Episode Playlist
Episode 118 - Songs about men( 0:28:30)
Episode Information
A programme of Italian music and culture produced by Manawatū People's Radio with the support of New Zealand on Air.
Published: 8/07/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Kia Ora Italia Episode 117 ( 0:27:43)
Episode Information
Franco celebrates songs inspired by women’s names, featuring a mix of Italian and international hits such as Gloria, Caterina, Chiara, Manuela, Lisa, and Margherita. The episode explores the stories, emotions, and cultural impact behind these songs, highlighting themes of love, memory, and nostalgia through music.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 25/06/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 116( 0:28:30)
Episode Information
Franco features a vibrant selection of Italian music, highlighting artists such as Modà with Emma, Alex Britti, Alessandra Amoroso, Gianna Nannini, and Gigi Finizio. The programme explores themes of love, emotion, and relationships through song, with Franco providing context about each artist and track.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 18/06/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 115( 0:28:27)
Episode Information
Franco Vaccarino presents a curated selection of Italian songs exploring themes of love, jealousy, nostalgia, vulnerability, and emotional connection, featuring artists such as Bianca Atzei, Gigi D’Alessio, Elodie, Loredana Bertè, Alessandra Amoroso, and Valentina Stella.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 11/06/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 114( 0:28:27)
Episode Information
Franco explores Italian music inspired by cities such as Rome, Florence, Alghero, Venice and Sorrento, highlighting how songs capture themes of memory, identity, nostalgia and emotional connection to place through a diverse selection of artists and styles.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 4/06/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 113 - Italian Jazz( 0:27:55)
Episode Information
In this episode, Franco presents a special programme celebrating the Manawatū International Jazz and Blues Festival with a focus on Italian jazz. The show explores the history of jazz in Italy, from its early influences to the rise of Italian jazz ensembles, and features performances by the La Dolce Vita Jazz Quartet. Through jazz interpretations of well-known Italian classics, the episode highlights the fusion of traditional Italian music with jazz style and showcases the richness of Italy’s musical heritage.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 28/05/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 112( 0:28:24)
Episode Information
Franco takes listeners on a musical journey across Italy, exploring songs named after cities such as Rome, Florence, Alghero, Sorrento, Venice, and Foggia.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with the support of New Zealand on Air.
Published: 21/05/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Kia Ora Italia Episode 111( 0:28:21)
Episode Information
In this episode: Franco explores the deeper meaning of città in Italian music—far beyond simply “city,” it becomes a symbol of emotion, memory, and human connection. Featuring songs by Mango, Giuliano Palma, Massimo Ranieri, Negramaro, Gianni Morandi, and Africa Unite, the programme highlights how artists use the city as a backdrop for stories of love, longing, identity, and reflection. Through a mix of styles, the episode presents the city as both a physical place and a powerful metaphor for the heart.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 14/05/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 110 - Traditional Italian Folk Music( 0:28:34)
Episode Information
Franco explores the rich regional world of traditional Italian folk music—from lively dances like the Tarantella and Piedmont’s La Monferrina, to Sicilian pride, northern favourites like Angelina Bellangielina, Roman tradition with Barcarolo Romano, Venetian charm in Marietta va in gondola, and a moving Sardinian hymn Ave, Mama e Deo performed by Maria Carta. Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 7/05/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 109 ( 0:28:33)
Episode Information
Franco takes you back to the vibrant world of Italian music in the 1970s—a decade of creativity, social change, and unforgettable songs. He explores key movements from progressive rock and canzone d’autore to the early pulse that would lead toward Italo disco, featuring artists such as Mina, Drupi, I Collage, Pupo, Adriano Celentano, and Alan Sorrenti. Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 30/04/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Kia Ora Italia Episode 108 - Songs Beyond Borders( 0:28:39)
Episode Information
Franco celebrates multilingual music that blends Italian with other languages, highlighting how songs can bridge cultures and deepen emotional connection. Featuring international collaborations and bilingual performances by artists such as Andrea Bocelli with Celine Dion, Modà with Jarabe de Palo, Albano with Nadezhda Babkina, Laura Pausini with James Blunt, Eros Ramazzotti with Jin Lee, and Amy Stewart with Piero Mazzocchetti, the programme showcases the power of music to transcend language and unite audiences worldwide.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 23/04/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 107 - 76th Sanremo Festival( 0:28:36)
Episode Information
This programme explores a selection of standout songs from the 76th Sanremo Festival, held at the Teatro Ariston in February 2026. Featuring a mix of established artists and distinctive voices, the episode showcases performances by Serena Brancale, Francesco Renga, Malika Ayane, Elettra Lamborghini, Leo Gassmann, LDA with Aka 7even, and iconic singer Patty Pravo. Together, these tracks highlight the diversity, creativity, and enduring influence of Italy’s most prestigious music festival beyond the winning entry.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 16/04/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 106 - Julio Iglesias( 0:26:46)
Episode Information
Franco presents a romantic selection of songs by Julio Iglesias, one of the most successful and influential artists in Spanish‑language music. Focusing on his Italian recordings, the programme highlights Iglesias’ deep connection with Italian audiences and his ability to convey love, longing, and devotion across cultures and languages. Featuring classics such as Abrázame, Amore, Venezia a Settembre, and Stai, this episode celebrates the timeless charm of Iglesias’ smooth vocals and enduring love songs.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 9/04/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 105 - Andrea Bocelli: My Easter( 0:28:35)
Episode Information
This reflective episode invites listeners to relax and enjoy a curated selection of sacred and classical music from Andrea Bocelli’s album My Easter. Featuring duets, hymns, and timeless works by composers including Mozart, Gounod, Mascagni, and César Franck, the programme explores themes of peace, devotion, and spiritual beauty, concluding with warm Easter wishes and quiet inspiration.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 2/04/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 104 - Italian Indie ( 0:28:26)
Episode Information
Franco explores the world of Italian indie music, highlighting artists who blend poetic storytelling with modern, atmospheric sounds. The episode features music from Calcutta, The Giornalisti, Francesca Michielin, Giorgieness, Colombre with Maria Antonietta, and Levante, showcasing the diversity and emotional depth of contemporary Italian indie pop and rock.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 26/03/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 103( 0:28:0)
Episode Information
This episode features a selection of Italian classics and contemporary favourites, including Adriano Celentano’s Azzurro, festival performances from Maria Antonietta and Colombre, and timeless songs by Eros Ramazzotti, Il Volo, Lucio Dalla, and the duet by Fausto Leali and Mina. The playlist highlights iconic voices and celebrated melodies from across Italian music.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 19/03/2026 7:00:00 p.m.
Episode 102 - 2026 Sanremo Music Festival( 0:28:35)
Episode Information
In this episode, Franco features standout songs from the 2026 Sanremo Music Festival, including performances by Sal Da Vinci, Safe, Dito nella Piaga, Arisa, Fedez with Marco Masini, Night, Fulminacci and Elmer Mehta. The host highlights each of the top entries and shares a selection of tracks that showcase the variety and energy of this year’s competition.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 12/03/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 101 - International Women's Day( 0:28:19)
Episode Information
In this episode of Kia Ora Italia, Franco reflects on International Women’s Day, discussing its meaning, history, and the importance of recognising women’s strength, resilience, and contributions in all areas of life. The programme features a selection of Italian songs that honour and celebrate women, with brief explanations of each track’s themes and messages.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 5/03/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 100 - Timeless Italian Classics!( 0:28:36)
Episode Information
To celebrate the 100th episode of Kia Ora Italia, Franco shares a selection of the most beloved Italian songs of all time. This special episode features timeless classics including Con Te Partirò, Volare, Gloria, Quando, Quando, Quando, Felicità, ’O Sole Mio, and Caruso, performed by iconic artists such as Andrea Bocelli, Tiziano Ferro, Umberto Tozzi, and Lucio Dalla. A heartfelt musical journey through the passion, melody, and history of Italian music.
Produced by Manawatū People’s Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 26/02/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 99 - Inspired by Neil Diamond( 0:28:31)
Episode Information
This week, Franco explores the world of Neil Diamond through a uniquely Italian lens, sharing beautiful Italian‑language covers of his classics. From “Song Sung Blue” to “Cherry Cherry,” “I Got the Feeling,” “I’m a Believer,” “September Morn,” “Solitary Man,” “I Am… I Said,” and “Red Red Wine,” the show blends fun music history with heartfelt reflections on the artists who re‑imagined Diamond’s hits for Italian audiences.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with support from New Zealand On Air.
Published: 19/02/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 98 - San Valentino( 0:28:7)
Episode Information
Franco celebrates San Valentino with an intimate journey through the romantic soul of Neapolitan music, where emotion, tenderness and passion flow like poetry. He begins with “Torna a Surriento” performed by Gigi D’Alessio and Bianca Atzei, a heartfelt plea to return to the shores of Sorrento and to the warmth of love. The mood deepens with Peppino Di Capri’s enchanting “Palomma ’e notte,” a timeless serenade born from Salvatore Di Giacomo’s delicate verses, filled with longing and nocturnal sweetness. Franco then shares Carmelo Zappulla’s emotional “Sustantivo,” capturing the ache of separation and the restless nights of a heart waiting to be reunited. Intensity rises with the passionate plea “Nun t’aggia perdere,” a declaration of devotion that fears the pain of losing the one true love. He continues with Anthony’s “Stamm’ annurati,” a modern neomelodic celebration of overwhelming, all‑consuming affection. To close the programme, Franco presents “A’ cchiù bella ’e d’ ’o munno” by Ciro Renna and Ciro Rigione, a soaring tribute to love at first sight and the certainty that being together makes life complete.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with the support of New Zealand on Air.
Published: 12/02/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 97 - Gaetano Donizetti( 0:28:26)
Episode Information
Franco dedicates this episode to the life and music of Gaetano Donizetti, one of the towering figures of 19th‑century Italian opera and a master of the bel canto tradition. He begins with “Una furtiva lagrima” from L’elisir d’amore, highlighting its lyrical tenderness and timeless emotional purity. The journey continues into the haunting world of Lucia di Lammermoor with “Regnava nel silenzio,” where Lucia’s premonitory tale sets the opera’s tragic mood, followed by “Il dolce suono,” the famous “mad scene,” performed with ethereal fragility. Franco then shifts to comic brilliance with “Quel guardo il cavaliere” from Don Pasquale, showcasing Norina’s wit, charm and spirited personality. From Donizetti’s prolific French period, he presents “À mes amis, quel jour de fête” from La fille du régiment, a sparkling showpiece filled with vocal fireworks. To close, Franco offers the romantic serenade “Com’è gentil” from Don Pasquale, bringing the programme to a warm and lyrical finish.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with the support of New Zealand on Air.
Published: 5/02/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 96 - Contemporary Italian songs( 0:28:40)
Episode Information
Franco presents an emotionally rich selection of contemporary Italian songs, each exploring personal struggle, vulnerability and renewal. He opens with Gigi D’Alessio’s moving “Rosa e lacrime,” a dramatic ballad that uses the image of a rose to express the beauty and pain of a turbulent relationship. He then shares Cristina D’Avena and Malika Ayane’s tender duet “Pollyanna,” a nostalgic reimagining of a beloved theme that blends warmth, innocence and modern elegance. The journey continues with Rocco Hunt’s heartfelt “Mille volte ancora,” a raw and autobiographical portrait of home, roots and the contradictions of growing up. Franco follows with Tropico’s intimate “Meraviglioso,” a song of loss, healing and rediscovery, filled with atmospheric emotion. He then features Francesco Gabbani’s poetic “Follia d’amore,” reflecting on change, lightness and the quiet beauty of new beginnings. The Colours bring a spark of romantic energy with “Un ragazzo, una ragazza,” capturing the excitement and possibility of an unexpected encounter. To close the programme, Franco plays “Un selfie con la vita,” a reflective and uplifting track about resilience, self‑awareness and finding hope after hardship.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with the support of New Zealand on Air.
Published: 29/01/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 95 - Italian rap( 0:28:29)
Episode Information
Franco takes listeners on a powerful tour through the world of Italian rap, highlighting both its mainstream breakthrough and its deeper cultural roots. He begins with Jovanotti’s pioneering “Serenata rap,” a playful yet heartfelt classic that helped bring rap into the Italian mainstream. He then shifts to the socially conscious foundations of the genre with Frankie Hi‑NRG MC’s sharp and timeless “Quelli che benpensano,” a bold critique of hypocrisy and modern society. The journey continues with Neffa’s introspective “Aspettando il sole,” a milestone of 1990s Italian hip‑hop that blends pain, hope and emotional resilience. Franco then explores contemporary street rap with Sfera Ebbasta’s gritty “Visiera a becco,” capturing the struggles, ambitions and survival instincts of life on the margins. The evening’s energy rises with Marracash and Guè’s anthem “Love,” a fusion of raw honesty, personal history and the bond of the streets. To close, Franco shares Fabri Fibra’s explosive “Tranne te,” a fast‑paced, tongue‑in‑cheek track that showcases Fibra’s signature style and wraps up a dynamic journey through Italy’s rap evolution.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with the support of New Zealand on Air.
Published: 22/01/2026 7:30:00 p.m.
Episode 94 - The Sea( 0:28:36)
Episode Information
Franco takes listeners on a musical voyage dedicated to the sea — one of Italy’s greatest sources of inspiration. He begins with “Gente di mare” by Umberto Tozzi and Raf, a timeless anthem capturing the freedom, restlessness and wandering spirit of those who live by and upon the waves. The journey continues with Luca Carboni’s nostalgic “Mare mare,” a beloved classic that blends summertime longing with the desire for escape. Franco then brings the bright 1980s back to life through Giuni Russo’s iconic “Un’estate al mare,” celebrating beach holidays, carefree days and the magic of Italian summers. He follows with Daniele Silvestri’s evocative “A me ricordi il mare,” a poetic reflection on memory, emotion and the shifting tides of relationships. The programme then rises into operatic beauty with Andrea Bocelli’s breakthrough hit “Il mare calmo della sera,” a soaring hymn to serenity, desire and the sea at dusk. To close, Franco shares Vasco Rossi’s energetic “Voglio andare al mare,” ending the show with a splash of rock, humour and pure summertime enthusiasm.
Produced by Manawatū People's Radio with the support of New Zealand on Air.
Published: 15/01/2026 7:30:00 p.m.