Breakfast Ashburton with Luke Howden

Luke was joined by John Law from the MetService to ask if we can (finally) expect an improvement in the weather for what is the last week of the school holidays for many kids  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nisbo was back to look over weekend sporting highlights including the Black Caps getting crushed in India, Sam Ruthe breaking more records, and some surprises from the Aussie Open  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luke caught up with Beau Paparoa from AA Insurance to ask if we hit the Tinwald Viaduct - Are we covered? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrew Alderson was in to preview some of the sporting action for the weekend ahead  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ed Sheeran rounds off his "Loop" Tour of NZ with two big shows in CHCH this weekend. Luke caught up with Caroline from Venues Otautahi for what we need to know if heading along.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A devastating landslide at Mount Maunganui, triggered by Tauranga's wettest day on record, has left multiple people unaccounted for. Luke caught up with Brian Kelly for the latest.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Crusaders are back at Melvern Park CHCH today with "The Long Run" - raising funds and awareness for the Child Cancer Foundation. Leading the charge for Charlotte's Army is Hayley McLeod who Luke caught up with to ask about the day. You can donate to them here .  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alice Breading from Sport Canterbury was back to share some local happenings to kick off the new year See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Acland was back for Farm Chat to tackle the weather, politics, and how things are looking pretty good into the 2026 farming year See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Granny Shirley was back for the new year - sharing thoughts with those brave/mad folks out camping in this wet weather! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Boost Literacy Initiative is looking for volunteer tutors for 2026!  Help children across Mid Canterbury make positive gains in literacy in our local schools. The commitment is 4 hours a week (two mornings, March-Nov, term time). No experience needed - full training, resources and support provided. Cover provided if you need time away. Join a friendly and supportive team making a real dif...

Ashburton Intermediate Principal Brent Gray shares some insight to the demolition of the 2-story block on Grey Street, and what they hope will be built in its place.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ashburton's musical maestro Jo Castelow was in to reflect on another great season of Mid Canterbury Summer Singing School, and to look ahead to Variety Theatre's big production of "Footloose" with auditions being held this weekend!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jack Miller was in to tell us about the Masters Golf Tournament being held at Ashburton Golf Club this coming Sunday, and details on the new Forceback competition.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Another day, another restaurant opening in Ashburton. This time it's back in the old Speights Ale House building on Burnett Street. Simply called "The Ale House". Luke caught up with leaseholder Happi Aulakh to wish him well on opening day  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Run Walk Ashburton Summer Series returns to Ashburton Domain tonight. Luke caught up with Gary Whiting to ask how it works and how we can get along  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ADC boss Hamish Riach was back for the first Council chat of 2026 and it was all good news - Water restrictions have been lifted, and we've got more Government money for roading!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luke caught up with local MP James Meager for the first time this new year for his take on PM Chris Luxon's state of the nation speech, and how he rates his chances of keeping his job into this election year...  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben Boyce was at Ed Sheeran in Auckland on Saturday. Luke was keen to find out what we can expect from his Christchurch shows this coming weekend.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nisbo is back for the new year. And what a way to kick things off - a historic series win for the Black Caps in India! Also talking the novelty of the Black Clash on Sat, and Razor's cut from the All Blacks See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Warbirds over Wanaka returns Easter weekend. Luke has booked his spot. He caught up with General Manager to ask about the exciting news that for the first time, the US F-22 Raptors will feature at this year's event!!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First guest of 2026! Luke caught up with Neil McCann from ADC to ask about the new health warnings at Lake Hood, and continuing water restrictions for Ashburton township.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He does it so well! Sport Commentator Paul Allison wrapped the sporting year that's been in poetic fashion.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In what is quite possibly the most heart-warming story of the week, Luke caught up with Timaru Mayor Nigel Bowen to learn how locals have come together to replace the town Christmas tree after an arson attack.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luke was stoked to hear the Ashburton Community Christmas Day Lunch is back for 2026! Anne Allott shared the plan.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.