Manawatu Conversations

"Morrie" discusses organising networking hui for local food and environmental groups, highlighting practical sessions on seed saving, community gardens, and food skills. He explains how Environment Network Manawatū manages grants for both individuals... more

Morrie shares the story behind his nickname and early Air Force career before discussing his work with Environment Network Manawatū. He outlines how the organisation supports around 65 volunteer-led groups across the region, focusing on climate, biod... more

Viv Stanley chats about what it’s really like to share a home with a long-time friend. She talks about balancing different habits, keeping communication open, and planning together as life changes. From dividing up tasks to supporting each other emot... more

Viv Stanley shares how she and a long‑time friend chose to buy and live in a spacious, future‑proof home together in Feilding. After selling their separate houses, they designed a setup that balances independence and companionship, with two private l... more

John Dermer describes his long involvement in farm forestry Farm forestry began in the 1950s and spread nationwide He planted mainly radiata pine on his farm Trees were used for timber, shelter, and land protection Creeks and rivers were fenced and p... more

John Dermer grew up on a farm and began farming work in 1963. He spent two years at Homewood Station in the Wairarapa. He later studied for a sheep farming diploma at Massey University. John valued formal agricultural education and lifelong learning.... more

An oral history interview looking at the past and present of Palmerston North and the Manawatū, produced by Manawatū People's Radio with the support of New Zealand On Air.

Radio was once the main source of entertainment in the family home Families gathered around the radio for music, requests, and shared routines Television later disrupted this shared listening culture and changed family life Palmerston North originall... more