Three Studios, Countless Conversations
Back in February 2022, if you had told the ALTBAYS Table Talk podcast team that within two years, they would have live-streamed over 260 episodes, hosting guests from all over Aotearoa NZ for engaging conversations in their studio in Whitianga, they might not have been surprised. However, if you had mentioned that they would be building a new studio for the third time, you would certainly have generated a reaction!
It all began in a small commercial room in the heart of Whitianga. “We rented three rooms and asked the landlord if we could remove one of the walls to create a larger studio space. Surprisingly, he agreed, and a few days later, he was amazed by all the soundproofing materials and equipment we brought in. We were always serious about the quality of our production,” says Leo, the host of the ALTBAYS Table Talk podcast.
A year later, an opportunity arose to build a new studio in a beautiful spot uphill, boasting incredible bay views. The space was significantly larger than the previous one, allowing the ALTBAYS crew to incorporate more visual art elements, with invaluable support from local artist Jason Tahatika.
The second studio’s prestigious location attracted the attention of podcast guests travelling from out of town, who were often impressed by the quality of ALTBAYS’ studios and production. “We were just doing our thing, making the best out of the space available and focusing on creating a podcast that we would consume and appreciate. Having a professional set-up in a remote area of the country could be a challenge, but it turns out that it makes us stand out.”
As the podcast grows and new projects emerge, the ALTBAYS crew is excited to announce their move to yet another new studio. “The new space is essentially a small house that we are transforming into a professional live-streaming studio. We aim to make our guests feel at home, so the new space couldn’t be more suitable.”
In just over two years, the ALTBAYS crew has live-streamed 266 podcast episodes, crafting strong connections and adding a unique flavour to the Coromandel-Hauraki region renowned for its stunning landscapes and marine life. Now, it’s also home to a platform that believes good conversations empower us to become more resilient and empathetic.
The ALTBAYS crew is overflowing with gratitude. “Taylor and I really appreciate the kindness of all the guests and artists who believe in our mission and the support from local business owners who help make the show happen. We are truly grateful.”
When speaking about the future, there’s no fear about building more studios. “We don’t project things for the future; we allow them to unfold. If we have to build ten more studios, it means that we are leaving our mark in all these places: more possibilities and opportunities involved.”
ALTBAYS Table Talk is currently preparing for a strong comeback in their new studio. You can watch the last episodes in their previous studio uphill on YouTube or listen on your favourite platforms. For all the reels, clips and project updates, visit their Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok pages @altbays.
Here are some highlights:
Judaxx (Cook Island Māori Content Creator) – Show #266
Judaxx produces comedy skits and everyday life content. With a massive following of over 850k, Judaxx won the NZ Content Creator of the Year in 2023 at the TikTok Awards.
Tessa Rao (Kiwi actress) – Show #265
Tessa is a multi-disciplinary writer, singer/songwriter, and musician who trained at the American Academy of Dramatic. Currently touring with the theatre company Indian Ink, Tessa starred as Izzy Garcia, the Green Ranger on Netflix’s ‘Power Rangers: Dino Fury’.
Amber Taylor (ARA Journeys CEO & Tech Pioneer) – Show #264
An influential entrepreneur, Amber advocates for diversity in the tech industry and has led her company in creating innovative and transformative platforms that combine immersive technologies and artificial intelligence with the knowledge of the natural world and Māori culture.
Denis Tegg (Former Regional Councillor & Lawyer) – Show #263
Denis Tegg is a resident of Thames with an impressive 50-year career as a lawyer. Denis brings a wealth of experience, having served on the Waikato Regional Council and actively advocated for public transport in Thames-Coromandel. His environmental activism, including his involvement with Coromandel Watchdog since 1980, has led to notable legal victories and a focus on coastal hazards and climate change.
Dion Aupouki-Akuhata (Commercial Kina Diver & Coasty Kidds) – Show #262
Dion is a commercial kina diver passionate about the moana who participated on the TV show ‘Spiky Gold Hunters’. Alongside his partner Reremoana, Dion runs the successful business Coasty Kidds, which teaches the next generation how to look after our environment.
Listen to the ALTBAYS Table Talk shows on your favourite audio platform by searching for ALTBAYS. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for top clips and reels from our shows: @altbays.
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