In the competitive world of real estate, what sets one agent apart from the rest? This was the burning question at the center of the latest episode of Hotline, hosted by Sean Rush and co-host Sarah Jane Seddon. Joining them was Chris Yiavasis, a seasoned real estate agent from Lowe & Co, who offered his insights into Wellington’s Eastern Suburbs market and the complexities of the industry.https://youtu.be/7Ejk2Dy1naYA Lighthearted Start with Serious Real Estate ExpertiseBroadcasted from the vibrant setting of San Diablo in Courtney Place, the episode began with casual banter about Chris’s extensive 15-year experience in the real estate market, particularly…

https://youtu.be/cHGR7EWZW4k What makes someone passionate about organizing cultural festivals and serving the community? How does one balance charity, work, and vibrant event planning? These were just a few of the questions that made the latest episode of HOTLINE engaging and insightful. Hosted by Sean Rush and Sara Jane Seddon, the show welcomed Gurpreet Dhillon, a dynamic figure in Wellington’s Indian community, to share his story. What’s so special about Hutt Valley Diwali Festival? Kicking off the interview, Gurpreet spoke with enthusiasm about the upcoming Hutt Valley Diwali Festival. Scheduled for October 20th at the Indian Cultural Centre in Petone, this…

https://youtu.be/20ddIf91abU Ian Harrison is a highly respected economist renowned for his expertise in financial regulation and economic policy, particularly in managing low-probability, high-impact events such as financial crises and natural disasters. His career has seen him work with prominent global institutions, including the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, where he significantly contributed to shaping financial regulatory frameworks. As the principal at Tailrisk Economics, Harrison has authored numerous influential reports that critically assess the adequacy of financial regulations, offering valuable insights into the resilience of financial systems against potential economic shocks. Challenging Climate Change Policies Harrison’s work extends to examining the…

https://youtu.be/_vCeWE4-MDc A Wellington Native with Deep Roots in Real EstateSteve Goodey is a well-known figure in New Zealand’s property investment community, boasting over two decades of experience. Born and raised in Wellington, Steve has stayed closely connected to his hometown, where he has amassed a significant portfolio of residential properties. His journey into property investment began in the early 2000s, and over the years, he has successfully navigated the complex and often unpredictable real estate market, becoming one of the country’s leading authorities on the subject.Focusing on Residential Property and Countercyclical InvestingSteve’s investment strategy is heavily focused on residential properties,…

New Zealand, a stunning island nation in the South Pacific, captivates with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From its pristine beaches and majestic mountains to vibrant cities and serene countryside, this country offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern charm. Known for its friendly locals and outdoor adventure opportunities, New Zealand is a haven for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Despite its small size, it boasts a remarkable range of climates and ecosystems. Dive into these 11 intriguing facts about New Zealand and discover what makes this land truly exceptional.1. Snake-free Paradise:New Zealand is one of…

https://youtu.be/EPmNcOeyZTU In a recent interview, Mike Egan, a well-respected restaurateur and owner of the iconic Monsoon Poon in Wellington, shared his insights into the challenges and potential of Courtenay Place, a central hub of the city’s nightlife and hospitality scene. Egan, who has been a part of the industry for over 44 years, began his career as a waiter at Cobb & Co in Lower Hutt and has since expanded his business portfolio to include several renowned establishments such as Bullcott Street Bistro and Burger Liquor.The Impact of City Projects on BusinessesEgan spoke candidly about the upcoming city council project…

https://youtu.be/B-0ki_KKi3c Wellington City Council’s decision to sell its 34% stake in Wellington International Airport has sparked significant debate, both within the council and among the public. The move, intended to address financial challenges and establish a “Perpetual Green Investment Fund,” has been met with mixed reactions, especially from councilors who feel the decision contradicts previous commitments.Councilor Nureddin Abdurahman, who represents the Southern/Paekawakawa ward, has been one of the most vocal critics of the sale. “Whose idea was this? We didn’t campaign on it. All of us, before the elections, advocated that we were not going to sell it, so why…

https://youtu.be/Y2OAY7RbxuM In the early hours of the morning, long before the sun rises, dedicated trampers begin their journey through one of New Zealand’s most grueling tramping challenges. By Friday night, the walk ends, only for them to rise again at 4 a.m. on Saturday. They push through 16-17 hours of relentless trekking, snatch a few hours of sleep, and repeat the feat on Sunday. This relentless pace takes them through more than 7,000 vertical meters of climbing—equivalent to summiting Mount Everest twice from base camp.Andy Carruthers is a name synonymous with tramping in New Zealand, particularly in the Tararua Range.…

https://youtu.be/uITq6Tw40xo On the latest episode of “HOTLINE,” hosts Sean Rush and Graham Bloxham delved into the future of Wellington’s tech scene with industry stalwart Fraser. Fraser, a visionary with deep roots in the tech world, shared compelling insights into the evolution and challenges facing Wellington’s tech ecosystem.Fraser reminisced about his early advocacy for economic development dating back to 1924, highlighting a failed initiative for a technology valley akin to Silicon Valley. Despite setbacks, his passion for fostering a tech hub in Wellington never wavered. “We aimed to create a technology valley,” he explained, “but funding and evolving dynamics hindered progress.”…

https://youtu.be/ZdLmb0_3dno “This is just basic 101 project management. You start with the ground—what’s underneath the ground,” says Steve Piper is a early child care centre owner, educator and fighter for Thorndon Quay construction disruption., a frustrated business owner in Thorndon. Steve, along with many other local business owners, is grappling with the fallout from recent construction work that has wreaked havoc on the town’s infrastructure.Thorndon, once a bustling community with thriving businesses, now finds itself at the center of controversy. The construction project, intended to create new cycling paths at the expense of existing car lanes, has unintentionally exposed and…