The Arrowtown Podcast

Benje Patterson wears many hats, he’s a local independent regional economist, he’s a board member of Economic Development New Zealand, a Trustee of Queenstown Trails Trust, previously Chair of the Arrowtown Promotion and Business Association, not to mention – in his spare time a competitive international ultra marathon runner!

Benje wears many hats, he’s a local independent regional economist, he’s a board member of Economic Development New Zealand, a Trustee of Queenstown Trails Trust, previously Chair of the Arrowtown Promotion and Business Association, not to mention – in his spare time a competitive international ultra marathon runner!

The week of 28th August 2025 public submissions were held in Arrowtown's Athenaeum Hall on the proposed Urban Intensifcation Variation to the District Plan. This could see, increased height limits of new buildings and increased density in Arrowtown. Chair of the AVA, Nick Fifield, spoke on behalf of the community, alongside numerous other community members and groups. Quality of recorded hearing is not optimal.

A wide ranging discussion with Jane, from her days as a sexual health and family violence support worker, Queenstown's original blogger and content creator to her role as a business coach and mentor today.

Mark tells the story of Arrowtown's response to a draft District Plan variation that would allow increased building heights in Arrowtown's medium density zone. Reordered prior to the week of 28th August 2025, where public submissions were heard by independent commissioners.

I chat to Chris from the Arrowtown Masonic Lodge about the history of the Lodge, Freemasonry and the work to maintain the building as an historic asset into the future.

I chat with Vanessa Williams ahead of the 39th Arrowtown Autumn Festival. Learn about Vanessa's first year as Festival Coordinator, how the extensive programme is put together by the committee and supported by numerous volunteers and sponsors.

Last month, Nick Fifield was interviewed by Jesse Mulligan at Radio New Zealand (04.03.25). The interview centered around the initiative by the Arrowtown Charitable Trust establishing a fundraising campaign to help save and restore historic Butlers Wall (1886). Please notify of any unintended infringement. Source: https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/afternoons/audio/2018977380/arrowtown-locals-fundraise-to-repair-historic-stone-wall

A quick chat with Brandon Purdue as he sets up for Arrowtown's Backyard Ultra Running event.

Rem is a talented local photographer which lead him to become a stall holder and now Manager of the Arrowtown Market. We discuss his tips for taking great shots around town and what's in store for the market this summer.

Karl Walker is a quietly humble but significant contributor to our community. From his voluntary work as a Kea leader, supporting our children's outdoor education, to managing the substantial logistics of the Arrowtown Choppers and their hugely successful community Beech Parties.

Jana MacPherson discusses her experience as a New Zealand food blogger (not influencer!). How she built a successful online business and loyal community, whilst bringing up her two children following the passing of her husband last year.

A wide ranging chat with Rachel who is involved in numerous community activities including Shaping Our Future, Arrowtown's Community Response Group, Citizens Advice Bureau and The Remarkable Theatre.

Cory is a man of many facets and we we cover them all! From Te Reo Tutor and advisor to Arrowtown's Matariki Committee to his experience appearing on the TV show One Lane Bridge and going viral on TikTok!

Ferg is 1 year into his 4th term as QLDC Councillor for the Arrowtown-Kawarau Ward. He shares his connections to the district from seasonal worker to radio host and insights from his 11 years as a local councillor.

Lisa Guy is 1 year into her term as QLDC Councillor for the Arrowtown-Kawarau Ward. She shares what motivated her to run for council, her experience so far and even some of her BFO life hacks (Blinding Flashings of the Obvious)!

The current chair of the Arrowtown Promotion and Business Association, Jimmy talks childhood memories of Millbrook and Arrowtown, working at QLDC and infrastructure consultancy Rationale. As well as his role and work with the APBA, the Board behind the Arrowtown brand, helping to support local businesses by bringing national events and global visitors to our corner of the Wakatipu.

Noel is a long standing contributor to the Arrowtown Community. From childhood memories of Arrowtown, to AVA Chairperson, Chopper and Community Response Group Committee Member. Hear Noels take on community issues and what plans are in place is an major earthquake was to strike...

Join Hollie Sutton and Carole Watts from the Arrowtown Autumn Festival organising Committee. Learn about the festivals history, what iconic and new events are happening this year after a one year hiatus. The festival is running 20th-25th April 2023. [First time interviewing two people, the sound isn't the best. Still working through the teething troubles]

John Glover is running as a candidate for Queenstown Lakes District Council in the Arrowtown-Kawarau Ward by-election.