Ever wondered how tourism can blend seamlessly with conservation efforts? Join us as we chat with David Beeche, the trailblazing CEO of RealNZ, who shares his compelling journey from organizing major events to spearheading a tourism company that’s on a mission to become the world's first carbon-zero destination by 2030. Get ready to uncover the secrets behind RealNZ's post-COVID recovery strategies, the challenges posed by labor shortages and housing issues, and the revitalization of key international markets like the US and Australia. David also opens up about his passion for conservation, detailing initiatives like bird recovery programs and the ambitious plan to reintroduce the Takahē into the Greenstone Valley. Spending his first six months in the picturesque Queenstown Lakes region, David reflects on how this stunning locale shapes his vision for RealNZ. We discuss the importance of enhancing transport infrastructure to elevate the tourist experience and the community's warm embrace of tourism, despite the pressures of growth.

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Discover how the Rākai Kahukura maternity unit is set to revolutionize midwifery care and early childhood services in Wanaka! Join us as we chat with Karen Ferraccioli, the Director of Midwifery Southern at Te Whātu Ora, about the transformative impact of this new facility. From drastically reducing travel distances for local families to offering a comprehensive suite of antenatal, labor, birth, and postnatal services, Karen provides a deep dive into what this means for the community. Learn about the expected 400 families to be supported annually and the innovative services designed to make care more accessible and family-centered. Karen also shares exciting details about the range of services available, including child vaccinations, well-child checks, and even a community room and playground. This episode offers an inspiring glimpse into the future of maternal and early childhood care in the Upper Clutha district, promising a positive shift for local families and the healthcare workforce alike. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation about a pivotal development in community health!

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Ever wondered what it takes to transition from being the voice behind the mic to running a successful radio station? Join us as we catch up with Mike Regal, the mastermind behind Radio Wanaka, who shares the highs and lows of his journey from on-air talent to business owner. Mike's story is filled with incredible anecdotes, including the time he played a pivotal role in launching host Brent Harbours career with an unforgettable first audition at 91FM in Auckland. They also take a trip down memory lane to explore the evolution of New Zealand's radio industry from the early '90s to the 2000s. Learn about transforming Hauraki into a rock powerhouse and the creation of legendary shows like the Morning Pirates. They discuss the seismic shifts that came with deregulation, the rise of giants like MediaWorks and NZME, and the fierce competition that defined the era. Finally, we zero in on the unique challenges and rewards of operating a local station like Radio Wanaka. Mike opens up about the steep learning curves, technical missteps, and the unbreakable bond with the community. In an age dominated by digital media, we reflect on the enduring value of radio, especially during times of crisis.

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