Tūroa's James Simpson joins Jesse with the latest conditions from the mountain as heavy snowfall blankets the ski area. They discuss the blizzard conditions, the successful start to the season, how busy the first week has been, and what fresh snow could mean for opening more terrain in the coming days. Plus, a look at the work happening behind the scenes to get the mountain ready for skiers and snowboarders.

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Looking for ways to make the most of the winter school holidays? Department of Conservation ranger Clodagh Costello shares easy ways to get outdoors around the Tongariro region, from spotting native birds in your own backyard to short family walks, cosy backcountry huts and activities at the Whakapapa Visitor Centre. Plus, she explains why spending time in nature is great for both your mental and physical wellbeing—even on those frosty winter mornings.

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Could dinner be the secret ingredient to finding love? Jesse chats with Julian Bishop about Small Plates Speed Dates, a new Taupō event that swaps awkward speed dating for great food and genuine conversation. They cover how the evenings work, why the food-first approach helps break the ice, how age groups are matched, and what singles can expect from this unique dating experience. Whether you're looking for love or simply curious, it's an entertaining look at a modern way to meet people.

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What do rare Pokémon cards, vintage Transformers, retro PlayStation memorabilia, comics, gaming, and a giant 80s monster named Boris all have in common? They're heading to the Taupō Collectibles Event!

Sam Westlake joins us to preview this year's event at the Great Lake Centre, featuring 181 tables, 65 vendors from around New Zealand, free activities for kids, retro gaming, trading cards, collectibles, antiques, and more. We also dive into nostalgic memories of Pokémon Blue, PlayStation 1, Tekken, and some incredibly rare gaming treasures set to be showcased.

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Cast members Dervla Murtagh and Travis Delich take us behind the scenes of Centrestage Taupō's latest production, discussing the characters, comedy, and community effort bringing this acclaimed Irish play to life.

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Tauhara College students Harrison and Holly discuss their 40 Hour Challenge, where the student executive team will complete 120km each over 40 hours to raise funds through World Vision for families in the Solomon Islands.

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The Lake Taupō Hole in One Challenge is launching its first-ever Pontoon Masters competition. Claire explains how it works, what's up for grabs, and why golfers of all abilities should get involved this winter.

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Opportunity Party deputy leader Daniel Ebbs and Taupō candidate Sam Plummer join Jesse in the Lake FM studio to pitch their plan for system change: a land value tax paired with a $370-a-week citizens income, ending the costly left-right policy flip-flop, and shifting capital out of housing into science, innovation and new businesses. Jesse puts the hard questions: what it means for a $7 million farm, a $700,000 Taupō rental or Airbnb, and whether Opportunity is just the Greens in disguise.

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