Episode Playlist
Inside New Zealand's Kiwi Recovery Programme( 0:28:36)
Episode Information
How do you save one of New Zealand's most iconic birds? Dr Hugh Robertson joins Greg Shirley once again to explore the fascinating biology of kiwi, the threats they face, and the science behind one of the country's most successful conservation programmes. From predator control and Operation Nest Egg to community-led recovery efforts, discover how decades of research have helped secure a brighter future for kiwi.
This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua. Supported by NZ On Air. Visit coastaccessradio.org.nz
Published: 11/08/2026 2:30:00 p.m.
CITES: The Global Fight Against Wildlife Trafficking( 0:30:13)
Episode Information
How does the world stop endangered species from disappearing through international trade? Dr Hugh Robertson joins Greg Shirley to explain CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), one of the world's most important conservation agreements. From elephant ivory and rhino horn to New Zealand's native geckos and other threatened wildlife, they explore how CITES works, how countries enforce its rules, and the role New Zealand plays in protecting biodiversity. Discover how international cooperation is helping safeguard endangered species for future generations.
This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua. Supported by NZ On Air. Visit coastaccessradio.org.nz
Published: 9/08/2026 2:30:00 p.m.
The Kākōrori - The Science Behind a Conservation Success( 0:28:29)
Episode Information
Greg Shirley is joined by Dr Hugh Robertson to explore the fascinating story of the kākōrori, a rare bird found only in the Cook Islands. They discuss its unique biology, the research that changed scientists' understanding of the species, and the decades-long conservation programme that helped its population recover from the brink of extinction.
This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua. Supported by NZ On Air. Visit coastaccessradio.org.nz
Published: 14/07/2026 2:30:00 p.m.
From Lab to Land: The Circular Economy in Action( 0:27:52)
Episode Information
Greg speaks with Dr Anouk Mertens about her research into the bioeconomy and the challenges of turning scientific innovation into real-world solutions. They explore how collaboration - not just technology - is key to bridging the gap between research and practice, and discuss what the circular economy could mean for small island communities facing waste and sustainability issues.
This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua. Supported by NZ On Air. Visit coastaccessradio.org.nz
Published: 12/05/2026 2:30:00 p.m.
Let's Talk Science - Kotukutuku Ecological Restoration Project - KERP with Jim O'Malley( 0:29:52)
Episode Information
The Kotukutuku Ecological Restoration Project is named after the Fuschia which is found in the remnant coastal forest near Paraparaumu. This conservation of biodiversity project revolves around pest management including the introduced mammals and to a lesser extent weeds so creating an island refuge for the native species which used to occur before humans did on the Kapiti Coast. The restoration project models voluntary conservation work in New Zealand by demonstrating the use of best practices in terms of habitat protection from threats such as predators and demonstrating the benefits from this long term strategy and action plan to preserve an example of what native biodiversity could be for future generations. Listen to the story of the KERP programme in an interview with one of the principle volunteers Mr Jim O’Malley on “Talking Science with Dr Greg Sherley”.
Published: 21/12/2025 2:00:00 p.m.
Let's Talk Science - Ocean Noise Pollution( 0:27:40)
Episode Information
Ocean noise pollution is a form of environmental pollution caused by human activities, like commercial shipping, oil exploration, seismic surveys, offshore wind turbine installation, and military sonar. What impact does this have on our marine mammals? Find out here in this episode with Dr Greg Sherley.
Published: 28/10/2025 2:30:00 p.m.
Let's Talk Science- Underwater mountains - we learn about seamounts and how important they are.( 0:29:2)
Episode Information
Seamounts are underwater mountains that serve as hotspots for marine biodiversity. They are home to many endemic species and provide unique habitats that support a wide variety of life. Seamounts influence ocean currents, which helps distribute nutrients and larvae, fostering high biodiversity. However, these ecosystems face threats from deep-sea fishing and mining, making conservation efforts crucial.
Published: 9/07/2025 12:00:00 p.m.
Let's Talk Science - Deep Sea Mining part 2( 0:29:16)
Episode Information
We continue our "deep dive" into the secrets that the deep sea is starting to reveal to science and what damage is caused by mining on the ocean floor. New science is revealed and discussed in this episode. Listen in to find out about Manganese nodules, sea marine communities we would be destroying, and we introduce the listener to bizarre, strange and thriving eco systems surviving thousands of meters deep.
Published: 11/06/2025 12:00:00 p.m.
Let's Talk Science - Deep Sea-Mining( 0:32:5)
Episode Information
In this episode we hear how carbon energy and digital technology demands are increasing which in turn means we need more green energy storage/batteries our green energy. However, it means an increase demand for rare earth elements - these elements are mined on land but with increasing demand attention has become focussed on sea floor deposits.
This has implications that we may not be aware of such as causing more harm to the environment with the way these minerals are sourced, and release the co2 that are being stored in these nodules. The nodules have taken millions of years to be produced and they have the potential to be mined while other alternative to battery storage components are on the way. This episode exposes some of the results of our deep sea mining of these minerals. A very sobering episode.
Published: 16/04/2025 12:00:00 p.m.
Let's Talk Science-Nuclear Testing fallout in the Pacific Part 2( 0:27:58)
Episode Information
This episode reminds us of the fallout of nuclear testing in the Pacific since the 1940's and subsequent problems experienced and what problems could occur in the future. It is a sobering discussion. Warning, some information contained in this interview may be distressing.
Published: 19/03/2025 12:00:00 p.m.
Let's Talk Science - Marine Life and noise pollution( 0:29:52)
Episode Information
A subject not often thought of but once come to light gives us a new appreciation of our marine life. Dr Sherley discusses the impact of deep sea fishing, ship sounds, dredging, bottom floor trawling and sonic booms on marine life. Marine mammals are having to modify the sounds and can be so disturbed by sound pollution this can cause mass stranding of whales.
Published: 27/11/2024 12:00:00 p.m.
Let's Talk Science - PILN - Pacific Invasive Species Learning Network( 0:30:35)
Episode Information
In the last week of August the Pacific Invasive Species Learning Network (PILN) had a regional meeting in Rarotonga, Cook Islands and Greg explains what PILN is, how it is set up, why have it, what topics are covered, what new innovative methods were discussed and general observations from the meeting.
Published: 30/10/2024 12:00:00 p.m.