Black Sheep

The founding father of West Auckland - Don Buck was notorious in the early 20th century for his hard drinking, hard living gum digging camp in the foothills of the Waitakere ranges. Black Sheep investigates the legend of this enigmatic and feared folk hero - the original Westie.Watch the video of Marianne Simpkins reading her poem The Ballad of Don Buck's HillGo to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Dr Hilary Stace, disability researcher and advocate, and Dr Warwick Brunton, historian, unpack Theodore Gray's role in New Zealand's eugenics and mental health system. They trace Gray's rise, the 1928 legal changes, proposals for sterilisation and registers, and the institutional practices that led to neglect and abuse. Short, urgent, and historically rooted reflections on policy and lasting harm.

Himana Waka, filmmaker/researcher from Ngāi Tūhoe, and Geoffrey Paparoa-Holman, historian and biographer of Elsdon Best, discuss Best living in Te Urewera and his deep but fraught ties with Tūhoe leaders. They trace his recording of songs, whakapapa and sacred knowledge, tests of trust and breaches of tikanga, tensions over publications and land court work, and how relationships ultimately unraveled.

Hemana Waka, Ngāi Tūhoe contributor who offered cultural and historical insight, and Geoffrey Paparoa Holman, poet, historian and author, discuss Elsdon Best. They trace his upbringing between Māori and Pākehā worlds. They cover his absorption of Māori knowledge, time in the bush, military service and contested access to sacred knowledge. Tensions between praise and modern criticism are explored.

New Zealand's most awarded podcast is RNZ's own Black Sheep, and it's back with its 9th season. Hosted and produced by William Ray - he explores New Zealand history through the lens of real life, shady, controversial and sometimes downright villainous characters. Saturday Morning's own Susie Ferguson has even been typecast as a murderous Scottish villain in it. Susie and William discuss how the seasons come to be, and wonder why William is so obsessed with the sketchy side of life.Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Scott Bainbridge, author and researcher on the Kerr case, provides historical context and expert commentary. He recounts the discovery of veronal poisoning in nine-year-old Betty and the forensic urine tests that shocked investigators. He outlines exhumations, courtroom drama, questions around motive and addiction, and the lingering mystery of possible additional victims.

Scott Bainbridge, crime writer and researcher behind The Trials of Nurse Kerr, brings historical expertise on Elspeth Kerr. He traces Kerr's rise from respected nurse to suspected poisoner. The discussion covers the 1930s cases, mysterious illnesses, hospital investigations, and the 1992 Devonport discoveries.

A new season trailer teases rogues, villains and controversial figures from New Zealand history. Stories include murderous nurses, a colorful pub keeper accused of poisoning, sly gum dealers and a local founder with a complicated legacy. Short previews promise gripping historical yarns and darker, untold corners of the past.

In this engaging discussion, Mike Lee, an Auckland councillor and historian with expertise in French exploration of the South Pacific, shares fascinating insights into the voyage of the St Jean Baptiste. He recounts the perilous expedition, marked by scurvy and intense debates with indigenous tribes. The significance of historical artifacts unfolds as Mike delves into the complex legacy of Captain de Servo. Listeners will be captivated by tales of survival, cultural exchanges, and the dramatic shipwreck that forever altered the maritime landscape of New Zealand.

Sarah Gaitanos, a historian and author known for her work on Shirley Smith, dives into the dramatic life of Bill Sutch, an economist accused of spying for the Soviets in 1974. She explores Sutch's turbulent romance with Smith, their intellectual bond, and the influence of their differing political views. The discussion sheds light on Sutch's controversial legacy, the emotional toll of espionage on his family, and the complex realities of New Zealand's Cold War intelligence operations. New evidence and evolving interpretations add further intrigue to this historical scandal.