Nine To Noon Around the motu: Robin Martin in Taranaki
Mar 12, 2026
Robin Martin, RNZ reporter in Taranaki who covers local stories and regional developments. He discusses WOMAD Aotearoa's planned return in 2027. He explains regional airlink cuts and travel frustrations. He outlines the unusual job-share where the regional CE is also interim New Plymouth CE and the resulting amalgamation tensions. He also notes hospital cats being restricted and a tourism boost from new hotel owners.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
WOMAD Aotearoa Set To Return After Purposeful Pause
- WOMAD Aotearoa announced a return in March 2027 after a purposeful pause, with organisers saying the break allowed refocus and renewed ambition.
- The festival historically drew up to 14–15,000 daily attendees and contributed an estimated $190 million to the region over 20 years.
Regional And District CE Job Share Spurs Amalgamation Talk
- Taranaki's regional and district councils are piloting a unique job-share where the regional council CE will also act as New Plymouth District Council's interim CE for a year.
- Mayor Max Brough framed it as pre-emptive work toward potential government-driven amalgamation, bypassing full mayoral-forum input and causing regional friction.
Regional Flight Cuts Deepen Connectivity Frustration
- Air New Zealand signalled cuts to regional services citing international pressures and fuel costs, leaving smaller regions like Taranaki worrying about connectivity.
- Mayor Max Brough highlighted heavy local airport investment (around $60 million) and frustrated communities losing routes like Jetstar.