Episode Playlist
Episode 429 - Maurice Entwisle Part 2 of 3( 0:27:54)
Episode Information
Maurice Entwisle's love of practical work began early. At school he developed strong engineering skills and even won a prize for metalwork, talents that soon saw him helping neighbours repair machinery and tackle farm jobs. One of his proudest achievements was helping build a bridge across the Kiwitea Stream, using railway lines driven deep into the riverbed—a bridge that still stands after many major floods. Maurice remembers farming as long, demanding and sometimes dangerous work, but also deeply rewarding. As farming evolved from community hay baling to modern machinery, the family concentrated on sheep and cattle, while his wife Chris became a familiar face driving local school buses.
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.
Published: 11/08/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 428 - Maurice Entwisle Part 1 of 3( 0:25:27)
Episode Information
Maurice Entwisle was born in Feilding in 1937 and grew up on the family farm at Beaconsfield, a property his grandfather acquired in 1921. His early years were shaped by country life, from cycling along gravel roads to a tiny one-teacher school at Beaconsfield to later boarding at Feilding Agricultural High School. Although he never enjoyed the classroom as much as the farm, he developed practical engineering and farming skills that stayed with him throughout life. Maurice also recalls wartime rationing, radio reports from the war, and the hard work of transforming bush and rabbit-infested land into productive farmland.
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.
Published: 4/08/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 427 - Mark Kilsby Part 6 of 6( 0:27:47)
Episode Information
Mark Kilsby recalls unusual theatre experiences and roles.
He acted in two different plays on the same evening.
He raced between theatres and changed costumes quickly.
One role was a hairy godmother, another a psychiatrist.
A delayed performance nearly disrupted both productions.
He remembers a favourite review that poked fun at him.
At one stage he appeared in six plays in a year.
Theatre demanded rehearsals almost every day of the week.
He found acting a valuable escape from work pressures.
Memorable costumes included playing the clock in Cogsworth.
He believes theatre builds understanding of many lives.
Audience reactions are a vital part of live theatre.
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.
Published: 28/07/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 426 - Mark Kilsby Part 5 of 6( 0:28:2)
Episode Information
Mark Kilsby has assisted theatre productions at Boys High since 2007.
He helped students with acting and stage performance skills.
He preferred co-directing rather than leading alone.
Junior musical theatre trained younger boys for later productions.
He enjoyed watching boys grow into confident young men.
Theatre helped students build confidence and life skills.
Mark worked for the New Zealand Forest Service.
He later spent most of his career in the public service.
Many restructures changed his working life over the years.
He retired quickly and later wished he had planned more.
Retirement brought acting, theatre and unusual performance roles.
He reflected warmly on theatre, teaching and helping others.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with the support of New Zealand On Air.
Published: 21/07/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 425 - Mark Kilsby Part 4 of 6( 0:28:2)
Episode Information
Mark Kilsby Part 4 of 6
Mark Kilsby shared stories from acting and volunteer work.
He took part as a Hobbit at a Wellington film premiere.
A protest stopped his chance to walk the red carpet.
He spent the day waiting in costume with hairy Hobbit feet.
He later worked as an extra in The Hobbit film.
After filming he returned home to find it had been burgled.
Mark acts as pet owners for Massey vet training.
He also helps trainee doctors practise communication skills.
For many years he has volunteered at a primary school.
He supports children aged around nine and ten with reading.
He sees teachers taking on many wider support roles.
Mark finds helping children rewarding and deeply meaningful.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with the support of New Zealand On Air.
Published: 14/07/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 424 - Mark Kilsby Part 3 of 6( 0:28:2)
Episode Information
Stuart Birks and Diane McConnell continue their conversation with Mark Kilsby about his long involvement in theatre, from Palmerston North’s Summer Shakespeare productions to stage work, improv, film roles, and photo shoots. Mark reflects on the commitment and craft of performing Shakespeare outdoors, memorable theatre traditions, staying active as an actor, and the value of fitness and improvisation in keeping both body and mind engaged. He also shares stories from screen work in New Zealand productions, working alongside Dame Kate Harcourt, and the unexpected opportunities that have come through acting later in life.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with the support of NZ On Air.
Published: 7/07/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 423 - Mark Kilsby Part 2 of 6( 0:28:2)
Episode Information
Stuart Birks and Diane McConnell continue their conversation with Mark Kilsby about a life in theatre. Mark reflects on performing in Whanganui’s theatre scene, the emotional demands of roles such as Billy in Gulls, the challenge of keeping going when lines disappear, and the craft of building character through empathy, observation, and life experience. He also shares stories from two decades performing as Manuel in interactive Fawlty Towers-style dinner theatre at Haydn Country Estate, where improvisation, audience reactions, and comic mishaps made every night different.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with the support of NZ On Air.
Published: 30/06/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 422 - Mark Kilsby Part 1 of 6( 0:28:33)
Episode Information
Stuart speaks with Mark Killsby about his long involvement in local theatre, exploring how early exposure, speech and drama training, and community theatre shaped his passion, along with reflections on acting, performance skills, and the wider personal and social benefits of theatre. Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 23/06/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 421 - Jacquie Nutt Part 2 of 2( 0:28:21)
Episode Information
Stuart continues his conversation with Jackie Nutt about her journey from Zimbabwe and South Africa to New Zealand, exploring her work as a lactation consultant and the development of human milk banks, along with insights into breastfeeding practices, cultural differences, and maternal health. Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 16/06/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 420 - Jacquie Nutt Part 1 of 2( 0:28:50)
Episode Information
Jackie Nutt on establishing Palmerston North’s human milk bank, sharing her background as a lactation consultant, the challenges of breastfeeding support, and how donor milk helps premature and vulnerable babies while supporting mothers through early feeding difficulties.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 9/06/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 419 - Marion Abiss part 4 of 4( 0:28:47)
Episode Information
Marion Abbas reflects on rural community life in Halcombe during the 1970s–80s, highlighting school involvement, farming culture, local events, and the strong sense of connection that shaped the area. Marion shares memories of community activities, fundraising events, and how rural traditions have evolved over time.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 2/06/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 418 - Marion Abiss part 3 of 4( 0:28:51)
Episode Information
Stuart continues his conversation with Marion Evers and Jane Bolton to discuss Marion’s involvement with the Experiment in International Living. Marion reflects on her experiences hosting international students and families, describing the cultural exchange, daily life, and mutual learning that came from welcoming visitors from countries such as Japan, the United States, and Europe. The conversation highlights differences in culture, communication, and lifestyle, and explores how these exchanges shaped understanding and appreciation on both sides.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with support from New Zealand On Air
Published: 26/05/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 417 - Marion Abiss part 2 of 4( 0:29:18)
Episode Information
In this episode of Manawatū Conversations, host Stuart Birks is joined by Marion Abiss and Jane Bolton to explore Marion’s long-standing involvement in floral art. Marion reflects on how her interest in gardening led to creative floral design, her experiences with the New Zealand Floral Art Society, and the development of her skills through competitions, exhibitions, and community work. The discussion highlights the artistic, social, and personal value of floral art, from local displays to national shows, and the way it encourages creativity, observation, and connection with nature.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with support from New Zealand On Air..
Published: 19/05/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 416 - Marion Abiss part 1 of 4( 0:28:22)
Episode Information
Marion Abbess (born in Feilding in 1940) reflects on growing up and going to school during the war years—walking to Lytton Street School, school milk, simple lunches, strict but respected discipline, and learning fundamentals like reading, spelling, handwriting and times tables. Marion also shares memories of backyard gardens, saving habits, after-school life without TV, and how teaching and childhood have changed over time. Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 12/05/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 415 - Lukas Dreyer Part 6 of 6( 0:30:3)
Episode Information
the discussion on prostate cancer support concludes with Dr. Lukas Dreyer, focusing on the PROSFIT programme and the practical “how-to” of pelvic floor rehabilitation. Lukas explains key pelvic floor muscles, why surgery/radiation can disrupt coordination, and demonstrates exercise approaches for urinary control, erectile function, bowel control, and overall recovery—alongside the value of group support and long-term, free access to the class. Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 5/05/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 414 - Lukas Dreyer Part 5 of 6( 0:28:11)
Episode Information
Lukas Dreyer on prostate cancer and the nationwide PROSFIT exercise programme. Lucas outlines the physical, psychological, and social impacts of prostate cancer treatments, including surgery and hormone therapy, and explains how targeted exercise can improve recovery, reduce side effects, and restore quality of life. The conversation focuses on pelvic floor rehabilitation, strength and cardiovascular training, and the importance of group support for men navigating treatment and its long‑term effects.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 28/04/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 413 - Lukas Dreyer Part 4 of 5( 0:29:55)
Episode Information
LuKas Dreyer, clinical exercise physiologist at Orokinetics, focusing on the role of exercise as a vital part of cancer treatment and recovery. Lucas explains how carefully prescribed, professionally supervised exercise can improve treatment tolerance, reduce fatigue, support mental health, speed recovery, and lower long‑term mortality risk. Covering pre‑treatment conditioning, exercise during chemotherapy or radiation, and post‑treatment rehabilitation, the conversation highlights why exercise is now considered an essential, evidence‑based tool in comprehensive cancer care.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 21/04/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 412 - Lukas Dreyer Part 3 of 5( 0:29:36)
Episode Information
Lukas Dreyer discusses knee pain from the perspective of a clinical exercise physiologist, asking whether knee replacements can often be avoided. The conversation explores why X‑ray findings don’t always match pain levels, how biomechanics and muscle weakness—often starting at the hip—contribute to knee problems, and how targeted, long‑term exercise can significantly reduce pain and delay or even prevent surgery. Drawing on research such as the ESCAPE trial, the episode highlights the importance of personalised rehabilitation, consistency, weight management, and understanding how the body heals over time.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 14/04/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 411 - Lukas Dreyer Part 2 of 5( 0:27:42)
Episode Information
In this episode of Manawatū Conversations, Lukas Dreyer looks back to the beginnings of his work in clinical exercise physiology, tracing its development from South Africa in the 1980s through to its impact today. In conversation with Diane McConnell, he reflects on early research with cardiac patients, executive health programmes, military rehabilitation, and workplace fitness initiatives, highlighting how exercise can transform physical health, mental wellbeing, productivity, and family life. The discussion offers insight into how this field evolved into a recognised profession and why it remains vital for preventative health and long‑term care.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 7/04/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 410 - Lukas Dreyer Part 1 of 5( 0:29:53)
Episode Information
Lukas Dreyer outlines how Clinical Exercise Physiologists use supervised, individualised exercise as medical treatment for people with chronic illness or injury. He discusses the profession’s development in New Zealand, the growing need for these services, and the goal of maintaining independence and quality of life.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 31/03/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 409 - Daniel Morrimire Part 3 of 3( 0:29:19)
Episode Information
In this final part of the conversation, Morrie discusses the broad scope of Environment Network Manawatū’s work, from food sovereignty to circular economy projects. He explains how repair cafés, stream clean‑up kits, food‑waste reduction initiatives, and biodiversity efforts all support both environmental action and community wellbeing across the region.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 24/03/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 408 - Daniel Morrimire Part 2 of 3( 0:28:46)
Episode Information
"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 and organisations, and reflects on his path into environmental work, emphasising food sovereignty and long‑term community resilience.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 17/03/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 407 - Daniel Morrimire Part 1 of 3( 0:26:20)
Episode Information
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, biodiversity, and food sovereignty through initiatives like community gardens and local food sharing.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 10/03/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 406 - Viv Stanley Part 2 of 2( 0:29:26)
Episode Information
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 emotionally and practically, Viv shares why the arrangement works so well when the fit is right.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 3/03/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Episode 405 - Viv Stanley Part 1 of 2( 0:29:38)
Episode Information
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 living areas, equal master bedrooms, and accessible features. Viv also talks through the legal planning, shared costs, and clear agreements that make their co‑ownership secure, practical, and friendship‑friendly.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 24/02/2026 3:00:00 p.m.
Manawatu Conversations Episode 404 - John Dermer Part 2 of 2( 0:29:7)
Episode Information
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 planted early
Pruning and thinning aimed to produce clear wood
Floods in 2004 caused major damage despite planting
Trees did not prevent severe erosion in extreme floods
Government support helped with recovery and repairs
Farming reforms in the 1980s were financially traumatic
Forestry became part of farm diversification
Dermer later served in national farm forestry leadership.
Published: 17/02/2026 3:00:00 p.m.