WTS Waikato: Recent Episodes
Gary Farrow
Welcome to WTS Waikato. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the region under the new normal.
Hamilton Model Engineers Inc will be hosting the Steam N Steel international model engineering convenion from 10 to 13 January. In this special episode of WTS, host Gary Farrow visits the site at Minogue Park, to hear about the club and the upcoming festival.Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest and largest fraternal societies. It is an organisation of men who strive to live by the fundamental principles of integrity, goodwill and charity. It is a non-profit organisation that is heavily involved in supporting charity and community service. Some people hold the preconceived notion that the Freemasons are an underground cult, like the Stonecutters in The Simpsons, but in fact, the very opposite is true. Freemasonry is inclusive and open to all. WTS producer Gary Farrow had a chat with two Freemasons about their experiences of the society. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Renters United has collaborated with the Lawrence & Gibson publishing collective to produce thousands of copies of the great New Zealand novel Rat King Landlord to share across the country for absolutely free. Go Eco in Kirikiriroa Hamilton will be holding a launch event, and author Murdoch Stephens agreed to speak to us on WTS via Zoom.Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
It’s robot fighting time! Tronbots is Kirikiriroa Hamilton’s very own robots fighting club. On Thursday evenings, they get together at the University of Waikato School of Engineering, for some quality mechanical carnage. Tronbots takes every child's loves of robots and introduces real engineering processes. WTS went to talk to Shannan McPeak, the Tronbots organiser.Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
We hear from Patricia Rocha, the owner of Dog Minds NZ, a dog training and owner coaching service based in Kirikiriroa Hamilton. Patricia also hosts the Boozehounds Society educational sessions at her local, Breweaucracy in Te Rapa, on the second Wednesday of each month. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
At the end of pool season, it’s time for the Ngaruawahia Pound Pups Pool Party! Ahead of the event on Saturday the 1st of April, WTS producer Gary Farrow spoke with Zoey Jackson and Tracey Oakes, who work in various roles at Waikato District Council animal control. They brought an adorable little pup along to the interview too.Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Award-winning poet and University of Waikato senior lecturer Dr Tracey Slaughter has spent the last nine months reviewing more than 1000 poems for this year’s Poetry Aotearoa Yearbook 2023: After-burn. WTS producer Gary Farrow visited her at the university to hear about the annual anthology.Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Know Your Stuff is a community organisation of volunteers. They are part of Aotearoa’s legal and publicly-funded drug checking programme, to reduce drug-related harm in a non-judgmental way. Emma Carroll is the Waikato regional lead for Know Your Stuff, and she joined producer Gary Farrow on WTS to discuss what the organisation does.Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
The Refugee Orientation Centre Trust was opened in Kirikiriroa in 2005, by former refugees for former refugees. To talk about it, Sandya Rajapakshe joins WTS producer Gary Farrow for this episode.Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Waikato arborist Pete Assen climbs and prunes trees in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty. He's had plenty of work following two cyclones. In this episode, Pete speaks about his years in the trade, and why he's still doing itTelling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Come fly the friendly skies with the Hamilton Model Aero Club. WTS producer Gary Farrow joined them at their airstrip in the south of Hamilton, and found what a supportive social group it is, as well as enabling the fun hobby of flying safely and freely with radio control planes.Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Badminton is a sport on the uptick in the Waikato. WTS producer Gary Farrow went to the Cambridge Badminton Stadium to meet club president Graeme Shaw.Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
The New Zealand Christian Community for Meditation held a silent retreat in Kirikiriroa Hamilton, specifically at the Lady Goodfellow Chapel at Waikato University. WTS producer Gary Farrow met with Katherine Houston from the World Christian Community for Meditation at the chapel, to learn more.Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
The International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior assembled for its annual conference in Rotorua for 2023. A public event was also held called VolcanoFest, where people could meet volcanologists, ask questions, and learn more about what’s going on in the earth under our feet. WTS producer Gary Farrow went along to meet the experts.Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
The Hamilton Inline Hockey Club is very unassuming from the outside, but as soon as you walk in, you find it is an international standard inline hockey court. But what they do stretches well beyond hockey. WTS producer Gary Farrow paid the club a visit to meet with president Jan Botha, and to hear about what makes the operation tick, as well as the challenges it faces.Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Our backyards are battlefields. Weaponised weevils, shield bugs, and stag beetles are constantly waging war in the quest to reproduce. These invertebrates and many more are of interest to Dr Chrissie Painting, a senior lecturer at the University of Waikato. She joins us on WTS to talk about battles among our local bugs.Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Have you ever thought of trying stilt walking in public? The Free Lunch Street Theatre Company started right here in the Waikato in 1999. Among the performances that Free Lunch provides, is stilt walking. They’re in high demand post-Covid, and I had a chat about the art with Free Lunch managing director Sandra Jensen.Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Whizz Bang Science brings science to life in exciting shows & hands on activities for kids and those curious at heart. The show currently doing the rounds is called the Unbelieve-a-bubble Show, providing a fun, interactive science experience to help with STEAM learning. Whizz Bang Science is based right here in the Waikato – in Putaruru, to be exact. Its owner, Emma Lucas, joins us on WTS. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
The Mexican Day of the Dead occurs in early November each year, and an event was held to commemorate it in Kirikiriroa Hamilton, run by a group of Mexican people from the community. They created an outstanding altar at the Earth Diverse centre, and brought food, music, and knowledge together. Two women who organised the event spoke to WTS, to tell us all about the Day of the Dead. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Mike Bain is a Te Awamutu resident who was involved in a cycling accident in July 2022, through no fault of his own. It was a close brush with death. Nearly four months later, Mike’s been through hospital, numerous operations, rehab – and he’s still only at the beginning of his journey to recovery. He joins WTS producer Gary Farrow to share his experience and his road safety philosophy. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
It's fireworks season, and in this episode of WTS, we hear from Cathy Balvert at Morrinsville i-Site about how the big Morrinsville Fireworks Extravaganza is carried out safely. Donna Young from New Lives Animal Rescue also gives a perspective on how we can help our animals, in what can be a scary time for them. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Life Drawing Hamilton assembles at the Waikato Society of Arts and other locations each Friday night. Life drawing is the activity or skill of drawing real life models, typically in the nude, but not always. In this episode of WTS, we hear from artist Niels, and one of the regular life models, Adah. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Waikato authorities have offered to supplement Auckland’s suburban train services, with Te Huia, which runs from Hamilton to Auckland. But Auckland Transport have said no. Advocates of the service, Ewen Wilson and Dave Macpherson, are asking, why not? Gary Farroq got them in the studio to talk about it on WTS. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Lake Taupō is in a state of unrest, and GNS Science has raised the alert level from zero to 1 for the first time. The questions many people are asking centre around what the reported earthquakes mean, and whether we could potentially see the ancient Taupō Volcano erupting. GNS duty volcanologist Craig Miller fills us in on WTS. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
EarthDiverse hosted an open day at 401 Anglesea Street in Hamilton recently, to invite the community to learn what EarthDiverse is about. There were a wide range of presentations given at the event, including from Hannah Huggan of Go Eco's Climate Action hub, who joins WTS for this episode. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
The Hamilton New Zealand Temple has been closed to the public for 64 years. Only members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints have been allowed inside. Over the space of three weeks, more than 50,000 members of the public have been able to take a tour inside. WTS host Gary Farrow went for a visit, and spoke with Hamiltonian and lifelong church member Vicki Lee Wihongi. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
The manu bomb is an intrinsic part of the culture of Aotearoa. The Splash Unit, previously known as the Waikato Bomb Club, enables adults and children to do manus in a safe, regulated environment at Waterworld in Kirikiriroa Hamilton, every Friday evening. WTS went along to check it out. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Coal mining in Huntly began in 1874, and the town developed a solid working-class community. So a lot of people identify Huntly with coal. However, Huntly Museum aims to tell the much broader story of the people in the area, and the original settlement of Rāhui Pōkeka, says Debra Kane, collections manager at the museum. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Gemma Rose is a trauma-recovery coach and breathwork practitioner in Kirikiriroa Hamilton. When you hear the term ‘breathwork’ you may think of simply inhaling and exhaling to relax – but it’s a lot more than that. Gemma joined WTS in the studio to give us a deeper insight into this holistic practice. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Parliament has opened an inquiry into the future of inter-regional passenger rail in New Zealand. Put simply, this is relevant to the argument for trains in the Waikato. We’ve already got Te Huia, linking Hamilton and Auckland. But are other towns' long-deserted train stations going to be welcoming your everyday traveler ever again? Paul Callister from Save Our Trains NZ speaks on WTS. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
The Deep Dive Division was established in 2018 by Tua and Courtney Karalus. Based in Hamilton, its mission is to go beneath the surface and let us realise what we can all do to help nurture the health of our precious Waikato River. Tua takes us a bit deeper in this episode of WTS. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
The Waikato Hauraki-Coromandel Rural Support Trust is part of a nationwide charitable organisation set up to work with farmers during times of increased mental or professional stress. The Hamilton rep for the Rural Support Trust, Neil Bateup, speaks to us on WTS. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
When director Costa Botes heard the story of Andrew Johnstone, the Cambridge herdsman who's been on WTS several times now, he was intrigued at his friendship with his cows. Costa set out to make a film about it, but it morphed into an intimate look into Andrew’s life – and what returning to the family farm after many years means to him. Andrew joins us back on WTS to discuss the film. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Waitakaruru Arboretum and Sculpture Park is situated near Tauwhare Village, about 20 minutes out of Hamilton. Flora from around the world is accompanied by stunning art installations, providing a multisensory feast. It’s a hidden gem of the Waikato. The owners invited me out there to get a taste of the experience. You can visit the arboretum too with a prior booking via sculpturepark.co.nz. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Sneaky Feelings are a pop rock band which formed in Dunedin in 1981 and have been with Flying Nun Records since then. Founding member Matthew Bannister, who now lives in Hamilton, has been involved with innumerable other projects - including his latest, an album of songs adorned with the poetry of Emily Dickinson. It's called The Saddest Noise. Matthew speaks to WTS and shares a few songs. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Matt Kambic’s play The Sherpa & the Beekeeper: Summit on Everest, premiered at the Meteor Theatre in Hamilton. And Matt has plenty of other creative endeavours too. WTS met up with him for a fascinating discussion, extending from the tallest mountain in the world, to the Hadron Collider, and beyond. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
The Cambridge Town Hall has served thousands of people in its life so far. But now, it needs help. It is no longer fit for purpose and it also requires major earthquake strengthening work. Kirsty Johnson chairs the Cambridge Town Hall Community Trust. WTS went and spoke with her inside the historic building. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Farmer Andrew Johnstone and music teacher Zed Brookes have been recording music in the Waikato since the days of analog – and now they’ve released an album in the digital age, by the same ethos of love for home baked music. Going by the name Brookes and Johnstone, WTS spoke to the act about their history together, and the album When Summer Falls, Break Down the Walls. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Saving animals and educating the public – those are the missions of Franklin Farm Sanctuary, located in north Waikato. The poultry and dairy industries in Aotearoa kill millions of animals every year. Some people think this is a practical necessity. And that’s the view which Sally Hart set out to dispel when she launched the Franklin Farm Sanctuary. WTS paid her a visit to learn more. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
What's being built over the Waikato River is more than a road bridge. WTS spoke with Andrew Parsons, executive director of strategic infrastructure at Hamilton City Council, to gain more insight. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
A few minutes out of Cambridge, in the countryside, is a huge shed containing toys, clothes, toiletries, books, shoes and PJs. Kids in Need Waikato loads all these into care packs to be given out to children who are in care with anyone other than their own parents - literally thousands of kids. WTS headed down to the shed to speak with co-founder Linda Roil. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
In Hamilton on May 14th a Rally for Safer Cycling is being held, and Sandra Jensen from Go Eco is involved with it. She’s also got a plethora of other interests, including the Kirikiriroa Society of Velocipede and Tweed Enthusiasts and Glo Ride, which both also pertain to cycling. WTS headed down to Frankton Village to grab a coffee with Sandra ahead of the cycling rally. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Peat fires are a regular occurrence in the Waikato - the unintentional burning of ancient plant material located underground. WTS producer Gary Farrow spoke to Fire and Emergency incident controller David Brown at the site of a large peat fire, and visited the University of Waikato to hear from Dave Campbell who specialises in the study of peat and their associated wetlands. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
MP for Taupō, Louise Upston, who is also a representative for the residents of Cambridge, has seen the social divisions caused by the pandemic first hand. WTS spoke with the MP, as well as one of her former frontline staff Louise Allen, for their personal stories of dealing with anti-vax constituents. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
The NZ Podcasting Summit, taking place on 14 May at Auckland University of Technology, is supported by Free FM and is the inaugural summit providing a medium for Aotearoa’s podcast producers, focussing on collaboration, education, sharing and networking. A panel of over 15 experts will be speaking at the day-long event. WTS spoke with event organiser Dr Lewis Tennant from AUT. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Micro moments fuel macro change. That's a mantra of the Microvolunteering Collective, which started out at the University of Waikato. The brandchild of comms student Chantelle Cobby, the collective is dedicated to breaking down the barriers to traditional volunteering, and enabling anyone to make meaningful contributions to their community. Chantelle joins us on WTS. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Waikato University PhD student Clare Beet has been immersed in science from an early age, growing up in a family that started Whaingaroa Harbour Care. Clare has explored as far as Antarctica on her studies, and built knowledge in science that she is now putting to use here on the ground in the Waikato. She joins us for this episode of WTS. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
A fan of British band Oasis has popped up on Hamilton’s community Facebook pages. Kaz Sahota is an archivist on an impassioned mission to publish a small book about Oasis’ one and only New Zealand tour, which took place in March 1998. This involves reaching out to Aotearoa’s communities, including in the Waikato, in search of stories from people who were there at the historic concerts. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
The Regent Theatre in Te Awamutu is one of a very small number of high-quality provincial cinemas in Aotearoa. It was established in 1932, and has been managed by movie enthusiast Allan Webb since 1974. Now, a trust has been set up to ensure the cinemas future after Allan retires. He’s still there at the box office, and invited WTS in, to treat us to a coffee and a yarn. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Introduced predators are an ever-present threat to Aotearoa’s native species. But normal citizens are waging a battle on such critters as rats, stoats and possums, and we are gaining ground. Producer Gary Farrow spoke with Karen Barlow of Go Eco and Predator Free Cambridge - an expert on the frontline. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Interlock NZ is a supportive group in the Waipa-Waikato area, creating opportunities for connection through crafts, woodwork, cooking, and social activities. It goes by the mantra that it is where Life, Disability and Community connect. Aaron and Lois Ure are the founders of the organisation, and invited WTS over for a chat. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Timi Barabas from Hamilton, originally from Hungary, works as a volunteer advocate for peace and the environment. She's involved with Rise For Lives, Climate Live, Peacewalk for Yemen, and Forest & Bird Youth to name a few. Timi joins us on WTS at this poignant time, as Russia wages war on Ukraine. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Books For Less NZ is an online second bookstore based in Kirikiriroa Hamilton, with new titles popping up weekly, and the wholesome goals of reading more accessible, affordable and sustainable. The story of business owner Anne-Marie Simpson is inspiring, as she has myalgic encephalomyelitis - more commonly known as chronic fatigue syndrome. She privileged us by coming on WTS. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
The story of a humble domestic cat’s experience of Cyclone Dovi when it swept through the Waikato serves as a reminder of the powers that the forces of nature have over our furry friends. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Horse riding has always been a rewarding hobby. Not only are the places you can go, the moves you can pull off, and the competitions you can enter great, but you can also form a lasting relationship with one of these majestic animals. In this episode Emma James, a horse lover from the Waikato, tells us all about her equine pursuits. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Throughout the Waikato and the rest of New Zealand, lie buildings, sites, vehicles, and even whole villages, that are abandoned and in a state of decay. There’s a community of photographers around the country who are fascinated by these places, and seek to give an insight into history using their cameras. One such explorer from the Waikato, Hannah Grace is kind enough to share her story. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
The new train between Hamilton and Auckland, called Te Huia, is back on the rails again, having been out of action for three months due to the pandemic. It's a fresh start. Producer Gary Farrow speaks to longtime advocate Susan Trodden and rail scene videojournalist Lindsay Benbrook for their genuine perspectives. Telling the hyperlocal, controversial and quirky stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
With international travel restricted, an increasing number of kiwis are choosing to get involved in tramping or hunting here at home. Rikihana Smallman has been documenting his adventures on Facebook. We got together to talk about what tramping and hunting means to him. WTS Waikato - Telling the stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
Susan Mellsopp lives independently in Hamilton with a visual impairment. Her life is rich and full, but as is the case with many of us, the pandemic has put a bit of a brake things. But Susan faces even greater challenges under Covid as a person with a disability. Producer Gary Farrow visited her in the suburb of Chartwell to hear her story. Telling the stories of the Waikato region under the new normal,
Welcome to WTS Waikato - Season Two! We take a look at the heatwave which was swept through much of the Waikato, hearing from experts at NIWA and Raglan Surf Live Saving Club. Telling the stories of the Waikato region under the new normal.
The delicious kombucha / tī concoctions by Waikirikau Fermented Beverages, made of native plants and brewed in Kirikiriroa Hamilton, have gained a solid customer base. And the drinks are proving just as popular during this tougher, longer lockdown. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Trent Salvatierra is a self-identified weather nerd living in Hamilton. He works as an electrician, but has also had a lifelong interest in tinkering with weather apparatus, by which he can gain all sorts of data. He spoke to WTS about his passion. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Have you or your children ever come across small painted rocks in random places around Hamilton? Then you’ve probably had the privilege of finding a Tron Rock. They’re a phenomenon involving thousands of painters and collectors in Hamilton alone – not to mention the rest of the world. Wayne Morris is a member of the Tron Rocks community, and he has a fascinating story of how one little rock changed his life, and how he’s now passing the joy on to others. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Multiculturalism is one thing, but intercultural connections are another. Earth Diverse is based out of Kirikiriroa Hamilton, and reaches out to the rest of the country and the world to help enhance cultural diversity. Nona Morris is one of the co-founders of Earth Diverse, and she spoke to us in this episode of WTS, along with junior lecturers Michael Burton-Smith and Adam Nachowitz. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Heritage seeds – could they be the secret to a sustainable micro-economy? Michael Heiler is a coordinator of both Te Puna Kai o Waikato and the heritage seed garden at the Fairfield Project, so he joins us on this episode of WTS to help fill us in. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
The matuku, or Australasian bittern, is Go Eco Waikato's favourite to win Forest & Bird's Bird of the Year, which recognises our unique birds and with each vote we give them a voice. The matuku is endangered, with much of its wetland habitat having been destroyed. One of the most important populations is in Whangamarino Wetland near Mercer. WTS spoke to two matuku experts. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
The Pūkorokoro Miranda Shorebird Centre is on the Firth of Thames, and provides facilities, resources and tour guides for people to discover animals such as the bar-tailed godwits. They migrate here from Alaska every spring, before heading back in the autumn. WTS producer Gary Farrow spoke to godwit expert, Adrian Riegen. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Us versus them – it’s what it feels like sometimes when you look at the plight of cycling advocacy in Kirikiriroa Hamilton. For this episode of WTS Lockdown Edition, Bike Auckland’s Mary-Margaret Slack shares some tales of pushing and winning which could be very relevant to our situation in the Waikato. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
From a hay bail-lined dance hall in Arkansas, to the redoubt bar in Te Awamutu – country music performer JamesRay has come a long way. But how did he end up in the Waikato of all places? Wearing a mask and practising social distancing, he shared his story with WTS Lockdown Edition. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Birthright Waikato, which operates as Single Parent Services, has been in the Hamilton area since 1958 and is one of the oldest community social service agencies in the region. For WTS Lockdown Edition, manager Kathleen Miller and youth counsellor Toia Chase shared the story of Birthright, and how its team have navigated lockdown. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
ADHD is challenging – even moreso in Covid-19 lockdown. Dory Connor from Acing ADHD is doing ADHD coaching with people throughout the country, including in the Waikato. She herself has lived experience of having attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder. Dory joins us on WTS Lockdown Edition to give us all some hints and tips on how we can hold things together when we get cabin fever at home. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
It's Covid fighting time! At the forefront of the response is Te Kohao Health, based at Kirikiriroa Marae, on Hamilton’s Wairere Drive. It’s been operating for well over two decades, and is more relevant to the wider community than ever during the current pandemic. Lady Tureiti Moxon, the chief executive of Te Kohao Health, joined WTS Lockdown Edition on Zoom to chat about the organisation. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Andrew Johnstone and his pet cows return for another great yarn on WTS, this time over Zoom in WTS Lockdown Edition. We hear what lockdown is like on the farm, talk about a film that's being made about Andrew and his cows Maggie and Tilly, and his idea of possibly buying more pet bovines to live out their natural lives eating Arnott's biscuits. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
It's WTS Lockdown Edition! In this episode we’re looking at Nivara Lounge. It’s a treasured and essential live music venue in Kirikiriroa Hamilton, and after battling through the first major lockdown in 2020, owner and manager Ivan Muir is having to gear up all over again in 2021. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
The Hamilton Cat Club and the New Zealand Cat Fancy set up at Hamilton Gardens Pavillion to host the biggest cat show anywhere in the country. On a crisp 2-degree morning, WTS producer Gary Farrow went along. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
An independent author who lives in Kirikiriroa Hamilton has achieved the milestone of becoming a full time author. Johanna Rae writes urban fantasy novels, and also organises an annual event called Ages of Pages, for authors and readers to network at Hamilton Gardens. The second event will be happening in April 2022. Johanna shared her stories (in more ways than one) with WTS. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
The Baha’i Faith started in Iran a relatively new religion teaching the essential worth of all religions and the unity of all people. What the faith refers to as the Waikato cluster has well over 100 members. Two people involved with the faith locally spoke to WTS - Soheyla Bolouri and Gayl de Boer. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Hamilton Astronomical Society was formed in 1933, and is one of the oldest of Aotearoa’s 25 amateur astronomy groups. I made my way up to the observatory to gaze at the stars myself, and it turns out astronomy is a really accessible hobby. People were gathered in a group in the dark outside the building, having a look at the stars with the naked eye, and some portable telescopes. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
The Mangaonua Esplanade curves around the stream as it runs through Silverdale in Kirikiriroa Hamilton – deceptively close to the busy State Highway 26. Hauauru Masters Brown from Go Eco tells us about its restoration and his wider story of helping rangatahi. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Beekeeping is a $5b industry in Aotearoa New Zealand. And it isn’t just relevant to industry – you and I can also keep bees at home. Dara Dimitrov is a member of the Waikato Domestic Beekeepers Association, leads a beekeeping night class at Kirikiriroa Hamilton’s Fraser High School, and has a chat with WTS producer Gary Farrow about it. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Surrogate parenthoods in Aotearoa New Zealand are an altruistic arrangement. Sometimes they occur via in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), or traditional surrogacy in which the surrogate mother’s egg is used. The latter was the case with a same-sex male couple in Kirikiriroa Hamilton, who generously agreed to share to their story of having their daughter via surrogacy. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Photographic artist Mark Hamilton, who also happens to hail from Kirikiriroa Hamilton, first picked up a camera in his late 20s, before studying the craft at Wintec. With two decades experience, he is now producing a vast range of powerful, atmospheric work – including but not limited to scenes of Kirikiriroa, theatre production photography, portraiture, and interpretive photography based on characters from Bob Dylan songs. His studio is in the Garden House Building, and WTS producer Gary Farrow made his way up there to get an insight into Mark's photos. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Shadan Conradie is a confidence coach, based in Matamata as she runs her business Inna Moment. As the name suggests, it’s about inner confidence – something which may be even harder to gain and retain than confidence in social situations. WTS producer Gary Farrow drove out to Matamata to gave a chat with her. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Conscious consumption is an important idea that we need to be more mindful about in this day and age. And here in the Waikato, Nicola Turner from Mainstream Green is going to particular lengths to spread strategies on how we can live sustainably. WTS producer Gary Farrow visited her in Cambridge. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Model trains can be a time consuming and expensive hobby, while at the same time having the potential to be very enriching and immersive. WTS producer Gary Farrow popped down to Günther’s house in St Andrews, Kirikiriroa Hamilton, to be shown around the model train layouts at his home. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Pukeiāhua is a piece of land near Ngaruawahia which is sacred to local hapū, Ngāti Tamainupō and mana whenua. It contains rua, foodpits, that are of great cultural and historical significance. But it’s all threatened by a proposed subdivision, so a group going by the name Protect Pukeiāhua is occupying the site. They have also just launched an ambitious crowdfunding campaign to work towards buying the land. Kimai Huirama welcomed me to Pukeiāhua to hear the story of the whenua. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
The Hamilton Theosophical Society’s mission, it says, is to serve humanity by cultivating a deep understanding and realisation of the commonality between the various religious and spiritual belief systems, and henceforth find the Ageless Wisdom, spiritual self-transformation and the Unity of Life. Does that sound challenging? You’re not alone. Lia Kortas-Snellen, a member of the Hamilton Lodge of the Theosophical Society, met up with WTS producer Gary Farrow to explain how and why she got involved in this area of study. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Waikato TimeBank is a reciprocal community where members share skills, knowledge, talents and time with each other. It provides a welcome alternative to the financial system. That might sound like a challenging concept to some – transactions in a community that don’t involve money. WTS producer Gary Farrow spoke to a couple of TimeBank users and advocates - Tania Ashman and Camilla Carty-Melis - to learn about the not-for-profit community cooperative. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Sunday the 2nd of May was Aotearoa’s National Alpaca Day, and the Cornerstone Alpaca Stud near Gordonton was open to the wider public in celebration. WTF producer Gary Farrow went along to grab some comment from camelids. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Grrrl Fest places a spotlight on female and gender non-binary artists and talent in Kirikiriroa Hamilton. WTS producer Gary Farrow spoke with one of the organisers, Kat Waswo. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
The Monthly Dutch Market is held in Cambridge on the last Saturday of every month. You can find a selection of Dutch goods and foods to buy, games to play, and an opportunity to connect with Dutch people. WTS producer Gary Farrow went along to hear why the Dutch Market exists, and the story of the immigrants from the Netherlands who are in the Waikato. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Lizards and other reptiles are fascinating creatures that have been on the Earth longer than humankind. There are some people who believe in reptilians, lizard people, humanoid reptiles that are living underground. Until the truth comes to light, WTS producer Gary Farrow settled for interviewing Reon Senior-Arnold, who lives in Kirikiriroa Hamilton and breeds leopard geckos - whose lizards probably turned out more interesting than reptoids. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Love Your Bike Day returned to Kirikiriroa Hamilton's Claudelands Park. Hundreds of cyclists and their families turned out to take part in the fun event, and WTS producer Gary Farrow rode along too. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Airsoft is a competitive team sport that is very similar to paintball. It provides players with a form of exercise, a way to develop skills in teamwork, camaraderie, and allows them to make new friends. Airsoft Waikato Incorporated members Mark 'Tinman' Willoughby and Simon 'Jackal' Mills approached WTS to inform people about the sport. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Glamilton Burlesque Academy's Midnight Mistress, Flirtini and Little Miss Innocent allowed WTF producer Gary Farrow to attend a burlesque class, and dispelled the back chat which goes on about the sensual, seductive art form. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Lawn mower racing is a hobby motorsport that is growing in popularity throughout the North Island, and it’s certainly built up a good following in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty. WTF producer Gary Farrow attended the racing at the Cambridge track on Easter weekend. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Piper Blaster and her drag mother Gloriosole are two drag queens hailing from the Waikato. They performed as part of the Cambridge Autumn Festival, and because Gary was out of town, WTF assistant producer Wendy Farrow jumped at the opportunity to meet the queens and join the audience at the show. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Frankton Thunder has now grown into a whole mix of subcultures. WTF producer Gary Farrow spoke with event organiser Ken McGeady to trace how it became such a beast. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Waikato Cavy Club hosted a Guinea Pig Show at Eureka Hall, and WTF producer Gary Farrow went along to meet the club president and a loving owner. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Tauwhare Military Museum is one of the largest private collections of military vehicles and memorabilia in Aotearoa New Zealand. It’s all tucked away in some large sheds near Cambridge, but the historic items frequently make it out to public events. WTF producer Gary Farrow visited the museum to check out the emotional story behind the impressive collection. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Live Action Role Playing, or LARPing for short, is an unashamedly nerdy hobby practised throughout the world. There is a LARPing community in the Waikato, and one member, James Win, kindly agreed to give us an insight on what LARPers do, and why they do it. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
The Wai Taiko Drummers are based at the University of Waikato in Kirikiriroa Hamilton. WTF producer Gary Farrow went along to their rehearsal to hear what they're all about. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
The Hamilton Slot Car Club meets every second Friday. WTF producer Gary Farrow went along, and ended up getting right into the social sport. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Sex educator Louise Bourchier returns to WTF Waikato - this time to speak about female pleasure and the mysterious clitoris. Last year, she featured on WTF Waikato to talk about sex, and how it needs to be discussed more as an integral part of the human experience. You can listen back to that episode from December 2020 wherever you get your podcasts. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Off the coast of Whāingaroa Raglan swim the elusive Maui dolphins. They’re the rarest species of dolphin in the entire world – and we alone have the chance to save them from extinction. WTF producer Gary Farrow visited Jasmine Hunter at the Whāingaroa Environment Centre to hear the dolphins’ story. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
The Waikato Aquarium Society is made up of people who have a passion for keeping various species of fish, aquatic plants, and other animals. Twice a year they have a Tank Crawl, where the club gets together and carpools around each other’s houses to check out their range of aquatic setups. WTF producer Gary Farrow stowed away with them. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
The Laughter Club gathers every Tuesday morning at the Western Community Centre in the suburb of Nawton, in Kirikiriroa Hamilton. Instructor Sanjay Joshi leads a session of laughter yoga, which makes use of voluntary laughter for its psychological and physiological benefits. WTF producer Gary Farrow went along to check it out – and to take part as well. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.
Clans, kilts, pipe bands and steampunks were all a part of the Paeroa Highland Games & Tattoo on Saturday the 13th of February. WTF producer Gary Farrow went along to catch some of the sights, sounds and stories of Scottish culture and history. Come be enlightened to the quirkier social phenomena of the Waikato.