Tasman Report

About Tasman Report

Tasman Report is a fortnightly podcast about the work of your council. Each episode draws on business from council committees and community boards, plus stories from staff working across parks and reserves, planning, infrastructure, biosecurity, ports and marine, planning, and emergency management. You will hear directly from the council team and elected members on the projects, and ideas building a thriving, resilient Tasman region. If you have a topic you would like to hear more on or if you would like to hear from a particular Elected Member or staff, please let us know and we will do our best to cover it in an upcoming episode. You can email the team on tasman.communications@tasman.govt.nz.

Publisher

Fresh FM

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

29 Jan 2026

Latest episode

14 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

15 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   14 Sept 2026

   Episode 15

   What can the stories of our past tell us about planning for the future? This week on Tasman Report, we explore that question with historian, author, and publisher Dr Carol Dawber, whose work has captured the voices, experiences and achievements of the people who helped build Te Tauihu. From early settlement and mining to the ships and coastal services that connected communities, these stories are more than a record of what has gone before. They show how earlier generations made choices, took opportunities, and built lasting foundations for the communities we live in today. That connection sits at the heart of the Legends of Mohua Aorere exhibition at Richmond Library which been produced by the TDC Environmental Policy Team. The exhibition tells the story of the region’s historic ports, ships, and industries, while looking forward to the opportunity presented by a 30-year Joint Regional Spatial Plan for Nelson-Tasman. Just as the people and enterprises featured in the exhibition created foundations that shaped the region for generations, the Regional Spatial Plan is about thinking ahead – making informed choices about growth, infrastructure, housing, environment, and resilience so that future generations have strong foundations to build on. We talk with Carol about her first book, Bainham: A History, researching oral histories, preserving family archives and the importance of recording the stories that might otherwise be lost. We also explore what history can teach us about our identity, our place, and the choices we make for tomorrow. Tasman Report is a production of Tasman District Council, broadcast fortnightly on Fresh FM, Mondays at 5.30pm. Finally, if your family has a connection to the Anchor Shipping Company, we would love to hear about those stories for the Legends oral archive, just email us at environmentalpolicyteam@tasman.govt.nz

2. 

   28 Aug 2026

   Episode 14

   In this episode of Tasman Report, John Bullock explores two stories connected by the region’s relationship with water. Richard Kirby, Tasman District Council’s Group Manager for Three Waters, discusses the changes affecting water services and what Local Water Done Well means for Tasman. We have details about the Legends of Mohua Aorere exhibition at Richmond Library. The exhibition tells the story of ports and coastal shipping from the mid-1800s to the mid-1900s. The episode concludes with a recording of the Merchant Navy Day commemoration address given at the ANZAC Park War Memorial on 29 August 2026, by retired Royal New Zealand Navy Commander Peter Cozens. Tasman Report is produced by Tasman District Council

3. 

   7 Aug 2026

   Episode 13

   Tasman Report – Episode 13 Pests, bird life and the big environmental picture In Episode 13 of Tasman Report, we look at some of the environmental issues affecting the Tasman District – from the threat posed by Taiwan cherry to the region’s remarkable bird life. In this episode Golden Bay Community Board Grant Knowles discusses the Board’s August meeting and the issues affecting the Golden Bay community. Taiwan cherry – a noxious pest It may sound like a cocktail, but Taiwan cherry is a noxious pest. Lindsay Barber, Tasman District Council Senior Biosecurity Officer with the Environmental Services Team, explains what it is, why it matters and what to do if you find it. For more details check out this website: https://www.tasman.govt.nz/my-region/environment/environmental-management/pests-and-weeds Or call: Tasman District Council: Phone 03 543 8400 Nelson City Council: Phone 03 546 0200 Tasman’s bird life Council ecologist with the Environmental Services Team, Matt Moss introduces some of the remarkable bird life found across Tasman and explains more about the region’s natural environment. Environmental Services – the bigger picture Rob Smith, Group Manager Environmental Services, talks about the wider work of Council’s Environmental Services team. Bird flu surveillance A reminder about what to do if you encounter sick or dead wild birds. If you see three or more sick or dead wild birds together, report them to MPI on 0800 80 99 66.

4. 

   24 Jul 2026

   Episode 12

   Episode 12 of Tasman Report brings together key updates, policy discussions, and stories from across the Tasman District. Submissions are now open for Plan Change 81 – Urban Development and Change 1 to the Tasman Regional Policy Statement, closing Monday 3 August 2026. Team Leader Urban and Rural Policy Jeremy Butler outlines the benefits of the plan, what it means for growth in Tasman, and how to make a submission. Urban Growth Plan Change 81 https://shape.tasman.govt.nz/urban-growth-PC81 We also explore the proposed Community Occupancy Policy, this covers community group use Council-owned land or buildings to carry out its activities. Feedback is now open on Shape Tasman thru to Sunday9 August 2026. Community Occupancy Policy | Shape Tasman https://shape.tasman.govt.nz/community-occupancy-policy A new initiative for dog owners is underway, with the introduction of lifetime dog registration tags. Designed to reduce waste and make it easier to reunite lost pets with their owners, the new system replaces annual plastic tags with a single durable tag for life. We then head “Up the Lake” with author Annette Walker, who shares the story behind her book on Lake Rotoiti. Drawing on a remarkable international career and a deep connection to the area, Annette reflects on the people, history, and landscape that inspired her work. Finally, a reminder for residents with backyard birds to take precautions against bird flu. Information on how to protect your flock and report suspected cases is available via the Ministry for Primary Industries. If you see three or more sick or dead wild birds together, report them to the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) by calling 0800 80 99 66 or reporting them online. Avoid touching or handling sick or dead birds. For practical advice, including a short video on protecting your flock, visit the MPI website www.mpi.govt.nz and search "bird flu and backyard birds."

5. 

   26 Jun 2026

   Episode 11

   Plan Change 81 on urban growth is now open for submissions. Jeremy Butler from the Urban and Rural Policy Team explains what the plan aims to achieve and how you can have your say: https://shape.tasman.govt.nz/urban-growth-PC81/council-agrees-notify-urban-growth-plan-changes Council has adopted its 2026/2027 Annual Plan. Hear staff briefings from the meeting, along with Mayor Tim King outlining the context behind elected members’ decisions. Preparations for the H5N1 bird flu threat are well underway nationally and locally. Guinevere Coleman, Marine and Terrestrial Biosecurity Manager, joins us to discuss what’s being done. Learn more: https://www.tasman.govt.nz/my-region/environment/environmental-management/biosecurity/update-on-avian-bird-flu-threat-to-new-zealand Plus, Motueka and Golden Bay communities are advocating for local driver licence testing. Find out how this grassroots effort is gaining momentum and how you can get involved.

6. 

   12 Jun 2026

   Episode 10

   How far can a spatial plan take us? In this episode, we explore the potential and real-world impact of spatial planning. We visit the Moutere and the Old House Road Weir, take a closer look at the work of Mohua 2042 in Golden Bay, and discuss how Tasman can position itself in relation to international data on disaster preparedness.

7. 

   29 May 2026

   Episode 09

   Tasman Report catches up with CEO Leonie Rae as we talk about the Annual Plan, local government reform, Plan Change 81 and, the challenges and achievements in the year to date. Joseph Thomas shares the “water of our summer” story and if you haven’t figured out the “how to” for a good compost this episode is for you. Links mentioned in the show For the next Information Forum Meeting go to https://www.tasman.govt.nz/my-council/meetings/meetings-calendar Check out the composting page here https://www.tasman.govt.nz/my-community/a-sustainable-community/rethink-waste/compost-worm-farms-and-bokashi More information on Plan Change 81 and Change 1 to the Tasman Regional Policy Statement (TRPS) at https://shape.tasman.govt.nz/urban-growth-PC81 and the Plan Change webinar https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rt4w1Vo8Dz4&t=999s

8. 

   8 May 2026

   Episode 08

   In this episode of Tasman Report, we feature the latest moves from central government on proposed council amalgamations and a personal perspective from Tim King. We also spotlight the Motueka Community Board, with chair Claire Hutt reflecting on how the new board has settled in and its early priorities. The episode also covers progress on recovery from the June–July 2025 floods, with updates on infrastructure works and an overview of how insurance supports recovery efforts. Looking ahead, Jeremy Butler outlines the upcoming notification of Plan Change 81 and changes to the Tasman Regional Policy Statement, while Mayor Tim King closes with recognition of ANZAC Day volunteers.

9. 

   24 Apr 2026

   Episode 07

   In this episode, the Plan Stop has been lifted for Plan Change 81, the Tasman Annual Plan 2026–2027 is now open for public feedback, and a new road safety speed campaign is underway across the district. We also highlight the upcoming Mohua Emergency Preparedness Expo, taking place at the Golden Bay Recreation Park Centre over the weekend of Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 May. The expo is designed to raise awareness and help communities prepare for emergencies such as earthquakes, flooding, and wildfires—especially when Golden Bay becomes isolated. It offers practical guidance for households, animal care, and community response. On Saturday from 9am to 2pm, free sandbags will be available to help residents prepare for potential flooding. On Sunday, from 10am to 4pm, the full expo will be in action, featuring interactive displays for all ages, guest speakers, market stalls, entertainment, food trucks, and emergency vehicles. This free event is brought to you by Tasman District Council, in partnership with Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Civil Defence Emergency Management, Hato Hone St John, and Mohua 2042—a community-led trust supporting a resilient and regenerative future for Golden Bay. Volunteers are still needed for the weekend. If you’re able to help, please get in touch with Andy at mohua2042@gmail.com

10. 

    10 Apr 2026

    Episode 06

    In this episode, we follow the future of Natural Hazards Plan Change 85 as it transitions into upcoming Spatial Plan work under RMA reform. We feature discussion from the Council Chambers on options for the plan change. Also in this report: the release of the Tasman Inundation Practice Note, and the Annual Plan 2026/27, which is now open for feedback until 3 May at shape.tasman.govt.nz.

11. 

    27 Mar 2026

    Episode 05

    In this episode Mayor Tim King is in front of the Environment Select Committee meeting with Barry Johnson Environmental Policy Manager speaking to the Tasman submission on the Natural Environment and Planning Bills. Read the submission here... https://www.tasman.govt.nz/my-council/key-documents/tasman-resource-management-plan/legislation-council-submissions We talk wood for winter, and the service provided by our Good Wood Suppliers, check them out here... https://tasman.govt.nz/link/good-wood And Golden Bay Community Board Chair Grant Knowles shares the feedback from the Board’s recent community drop-in sessions.

12. 

    20 Mar 2026

    Episode 04

    This episode features highlights from the Wednesday, 17 March, Information Forum Meeting and the presentation of the Environmental Policy Quarterly Review Report. We hear discussion about Plan Changes 81 and 84, anticipated growth projections, and the Motueka Master Plan. The Port Nelson 125th Anniversary Open Day on Sunday, 22 March, showcases the Legends of Mohua Aorere exhibition, which tells the story of the Golden Bay–Tasman ports, wharves, and coastal shipping from the 1800s to the mid-1900s. We also talk with Antarctic and marine artist Sean Garwood about his painting Felicity and the Blind Bay Hookers, featured in the Legends exhibition — a work that transports the viewer back to a golden age of coastal trade

13. 

    27 Feb 2026

    Episode 03

    In this episode, we hear from new Golden Bay Community Board Chair David Knowles about his priorities for the triennium, how the Board can better champion local concerns and ideas to Council, and what’s hoped to be achieved at the upcoming March community drop-in sessions. The sessions will run from 6.00 pm to 8.00 pm at the following locations: Pākawau Hall – 2 March, Bainham Hall – 3 March, Onekaka Hall – 4 March, Golden Bay Rec Park Centre – 5 March, East Tākaka Hall – 9 March, and Upper Tākaka Hall – 10 March. We then turn to the Strategy, Finance and Performance Committee for discussion about how national economic trends are influencing Tasman and the impact of interest rates on funding for the June–July recovery work. There’s also an update on the Lower Queen Street Bridge Capacity Upgrade project in Richmond, the latest Annual Quality Report, and what’s being done to manage the safe disposal of lithium-ion batteries following a spate of fires at our Resource Recovery Centres.

14. 

    13 Feb 2026

    Episode 02

    In this episode, we feature highlights from the first full council meeting of the new triennium and the launch of a new Information Forum designed to strengthen governance and ensure all voices are heard. We explore what “local water done well” means for the community, including the endorsement of a Water Services Delivery Plan and the establishment of a new in-house business unit to manage water services into the future. Hear the thinking behind the options considered and what this approach aims to achieve. There’s also an opportunity to have your say on the future of local parks and reserves, with community feedback now open. We unpack the difference between parks and reserves and how you can help shape these valued public spaces. Plus, an update on the Motueka River Stopbank Refurbishment project, building on previous improvements and continuing important flood protection work for residents and businesses. We also look ahead to the upcoming Positive Ageing Expo and check in with participants in this year’s summer internship programme to hear how hands-on local government experience is helping shape future careers.

15. 

    29 Jan 2026

    Episode 01

    Tasman Report a fortnightly news wrap about what’s happening in your council. In this episode a new committee structure, submissions on the RMA replacement bills, the granny flats need to know, mooring licences and the lifejacket library, local alcohol policy feedback and a June July Floods recovery update.

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.