Kiwi coffee brands are disappearing from supermarket shelves after more than 75 years, and several Upper Clutha homes have picked up top honours for their standout architecture and design.

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Start your day with a quick catch-up on the stories making headlines across New Zealand.

In today's episode, another bitterly cold morning with temperatures plunging well below zero, the Upper Clutha Rams claiming an incredible third consecutive championship, and the remarkable rescue of an elderly fisherman thanks to the quick actions of a local farmer.

From business and weather to sport and inspiring community moments, this is your fast, easy way to stay up to date with the stories shaping New Zealand today.

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In this episode, Jack sits down with STARHEAD, the solo project of New Zealand-based musician, producer and songwriter Julia.

Julia opens up about her journey from growing up in Germany to finding her creative home in New Zealand. She shares how years of self-doubt and holding back eventually gave way to writing, recording and releasing music that's honest, emotional and deeply personal.

The conversation explores the story behind her latest single, "Stars Now Scars," a song inspired by the end of a meaningful friendship, and how music has become a way to process life's biggest moments.

Together, they talk about creativity, vulnerability, resilience, and why showing up, even in small ways, can lead to something powerful.

If you've ever struggled with confidence, questioned your creativity, or needed a reminder to trust your own voice, this is a conversation worth hearing.

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The Upper Clutha Rams are heading into their third straight Grand Final, and ahead of the biggest game of the season, we catch up with number eight Jake Burdenshaw.

Jake reflects on the Rams' journey from a slow start with a new-look squad to building the momentum that's carried them all the way to another championship decider against Wakatipu Rugby Club. We talk about the hard work behind the scenes, the lessons learned throughout the season, and what it will take to lift the trophy.

The conversation also highlights the incredible support from the Upper Clutha community. From passionate fans filling the sidelines to homemade signs, team dinners, and the volunteers who keep the club running, it's a reminder that the Rams' success is built on more than just what happens on the field.

If you're backing the Rams this weekend, or simply love hearing what drives successful teams, this is an honest and inspiring chat ahead of one of the biggest matches on the local rugby calendar.

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we unpack a major housing development that's already proving popular, look at new leadership for the region's water services, and explain why fuel prices could soon be heading higher.

We also share the incredible story of a Christchurch woman who unknowingly carried around a $1 million Lotto ticket for an entire week before discovering she was a millionaire.

Plus, we cover fresh business news, transport updates, and the stories shaping Wānaka, Central Otago and around New Zealand.

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Join us for an open conversation with QLDC Mayor John Glover as we unpack some of the biggest issues facing the Queenstown Lakes District.

From council amalgamation and rate reform to traffic congestion, growth, and the future of public transport in the Upper Clutha, Mayor Glover shares where things stand and what they could mean for local communities.

We also discuss why community feedback matters, how councils advocate on behalf of residents, and the challenges of balancing rapid growth with the infrastructure and services the region needs.

Whether you're curious about how local government works or want to better understand the decisions shaping the future of Wānaka and the wider district, this episode offers an insightful look behind the scenes.

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