Episode Playlist
The Free Breakfast – Static - 16-06-2025( 0:14:46)
Episode Information
The event "10 Years Of Static - Last Place, Hamilton" is happening on Saturday, June 21st, 2025 at Last Place in Hamilton. The event celebrates 10 years of the band STATIC and includes performances by The Boondocks, Cootie Cuties, and Kiero as well. Kelli speaks to Cailum from the band about the gig.
Published: 16/06/2025 11:15:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – OCD - 13-06-2025( 0:17:24)
Episode Information
Suzanne Miller has written a novel inspired by real experiences with OCD. It's called What If? What If? She spoke with Cate about why she wrote the book, myths around OCD and how she pulled experiences into relatable stories. The book is being launched on Friday 20 June, 3-4pm at St Paul's Collegiate.
Published: 13/06/2025 9:15:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Keb Hart - 13-06-2025( 0:14:32)
Episode Information
Keb Hart from Waikato is a musical storyteller who takes an approach to crafting songs that resonate with the reality and wisdom that reflects his age. In a world obsessed with the fleeting allure of "popular" music, Keb stands for experience and authenticity. He talks to the Free Breakfast's Cate about his new single 'Once I Was', which is played in its entirety at the end of this podcast.
Published: 13/06/2025 9:15:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Bodies Among The Books - 23-05-2025( 0:14:13)
Episode Information
The Ngaio Marsh Awards & Hamilton Libraries, is hosting ‘Bodies Among The Books’, a fascinating evening of criminally good conversation with four talented Kiwi storytellers. Panel chair Gail Pittaway joins Cate to run through the evidence. Free event.
Published: 23/05/2025 10:15:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Hear Us Out - 23-05-2025( 0:10:29)
Episode Information
Hear Us Out is an international poster exhibition of student design which will be on display in the city centre. This ‘public good’ project aims to capture wisdom from elders in multiple countries and share these with their local communities. Project director Luke joins Cate on breakfast.
Published: 23/05/2025 10:15:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Simply Veg – 16-05-2025( 0:13:19)
Episode Information
Local author and foodie Amber Bremner joins us to talk about her new book Simply Veg, published by Upstart Press. She will be appearing at a free event hosted by Hamilton Book Month, on Thursday 22 May 6.30pm at Hamilton City Libraries Rototuna.
Published: 16/05/2025 11:15:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Soulti – 15-05-2025( 0:22:21)
Episode Information
Raglan-based singer, songwriter, producer and film-maker Soulti (Teresa Michels) released ‘Rise and Fall’ late last year, and the video is being released tomorrow (Friday 16 May). She spoke with Mike Williams about following her passion and finding her way forward as a solo female artist in Aotearoa. Following your dreams is not for the faint hearted.
Published: 15/05/2025 10:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Contact 50th Celebration – 24-04-2025( 0:12:33)
Episode Information
There's to be a public party for Radio Contact friends, listeners, bands and staff – to celebrate 50 years since it all began.
Scott Newth was a former Contact breakfast show announcer and Programme Director. He also made ads for a time in production, and was in bands back when Contact was around – mainly Rumpus Room and Love & Violence.
Scott joined Mike Williams to talk about the evolution of the station, and about the party, which is happening May 3 at The Meteor (7pm). Tickets are available via themeteor.co.nz
Published: 24/04/2025 11:00:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Search For Yeti - 24-03-2025( 0:14:50)
Episode Information
Search for Yeti is appearing at Nivara Lounge on Friday 28 March. They are touring after launching their first album Dark So Soon... The band's drummer, Sean Barker, joins Gary Farrow in the studio to talk about the story of Search for Yeti.
Free FM are doing a double pass giveaway via our Facebook page.
Published: 25/03/2025 9:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – James and the Giant Peach - 21-03-2025( 0:16:12)
Episode Information
Hamilton Playbox's latest production is the stage adaptation of Roald Dahl's 'James and the Giant Peach'. Director Coryn Knapper and actor Gabrielle de Bruijn join Cate to talk about the production, and how they're bringing it to life on the Riverlea stage.
Published: 21/03/2025 10:45:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Richard Wade - 20-03-2025( 0:8:23)
Episode Information
Richard Wade talks about his book called I've Come This Far, How Can I Go? which was released this week, telling the story of his life in foster care, facing hardship and life with a disability, involving moments of hardship but also triumph. You can order the book by emailing wendyfarrownz@gmail.com
Published: 20/03/2025 10:00:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Matthew Bannister - 07-03-2025( 0:19:30)
Episode Information
Musician and academic Matthew Bannister has just released his latest solo work The Dark Backwards, an eclectic collection of songs on the theme of time.
Matthew joined Cate to talk about the album’s concept and songs ahead of his live performance at Nivara Lounge on the 15th March.
Published: 7/03/2025 10:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Festival of Weird - 28-02-2025( 0:15:1)
Episode Information
The Festival of Weird is a week-long festival showcasing and celebrating the creativity of Hamiltonians. Based in the city centre it features a huge range of events including street theatre, art, music, film and more. Co-organiser Lauren Kerr-Bell joins Cate to talk about how it began and highlight some of the events on offer from March 5-12.
Published: 3/03/2025 1:00:00 p.m.
The Free Breakfast – Waipa Mayor Susan O'Regan - 05-02-2025( 0:13:17)
Episode Information
In our fortnightly Waipā update, Mayor Susan O'Regan acknowledges the passing of valued former councillor Judy Bannon, looks at some highlights of the summer in the district so far, and starts a continuing conversation about water reform and what it means for local government throughout the motu.
Published: 5/02/2025 10:15:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Susan O'Regan - 22-01-2025( 0:12:45)
Episode Information
Waipā mayor Susan O'Regan joins Free Breakfast host Gary Farrow for the fortnightly feature covering what's going on in Waipā and local government regionally and nationally.
Published: 22/01/2025 9:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Nicola Paul – 13-12-2024( 0:13:39)
Episode Information
Singer/songwriter Nicola Paul has released a song called Palestine Will Be Free – very much a protest song, written in repsonse to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza this year.
All royalties generated will be donated to the UN Occupied Palestinian Territory Humanitarian Fund.
Published: 13/12/2024 9:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – The Waikato Draft - 20-11-2024( 0:10:38)
Episode Information
Sylvia Giles from The Waikato Draft talks about the monthly e-newsletter on the best gigs, theatre, film and food in Kirikiriroa and the Waikato, with a little scuttlebutt as well. You can subscribe at thewaikatodraft.com
Published: 20/11/2024 11:00:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Wiri Donna – 14-11-2024( 0:19:47)
Episode Information
Wiri Donna ia performing at The Last Place in Hamilton, on Nov 22 as part of her promotional tour supporting her EP 'In My Chambers' – released Oct 25.
Cate Prestidge talks with her about the EP and her move into 'rock music' territory.
Published: 14/11/2024 9:15:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Bike Waikato - 06-11-2024( 0:16:34)
Episode Information
This week, Melissa Smith from Bike Waikato talks about her presentation entitled "When Bike Lanes Are Not Enough" from the 2024 ALPSS and Education Postgraduate Conference hosted by the University of Waikato.
Published: 6/11/2024 10:45:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Phoebe Hilliam – 31-10-2024( 0:9:17)
Episode Information
Celtic Illusion, an international tour of Irish dance and magic is heading to Hamilton next week as part of a nationwide tour. The cast has a bunch of talented kiwis, including Wellington dancer Phoebe Hilliam. Phoebe joins Cate Prestidge to talk about the show and how much fun she's having.
Published: 31/10/2024 10:45:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Leah Bell – 31-10-2024( 0:14:2)
Episode Information
Local singer/songwriter Leah Bell is organising a cool event at Last Place Bar on Saturday 2 November. Gal Pal Grooves is a showcase for Kirikiriroa Singer-Songwriters and doubles as a Music Release Party.
Featuring the newest singer-songwriters on the block: Leah Bell, Jessica Ruck-Nu'u, Emerson Kole and Kyla Greening (who is currently charting in NZ!). The night will feature a range of live performances across different genres. Doors open at 8pm, first act on at 9pm.
Published: 31/10/2024 9:15:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Jon Toogood 24-10-2024( 0:15:41)
Episode Information
The Free FM Feature Album this week is Jon Toogood's first solo record, Last Of The Lonely Gods. It's filled with stories that will be relatable to many, and reveals Jon at his most up close and personal. Mike Williams spoke with Jon about the record and what it has meant for him.
Jon plays at Hamilton’s Last Place Bar [Collingwood St] on Thursday 7 November.
Published: 24/10/2024 10:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Bike Waikato - 23-10-2024( 0:10:51)
Episode Information
Bike Waikato chair and spokesperson Melissa Smith gives a rundown of the events of Biketober, and touches on a near miss which she had recently along with the lessons we can learn from it.
Published: 23/10/2024 2:30:00 p.m.
The Free Breakfast - Phil Grey discusses accessmedia.nz and more – 22-10-2024( 0:19:24)
Episode Information
Free FM General Manager and Chair of the Community Access Media Alliance (CAMA) Phil Grey talks with Silvana about new developments in the sector, including a major update to the accessmedia.nz podcasting platform.
He has also just returned from the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia (CBAA) conference, and talks about the commonality of interests between the CBAA and CAMA.
Published: 22/10/2024 8:45:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Bluey’s Big Play – 18-10-2024( 0:8:44)
Episode Information
Bluey’s Big Play, a brand-new theatrical adaptation of the BAFTA & Emmy® award-winning children’s television series produced by Ludo Studio, will hit the road in April 2025 and tour to Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, Hamilton and Auckland.
Audiences of all ages will get to see Bluey, her younger sister Bingo and Mum & Dad embark on their first live theatre show, featuring brilliantly created puppets, live actors, and iconic sets. Based on an original new story written by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, the theatrical adaptation contains music by Bluey composer, Joff Bush.
Cate Prestidge caught up with Puppetry Director fo rthe show, Jacob Williams.
GLOBOX ARENA, KIRIKIRIROA – HAMILTON WEDNESDAY 23 APRIL
Published: 18/10/2024 4:00:00 p.m.
The Free Breakfast – One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest - 10-10-2024( 0:18:27)
Episode Information
Hamilton Playbox's latest production is 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest'. Cate speaks with co-director Lawrie Johnson and actor Hayden Newport (Randle McMurphy) about what drew them to this iconic story and what audiences can expect. The play runs 12-26 October.
Published: 10/10/2024 9:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Bike Waikato - 09-10-2024( 0:8:47)
Episode Information
Bike Waikato chair Melissa Smith gives a preview of the Biketober group ride taking place between Hamilton Gardens and Karapiro on Saturday 12 October. Check out the Facebook event for a 15% discount code for bike rentals.
Published: 9/10/2024 10:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Paula Southgate - 07-10-2024( 0:14:13)
Episode Information
Local water infrastructure, reasons for reductions in free parking times in the CBD, and activities for the school holidays are Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate's focus for her monthly catch-up on the Free Breakfast.
Published: 7/10/2024 9:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Mayor Paula Southgate – 09-09-2024( 0:18:21)
Episode Information
Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate joins Mike Williams to discuss council's new credit rating from Standard & Poor's, plus progress with Local Waters Done Well, the new Peacocke Bridge opening, and some comment of the recent Local Government NZ conference.
Published: 9/09/2024 11:00:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - DeepINsessioNZ – 05-09-2024( 0:17:3)
Episode Information
#SSSD, host of #Deep_InsessioNZ speaks with Cate Prestidge about musical culture, some of his work in the electronic music scene and what excites him about the future of the scene.
Published: 5/09/2024 10:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Johanna M Rae – 29-08-2024( 0:18:26)
Episode Information
Johanna M Rae is a Hamilton author who has been publishing fantasy genre novels since 2011. She joins Cate Prestidge to talk about her work and writing process and gives a peek into the work she'll be presenting at the Authors Showcase for Hamilton Book Month on Saturday August 31.
Published: 29/08/2024 11:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Sandie Haddock – 29-08-2024( 0:15:3)
Episode Information
The central library might not be so quiet on Friday as students from years 5-8 compete in the Waikato Book Battle! Sandie Haddock from Waikato Literacy Assn joins Cate Ptestidge to talk about the event being held on August 30 as part of Hamilton Book Month.
Published: 29/08/2024 11:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Louise and Gareth Ward – 23-08-2024( 0:15:36)
Episode Information
Mike Williams talks with Gareth and Louise Ward, the dynamic duo behind a new novel ‘The Bookshop Detectives: Dead Girl Gone’ which is now in its third week at #1 on the Nielsen BookScan New Zealand bestseller list. They’re not only former police officers and authors but the proud owners of Wardini Books in Hawkes Bay.
Published: 23/08/2024 10:00:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Kirsten McKenzie – 23-08-2024( 0:16:10)
Episode Information
Kirsten McKenzie is an ex customs officer turned writer. A fan of archeology and Ancient Rome, she joins Cate Prestidge to talk about Ithaca Bound, the first book in her time travel Ithaca series. Kirsten will be presenting at The Author's Showcase for Hamilton Book Month.
Published: 23/08/2024 9:45:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Tracey Slaughter – 15-08-2024( 0:17:16)
Episode Information
Award winning writer and academic Tracey Slaughter has just released her latest poetry volume 'The Girls in the Red House are Singing'. She joins Cate to talk about the different parts of the collection, her writing process and the way some specific themes she was immersed in have universal meaning. Tracey's book will be launched at the Poetry Celebration for Hamilton Book Month.
Published: 15/08/2024 11:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Chris Tse – 15-08-2024( 0:16:38)
Episode Information
The 13th National Poet Laureate, Chris Tse talks with Cate about the laureate role and balancing writing and the business of creativity. He also talks about the value of the arts for education and society. Chris will be in Kirikiriroa to MC Poetry Celebration for Hamilton Book Month.
Published: 15/08/2024 11:15:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Caroline Barron – 08-08-2024( 0:19:23)
Episode Information
Writer Caroline Barron has followed her award winning 2020 memoir Ripiro Beach with a novel, Golden Days. She talks about the 1990's night-life which influenced it, as well as the three authors who will be appearing on the memoir panel she is chairing for Hamilton Book Month on Friday August 9.
Published: 8/08/2024 10:45:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Craig Hoyle – 08-08-2024( 0:14:37)
Episode Information
Craig Hoyle grew up in Invercargill within the New Zealand Exclusive Brethren. In this reflective interview he speaks about his early life, being excommunicated from the church and the discoveries he made about other 'missing' family as he wrote his memoir 'Excommunicated'. Craig is in Kirikiriroa as part of Hamilton Book Month.
Published: 8/08/2024 10:45:00 a.m.
Free Breakfast - Ngāhuia te Awekōtuku – 01-08-2024( 0:25:48)
Episode Information
Author, academic, activist and 'living legend' Ngāhuia te Awekōtuku speaks about her new memoir, Hine Toa ahead of the Memoir Panel at Hamilton Book Month. The book is getting rave reviews.
Ngāhuia speaks about why she wrote the book, her experiences as a Māori student and activist in the late 60s and 70s, and what home means to her.
Published: 1/08/2024 11:45:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Jane Eyre – 01-08-2024( 0:14:7)
Episode Information
Jane Eyre, speaks with Cate Prestidge about writing and publishing her children's book about a friendly Maine Coon cat Fergusson, and her latest work editing a poetry anthology Mercurial Threads. Jane will be at the Author's Showcase as part of Hamilton Book Month on 31 August — hamiltonbookmonth.com
Published: 1/08/2024 11:45:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Emily Perkins – 25-07-2024( 0:15:45)
Episode Information
Award winning New Zealand author Emily Perkins joins Cate Prestidge to talk about her latest work Lioness, which is getting rave reviews. They discuss Lioness and some of Emily's other work ahead of her appearance at the Hamilton Book Month Fiction Panel (hamiltonbookmonth.com)
Published: 25/07/2024 12:15:00 p.m.
The Free Breakfast – Afrika Bazaar - 22-07-2024( 0:14:23)
Episode Information
The first large scale African Bazaar event in Hamilton will be taking place at Claudelands Event Centre on Saturday August 3 from 11am to 5pm. Kemi and Akeem from Afroconnect NZ join Mike in the studio to talk about it.
Published: 22/07/2024 9:15:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Fun Run Dry July – 18-07-2024( 0:8:13)
Episode Information
The Fun Run Charity Event for Cancer is aimed at raising funds and awareness for cancer research and support services and takes place on July 27 at Hamilton Lake. Organiser Maia Johnston talks to Mike Williams about pulling together the event.
Published: 18/07/2024 9:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Bike Waikato Update - 17-07-2024( 0:11:36)
Episode Information
Melissa Smith, co-chair and spokesperson at Bike Waikato, joins us for a fortnightly update. This week: Recap on the Matariki bike valet, upcoming events like Light Night, the ride to Karapiro, and other Bike Waikato events.
Published: 17/07/2024 10:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Achilles Complex – 20-06-2024( 0:13:11)
Episode Information
Harley Flynn from rock powerhouse Achilles Complex joins Cate Prestidge to talk about their upcoming show in Kirikiroroa. It’s the last leg of their tour with Tusk and features local legends Static.
Published: 20/06/2024 9:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Bowel Cancer Awareness - 14-06-2024( 0:12:48)
Episode Information
Bowel cancer is the second highest cause of cancer death in New Zealand, with over 1,200 people dying each year, as many as breast and prostate cancer combined. June is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, and Stefan Corbett from Bowel Cancer NZ spoke on the Free Breakfast.
Published: 14/06/2024 10:45:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Zinefest – 13-06-2024( 0:15:15)
Episode Information
Kirikiriroa Hamilton Zinefest is now in its 10th year. Wairehu Grant and Horiana Henderson join Cate Prestidge to talk about the value of the event, ahead of the festival at the Hamilton Central Library on Saturday June 13.
Published: 13/06/2024 10:15:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Here to Help U - 07-06-2024( 0:12:4)
Episode Information
Here to Help U provides free social and wellbeing support the easy way. Submit a quick online request and we'll get you the right support. No barriers, no judgement, no stress. Free FM's Ed speaks with Here to Help U national operations manager Aandrea Murray.
Published: 10/06/2024 6:00:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – NZTrio - 16-05-2024( 0:16:0)
Episode Information
Ashley Brown — cellist and NZTrio founding member - talks about the ensemble's 2024 concert series, Triptych, which will come to Kirikiriroa on 17 May.
Published: 16/05/2024 9:45:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Distinguished Gentlemans Ride – 13-05-2024( 0:16:48)
Episode Information
Campbell Robertson is the Waikato organiser for the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride – a world-wide event happening Sunday May 19 and involving 11 cities in NZ from Auckland to Invercargill.
The DGR is a fundraising and awareness event for men's health – specifically men's mental health and prostate cancer research.
Full information to support or take part in this year's event can be found on their website: gentlemansride.com.
Published: 13/05/2024 8:30:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast - Amanda Wright – 02-05-2024( 0:12:16)
Episode Information
AmandaMania is co-founder of both Brazen and Splore, and has been a driving force in New Zealand’s music and festival scenes for over three decades. She spoke to Cate Prestidge about the first Brazen Pop-Up, happening at YOT club this Saturday 4 May.
Published: 2/05/2024 10:00:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – Protect Te Huia - 01-05-2024( 0:10:24)
Episode Information
Georgie Dansey, spokesperson for Te Huia, joins Gary Farrow in the studio to discuss the future of the Hamilton to Auckland passenger rail service, ahead of the public meeting at The Ramada By Wyndham, 287 Victoria St, Hamilton Central on 4th May 2024 at 2.30pm.
Published: 1/05/2024 9:15:00 a.m.
The Free Breakfast – 26-04-2024( 0:7:52)
Episode Information
Every May is NZ Music Month and Edwin spoke to Cath Andersen, Chief Executive of the NZ Music Commission about the history of the initiative and how it benefits the industry.
Published: 26/04/2024 4:00:00 p.m.
The Free Breakfast – Sweeney Todd – 18-04-2024( 0:21:9)
Episode Information
The dramatic tale of Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street, hits the stage at Riverlea Theatre on May 11 and promises to be a sensory spectacle for audiences. Director Greg Hack and actor Mike Williams discuss the show with Cate Prestidge.
Bookings are open now at iTicket.co.nz
Published: 18/04/2024 9:30:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Brainy Beanies - 10-04-2024( 0:11:57)
Episode Information
Sarah Verran, chief executive of Brain Tumour Support, joins Free FM's Gary Farrow in the studio to talk about Brainy Beanies - an exciting campaign bringing together the community to raise much needed funds to support individuals and whānau living with a brain tumour. For more info, see https://braintumoursupport.org.nz/brainy-beanies
Published: 10/04/2024 10:30:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – The Borrowers - 28-03-2024( 0:15:10)
Episode Information
Cate Prestidge talks to director Glen Mathews and actor Anita Synders about The Borrowers - on stage at Riverlea Theatre April 6 – 20. This enchanting new play by Charles Way is based upon the award-winning children’s literature classic by Mary Norton.
Published: 28/03/2024 9:15:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - Rebekah Harman – 21-03-2024( 0:16:4)
Episode Information
Waikato textile researcher and academic Rebekah Harman speaks with Cate Prestidge about her latest project ‘Worn Well’ - an exploration of the clothes we love, and why we love them.
Rebekah has an interest in fashion and sustainability and wants to hear from you about the things you have kept in your wardrobe, and why.
Listen here and have a go at the short survey before April 10 or check them out on Instagram @sustainable_clothing_research
Published: 21/03/2024 9:45:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – 18-03-2024( 0:10:28)
Episode Information
New NZ film 'The Mountain' is being released on Thursday March 28. It's the first feature film for director Rachel House, but the three young stars are also marking their debut in the world of cinema. Elizabeth (Beth) Atkinson is the pivotal character Sam in this story about finding your roots with new friends.
Published: 18/03/2024 11:15:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - Greg Johnson – 14-03-2024( 0:15:22)
Episode Information
Greg Johnson's 13th studio album, Thunder In Fall was Free FM's feature album last week and he's now in the country again for a 10-stop tour, including Kirikiriroa, Hamilton. He spoke with Cate Prestidge about working on the album.
Published: 14/03/2024 10:30:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - Nancy Caiger – 07-03-2024( 0:15:0)
Episode Information
Boon Sculpture has been in the city for the past month but vandalism has affected some work. Boon Arts Trustee Nancy Caiger talks to Cate Prestidge about this year's installations and the mahi that goes into creating this distinctive additon to Hamilton's landscape.
Published: 7/03/2024 9:45:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Liz Stolwyk from Waipā DC - 06-03-2024( 0:9:35)
Episode Information
Waipā deputy mayor Liz Stolwyk talks about the extraordinary change in council's approach to its Long Term Plan, which has been permitted of councils around the motu by central government in the face of the changing financial situation with the scrapping of Three Waters.
Published: 6/03/2024 9:45:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Chaplin - 23-02-2024( 0:13:21)
Episode Information
Chaplin is based on the real-life story of Charlie Chaplin, the iconic film actor, writer, producer and director. The new musical spans the comic’s entire career, and is on-stage at The Meteor in Hamilton April 13-20. Free FM's Mike Williams had the producer and director of the play, Jonty Climo, in the studio to talk about the show.
Published: 23/02/2024 9:30:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – The Twits - 16-02-2024( 0:13:6)
Episode Information
The Twits by Roald Dahl, adapted for the stage by David Wood, tells the story of the spiteful Mr and Mrs Twit. Director Lorna Ashton, and Janine Swainson starring as Mrs Twit, join Mike in the studio to discuss the show as part of the Hamilton Arts Festival on 23 February, 25 February and 3 March.
Published: 16/02/2024 9:30:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Kōpū – 15-02-2024( 0:12:31)
Episode Information
One of the acts in this year's Hamilton Arts Festival is Kōpū — a cheeky ballad of a show sharing the songs of our young wāhine Māori as they navigate this world, hairy nipples first, following in the footsteps of our naughty nannies from the kāuta.
A kāhui whetū of multi-talented performers weave live music, performance, poetry, and poi to share a hilarious honest account of their experiences of wāhinetanga now: the duality of being fiercely everything at once. One of the performers, Tuakoi Ohia, talks with Cate Prestidge about the show.
Kōpū is on stage at the Emporium of Scintillating Wonders, Hamilton Gardens, on Saturday 24 February at 8:00pm.
Published: 15/02/2024 10:15:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - Tina Turley – 12-02-2024( 0:14:55)
Episode Information
Canadian singer/songwriter Tina Turley is back in the country again (she was last here almosta a year ago) and will be seen on stage at the Pirongia Bonnets, Blues and BBQs Festival this Saturday (17 February) and at Frankton Thunder on 10 March. She joined Mike Williams to talk about her work, and her affaection for this part of the world.
Published: 13/02/2024 8:45:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – 08-02-2024( 0:14:0)
Episode Information
The first-ever To The Front Kirikiriroa holiday programme is coming to Hamilton in the school holidays of July 2024. Born from Girls Rock Camp Aotearoa in 2017 the gender-inclusive music development programme encourages young women, trans, intersex, takatāpui and gender diverse youth to embrace their creativity in a safe space.
Guided by experienced music industry professionals, this newest edition of To The Front is the fourth location in New Zealand to host the programme, and we welcomed Lora Thompson and Lauren Kerr-Bell on this morning’s Free Breakfast to tell us more.
Published: 8/02/2024 9:45:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Bird Machine - 02-02-2024( 0:23:36)
Episode Information
Kirikiriroa duo Bird Machine are launching their second EP on Feb 23, including the single 'You'll Be Fine'. They joined Mike in the Free FM studio to play the song live, and to talk about their upcoming Hey Human EP.
Published: 2/02/2024 9:30:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - Taisha Tari – 01-02-2024( 0:23:34)
Episode Information
Multi award winning singer and composer Taisha Tari spoke with Cate Prestidge about her journey into music, her career highlights, exploring her whakapapa and her new show Woven, which will debut at the Hamilton Arts Festival.
Published: 1/02/2024 9:15:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Bike Waikato - 31-01-2024( 0:13:18)
Episode Information
Melissa Smith, co-chair and spokesperson at Bike Waikato, takes stock of the cycling infrastructure projects that have been cancelled in Kirikiriroa by central government - but also on the flipside, celebrates those that will be going ahead. She also discusses the activities taking place in the region over Bike Month.
Published: 31/01/2024 8:00:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Canned Transport Projects - 26-01-2024( 0:7:8)
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The Minister of Transport Simeon Brown has written to Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate and Hamilton City Council’s Chief Executive Lance Vervoort, to inform them of his decisions regarding the Transport Choices programme. All projects put on hold at the end of October 2023 will not receive any further funding, and therefore will not proceed to implementation/construction as part of the Transport Choices programme. On the Free Breakfast, we run through some of the projects impacted.
Published: 26/01/2024 9:45:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Bike Waikato - 17-01-2024( 0:11:20)
Episode Information
On the agenda with Melissa Smith from Bike Waikato this week - Ride to Ngaaruawaahia (& back) on Saturday 17 February, and the importance of an accessible city, with a spotlight on the lift at Rotokauri Transport Hub which is going to be out of service next week.
Published: 17/01/2024 1:45:00 p.m.
Free Breakfast - Lady Tureiti Moxon - 05-12-2023( 0:12:8)
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Kelli Pike talks to Lady Tureiti Moxon about the National Day of Action and standing up to anti-Māori policies, particularly protecting the Māori Health Authority, te reo Māori, the Smokefree Aotearoa policy and honouring Te Tiriti.
Published: 5/12/2023 9:00:00 a.m.
Free Breakfast - Magical Bridge Playground - 01-12-2023( 0:20:46)
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Peter van Vroonhoven, Chair of Magical Bridge Trust, talks with Mike Williams about the opening of Hamilton’s first fully accessible playground, which officially opens in Claudelands Park today at 4pm.
The playground is designed for use by anyone, especially those with diverse disabilities and special needs and is the first of its kind in New Zealand (and the first outside the US). The new playground was built in collaboration with Hamilton City Council and Magical Bridge Trust, a charitable trust started by passionate members of the disability community.
Published: 1/12/2023 10:00:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - Mayor Paula Southgate – 21-11-2023( 0:18:40)
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Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate joins Mike Williams to discuss the financial pressures facing Hamilton City Council and their likely impact on the budget for the city's Long Term Plan (2024-2034). The first draft of the budget is due to be tabled at a council meeting on November 28-29.
Published: 21/11/2023 9:30:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - Misty Flicks film festival – 13-11-2023( 0:21:53)
Episode Information
The 2023 Misty Flicks film festival – a uniquely local event celebrating film makers in the Waikato region – runs from November 24-26 at the Regent Cinema in Te Awamutu.
Two of the featured film makers, Pam Kaval and Nathan Higgins join Mike Williams to discuss their films and their passion for cinema.
To qualify to be part of the fetsival your film must have been shot in the Waikato region, or Central New Zealand region, or have a connection with these regions through cast and crew.
As a region, we have a lot to offer and we have a growing pool of people with the necessary skills and talent to cement the Waikato as a great place for story-telling on film.
Published: 13/11/2023 10:30:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – 20-10-2023( 0:18:58)
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Mike Williams talks with Jumpin' JB (Jerry Balderson) host of the uniquely quirky show, The Paleface Parabola, which is about to celebrate its 100th episode on Free FM (next Wednesday night).
Jerry hails from Hacketstown New Jersey, USA and is our most distant content creator. He talks about his background and how he came to become involved in making a radio show for a station half a world away.
Published: 20/10/2023 10:00:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - Lets Reuse Hamilton – 03-10-2023( 0:16:50)
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Emma Sinclair is Project Lead for an initiative to reduce single-use waste and make sustainable choices simple via a reusable coffee cup system, soon to be implemented at five cafes in Kirikiriroa. The Lets Reuse Hamilton scheme launches on October 5 and is being led by Impact Hub Waikato with support from Hamilton City Council. She talks to Mike Williams about the idea and how it aims to reshape the way we view grabbing a coffee to go.
Published: 3/10/2023 10:45:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – 07-09-2023( 0:13:20)
Episode Information
Mike Williams talks with Adam White, director of the 2023 Waikato Hospital variety revue, Virus Ridiculus!
The show is booked in for two performances at Clarence Street Theatre, October 19 and 20th.
Virus Ridiculus! highlights the many varied talents of staff of the Waikato Hospital and surrounding hospitals and also other medical personnel. It is a show full of comedy, music dancing etc.
Interested in takling part? Contact Adam by emailing adam.white@waikatodhb.health.nz
Published: 7/09/2023 11:00:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - The Fully Monty – 01-09-2023( 0:14:5)
Episode Information
Mike Williams talks with Dsve Moore, diretcor of the play The Full Monty, which starts its run at Te Awamutu's Woolshed Theatre from Saturday September 2.
Ticket sales support prostate cancer research and are available through iTicket.co.nz... They have Ladies Night performances on the Fridays.
Published: 2/09/2023 10:30:00 p.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - Kyle Mewburn – 17-08-2023( 0:13:42)
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Kyle Mewburn has been writing full time for over 25 years, creating dynamic picture books for children and writing youth fiction. Kyle spoke with Cate Prestidge about her work & upcoming workshop in Hamilton.
Published: 17/08/2023 12:00:00 p.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - Raymond McGrath – 10-08-2023( 0:12:3)
Episode Information
Raymond McGrath is a storyteller who creates work for print and moving media. He’s coming to Kirikiriroa as part of Hamilton Book Month, including running a practical, creative workshop on story developments and publishing.
Published: 15/08/2023 2:15:00 p.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Jacqui Church - 09-08-2023( 0:14:20)
Episode Information
Waikato District Mayor Jacqui Church joins Free FM's Gary Farrow for the first of her fortnightly interviews about what's on the agenda for the district. Church is so passionate about her role as mayor that she has chosen to live in a caravan near Council HQ, with one constituent fondly dubbing her the "gypsy mayor".
Published: 9/08/2023 11:00:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – 07-08-2023( 0:6:33)
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Labour List MP for Taranaki and the King Country, Angela Roberts, discusses the upcoming general election, and the newly announced Auckland Harbour crossing and its relevance to the motu as a whole.
Published: 7/08/2023 11:00:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – 03-08-2023( 0:12:53)
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Former Writer in residence at Waikato University, Richard von Sturmer, is returning to Kirikiriroa for Hamilton Book Month
He speaks with Cate Prestidge ahead of the launch of his book Walking with Rocks, Dreaming with Rivers: My Year in the Waikato.
Published: 4/08/2023 7:30:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – 03-08-2023( 0:13:34)
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Feana Tu’akoi started writing stories when her children were young, and now has over 230 titles to her name. She speaks with Cate Prestidge about her early life and works, including her latest book Lopini the Legend, which will be launched during Hamilton Book Month.
Published: 4/08/2023 7:30:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Bike Waikato - 02-08-2023( 0:14:38)
Episode Information
Bike Waikato chair Melissa Smith talks with Free FM's Gary Farrow about the Climate Emergency Relief Fund (CERF) projects that were approved by Hamilton City Council, and also has a look at further proposals yet to be considered before the Transport and Infrastructure Committee.
Published: 2/08/2023 10:00:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Liam Carter – 01-08-2023( 0:12:2)
Episode Information
Founder of Ride Your Trike NZ, Liam Carter joined Mike Williams to talk about their next fundraising event, a Rock N Roll night which is a fully accessible family event to be held on Saturday August 26 at Zeal in Hamilton with snacks included with a ticket. Fundraiser and celebration of self-propelled community mobility for mixed abilities with any proceeds going towards Ride Your Trike NZ Kirikiriroa activities and promotion.
Published: 1/08/2023 10:00:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - Brannavan Gnanalingam - 27-07-2023( 0:16:12)
Episode Information
Hamilton Book Month is about to kick off, starting with the Fiction Panel on Tuesday August 1st. Panelist, writer, reviewer and lawyer Brannavan Gnanalingam joins Cate Prestidge to talk about his influences, the ideas and inspiration for his seven novels to date, and how he approaches his work.
Published: 27/07/2023 10:30:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - Lee Murray - 27-07-2023( 0:14:28)
Episode Information
Lee Murray is a multi-award winning novelist, with over 40 titles. She recently returned from Stoker.Con, an international festival for writers in the horror and speculative fiction genres, where she won her 5th Bram Stoker award. Lee joins Cate Prestidge ahead of her appearance on the Fiction Panel and workshop, taking place as part of Hamilton Book Month.
Published: 27/07/2023 10:30:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - Stones in His Pockets – 29-06-2023( 0:12:4)
Episode Information
Cate Prestidge talsk with Chris Green, guest director at Morrinsville Theatre, about the play Stones in His Pockets. It's an Irish tragi-comedy featuring two actors, playing 15 characters on stage and it opens for a six-performance season from July 7. Tickets are available from iTicket.co.nz.
Published: 29/06/2023 10:00:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - Launched 2023 – 29-06-2023( 0:7:14)
Episode Information
Cate Prestudge talks with AJ about the Disability Arts Festival Trust event 'Launched' which is back for 2023. Launched 2023 is at Southwell School's Performing Arts Centre, 200 Peachgrove Road, Hamilton. Entry for spectators is by koha/gold coin. There will be two Shows, again this year, one at 10.30am and the other at 6pm. Participants and spectators are very welcome to come to one or both events.
Published: 29/06/2023 10:00:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Jamie Strange - 26-06-2023( 0:10:28)
Episode Information
Fieldays, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins' visit to China, and National's campaign launch are all on the agenda for Jamie Strange, Labour MP for Hamilton West, as he speaks with Mike Williams on the Free Breakfast.
Published: 26/06/2023 10:45:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Bots vs Beings - 09-06-2023( 0:20:1)
Episode Information
Professor Nick Agar joins Mike Williams in the studio to talk about 'Bots vs Beings: How Will AI Impact Your Life and Work?' - an open panel discussion on Tuesday 13 June 2023, 5:45pm Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts.
Published: 9/06/2023 9:15:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast - Jamie Strange – 29-05-2023( 0:11:31)
Episode Information
Now in the twilight days of his time in Parliament, Labour MP Jamie Strange, who has represented the Hamilton East electorate for the current term, reflects on the 2023 Labour Party Conference, the handful of policies that were announced, and his plans to maintain a local focus in the coming months leading up to the General Election.
Published: 29/05/2023 11:45:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Te Huia 24-05-2023( 0:8:54)
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The Hamilton-Auckland train has now hauled 100,000 passengers since it began. Jennifer Nickel, chair of the Climate Action Committee at Waikato Regional Council, talks about it with Free FM's Gary Farrow.
Published: 24/05/2023 10:30:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Bike Waikato - 24-05-2023( 0:11:45)
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The Road to Zero - is it possible to have zero serious injuries of fatalities happening on our roads? Melissa Smith, chair of Bike Waikato, discusses it with Free FM's Gary Farrow in their fortnightly catch up.
Published: 24/05/2023 10:30:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Keb Hart - 12-05-2023( 0:19:19)
Episode Information
Americana-tinged folk and blues musician Keb Hart from Cambridge joins Mike in the studio for an interview and a song. Keeping it local for NZ Music Month, Keb was this week's Featured EP on the Free Breakfast.
Published: 12/05/2023 9:45:00 a.m.
Free FM – The Free Breakfast – Rainbow Hub - 02-05-2023( 0:11:55)
Episode Information
Rainbow Hub Waikato is an identity-affirming charity dedicated to providing safe spaces, support and education. Team Free FM has taken advantage of their education services, and gives it a big two thumbs up! They’re launching a crowdfunding campaign to get the road to support a range of our Rainbow whaanau throughout the Waikato, and on this morning’s Free Breakfast Sese and Nate joined Kelli in the studio to talk about their work.
Published: 2/05/2023 10:00:00 a.m.