Onehunga FM

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Channel • 3 Shows

News Commentary

News Commentary

Updated 28/09/2023
Management

Management

Updated Weekly
Politics

Politics

Updated 31/01/2024

13/04/2025

“Believe in yourself, take baby steps” - Kris MacGregor of MyHome Renovations on resilience in small business

In this episode, Kris MacGregor - founder and director of MyHome Renovations - shares what he's learned over 30 years in the building industry and nearly two decades of business based right here in Onehunga. Kris talks through his journey from apprentice to business owner, how he and his wife Barbara have built a trusted renovation company, and why resilience, systems, and trust have been key to their growth. He also reflects on the challenges of leading through economic downturns, building a strong team culture, and staying grounded in a suburb he still considers his 'business home'. Whether you're in the trades, running a small business, or just curious about the people shaping Onehunga’s built environment, this episode offers insight, honesty, and a few laughs along the way. SOCIAL LINKS: Follow Amanda Wellgreen on LinkedIn. Follow Business Onehunga on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram Follow Onehunga FM on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram

13/04/2025

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38 min
19/05/2025

No mirrors, no egos - Nicky Davis of F45 One Tree Hill on cultivating fitness and belonging in Onehunga

Nicky Davis didn’t set out to run a gym - but when her sister asked her to help open F45 One Tree Hill, she brought her teaching instincts and deep care for people into the fitness world. Six and a half years later, the studio has become more than a place to work out: it’s a vibrant, ego-free community that reflects the heart of Onehunga. In this episode, Nicky shares her journey from early childhood education to becoming the operational force behind one of New Zealand’s top-performing F45 studios. She talks about navigating business challenges like COVID lockdowns, building a team culture based on trust and openness, and the unique character of Onehunga as a business hub. We also hear about leadership lessons, bust some myths about fitness (especially for women), and what it takes to maintain a supportive gym environment in a changing suburb. SOCIAL LINKS: Follow Amanda Wellgreen on LinkedIn. Follow Business Onehunga on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram Follow Onehunga FM on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram

19/05/2025

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34 min
30/03/2025

"Play a different game" - what Firas 'Ross' Mudafar has learned over 15 years of Onehunga Family Pharmacy

Join Amanda Wellgreen as she sits down with local business leader Firas Mudafar who's come to be known locally as 'Ross'. As the owner of Onehunga Family Pharmacy and a business coach, 'Ross' shares his unique journey from his origins in Iraq to his long-time role in the Onehunga community. He discusses the challenges of adapting a city business model to a significantly different context, the importance of personalized service, and the value of continuous learning. 'Ross' also reminisces about his childhood, his mother’s dedication, and his favorite movie. The conversation delves into the importance of networking, mentoring, and staying clear-eyed on the value you provide to your customer. SOCIAL LINKS: Follow Amanda Wellgreen on LinkedIn. Follow Business Onehunga on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram Follow Onehunga FM on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram

30/03/2025

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40 min
21/04/2025

“ Look up and look out” - Kate Bacchus of HR Butter on finding time to work on your business

In this episode, Kate Bacchus of HR Butter shares her journey from the hustle of hospitality to the heart of HR consulting. Along the way, she reflects on memorable brushes with celebrity, the winding path of her education, and the early life moments that shaped her leadership style. Kate offers her insightful take on what HR really is (and isn't), busting common myths and explaining why respect matters most - especially when business decisions get tough. We dive into the power of self-awareness, the art of building authentic professional networks, and how to stay grounded while balancing work and life. Rooted in Onehunga, Kate also speaks to the strengths of the local business scene, championing community connection and sustainable growth as key to long-term success. SOCIAL LINKS: Follow Amanda Wellgreen on LinkedIn. Follow Business Onehunga on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram Follow Onehunga FM on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram

21/04/2025

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43 min
28/09/2023

The Shadow Over our Suburb

In this final episode of our first season of IMBY, Rachel Sturgess takes a closer look at the corridor of land set aside by KiwiRail that winds through Onehunga. After the Auckland Light Rail decided against the use of this corridor, the government has now indicated that they might push ahead with heavy rail along that route anyway.This raises questions about the land's value, ecological significance, and historical relevance. Matt Lowry from Greater Auckland speaks to the merits of the use of the land for heavy rail, while local residents Paul and Echo Janman from Onehunga Peoples Garden shed light on the importance of retaining this green space, its role in mitigating environmental impacts, and the land's historical heritage. SOCIAL LINKS: Follow @rachsturge on Facebook, Instagram & X (Twitter).Follow @OnehungaFM on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook.

28/09/2023

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23 min
06/04/2025

An ecosystem of support - Anna Jackson on community and curation at Gow Langsford Gallery

In this episode, Anna Jackson - director and manager of Gow Langsford Gallery - discusses the gallery’s recent expansion into its new secondary premises right here in Onehunga. Anna shares her journey through the art world, from studying at Auckland University of Technology to working with both renowned and emerging New Zealand artists. Her work has even brought her into contact with music legends like Paul Simon and Sting. She dives into the operations of the new Onehunga space, how it has reshaped the gallery’s business model, her approach to staff development and leadership, and Gow Langsford’s growing involvement in the local community through events and charity partnerships. Anna reflects on the importance of adaptability, relationship-building, and the nuanced balance of professional and personal life. SOCIAL LINKS: Follow Amanda Wellgreen on LinkedIn. Follow Business Onehunga on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram Follow Onehunga FM on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram

06/04/2025

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40 min
09/10/2023

Journalist Jonathan Milne invited the candidates to knock on his door

In this episode managing editor for Newsroom Pro Jonathan Milne and host Tim McCready discuss the candidates standing in the Maungakiekie electorate. Launching from Jonathan's recent write up for newsroom, Tim and Jonathan unpack the developments in the campaign and how candidates have fared in addressing various issues like crime, cost of living, and climate change. At end of the podcast Jonathan's daughter Cleo joins Tim on the podcast to share her perspective as a young person on politics, the voting age, and what she appreciates about living in Onehunga. SOCIAL LINKS: Follow @Tim_McCready on Twitter, Instagram & Threads.Follow @OnehungaFM on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook.

09/10/2023

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54 min
27/04/2025

“Give it your 100%” - Allen Cho of Auto Central Cars on dedication, service and trust in local business

In this episode Amanda Wellgreen chats with Allen Cho, the owner of Auto Central Cars at 232 Neilson Street, Onehunga. Allen shares the remarkable story of his life and career, from his childhood split between Korea and the United States, to his unexpected path from studying engineering and pre-medicine to building one of Onehunga’s most trusted car dealerships. Allen talks candidly about the lessons he’s learned in business - from navigating customer expectations to the importance of offering genuine, pressure-free service. He opens up about the realities of the used car market post-COVID, why car prices are rising, and how international events are impacting local businesses here in New Zealand. We also hear about what it’s like working alongside his partner Sarah, the value of community connections, and why treating every customer with respect, regardless of appearances, has become a core philosophy at Auto Central. It’s a conversation full of warmth, real insights, and a genuine love for business and community - and a perfect reminder of why Onehunga is such a vibrant place for small business owners to thrive.

27/04/2025

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32 min
25/05/2025

“ We sell happiness” - Sonia Haumonte of Vaniyé Patisserie on building an award-winning artisanal french bakery

In this episode of Business In Focus, Amanda sits down with Sonia Haumonte, founder of Vaniyé Patisserie, a boutique French pastry business that’s operated in Parnell since 2012 and recently expanded into Onehunga. Sonia shares her incredible journey from a childhood in a family-run restaurant in Chiang Mai Thailand to training in France as a pastry chef, and ultimately building an award-winning patisserie in Aotearoa. Sonia touches on the challenges of adapting to different communities, staying true to artisanal values in a trend-driven food culture, and why she believes great pastries are about passion. You’ll also hear how Vaniyé’s new Onehunga location was a full-circle moment, the importance of leading by example in the kitchen, and why Sonia insists on closing Sundays despite the financial cost. Her insights into leadership, burnout, and building a values-driven business are honest, heartfelt, and inspiring. Whether you're into French pastries, entrepreneurship, or community-minded business, this episode is a treat. SOCIAL LINKS: Follow Amanda Wellgreen on LinkedIn. Follow Business Onehunga on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram Follow Onehunga FM on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram

25/05/2025

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58 min
14/09/2023

Candidate for MP: Margo Onishchenko wants to preserve our liberal democracy

Margo Onishchenko tells Tim McCready about migrating from Russia as a young woman, and her journey to standing as the ACT Party candiate for Maungakiekie. Once Margo turned 18 she followed her older sister to New Zealand. She trained at Unitec and now works as a civil engineer. The contrast between Margo's country of birth and her country of choice has been a significant factor in her decision to enter politics. SOCIAL LINKS: Follow @Tim_McCready on Twitter, Instagram & Threads.Follow @OnehungaFM on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook.

14/09/2023

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27 min

A hyper-local media company serving Onehunga and the surrounding neighbourhoods.