From the desperate struggle for employment during the Great Depression to the rise of iconic exports like wool, kiwifruit, and dairy, this episode dives into Aotearoa’s deep-rooted work ethic. It explores the ingenuity, tenacity, and occasional absurdities that have shaped New Zealand’s working life over the past century.

Archival audio in this series is from the RNZ collection at Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision.

There are tales of sharemilkers and shearing gangs, Depression-era riots and wage protests, black-market massage parlours, and the birth of EFTPOS.

Along the way, we hear from those who’ve worked with their hands, hacked the system, and even lost fingers for a payout. From coal dust to decimal currency debates, this episode traces the highs and lows of earning a living in Aotearoa, showing how work hasn’t just been about money, but about purpose, pride, and pushing through.

Guests:

• Geoff Robinson
  Veteran broadcaster and co-host of RNZ’s Morning Report for nearly 40 years, known as the voice of New Zealand’s morning news.
• Gyles Beckford
  RNZ’s Business Editor, providing insightful analysis on economic trends and financial news with clarity and depth.

Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details