https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/rss NZME Tune in 7:30pm to 8pm Sundays to Real Life; a weekly nationwide chat show featuring a different high-profile guest every week. John Cowan talks with them a Fri, 01 May 2026 17:32:43 Z en https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/ron-crosby-historian/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/ron-crosby-historian/ After a 30-year legal career specialising in resource management and iwi claims, Ron Crosby retired in 2007 to focus on writing, often drawing from his extensive experience as a bush explorer to inform his historical research.His work is noted for its deep focus on te ao Māori and military history, including seminal titles such as The Musket Wars (1999) and Kūpapa: The Bitter Legacy of Māori Alliances with the Crown(2015) Sun, 26 Apr 2026 08:01:41 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/vanessa-weenink-mp-for-banks-peninsula/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/vanessa-weenink-mp-for-banks-peninsula/ Dr Vanessa Weenink is currently serving her first term as the Member of Parliament for Banks Peninsula. She serves on the Education and Workforce Select Committee and is Deputy-Chair of the Economic Development, Science and Innovation Select Committee. Born in Blenheim and growing up in Marlborough, Vanessa served in the New Zealand Defence Force for over 20 years as a Medical Officer in the Army. She was deployed three times, with two tours in Afghanistan and one in East Timor. After leaving the Army, Vanessa worked as a self-employed GP in Christchurch. She co-owned and operated Papanui Medical Centre in Christchurch for several years and is a fellow of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners. Vanessa holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery and a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health from Otago University. She has served in health sector governance roles, including as a board member of Pegasus Health and on the Clinical Governance Committee for national telehealth service Whakarongorau Aotearoa. She was also elected Chair of the General Practitioner Council of the New Zealand Medical Association (NZMA) and Deputy Chair of the NZMA Board. Sun, 19 Apr 2026 08:00:12 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/barbara-dreaver-tvnz-pacific-correspondent/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/barbara-dreaver-tvnz-pacific-correspondent/ Barbara is a highly respected journalist and storyteller, known for bringing the voices and stories of the Pacific to the forefront of New Zealand media. With decades of experience and deep cultural understanding, she has reported from across the region with integrity, compassion, and courage.A multi-award-winning journalist, Barbara has received top honours including the Voyager Media Award for Best Māori and Pacific Affairs Reporting, recognising her outstanding contribution to journalism in Aotearoa.Her work not only informs but connects communities, shining a light on important issues while celebrating the richness and resilience of Pacific peoples. Sun, 12 Apr 2026 08:01:47 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/tj-grant-new-ceo-of-world-vision-nz/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/tj-grant-new-ceo-of-world-vision-nz/ TJ is stepping into the role after nearly two decades of high-impact humanitarian work across Africa, North America, and right here in the Pacific. A familiar face in the sector, TJ previously served as the organization’s Associate National Director and currently chairs the New Zealand Council for International Development. Now a proud Kiwi citizen, he brings a unique global perspective and a deep passion for connecting the generosity of New Zealanders with communities in need. Sun, 05 Apr 2026 08:06:25 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/bear-grylls-talks-writing-his-new-book-and-how-his-faith-guides-his-life/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/bear-grylls-talks-writing-his-new-book-and-how-his-faith-guides-his-life/ British broadcaster and survivalist Bear Grylls is well-known for pushing himself to the limits of human capability. As the host of Man vs Wild, the former SAS soldier ate rotting zebra flesh, a yak’s eyeball and a live snake; fashioned a sleeping bag out of a camel’s carcass; and swam naked across a Siberian river in -67degC temperatures. His tendency to drink his own urine as a survival tactic has spawned an entire meme format. But ask Grylls the most difficult thing he’s ever done, and he doesn’t name-drop any of his stunts in the Sahara, the Arctic or the other extreme environments he’s conquered. He says it’s writing a book – 2025’s The Greatest Story Ever Told, his immersive retelling of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Grylls’ biographical novel, which rose to the top of the Sunday Times bestseller list after last year’s release, is an account of Jesus’ life more akin to a thriller, and told from the perspectives of those who knew him best. “I still  film our TV shows and I love all of that, but this has been different… It's been the hardest, but probably the best thing I feel I've ever done,” he told Petra Bagust in a Newstalk ZB interview that aired on Good Friday. “Faith has always been a quiet part of my life… [but] the story of Jesus that I grew up with was such a sanitised version of it and never really felt relevant or personal to my life. “As a teenager, when I eventually found a faith, it became a bedrock and anchor and backbone. I realised the real story of Jesus is so different from the one I grew up with as a young kid, which was very much rooted in church and religion – quite smiley and nice. “The real story of Christ is so incredible and life-changing, and it's a story of courage, friendship, risk, rescue and sacrifice. I just thought so few people know that actual story.” The Greatest Story Ever Told transports readers into the brutal realities of first-century Palestine and an unassuming refugee’s world-changing life and ministry. Each character is assigned their original Aramaic names (Jesus becomes ‘Yeshua’, while Joseph is ‘Yosef’), with theologians and historians helping Grylls at every step of the writing process to maintain accuracy. Particular care was taken to ensure none of Jesus’ words were altered from original Gospel  accounts. Grylls told Newstalk ZB The Greatest Story Ever Told is written for those without a faith, some of whom may not have had positive memories of engaging with Christianity in the past, to hear the Gospel story afresh. “ So many of us with faith and religion, we have filters and bad experiences – and just the word ‘God’ or ‘father’ or even ‘Jesus’ can be difficult for people. We've done a pretty good job, over 2000 years, of screwing up a really beautiful ultimate message of love and forgiveness and redemption,” he said. “That's why it's been so powerful for me to get so many letters, thousands of them every day… from every culture, every country, every faith – atheist, Muslims, you name it – all basically say the same thing, which is ‘I had no idea the real story of Jesus’.” Asked by Bagust about the book’s connections to his adventure background, Grylls says the principles of survival on a mountain or in a jungle are much the same as when they are applied to the mental, emotional and spiritual challenges of everyday life. “ These are part of our arsenal of weapons as a human. Look at the great stories of survival through prison or concentration camps or war or loss or whatever – that hope, that light, that spiritual bit is a powerful bit, [and] the physical follows,” he said. “The great survivors have that burning light inside that is unrelenting and all-conquering, and it's what sets us apart as humans. “ What helps me be strong in a jungle or a mountain? It's the same thing that helps me through the tough days of life. For me, my faith has … been that streak of steel. I don't want to stand on my own strength because a lifetime of surviving... Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:00:09 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/paul-ego-comedian/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/paul-ego-comedian/ Comedian Paul Ego has been the voice of Stick Man for 17 years, and is a main stay of the TV panel show 7 Days. Sun, 22 Mar 2026 06:59:55 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/aled-jones-singer-and-broadcaster/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/aled-jones-singer-and-broadcaster/ Aled Jones MBE, a name synonymous with musical brilliance, has been enchanting audiences since the 1980s. He was the original cross-over artist and is eternally cherished as one of the most accomplished boy sopranos globally, captivating the world from his debut at 12 years old in Handel's Oratorio Jeptha, broadcast on BBC2 and BBC Radio 3. After a brief pause when his voice broke at 16, Aled’s career continued to flourish across musical theatre, recordings, and broadcasting. His albums Aled and Higher topped the charts, including in Australia where he became the biggest selling classical artist. He has also appeared on Strictly Come Dancing, hosted programmes including Good Morning Sunday and Friday Night is Music Night on BBC Radio 2, and now presents the most listened-to shows on Classic FM on Saturday and Sunday mornings as well as the BBC’s flagship religious TV programme Songs of Praise. Tue, 17 Mar 2026 02:38:48 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/matiu-walters-musician/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/matiu-walters-musician/ Matiu Walters is the lead singer and guitarist of New Zealand’s band Six60. The group formed in Dunedin in 2008, and across the last 16 years have broken all the rules to become New Zealand’s biggest band. In 2019, they became the first New Zealand act to sell out Western Springs Stadium and in 2021 became the first band to ever play Eden Park to a sold-out crowd of 50,000. He attended Otago University which is where the band formed. Despite being one of New Zealand’s most popular musicians – he's unassuming and humble. He's married with two children. Sun, 08 Mar 2026 07:02:59 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/niki-harr%C3%A9-professor/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/niki-harr%C3%A9-professor/ Niki Harré is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Auckland. She writes, researches and teaches about values-based practice, environmental sustainability, the future of universities and living well together on our shared planet. Her new book is titled The Calling Tue, 03 Mar 2026 20:55:13 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/josie-pagani-ceo-of-child-fund-nz/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/josie-pagani-ceo-of-child-fund-nz/ Working at the forefront of geopolitics, aid and development, and governance, Josie is CEO of ChildFund New Zealand and Chair of Fair Trade Australia & New Zealand. Her column appears fortnightly in The Post and on Stuff, and she was a finalist for Best Columnist at the 2023 Voyager Media Awards. Her writing has also been published internationally, including in The New York Times. Founder of Progress New Zealand, Josie has served in senior roles across government, international development and public affairs — including at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development in Paris. Born in New Zealand and educated at University of Warwick and Victoria University of Wellington, Josie brings global insight and sharp analysis to today’s biggest issues. Sun, 22 Feb 2026 07:03:46 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/yvonne-tahana-former-tvnz-reporter/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/yvonne-tahana-former-tvnz-reporter/ Sun, 15 Feb 2026 07:01:56 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/greg-fleming-national-mp-for-maungakiekie/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/greg-fleming-national-mp-for-maungakiekie/ Greg is in his first term as the Member of Parliament for Maungakiekie. He serves on the Māori Affairs Committee and is Deputy Chair of the Petitions Committee. In March 2024, the members’ bill in his name, the Crimes (Increased Penalties for Slavery Offences) Amendment Bill, was drawn from the ballot, aiming to strengthen New Zealand’s response to human trafficking by increasing penalties for domestic trafficking offences to match those for international trafficking.Born in Masterton, Greg attended Wairarapa College and gained a Bachelor of Commerce from Victoria University. A Chartered Accountant, he began his career in London finance and is a student of te reo Māori.In 1998, Greg left accountancy to address family fragmentation, leading Parenting With Confidence (now Parenting Place) through significant growth. He later co-founded The Maxim Institute and became Chief Executive. With 25 years’ experience in the charitable sector, Greg has helped build enduring community institutions and was appointed CEO of The Parenting Place in 2015. He has lived in Maungakiekie since 1998, where he and his wife Kirstin have raised their five children. Sun, 08 Feb 2026 07:02:13 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/liz-stokes-lead-singer-of-the-beths/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/liz-stokes-lead-singer-of-the-beths/ Liz Stokes is an Auckland-based songwriter and frontwoman of acclaimed indie rock band The Beths, known for her sharp lyrics, emotional honesty, and irresistibly punchy melodies. Across the band’s internationally celebrated albums — including Future Me Hates Me, Jump Rope Gazers, Expert in a Dying Field, and the recent Straight Line Was A Lie — Stokes has built a reputation for writing candidly about mental health, uncertainty, and resilience, often pairing heavy themes with bright, energetic hooks. After navigating several years of mental and physical health challenges, her recent work reflects a deeper acceptance of life’s cyclical nature and a desire to offer comfort to others going through ongoing struggles. With a devoted global fanbase and a growing presence on the world stage, Liz Stokes continues to be one of Aotearoa’s most compelling and relatable songwriting voices. Sun, 01 Feb 2026 07:06:47 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/rev-dr-patricia-allan-onzm/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/rev-dr-patricia-allan-onzm/ Patricia is a writer, anthropologist, and lifelong observer of faith, family, and belonging. Ordained ministry, grandparenthood, widowhood, and a remarkable return to university in later life have all shaped her unique perspective. After retiring from parish leadership, Patricia enrolled as a mature student in anthropology, completing a BA, Honours, and eventually a PhD, driven by a fascination with ritual, identity, and community. Her doctoral research, The Once and Future Cathedral, was profoundly influenced by the Christchurch earthquakes and the destruction of the Cathedral, an event that became both a personal and academic turning point. Patricia’s journey has taken her from Christchurch to Oxford and back again, weaving together grief, love, faith, scholarship, and resilience. She has had an extraordinary life story about reinvention, learning at any age, and finding meaning amid upheaval. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 07:08:28 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/anna-willcox-olympian-and-tv-presenter/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/anna-willcox-olympian-and-tv-presenter/ Anna is a New Zealand and Swedish freestyle skier and reporter for TV Show The Crowd Goes Wild. She began skiing with her family at the age of four but it wasn’t until she finished school and began dedicating full seasons to the sport that she discovered her passion for slopestyle skiing. She competed for New Zealand at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. She finished 15th in qualification of the women's slopestyle event, missing the final by only two places. Her father, Hamish Willcox, was a professional sailor who competed in the America's Cup and her brother, Daniel Willcox, represented New Zealand at the 2016 Summer Olympics in sailing. Sun, 18 Jan 2026 07:00:35 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/peter-janssen-travel-writer/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/peter-janssen-travel-writer/ Mon, 22 Dec 2025 23:40:06 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/sophie-gray-cook/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/sophie-gray-cook/ Sophie Gray is the face and inspiration behind "destitute gourmet", the ‘dg’ cookery series and is a popular speaker, teacher, and regular contributor to Food and Taste magazines. She leads an international community of followers through her active Destitute-Gourmet Facebook page, as well as Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube, and an upcoming money-saving app. Sophie shares family-friendly recipes that are easy, tasty, healthy, affordable, and often include gluten-free and dairy-free alternatives, supported by fundamentals such as menu planning, smart shopping, creative use of leftovers, and seasonal eating. Based in Auckland with her husband Richard and their teenagers Isabella and Jack, she works full-time communicating the destitute gourmet philosophy. Sun, 14 Dec 2025 07:08:37 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/nadia-reid-musician/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/nadia-reid-musician/ Nadia Reid is a New Zealand singer-songwriter whose fourth album, Enter Now Brightness, marks a clear evolution in her decade-long career. Following the release of Out of My Province in 2020 and the disruptions of the pandemic Reid adjusted her creative approach, taking more time in the studio and developing ideas collaboratively with longtime guitarist Sam Taylor and producer Tom Healy. Stepping away from the acoustic, folk-leaning sound of her earlier work, she sought greater musical range and flexibility, including a shift toward focusing primarily on her voice rather than guitar-led performance. Now based in Manchester, Reid sees her first three albums as a completed chapter, with Enter Now Brightness representing a new phase in her craft—one defined by broader experimentation, refined songwriting, and a deliberate move toward a more expansive artistic direction. Sun, 07 Dec 2025 07:01:07 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/heather-verry-ceo-of-diabetes-nz/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/heather-verry-ceo-of-diabetes-nz/ Heather has been at the helm of Diabetes NZ since 2017. She has a strong background in not-for-profit organisations. Since working at Diabetes NZ she has completed a full national unification of the organisation, driving positive change and engagement around the country. Heather has the experience to ensure Diabetes NZ continues to grow its reach into communities and through key stakeholders to improve diabetes awareness, education and advocacy. Prior to joining Diabetes NZ Heather has held Chief Executive roles with the NZ Police Association and the Manfeild Park Trust, a motor racing circuit and events centre in Manawatū. Heather has also acted as Deputy Chief Executive of the New Zealand Council of Victim Support Groups. Sun, 30 Nov 2025 07:18:02 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/qiulae-wong-leader-of-the-opportunity-party/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/qiulae-wong-leader-of-the-opportunity-party/ Qiulae has built her career on pursuing better ways to do business and now brings that drive to politics. Raised in One Tree Hill, Auckland, she studied law and politics before working in human rights and ethical business with Be.Accessible. Her time in London included roles with the Ethical Fashion Forum, co-founding the sustainable tech start-up Common Objective, and leading the Impact team at Hoxby. During these years abroad she met her future husband, Grant, and they later welcomed their daughters Malia and Cleo before returning to New Zealand in 2022. Back in Auckland, Wong became the first Country Director for the B Corp movement, working with local leaders such as Kiwibank, Sharesies, and Blunt Umbrellas, and later supported major corporations at KPMG New Zealand as they navigated low-carbon transitions. She also held volunteer and governance roles, including co-convenor of Kiwis in Climate and Trustee of the Wellbeing Economy Alliance Aotearoa. Wong is guided by a belief in common ground, shared vision, resilient communities, and business as a force for positive change. Sun, 23 Nov 2025 07:00:27 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/jon-duffy-consumer-nz-chief-executive/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/jon-duffy-consumer-nz-chief-executive/ Jon became CEO of Consumer NZ in 2020. Jon has enjoyed a varied career in the consumer protection field, including roles as Assistant Privacy Commissioner, Head of Trust & Safety at online marketplace Trade Me and as a Senior Investigator at New Zealand’s competition authority, the Commerce Commission. Jon and his team also keep traders honest by calling out illegal or unethical conduct when it occurs.Jon speaks regularly on consumer issues and is increasingly concerned with how dysfunctional market structures and muted competition in critical sectors are benefiting a small minority and delivering poor outcomes for the rest of society. Jon and his team are helping to harness the collective power of consumers to achieve this, before it’s too late. Sun, 16 Nov 2025 07:02:24 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/sophie-barker-mayor-of-dunedin/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/sophie-barker-mayor-of-dunedin/ Sophie has been elected Mayor of Dunedin, becoming only the second woman to hold the role in the city’s history. An incumbent councillor, Barker secured 16,001 votes, finishing 726 votes ahead of runner-up Andrew Simms in the preliminary results. In her post-election message, Barker expressed gratitude to the community for their support, saying she was “humbled and honoured” by the trust placed in her and her vision for Dunedin. She paid tribute to those who paved the way before her, acknowledging the milestone of following in the footsteps of Dunedin’s first female mayor, Sukhi Turner. Looking ahead to her mayoral term, Barker has outlined a clear set of priorities, including advocating strongly for Dunedin Hospital, ensuring value for ratepayers, improving council culture, promoting the city, and fostering economic growth. Her election marks a new chapter for Dunedin, one shaped by optimism, inclusivity, and a commitment to the city’s future. Sun, 02 Nov 2025 07:00:33 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/john-bishop-comedian/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/john-bishop-comedian/ Sun, 26 Oct 2025 07:01:34 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/chris-carter/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/chris-carter/ Chris has lived and worked in West Auckland for most of his life, serving the Te Atatū community for 15 years as its Member of Parliament and as a government minister. Well known for his commitment to representing all constituents regardless of their political views. His priorities remain focused on being responsive to community concerns and ensuring residents receive fair and effective Council services. He is committed to revitalising the suburb of Henderson, Auckland and looks to address the challenges created by housing intensification, including traffic congestion and street parking issues. Sun, 19 Oct 2025 07:04:04 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/nadia-lim-cook-tv-host-and-author/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/nadia-lim-cook-tv-host-and-author/ Nadia Lim is a New Zealand chef, nutritionist, and farmer who lives and works on Royalburn Station — her family’s high-country farm on the Crown Range in Central Otago — with her husband Carlos and their three sons. At Royalburn, Nadia leads a regenerative approach to food production, growing grains and seeds, producing pasture-raised eggs, honey, and vegetables, and raising what she proudly calls the world’s best lamb. A qualified dietitian with a degree in nutrition and dietetics from Otago University, Nadia’s grounding in the science of food has shaped her lifelong philosophy: keep it simple, seasonal, healthy, and delicious. In 2013, she co-founded My Food Bag, helping thousands of Kiwi families cook fresher, healthier meals at home. Through her TV series including Nadia’s Farm, Nadia’s Comfort Kitchen, and New Zealand with Nadia Lim, she shares an honest, behind-the-scenes view of real food production. Nadia is also the author of several bestselling cookbooks celebrating wholesome, flavourful food for busy lives. Sun, 12 Oct 2025 06:51:31 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/david-bussau-entreprenuer/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/david-bussau-entreprenuer/ David Bussau, founder of Opportunity International Australia, began life in an Anglican boys’ home and started his entrepreneurial journey at 15 with a rented hotdog stand. After building several successful businesses, he turned to aid work following Cyclone Tracey and an earthquake in Bali, where he realised traditional aid didn’t break poverty cycles. Pioneering microfinance, he gave a $50 loan to Indonesian farmer Ketut Suwiria, who built a thriving business and created jobs in his community. Inspired, Bussau founded Maranatha Trust and later partnered with Al Whittaker to form Opportunity International in 1979, which now supports millions in 30 countries. Though retired, he continues advising organisations and has been honoured with awards including the Order of Australia, Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, and Senior Australian of the Year. Sun, 05 Oct 2025 07:04:05 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/creed-bratton-musician-and-actor/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/creed-bratton-musician-and-actor/ Creed Bratton is an American musician and actor, best known for playing a fictionalised version of himself on NBC’s The Office. A former member of the 1960s rock band The Grass Roots, he has also released several solo albums. He studied drama at the College of the Sequoias and Sacramento State College before leaving to travel and pursue music. His acting credits include films such as Mask and The Sisters Brothers, and TV shows like Grace and Frankie and Upload. Sun, 28 Sept 2025 07:03:13 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/greg-murphy-motorsport-icon/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/greg-murphy-motorsport-icon/ Greg Murphy is a NZ motorsport icon whose impact on V8 Supercars is indisputable. Known for his fearless approach and ability to perform against the odds, he has earned a reputation as one of the sport’s greats, with over 400 race starts, multiple Bathurst 1000 victories, and stints with some of Australasia’s top teams. Beyond the track, Murph has become a familiar voice and face as a commentator and motorsport TV presenter. He is also a passionate road safety advocate, promoting smarter driving and better training through initiatives such as the “Murph in Schools” programme launched with the Motor Trade Association in 2010, and a youth-focused road safety campaign developed with Holden New Zealand in 2019. Respected by fans and competitors alike, Greg Murphy brings his trademark energy and insight to everything he does—on and off the track. Sun, 21 Sept 2025 08:25:09 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/alex-walls-tv-host-and-interior-designer/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/alex-walls-tv-host-and-interior-designer/ This week, John's guest will be Alex Walls co-host of Love It or List It.Alex Walls is a New Zealand interior designer best known as one half of Alex & Corban, co-founder of A&C Homestore (also known as achomestore), and a familiar face from The Block NZ and Love It or List It NZ. With over a decade of experience in residential design, Alex is also the founder of Walls Studio—a boutique interiors studio offering considered design and styling services across New Zealand. Sun, 14 Sept 2025 08:05:07 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/andy-robinson-world-vision-aid-worker/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/andy-robinson-world-vision-aid-worker/ Andy Robinson is the Acting Head of Fragile and Developing Contexts, International Partnerships for World Vision New Zealand Sun, 07 Sept 2025 08:04:05 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/sam-the-trap-man-gibson/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/sam-the-trap-man-gibson/ Sam Gibson, better known as Sam the Trap Man, grew up beside the Hamanatua Stream in Tairāwhiti Gisborne. From an early age, the bush was where he truly belonged—hunting, fishing, trapping and living wild. As a teenager starting to go off the rails, a unique deal between his parents and teachers let him swap school for the outdoors. It was a turning point that not only kept him out of trouble but set the course for a life built around hard work, adventure, and purpose. From shooting his first deer to surviving brutal South Island winters as a young trapper, Sam’s life is full of wild yarns—funny, raw, thrilling, and heartfelt. Every choice he makes in the bush is guided by his deep respect for native wildlife and a mission to protect Aotearoa’s ecosystems. Sun, 31 Aug 2025 08:12:56 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/claire-mabey-author-and-book-reviewer/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/claire-mabey-author-and-book-reviewer/ Author, literary advocte and founder of Verb Wellington, joined John on Real Life this week. Claire Mabey won the NZSA Best First Book at the recent New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults earlier in 2025, and spoke to John from the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Sun, 24 Aug 2025 08:06:34 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/ian-foster-former-all-blacks-coach/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/ian-foster-former-all-blacks-coach/ Ian Foster is a New Zealand rugby coach and former fly-half born in Putāruru. He played a record 148 games for Waikato and 28 for the Chiefs, also appearing for the NZRFU President’s XV in 1995.Foster began coaching with Waikato before joining the All Blacks as assistant coach in 2012, helping win the 2015 Rugby World Cup. He became head coach in 2020, leading New Zealand to multiple Bledisloe Cup, Freedom Cup, and Rugby Championship victories, and a Rugby World Cup final in 2023.In 2025, Foster was appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to rugby. He now coaches Japanese club Toyota Verblitz and is supported by his wife Leigh and their three adult children, including professional footballer Michaela Sun, 17 Aug 2025 08:00:58 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/david-squire-music-director-of-the-new-zealand-youth-choir/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/david-squire-music-director-of-the-new-zealand-youth-choir/ David Squire (MMus (Hons), PGDipMus, BMus, DipTchg) is one of New Zealand’s leading choral conductors and Music Director of the New Zealand Youth Choir. Under his direction, the choir has toured internationally to high acclaim, with standout performances at Notre-Dame in Paris, Walt Disney Concert Hall in LA, and major wins at the International Festival of Academic Choirs in the Czech Republic. With over 25 years in secondary music education, David has led award-winning choirs and orchestras, including Rangitoto College’s The Fundamentals and Westlake College's Symphony Orchestra. His ensembles have earned national and international recognition, including platinum and gold awards, and top placements at festivals in Vienna and Wales. David is a founding member of the NZ Association of Choral Directors and a respected conductor, adjudicator, and educator. He’s led national workshops, conducted at the Rugby World Cup, and toured with George Benson. In 2011, he received a New Zealander of the Year Local Heroes Medal for his contribution to music education. Sun, 10 Aug 2025 08:13:50 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/br-guy-consolmagno/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/br-guy-consolmagno/ Sun, 03 Aug 2025 08:04:57 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/jared-savage-author-of-underworld-the-new-era-of-gangs-in-new-zealand/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/jared-savage-author-of-underworld-the-new-era-of-gangs-in-new-zealand/ Jared Savage is an investigative reporter for the New Zealand Herald and has won more than a dozen national and international journalism awards, including being named New Zealand’s best reporter twice. He lives in Tauranga with his wife and children. He began reporting in 2004 after completing a Bachelor of Communications at AUT and landing his first job at an Auckland suburban newspaper. Since then, he has covered major stories including the Samoan tsunami, Christchurch earthquakes, political scandals, mayoral controversies, and two Rugby World Cups. Jared has reported on some of New Zealand’s most high-profile and controversial cases, including the Kahui twins, Scott Guy, and Chris Cairns’ perjury trial in London. More recently, he has focused on organised crime and the meth trade, highlighting its social and health impacts in his books Gangland and Gangster’s Paradise. Sun, 27 Jul 2025 08:10:17 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/fraser-grut-filmmaker-behind-the-10-000-dreams-project/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/fraser-grut-filmmaker-behind-the-10-000-dreams-project/ Fraser Grut is the kiwi filmmaker behind the '10,000 Dreams' project, his plan to record and publish the aspirations of 10,000 individuals. The project started as a bet with a friend, and has now ballooned into a globe-trotting project. At age 27, Fraser was broke and going through a divorce when a call came from The Wiggles asking him to film a music video with them and Richie McCaw. That video led to the chance to make a documentary on The Wiggles, the project that helped lift him from "rock bottom". In this interview, Fraser talks to John about the most memorable dreams he's recorded, the missteps he's made, and Fraser asks John what his dream is. Sun, 20 Jul 2025 07:54:03 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/jon-hartley-kiwibank-board-chair-and-ordained-priest/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/jon-hartley-kiwibank-board-chair-and-ordained-priest/ Jon joined the Kiwibank Board as Chair in November 2019. He has had a distinguished career and has held senior roles across a diverse range of commercial and not for profit organisations in several countries, including chair of SkyCity, deputy chair of ASB Bank and Sovereign Assurance Company, director of Mighty River Power and Air NZ, a trustee of World Vision New Zealand, CEO of Brierley New Zealand and Solid Energy, and CFO of Lend Lease in Australia. He retired in September 2019 after 17 years volunteering with VisionFund International, the global microfinance subsidiary of World Vision International, where he was Chair for the last six years. Jon is a professional director and is currently Chair of Timberlands Limited and a director at Ngāi Tahu Holdings Corporation Limited. He is an ordained priest in the Anglican church in New Zealand/Aotearoa. He is a Chartered Accountant and Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Sun, 13 Jul 2025 08:06:24 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/tom-rutherford-mp-for-the-bay-of-plenty/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/tom-rutherford-mp-for-the-bay-of-plenty/ Sun, 06 Jul 2025 08:05:52 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/nicola-toki-chief-executive-of-forest-and-bird/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/nicola-toki-chief-executive-of-forest-and-bird/ Nicola Toki is a New Zealand conservationist and Chief Executive of Forest & Bird since 2022. Born in Invercargill, she grew up exploring the South Island, moving often for her father’s work as a ski-plane pilot. With a background in zoology, ecology, and natural history filmmaking, Nicola has held various roles at the Department of Conservation, including Threatened Species Ambassador and Eastern South Island Operations Director. She also co-hosts Critter of the Week on RNZ and presents Endangered Species Aotearoa on TVNZ, using storytelling to connect people with nature. Nicola lives in North Canterbury with her husband and son and is a proud stepmother and grandmother. Sun, 29 Jun 2025 08:04:13 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/miriama-kamo-author-and-marae-host/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/miriama-kamo-author-and-marae-host/ Miriama Kamo is a Christchurch-born journalist, author, and TV presenter of Ngāi Tahu and Ngāti Mutunga descent. She’s spent over two decades telling powerful stories on Sunday and Marae, earning top awards for her work in current affairs. She’s also a celebrated children’s author, known for her Matariki-inspired books, and co-founder of Kotahi Rau Pukapuka, a project publishing 100 books in te reo Māori. Miriama is a proud advocate for te reo, the environment, and social change. She lives in Auckland with her husband Mike Dreaver and children. Together, they run Kia Hono—helping organisations connect with te ao Māori in meaningful ways. Sun, 22 Jun 2025 08:04:00 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/alan-thorp-habitat-for-humanity-group-ceo/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/alan-thorp-habitat-for-humanity-group-ceo/ Alan Thorp is the Group Chief Executive Officer of Habitat for Humanity New Zealand, a role he’s held since 2021. With a background as a Chartered Accountant and a Master’s in Theology from Regent College in Vancouver, Alan brings a unique mix of head and heart to his leadership. Since joining Habitat in 2007, he’s taken on key roles including CFO, COO, Deputy CEO, and National Director. Alan is passionate about building stronger communities and leads efforts to create safe, stable housing for families across Aotearoa and the Pacific.   Sun, 15 Jun 2025 08:01:50 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/brian-kelly-mnzm-radio-legend/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/brian-kelly-mnzm-radio-legend/ Brian Kelly MNZM has been named a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to broadcasting. Raised in Whanganui, he began his career in 1970 with the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation, selecting songs for national radio. He later moved into sports journalism and broadcasting, building a career that has spanned 55 years. Kelly has been a prominent voice on Coast FM and has spent four decades as New Zealand’s voice of motorsport. Since 2021, he has hosted The Country Sport Breakfast on GOLD, a show produced by his son Mark. Over the past 4.5 years, he estimates he has conducted around 14,000 interviews for the programme. In addition to his broadcasting work, Kelly also volunteers as a tutor and mentor at the New Zealand School of Broadcasting. Sun, 08 Jun 2025 08:02:50 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/hoani-hotene-comedian/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/hoani-hotene-comedian/ 2025 Billy T Award winner Hoani Hotene (Ngāti Hauā) is a comedian from Petone, Lower Hutt. Bursting onto the Wellington comedy scene in 2020, Hoani quickly made a name for himself with his high-energy, alternative style. He won Best Newcomer at the 2021 Wellington Comedy Awards, took out the 2022 Wellington Raw Quest final, and was crowned Funniest New Comedian of the Year after winning the Raw Comedy National Grand Final. In 2024, he was named Breakthrough Comic by the NZ Comedy Guild. Hoani brings a personal, unpredictable mix of comedy to stages across Aotearoa.   Sun, 01 Jun 2025 08:13:33 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/sian-simpson-businesswoman/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/sian-simpson-businesswoman/ Siân Simpson is an award-winning global businesswoman, community builder, and broadcaster. She is a sought-after public speaker and whose online content has received around 10 million views in the past year.Sian is founder of Public Rally and Bountifull Media.Public Rally is a community and content agency with globally focused clients in the technology, music, AI, crime, legal and education sectors. It builds world-class communities and content strategies to support its clients with ambitious revenue, brand and engagement goals. Bountifull is a global media platform rooted in the pursuit of joy and the exploration of what it means to live a bountiful life. In a world often shadowed by economic pressures and societal shifts, Bountifull is a beacon of hope and inspiration, bringing to the forefront stories of resilience, creativity, and connection.Sian has worked to support dozens of New Zealand start-up businesses on their market entry into the United States and her belief in the power of Kiwis to win on the world stage sees her as an active investor supporting fledgling business with big ambition.The power of communication to change business and lives for the better sees Sian regularly invited to be a keynote speaker, panelist and interviewer whether this be professional events for the likes of Microsoft through to forums on topics like mental health, leadership, marketing and artificial intelligence.Sian has lived and worked around the world for much of the past 15 years and visited more than 60 countries in her pursuit of understanding the cultures and values that underpin both successful communities and winning businesses. Sun, 25 May 2025 08:04:04 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/andrew-little-candidate-for-wellington-mayoralty/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/andrew-little-candidate-for-wellington-mayoralty/ Andrew Little was born in New Plymouth in 1965 and attended New Plymouth Boys' High School. He started working young—his first job was digging trenches for a methanol plant as part of the “Think Big” project. He later worked in timber yards and security before heading to Victoria University of Wellington to study law, philosophy, and public policy. At university, Andrew became active in student politics, campaigning against the student loan scheme. He was elected president of both the university's student association and the national student union. After graduating, he worked as a lawyer for the Engineers' Union, eventually becoming its national secretary. He played a major role in workplace and ACC issues and became a leading voice in the Labour movement. Andrew went on to serve as President of the New Zealand Labour Party and was a key link between the party and unions. A long-time Island Bay resident, he’s running for Mayor of Wellington—bringing with him decades of leadership and a strong background in public advocacy and workers’ rights. Sun, 18 May 2025 08:03:10 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/rachel-paris-author/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/rachel-paris-author/ Rachel’s debut novel, See How They Fall, will be published this year by Hachette in Australia and New Zealand and by Penzler Publishers in the United States. The screen rights have been optioned by a Hollywood production company, and Rachel is part of the 2024/2025 International Thriller Writers Debut Authors Program. She holds a Master of Creative Writing (First Class Honours) from the University of Auckland, where she was awarded the Phoenix Prize for best creative portfolio. Before turning to fiction, Rachel built a successful international legal career, with degrees from Harvard Law School and the University of Auckland. Her Harvard dissertation was cited as “influential” in a Wall Street Journal editorial. Rachel spent many years in London as a law firm partner and was consistently recognised as a leading lawyer in global legal directories. She received the Sir Peter Blake Emerging Leader Award for her advocacy on behalf of women in law and for driving diversity and inclusion in the profession. She now lives in Auckland with her family. Sun, 11 May 2025 08:03:14 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/buzz-moller-musician/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/buzz-moller-musician/ Buzz Moller is a New Zealand musician and actor, originally from Upper Hutt. He went to Upper Hutt High School, Rathkeale College and later studied at the University of Auckland. He met longtime collaborator Andrew “Mac” Macaskill, and the pair formed the beginnings of the band Voom after jamming at the Sweetwaters Festival in the early '80s. Since then, Buzz has led the band through decades of indie magic, releasing cult-fave albums like Now I Am Me and Hello, Are You There?—the latter named one of NZ’s 100 Essential Albums.Fronting Voom, Buzz has delivered everything from long pauses, lineup changes, and surprise comebacks—yet Buzz’s ear for melody and heart-on-sleeve songwriting has kept Voom beloved by fans and fellow artists alike.Outside of music, Buzz made three appearances in the TV series Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, playing Cletis, Tyron, and Zachariah. Whether he’s singing about love, loneliness, or the strange beauty of everyday life, there’s always a spark of something real—and unmistakably his. Sun, 04 May 2025 08:02:30 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/adam-kay-author-and-comedian/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/adam-kay-author-and-comedian/ Adam Kay is a BAFTA-winning author, screenwriter, comedian, and former junior doctor, best known for his brutally funny memoir This is Going to Hurt. The book became a global sensation, spending over a year at number one in the Sunday Times bestseller list, selling millions of copies, and being adapted into a hit BBC/AMC series starring Ben Whishaw, which earned Adam a BAFTA for Best Drama Writer. He’s also one of the UK’s bestselling children’s authors, with titles like Kay’s Anatomy, the fastest-selling kids’ non-fiction book of the decade. Born in Brighton and raised in a Jewish family, Adam is the son of a doctor and grew up with three siblings. He studied medicine at Imperial College London and worked as a doctor for six years before leaving the profession after a traumatic experience in obstetrics. During medical school, he began writing and performing, eventually co-founding the musical comedy group Amateur Transplants, whose viral hit “London Underground” gained cult status. Adam’s live shows—blending humour, heartbreak and insider medical stories—have packed out venues across the UK, from the Edinburgh Fringe to the West End. His most recent show, Undoctored, was the top-selling show of the 2023 Fringe.  Adam is a sought-after speaker and TV guest, equally at home making people laugh or offering sharp insights. Sun, 27 Apr 2025 22:58:02 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/derek-lind-musician/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/real-life/audio/derek-lind-musician/ Derek Lind has been writing songs and making music since the late 1970s, with seven albums to his name — including his latest, SOLO (2015). His songwriting has earned him two NZ Music Awards and a nomination for the APRA Silver Scroll, thanks to his honest, thoughtful lyrics that connect personal stories with bigger, universal themes. Critics have praised him for his humanity, compassion, and the depth in his work. Alongside music, Derek is also a visual artist and Elam School of Fine Arts graduate. After years of teaching art and art history, he shifted his focus fully to creating — both through music and painting. Working from a small studio in the bushy hills of West Auckland, he continues to process life through his art, especially after the sudden loss of his wife in 2013. His recent paintings explore ideas of loss, grace, movement, and redemption. Derek’s recent visual art explores spiritual and emotional terrain through bold colour, Te Reo Māori inscriptions, and layered symbolism. Living simply, he continues to create with passion and honesty—juggling bills, driving a $2000 car, and crafting new songs. With the support of patrons, Derek is preparing to record a new collection of songs and invites others to be part of the journey. Sun, 20 Apr 2025 07:25:36 Z