The Mountain Club Podcast

In this episode, host Paddy sits down with Ross Copland - an engineer, infrastructure leader, and passionate local - to explore the unique challenges and opportunities that come with Queenstown’s rapid growth. Together, they dive into Ross Copland’s journey from a Southland farm to the helm of Southern Infrastructure Limited, discussing why Queenstown is such a special place and what it takes to keep pace with its booming population and tourism.
You’ll hear candid insights about infrastructure delivery, funding, and planning - think cable cars, the future of local healthcare, and the big lessons learned from both the public and private sectors. Ross Copland and Paddy share real talk about political courage, valuing engineering know-how, and how Queenstown can become a model for growth across New Zealand. Whether you’re interested in business leadership or passionate about the future of the region, this episode is packed with inspiration and straight-up home truths.

In this episode, Paddy sits down with Sam Stubbs, the founder of Simplicity, for an insightful conversation about creating connection, community, and impact - both in business and everyday life.
Together, they explore the origins and growth of Mountain Club, the flourishing Queenstown community, and the role of shared passions like mountain biking in breaking down social barriers.
Sam Stubbs shares how Simplicity’s mission as an “anti-poverty machine” is helping to shape a more equitable New Zealand through innovative investment vehicles, accessible housing, and infrastructure projects that are designed with longevity and quality in mind.
The episode covers everything from why long-term renting could be the future for Kiwi communities, to the importance of giving - not just money, but skills and time - to create true change. Get ready for a wide-ranging chat that touches on housing affordability, the power of purpose, and how intentional connections can shape happier, more resilient societies.
Whether you’re a business leader, mountain bike enthusiast, or someone looking to live well and give back, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical insights. So grab your headphones and join us for a deep dive into what it means to build places - and lives - where everyone has the chance to thrive.

In this special "Christmas Wrap" episode, host Clare looks back on an incredible year of connection, growth, and adventure in the Queenstown Lakes region. From unforgettable heli-skiing powder days with family and friends, to mountain biking, adventure races, and insightful conversations with inspiring guests, Clare and the Mountain Club community have plenty to celebrate.
This episode dives deep into the highlights of 2025 - sharing stories of resilience, creativity, and the evolving power of human connection that makes this community so unique. Clare discusses the importance of being present, staying thankful, and fostering intentional relationships, both within Mountain Club and the wider region. You'll hear reflections on favourite moments, lessons learned, and honest, vulnerable encounters from throughout the year’s podcast episodes.
Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the show, "Christmas Wrap" is a celebration of the people, places, and purposeful future that define Mountain Club. Get ready for inspiring anecdotes, thoughtful takeaways, and a heartwarming reminder to appreciate the now and look forward to what's next.

In this episode, host Clare Irons sits down with Benje Patterson - economist, strategist, storyteller, and local community leader - to unravel the fast-changing landscape of Queenstown and the surrounding region.
Benje Patterson, who serves on the boards of both the Arrowtown Promotion and Business Association and the Queenstown Trails Trust, shares his unique perspective on what it means to belong in Queenstown, the challenges of rapid growth, and the entrepreneurial spirit that defines life in the mountains.
Together, Clare and Benje Patterson dive into big questions: how can Queenstown plan for its explosive population growth? What does housing security really look like in a place where affordability is a constant concern? They explore the critical role of infrastructure, public transport innovation, and the impact of tourism and investment on shaping the region’s future.
Join us for a conversation that moves from backcountry trail runs to boardroom decisions, weaving in stories of community resilience, the power of local organisations, and hopes for a prosperous, balanced future in the mountain playground. Whether you’re a local, a visitor, or just mountain-curious, this episode will leave you inspired by the energy and possibilities of life in Queenstown.

This episode is a deep dive into journeys - geographical, entrepreneurial, and personal wellbeing. Paddy sits down with Matt Chapman, a globetrotter turned Wanaka local, whose story stretches from a small town in Australia, through the bustling streets of Singapore, and finally, to the stunning landscapes of the Queenstown Lakes region. Matt shares his path from a highly scheduled, high-performing corporate life to finding balance and meaning in remote work, start-ups, and community building. We’ll hear how ultra marathons and business challenges led to the creation of ChapmanCG, and how that company’s growth and eventual exit paved the way for Matt's reinvention in New Zealand. This episode explores the importance of spontaneous adventure, nurturing wellbeing, and building connections - both professional and personal - in a place that inspires creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.
From the thrill of founding global businesses to the serenity of planting thousands of trees and building a new collective for wellbeing, Matt's journey is a testament to embracing change, fostering community, and living life with intention. Get ready for a conversation about reinventing yourself, trusting in the unknown, and the magic of the mountains - right here in the heart of New Zealand.