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What does it mean to feel safe enough to create? In this episode of Around the Table, host Arpége Taratoa is joined by creatives Lisa Rooney and Ayesha Kee, who share their journeys building inclusive, intentional spaces for creative expression. From sapphic pop-ups and drag shows to kaupapa Māori arts festivals and DJ booths, they reflect on the importance of emotional and cultural safety in unlocking creativity. Lisa shares the story behind Gingers (a sapphic events platform born out of a need for queer community connection) and its evolution into gatherings like Bush Camp. Ayesha brings insight from her broad experience across the arts, from music retail and deejaying in Wellington to coordinating major kaupapa Māori events and running Ngā Tohu Toi awards night for Tauranga Moana. Learn about: the power of representation and visibility in creative environments; how events can foster trust and inclusion through intentional design; and what it means to amplify marginalised voices responsibly.

In this special NZ Music Month episode, host Arpége Taratoa is joined by musician and educator Elisha Fa’i So’oialo, singer-songwriter Lizzy Kula, and Creative Bay of Plenty’s own Rose Treadwell for an intimate kōrero exploring the powerful relationship between music and wellbeing. The guests share stories of how music shapes identity, connects communities, and supports healing — for artists, students, and everyday people. From the roots of Pacific choral singing to the therapeutic potential of collective voice work, this episode reveals how music is a force for expression, connection, and restoration. Key themes include the vulnerability of publishing original music, the joy of communal singing, and music's role in cultural storytelling. Tune in for a heartening, honest, and joy-filled conversation that reminds us that everyone has a soundtrack to their life.

In this mouthwatering episode of Around The Table, Arpége Taratoa speaks with culinary creatives Malika Ganley, Adele Hall, and Scott Featherstone, exploring the world of the Flavours of Plenty Festival. Get an insider’s look at how daring dish ideas are born from collaboration, experimentation, and a passion for food. Enjoy candid stories about kitchen creativity and the artful science behind beer brewing. Tune in for a blend of culinary storytelling, tips on the industry, and a taste of the future of food and drink in the Bay.

In this powerful episode of Around The Table, host Arpége Taratoa is joined by Arohanoa Mathews, Nadia Marychurch, and Max Yeager to explore Reindigenising Creativity and the vital role of mātauranga Māori in the arts. They discuss the journey of reconnecting with whakapapa, the significance of whenua in artistic practice, and the responsibility of Māori artists in storytelling and sustainability. From Nadia’s use of whenua as both material and message, to Arohanoa’s Hono Collection blending textiles with whakapapa, to Max’s work in visual storytelling and digital media, this kōrero highlights the importance of embedding tikanga in creative work. The guests share insights on navigating identity, embracing both Māori and Pākehā whakapapa, and ensuring that Māori voices and perspectives remain at the forefront of Aotearoa’s creative landscape. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the past, present, and future of Māori arts.

This episode explores the intersection of nature and creativity—how their unpredictability and interconnection benefit our wellbeing and shape one another. Kim Fifield is an artist using natural materials like algae-based bioplastics and root systems in her sustainable art practice. Emily Arnold is a passionate flower grower from Turntable Hill Farm. She shares how her love for dahlias and storytelling fuels her creations. Kalena Egan, a "pēpi of the taiao" and advocate for permaculture, discusses her journey into te reo Māori and her deep connection to the whenua.

Host Arpége Taratoa chats with local authors Lee Murray, Charlotte Lobb, and Donna Goodacre, all of whom feature at the Escape Festival in Tauranga from 18-20 October 2024. Discover Charlotte’s insights from her debut novel Hannah & Huia, aimed at reducing mental health stigma; Donna’s journey with Finding Miriama, a historical novel born from a family project; and Lee’s exploration of speculative fiction and its 'what if' narratives. Join us for an inspiring conversation on storytelling's power and its role in well-being. Plus, get a sneak peek at Escape Festival events—grab your tickets at www.taurangafestival.co.nz!

Art can take heavy, complex subjects and translate them into something more digestible for the masses; it is such a powerful tool for social change. In this episode, host Arpége Taratoa chats with three creatives—Ria Hall, Sian Evans, and Ana Mendina—who discuss how art can serve as a medium for communicating important historical narratives and creating deeper understanding; how important it is to create safe spaces for marginalised artists and communities; and how art can act as a bridge between audiences and critical social issues. They also dive into the fine balance between creating political art and the perception of art as pretty pictures, and how, even in the face of negative responses, artists will continue to push boundaries. We hope you enjoy this episode.

We explore the profound connections and stories behind public art with artists Kell Sunshine, Graham Hoete (Mr G), and Maraea Timutimu. Hear about the power of visual storytelling to connect with Aotearoa New Zealand’s whenua and rangatahi, essential tools and strategies for artists to align with clients and the practicalities of different materials, and the balance between aspirational projects and grassroots connections. Catch this inspiring kōrero about the role of public art in community, connection, and wellbeing.

In this episode we delve into the world of AI, creative arts, and storytelling. Our host Arpége Taratoa leads a kōrero with artist Kereama Taepa, filmmaker Rob Morgenstern, and leading advocate for Māori in technology, Lee Timutimu. The panel explore how technology is reshaping creative expression and storytelling in Aotearoa. From the transformative potential of AI in visual storytelling to the ethical considerations of cultural representation, our guests share their experiences and concerns. They discuss bridging the digital divide, ensuring Māori voices are heard in AI development, and the importance of preserving cultural authenticity amidst technological advancements. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on navigating the evolving landscape of digital creativity and cultural heritage.

Tuatara Collective - Jason Te Mete Ari Grant - Coaching Jennie Halliday - Arts For Therapy

In this episode, new host Arpége Taratoa speaks with Amelia Walters and Beau White on the intersection of creativity, fashion, and queerness. Beau shares his personal journey with Transcend Garments and how fashion intersects with his identity as a queer individual. Amelia reflects on her colourful upbringing in Brighton and the culture shift she experienced moving to Tauranga. All three discuss the relationship between creativity and the LGBTQIA+ community, highlighting the importance of self-expression and pushing societal norms. We hope you enjoy hearing from these three fabulous individuals!

Step into the minds of the visionary leaders driving the revival of Tauranga’s city centre. We sit down with Sonya Korohina, (Director of Tauranga Art Gallery), Rachelle Duffy (Little Big Events, Our Place Magazine), and Greg McManus, (Director of Museums), as they discuss the grand plans to reshape Tauranga’s city centre. It’s a nod to the transformative power of civic leadership – and to the importance of engaging with your community at each step of the development.

Mount Maunganui local Billie Scott got her first camera aged ten. Although she was passionate about photography, she didn't believe it could be a career and pursued science instead. Eventually spotting a gap in the market for videographers, she decided to take the plunge, teaching herself everything she needed to know. Today, Billie balances her need for a fast-paced lifestyle between creativity and sport, and an average day in her life "depends on the waves".

Esraa Muse doesn't like putting her art in boxes, but some people call her a rockstar in a garden - pretty with an edge - which also describes her singing style. This is a powerful discussion of striving for your dreams in spite of pain.