What's your show about?
When I first started on Arrow FM, the idea was pretty simple — talk about what’s happening in our community, share some information and updates, and hopefully have some good conversations along the way.
The show started out with more of a focus on council issues and things that matter to our community, including the Queen Street Upgrade, Town Hall, Community Grants and other local updates. But it has grown into much more than that.
One of the best parts has been having the opportunity to talk with some of the amazing people who are doing great things in our community, such as Joe from Kim’s Way Night Refuge. Those conversations really remind you just how many incredible people and organisations are out there doing their bit to make our community a better place.
I never really expected the programme to become what it has, but I’m enjoying the journey. It’s become a chance to talk about the issues that matter, but also to celebrate the people, stories and things that make our community special.
How do you put your show together?
I usually start by thinking about what’s topical, what might be of interest to our community, and what people might want to know more about. From there, I think about who might be available to have a chat about the topic and bring their knowledge and perspective to the conversation.
It’s really about finding a balance between what’s happening locally, what matters to people and the interesting stories and people that are part of our community. And I have to give a big shout-out to the amazing Michael, who helps me with the intro and finishing music. He makes the show sound a whole lot flashier than I actually am — so I’m very grateful for that!
There’s a bit of planning involved, but I also like to leave room for the conversation to take its own direction. Sometimes the best parts of the show are the things you didn’t necessarily plan for.
What does it mean to be part of the Arrow FM whānau?
Being part of the Arrow FM whānau has been a fantastic experience. I had never done radio before, so there was definitely a bit of a “What have I got myself into?” moment at the beginning!
But from day one, I’ve felt really welcomed and supported by the team. They’ve given me the confidence to give it a go, learn as I go and, most importantly, enjoy it.
Radio has given me a different way to connect with our community — beyond social media and face-to-face conversations. I’ve met and connected with people I may not otherwise have had the opportunity to meet, and those relationships have been one of the real highlights for me.
Being part of Arrow FM has also helped me become a more informed and connected member of our community. I’m grateful for the opportunity to listen, learn, ask questions and share what’s happening with the wider community.
Most of all, I’m grateful to the Arrow FM team for making someone who had never done radio before feel like part of the whānau. I’m still learning the ropes — but I’m having a lot of fun along the way!
