Community Conversations: Recent Episodes
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Sam and Bryce organizers of Rock the City 26 join Rene to talk about this event showcasing local youth bands. Rock the City 26 is on Saturday the 29th of August at the Theater Royal, and is is supported by Nelson City Council.
Dr. Afraz Adam joins Rene to talk about why men ignore their health, and National Telehealth Service.
Charity Auction that is scheduled for Friday, 28th August 2026 at the Rutherford Hotel Nelson.
Julienne from Arts Council Motueka joins Chrissie to talk about the future of the Chanel Arts Centre, and a public meeting on Monday July 27 2026
A sneak peek at the 2026 Nelson Arts Festival with Artistic Director Janelle Bish. We chat about this year's first ticket release, what audiences can expect, and why the Nelson Arts Festival continues to be a highlight of Whakatū's arts and culture calendar.
Andi talks to Karolina Gorton, Janja Heathfield and Rohan O'Neill-Stevens about the new Whakatū Nelson Arts Hub, and Ordinary Wonders, a collaborative community storytelling and visual arts exhibition.
Rene is joined by Bryn from Racing Sparrow Model Yachts about his world of design to being on the water with 3D printed Yachts and the community built around this world and his personal journey.
Kath joins Delena to talk about the Winter Warmer concert for kids happening at 10.30am on Tuesday July 7th at Founders Heritage Park.Tickets available through https://kathbee.nz
Andi talks to Victory Community Centre's community co-ordinator Steve McLuckie about the upcoming Matariki Celebtations
Ordinary Wonders Project – Invitations to Share Memories and Register as an Artist Open Until 3 July
Andi catches up with Lenka from Citizens Advice Bureau. They talk about a recent move to Richmond, and how to access their services in Nelson.
Andi catches up with Keri-Mei about her exhibition He Ngaki Māra, on in Nelson until May 30th
Chrissie talks to Sage Forest, a film maker from Golden Bay who is in search of some actors and extras to film a birthday party scene advert with a message.
Chrissie catches up with with Mariposa owner Tracey Brignole who is closing her Takaka clothing outlet on May 23rd.
Andi talks to Becky Siame about her Nelson Fringe Festival 2026 show (Winner of best local show) which is back at the Suter for 1 perfomance on May 23 2026
Welcome to Community Conversations, where curiosity meets community. This is the space where we connect with the people, projects, and ideas shaping our region.
Find out about some music events happening in Nelson during Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa 2026, NZ Music Month 2026
Welcome to Community Conversations, where curiosity meets community. This is the space where we connect with the people, projects, and ideas shaping our region.
A conversation with Pete Rainey as he reflects on more than 30 years shaping the choral music scene in Whakatū Nelson. Pete discusses his musical journey, community singing, and his final concert with the Chroma Chamber Choir.Monumental: Music for Choir and Organ is on Saturday 2 May, 6:30–8:00pm at Nelson Cathedral, with tickets available from ncma.nz or at the door.
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
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
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.
Shannon finds out about the Sublime Open day in Bridge St happening this Saturday, March 28th
Robina McCurdy joins Chrissy to talks about the National Permaculture Hui at Whakatu Marae and Founders Heritage Park, Apr 10-13
The Marlborough Multicultural Festival celebrates 20 years of unity, diversity, and belonging with a vibrant week of activities, culminating in the iconic festival day at Pollard Park. Visitors can enjoy delicious ethnic food, traditional dances and music, and a rich showcase of the many cultures that call Marlborough home. One of New Zealand’s largest multicultural events, it’s a free, family‑friendly celebration of community and connection.
Shannon speaks with Luke Scowcroft, Nelson Centre Manager for English Language Partners New Zealand, about their upcoming Certificate in ESOL Home Tutoring starting 16 March in Nelson.In this conversation, Luke shares what’s involved, who it’s for, and the real difference volunteer tutors make in helping newcomers settle into life in Aotearoa.
Andi talks to Chris about Nelson Central Chi Hub workshops starting March 02 26. For more information or to talk to a teacher, email contact@thinkhealth.nz
Shannon caught up with comedy chameleon Tom Sainsbury – social media sensation, actor, writer and star of Taskmaster NZ, Wellington Paranormal and Snackmasters – ahead of his brand-new live show Lessons Not Learnt, coming to Nelson on Saturday 11 October.
Shannon caught up with Augusta and Angela from the Nelson Women’s Centre to chat about their upcoming Fundraiser Event on Saturday 4th October, 7–10pm. The evening promises laughter, honest kōrero around midlife and menopause, raffles, a silent auction, and plenty of community spirit – all while raising funds to support the vital work of the Centre. Tickets are $49 via Humanitix or at the NWC front desk.
Chrissie talks to Rore Morgan, a former Nelson College Student and c-founder of Savvy Spenders, a financial literacy venture creating engaging tools like a card game to help young people learn about money. Along side his temam mate Milo Coldren, Rore has been leading development of the game, which focuses on budgeting, saving, investing, and smart spending.
In today's episode we talk to Molly McManus and Diksha Mahajan who recently attended the 2025 International Youth Conference for Peace in the Future (IYCPF) in Japan. This event brings young people together from across the globe including those from Hiroshima’s sister and friendship cities to explore ideas of global peace, strengthen cross-cultural understanding, and build lasting connections.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
In this episode, Ceara sits down with Councillor Kahu Paki Paki to discuss the Māori Ward - from his journey into becoming a city councillor, to the state of local democracy, to the recent candidate handbook that excluded all three Māori Ward councillors. A critical listen before you send in your voting papers.
In today's episode, we talk with Avalon Myer and Ester Ribas, who are co-chairs of Multicultural Youth Nelson Tasman. We talk about the importance of young people voting in local elections, what issues they and their peers care about and why representation in local government matters.
In this episode, we sit down with Devorah Nícuarta-Smith, Manager of Governance and Support Services and Deputy Electoral Officer at Nelson City Council, to explore the history of Māori Wards, the policy settings that led to the poll, and what you’ll see on your voting papers. This is a great episode to better understand Māori Wards in our region.
In this episode, we sit down with Devorah Nícuarta-Smith, Manager of Governance and Support Services and Deputy Electoral Officer at Nelson City Council, to unpack everything you can expect from your voting papers this election. We cover the difference between at-large and ward candidates, how Single Transferable Voting works, and the poll questions. Tune in to feel confident and prepared this election season.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
In today’s episode we sat down with Sonny Alesana, Heamana (Chair) of Te Tauihu Kapa Haka Inc to reflect on the last 55 years of Kapa Haka in the region. Take a dive into the history of Kapa Haka in the region, how it’s changed and Sonny’s vision for the future.
Shannon sat down with the wonderfully creative Jasmine Tease to talk about Kabaret 666 – the rock and metal-infused cabaret hitting the Red Door Theatre in Nelson on August 29th & 30th. Jasmine shares what audiences can expect from this unapologetically wild and provocative show, how it came together with co-creator Pole Goblin, and why it’s set to be a night you won't forget.
Shannon caught up with director and co-writer Justin Lewis to talk about Indian Ink’s latest production, Paradise or the Impermanence of Ice Cream. Justin shares the inspiration behind this unforgettable tale of life, death, vultures and ice cream, and what audiences in Nelson and Dunedin can expect from this internationally acclaimed show.
Shannon chats with Graham about the cathedral’s rich history, Takaka marble, quirky construction challenges, and the exciting centenary celebrations this August. Tune in to hear the stories behind one of Nelson’s most iconic landmarks.
Valorie Patrick joins Chrissie to talk about Bislama Language week, and talks about some of the local events happening in Tasman.
Anthony Street is coming to Nelson with his Illusionist show. Renowned as the creator and star of the world-famous Celtic Illusion, he's chatting to Shannon about bringing his unique blend of breathtaking illusions, mind-bending magic, and his story to the stage with his most personal show yet.
Shannon chats with interactive theatre comedian George Fenn, the brilliant mind behind Sexy Ghost Boy – a wordless comedy exploring all the hilariously awkward rituals we build around intimacy. Award-winning and critically adored, this R18 show is a mix of clown, burlesque, and audience participation — with a strong focus on enthusiastic consent and playful, feel-good chaos.
Illuminate Returns to Founders Heritage Park in 2025! Ceara sits down with Kita to discuss all the in's and out's of the festival. Soar above the sparkling lights and take in the magic from a whole new perspective as Illuminate lights up the night.The festival is on from the 25 - 27th July 2025 from 5:45 pm - 9:30 pm.
Today, we're speaking with Naomi Ellis, a final-year Screen Arts student at Massey University and the Producer of their new upcoming film, Iris. This project explores themes of sisterhood and identity, created by a talented group of young filmmakers. Naomi’s work highlights the vibrant emerging voices in our community, inspiring us all to support and celebrate new storytelling talent. Boosted Campaign: https://www.thearts.co.nz/boosted/projects/iris-short-film
Ceara sits down with Dr. Claire Achmad, the Chief Children's Commissioner, to discuss her role and that of Mana Mokopuna, the needs of Children in Aotearoa and her visit to Nelson.
Ceara sits down with Bev Wells, Hearing Nelson, and Maria Oxnam, Te Mana Hā, to discuss their recent collaboration for a Matariki celebration for Hearing Nelson.
Ceara sits down with Marama Davidson, Co-leader of the Green Party to discuss topics of local significance including climate change adaptation and mitigation, the intersection of of local and central government, changes to the Emission Trading Scheme (ETS) and support for rural communities, the cost of living crisis and the Nelson Tenths. The article by Kerensa Johnston that Marama referred to is https://e-tangata.co.nz/history/the-nelson-tenths-a-story-of-unmet-obligations/
Ceara sits down with Dan George, Tumuaki Principal of Victory School, and Marama Davidson, Co-leader of the Green Party, to discuss the recent funding cuts to the Victory Homework Academy (VHA) which for over 20 years has give after-school support to students from refugee and migrant backgrounds.
Jan Marsh Talks to Quaker Tim Gee. Tim Gee is the general secretary of Friends World Committee for Consultation, the international organisation of Quakers worldwide.
The Nelson Ball Op-Shop is run by a committee of very enthusiastic students from Waimea, Garin, Nayland, Nelson and Nelson College for Girls. With the ball season coming up, the Nelson Ball Op-Shop covers off a few things: affordable ball wear, stopping clothes from going into landfill, and raising money for The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary and Natureland Wildlife Trust, all under the guidance of Enviroschools Aotearoa NZ and with support from Nelson City Council.
We sat down with Sharon from Youth Nelson to hear about how the recent floods impacted their ability to their incredible mahi, take a listen and hear what’s next for them. If you’d like to support them head to their Give-A-Little page: https://givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/support-youth-nelson-displaced-after-floods?ref=home&ref_code=trending
Heath Franklin aka Chopper joind Fresh FM's Shannon ahead of his Chopper - the Last Hard Bastard gigs at the Theatre Royal on June 12th 2025
Ceara sits down with Paul O'Hara Deputy Head of Mission to the Embassy of Ireland in New Zealand. They talk about the recent pop up consular in Nelson as well as the impact the Embassy of Ireland has had in New Zealand since it's formation in 2018.
Barney Kineferenisi talks to Chrissie about a proposed Riides App for whell chair users, and his Give a Little Page
Dave from the Founders Book Fair joins us to talk about the huge selection of Vinyl, Tapes, CDs etc available at this years book fair. Ot runs from May 31 until June 08.
Ceara sits down with Evey McAuliffe to discuss Ceol Aneas, New Zealand's annual Irish Music Festival happening right here in Nelson. For more information head to https://irishmusic.org.nz/On Air by: Wednesday 28th of May.
In this episode, Ceara sits down with Ropata Stephens to explore Te Heke Whakangā, the powerful new exhibition at the Motueka District Museum. The exhibition offers a window into the history and experiences of Ngāti Rārua in Motueka, told through the deeply personal lens of Ropata’s own whānau stories. Together, they reflect on whakapapa, place, and the importance of remembering the past to shape the future.
Shannon catches up with Jasmine, the creative force behind Grandiose Cabaret, ahead of its glittering final show at The Playhouse Café and Theatre this Kings Birthday. After 15 fabulous years, this R18 burlesque and cabaret spectacle is taking its final bow, and it’s set to be a night to remember. Jasmine shares stories from over a decade of sequins, feathers, and empowerment, what makes this show so special, and what audiences can expect from the ultimate farewell performance.EVENT DATE: 1 June
Ready to witness the fiercest, funniest, and most fabulous lip-syncers in town? Shannon chats with event organiser Jasmine ahead of this year’s Lip Sync Battle Nelson, happening at Red Door Theatre on May 24. From drag to power ballads and pop perfection, it’s all about big moves and even bigger personalities. It’s R18, it’s outrageous, and it’s guaranteed to have you cheering from your seat. Grab your tickets, gather your crew, and get ready for a wildly entertaining night out.EVENT DATE: 24 May
Pablo Salas joins Ceara to talk about Stoke Music Day-Out, a live music family friendly Mother's Day event happening at Whanake Youth Park 548 Main Rd Stoke this Sunday May 11 11am-2.30pm. There is plenty of live music, food stalls and entry is a Koha.
Yvonne talkes to Chrissie about her son Michael, who was born deaf and went to school prior to the teaching of NZ Sign Language. New Zealand Sign Language week is May 05-11
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
The Snow, a play by Finegan Kruckemeyer, Directed by Lisa AllanSunday April 27th, 2pm to 3.15pmWakefield Village Hall, Wakefield, Nelson
Lynda Hannah from Living Legacies joins Chjrissie to talk about the Living Legacies workshop on April 24th
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Shannon from Fresh FM chats with Steve McLuckie, Community Coordinator at Victory Community Centre, and Luz Zuniga, Co-chairperson of the Board, about the upcoming changes to the Centre’s legal structure.They discuss the importance of community engagement in this transition and how you can be part of the consultation process happening on 6th May. Tune in to hear how these changes aim to strengthen the Centre’s role in the community and ensure it continues to reflect and support the people it serves.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Shannon talks to Daisy and Marissa about the Detox Your Menopause Event on September 22 2024
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Shannon catches up with Phil from the Illuminate Light and Sound Show, on at Founders Park Nelson from 6.45 on Aug 02, 03, 04 and Aug 09, 10, 11
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Grant Knowles talks to Paul Angus, Technical Director at Siren Gold about their plans to mine at Sams Creek in Golden Bay.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Riding for the Disabled are looking for volunteers. Take a quick listen to see how you could help.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
In this episode our guest Paul talks about taking four local teens on a life changing trip to Kenya.Aim of this trip is to give teenagers, who would maybe not have the chance to go overseas the chance to do that and also teaching them to give something back in return. This will happen through fundraising for different places on their visit.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Kevin Moran joins us to talk about The Unseen, a short documentary about saving NZ's purest waters, Te Waikoropupū Springs.
Michelle Hunt talks about the Nelson Cancer Society Walk for Life that will take place on March 16 2024.
Pania talks to B Smoke re Hip Hop Elevation Tour at Red Door Theatre Nelson on March 02 24
Matt talks to Bo from Dorado Whakatu about Summer Daze, a live gig at Sylvan Steps on Feb 24 2024
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Karolina Serrano joins Pania to talk about the Multicultural Market that will be held at 23 Halifax St, beside Elma Turner Library on Sunday, December 17, 4pm to 8pm
Pania talks to Elizabeth and Shane about Red Remembrance Day. They also perform 2 songs live in studio
Mark Hadlow - Artistic Director of The Complete History of Nelson (Abridged) performed Dec 01-10 23 at The Energy Centre in Founders Heritage Park
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Chrissie talks to Sara Cowdell about PAWA Performance Art Wk Nov 17-19 23Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Pania talks to Anjali about Diwali. Diwali celebrations are happening at Founders Park on Sunday November 05 from 12 noon - 4.00.
Matt talks to Hardy Bachert about Men's Mental Health, and the Free International Men's Open Day event at Victory Community Centre on Saturday Nov 18https://www.mensgroup.nz/events-1/international-mens-open-day-18-november-2023-nelson
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Bo joins us to talk about the Sylvan Steps Amphitheatre, and the Spring to Life half-day Music Festival happening on September 23 2023
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Chrissies Small talks to Lynda Hannah from Living Legacies about a Workshop on Aug 24 23
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Brett Hallam Holland Joins Pania to preview his gig at Fairfield House in Nelson on Jul 02. He also plays 2 songs live in studio.
Pania talks to David Lucas about Music by Candlelight, happening at the Nelson Cathedral on Jun 25th
Pania talks to Helen Tufui from The Headache Clinic about a concussion screening event in Nelson on June 15 23
Pania talks to Tanya Nock about the Beyond Borders exhibition on at The Refinery Art Space in Nelson from June 12-27
Chris Feltham, one of the Founders Bookies joins us to talk about the Founders Book Fair on Jun 03-11 at Founders Heritage Park
Chrissie talks to Mark Hadlow about a brand new play from a brand new theatre company, based right here in Nelson. Mr and Mrs Macbeth is set in the dressing room, right before the two actors are about to go stage. One of them is ready, the other is, well, Tom. What could possibly go wrong? The performances are on at Nelson's Theatre Royal, Jun 01-15
Pania talks to local Crime Author Chris Stuart about her new novel, The Glasgow Smile. Chris has a book launch on Saturday May 27th at The Honest Lawyer, Nelson
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Pania talks to Rami Riachi about the game of Chess, and opportunities to play in Nelson
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Matt talks to Hayden Jefcoate about A Very Gay Cabaret, an Annual Cabaret and Variety night in Nelson, celebrating and uplifting the LGBTQIA+ Community. A Very Gay Cabaret is on at Studio One, May 12-13
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Chrissie talks to Motueka resident April May about the Gems Book Release happening in Motueka on April 15 2023
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
A conversation about a Child Cancer Fundraiser running through March. Text SMILE to 3457 to give 3.00 dollars
Chrissie talks to Musician John Mitchell from the Band Wolves, hosting a fundraiser for the SPCA at the Boathouse on March 31st
Chrissie talks to Joe about the Short Film Festival on at the Ruby Bay Store on Sat March 25.
Pania talks to Lenka Caslavska from CAB about the Positive Settlement Expo at Saxton Field on Sunday March 26 2023
Pania talks to Anna and Rameisha about the Multicultural Festival in Founders Park Sunday March 19th
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Fresh FM's Matt Budd talks to Musician Lee Martin ahead of her gig at Marchfest 2023, Founders Park March 04 2023
Fresh FM's Pania Walton talks to Shelley Haring about Marchfest 2023 at Founders Park on Saturday March 04 2023
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Matt Budd talks to Vincent Dickie about International Men's Open Day coming up on November 19 at the Victory Community Centre
Mike Bortnick talks to Hardy Bachert about International Men's Open Day coming up on November 19
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Chrissie talks to Mike Garner, Blues Musician ahead of his gigs at The Tasman Bays Blues Club (Honest Lawyer) and The Ruby Bay Store
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.
Conversations with people and groups from and impacting Te Tauihu the Top of The South.