https://www.thecoast.net.nz/rss NZME 2026-06-10T05:45:38.906Z en https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/when-you-find-a-live-animal-inside-your-shopping-bag/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/when-you-find-a-live-animal-inside-your-shopping-bag/ Jase was at the supermarket when a live animal was found in his shopping bag!  What was the animal, and what did he do about it? All is revealed in the video above!  Discover more: Toni's advice on making new friendships Your kids popularity isn't important Sam's weird food combo taste test Try this weight loss hack Follow The Podcast on 2026-06-10T17:30:05.782Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/soft-cell-will-meet-its-conclusion-after-fitting-farewell-to-the-late-dave-ball/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/soft-cell-will-meet-its-conclusion-after-fitting-farewell-to-the-late-dave-ball/ Marc Almond says Soft Cell’s upcoming album Danceteria serves as a final tribute to Dave Ball and marks the end of the band’s recording era. Marc Almond has described Soft Cell’s final album Danceteria as a "fitting farewell" to his late bandmate Dave Ball. Speaking about the poignant project, Marc said the record represents both a creative closing chapter and a personal goodbye to the musician who shaped Soft Cell’s sound from the very beginning. As reported by The Independent, he explained that continuing the 1980s' synth-pop duo without Dave - who died just days before they finished work on the record in October 2025 - simply isn’t possible. He said: “There can be no more recordings of Soft Cell without Dave, it would not be possible. “The sad reality is that Dave Ball was half of Soft Cell, and live work aside, I can’t write Soft Cell songs without him.” The Tainted Love hitmaker, 68, went on to describe Danceteria - which is released on September 25 - as a deeply nostalgic project rooted in the city that defined the duo’s early years. He said: “Danceteria is a love letter to New York in the early 80s. The time we spent in New York – where we recorded our first three albums – shaped us both as artists and people. To celebrate this period is a fitting farewell to Dave Ball and the final Soft Cell studio album.” Reflecting on the city’s impact, Marc said the Big Apple was the catalyst for Soft Cell’s creative evolution He explained: “New York shaped Soft Cell, as it opened up a whole new world of possibilities. It was dirty, dark and dangerous – a real Wild West – but it was also deeply inspiring and exciting. A lot of our original influences came from America anyway: New York punk, Devo, Suicide, Lou Reed, disco and 1960s soul. But New York was like nowhere else on earth. There were 24‑hour nightclubs, music, art and underground theatre. It offered a cornucopia of energy and edge, and the lyrics on Danceteria reflect that time of my life.” This article was first published by Bang Showbiz and is republished here with permission. 2026-06-10T08:47:27.000Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/is-your-childs-popularity-important/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/is-your-childs-popularity-important/ The popularity of your child isn't what truly matters. Find out why genuine friendships is more important than anything in the video above.  Discover more: Toni's advice on making new friendships Nicki wins a dream trip to Honolulu Sam's weird food combo taste test Try this weight loss hack Follow The Podcast on 2026-06-09T17:30:37.700Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/p-nks-parody-of-lady-marmalade-wows-audiences-at-the-tony-awards/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/p-nks-parody-of-lady-marmalade-wows-audiences-at-the-tony-awards/ Pink teamed up with Megan Thee Stallion for a parody of Lady Marmalade at the Tony Awards. The So What? star was hosting the prestigious theatre awards on Sunday (07.06.26) and she kicked off the ceremony with a spoof of her 2001 hit single, which she dropped over two decades ago with Lil' Kim and Christina Aguilera for Moulin Rouge. Delivering the Leading Lady Marmalade parody, Pink gave nods to some of Broadway's best stars in the chorus, while Megan reworked Kim's rap. Lea Michele, who wasn't among the nominees this year, appeared to hit Christina's big note, joking: "We don't do it for the awards." June Squibb, who is the oldest acting nominee in Tonys history and was nominated for best featured actress in a play, was sat in the front row and had a scene-stealing cameo. To the tune of "Mocha Chocolata, ya-ya", she quipped: "All the parts I've played, I've slayed them." Before the event, Pink had promised her hosting stint would be "just a full-blown ridiculous celebration". She told Broadway.com: "I told them my one caveat was that immediately as soon as I step onto the stage, I have to make fun of myself, and make it absolutely just about fun and celebrating everyone.” Elsewhere at the ceremony, Pink teamed up with some huge names to pay tribute to Chicago with a medley from the iconic musical, marking 30 years on Broadway. She was joined by Queen Latifah, Whitney Leavitt, Dylan Mulvaney, Alex Newell, Julianne Hough and more for the special performance, including classic tracks like When You're Good To Mama, Cell Block Tango, and All That Jazz. Meanwhile, Leslie Odom Jr. took to the stage for the ceremony's In Memoriam segment and delivered an emotional rendition of Without You from Rent. As he did, a slideshow paid tribute to the likes of Diane Keaton, Robert Redford, Robert Duvall and more. At the end of the tribute, a quote from Rent director Jonathan Larson was used, which said: "Forget regret, or life is yours to miss. This article was first published by Bang Showbiz and is republished here with permission. 2026-06-09T12:18:23.000Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/paul-mccartney-lands-24th-uk-number-one-album/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/paul-mccartney-lands-24th-uk-number-one-album/ Sir Paul McCartney has extended his record as the most successful albums act of all time. The 83-year-old icon has topped the UK charts once again with The Boys of Dungeon Lane, which has become the 24th number one album of his legendary career. Reflecting on the achievement, Becca Monahan and Chris Austin, the co-managing directors of the Official Charts Company, said: "Paul McCartney securing his 24th UK Number 1 album in the UK is an incredible achievement, and his place as the most successful albums artist in the history of the Official Charts is truly deserved. "Across seven decades, Paul’s music has found new generations of fans, and this latest milestone is a testament to his extraordinary career. "As we near the 70th anniversary of the Official Albums Chart on 22nd July, Paul’s continued success highlights his profound and sustained impact across the lifetime of the chart. "Congratulations to Paul on another historic milestone." McCartney has achieved 15 number one LPs as a member of the Beatles, two with the band Wings, six with his solo projects and one alongside Linda McCartney, the singer's first wife, who passed away in April 1998, aged 56. The Boys of Dungeon Lane has also topped the Official Vinyl Albums Chart, and the Official Record Store Chart, meaning that it's sold the most copies in independent UK record shops over the last week. Meanwhile, McCartney recently confessed to being amazed by the Beatles' enduring popularity and his own solo success. Appearing on TikTok live, McCartney explained: "It is phenomenal, it is really phenomenal. "When we started out we were just kids, and rock and roll was just really coming in, and we thought, 'if we're lucky, we've got a couple of years' – that's how long people normally lasted. They couldn't really sustain much more after that. "We expected maybe five years max, and then that became 10, and we were kind of still going and the scene's still there. Then it became 20, then 30, and now it's right up there. It's great, it is a lovely feeling." This article was first published by Bang Showbiz and is republished here with permission. 2026-06-08T18:00:42.000Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/george-michaels-faith-tour-film-is-headed-to-cinemas/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/george-michaels-faith-tour-film-is-headed-to-cinemas/ George Michael’s legendary Faith era is set to make a cinematic comeback, with a newly restored concert film giving fans the chance to experience it like never before. George Michael: The Faith Tour brings together rare footage captured during the pop icon’s 1988 global tour, widely considered a defining moment in his career. The film centres on two performances recorded at Paris’ Palais Omnisports de Bercy during the European leg, showcasing George Michael at the peak of his powers. The project is being developed by George Michael Entertainment alongside Mercury Studios, with plans for a worldwide cinema release later this year. Fans will also get new music to go with it. An 18-track live album, The Faith Tour, will arrive alongside the film, featuring previously unreleased recordings spanning both his solo hits and favourites from his time in Wham!. Together, the release offers a fresh celebration of the Faith era, the period that helped define George Michael as one of pop’s most influential artists. 2026-06-08T12:39:43.000Z https://coast.iheart.com/win/rate-the-music-to-win-250-feel-good-coast-cash/ https://coast.iheart.com/win/rate-the-music-to-win-250-feel-good-coast-cash/ We’d love to get your thoughts on the music you hear on Coast. Rate The Music is your chance to tell us what’s got to go and what should stay on our playlist! When you complete the survey, you’re in to win $250 Feel Good cash, which we know will come in very handy, especially as we head into the cooler months! CLICK HERE TO RATE THE MUSIC It’s super quick, just 5 - 10 minutes, and once you’re done, you’re in to win $250 Coast Feel Good Cash. So grab a cuppa and Rate the Music to tell us what’s sounding great (and what isn’t!). T&Cs Apply 2026-06-08T10:21:47.000Z https://coast.iheart.com/win/scam-story-hotline-with-coast-and-asb/ https://coast.iheart.com/win/scam-story-hotline-with-coast-and-asb/ Have you got a Scam Story? Everyone has a scam story, big or small. There's no shame in having one, so what can we learn from them to stay one step ahead of scammers? Instead of us telling you all the dos and don'ts when it comes to fraud and scams, we're letting Aotearoa do the talking. Let's all get one step ahead of scammers. Tell us your scam story below to be in to win $100! Campaign not loading? Click here T&Cs Apply Sign up for Coastline! We'll email you exclusive prizes, concert info, and all the latest news & entertainment straight to your inbox. (function(d,s,id,u){ if (d.getElementById(id)) return; var js, sjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0], t = Math.floor(new Date().getTime() / 1000000); js=d.createElement(s); js.id=id; js.async=1; js.src=u+'?'+t; sjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, sjs); }(document, 'script', 'os-widget-jssdk', 'https://www.opinionstage.com/assets/loader.js')); 2026-06-05T11:22:49.060Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/why-we-should-all-stop-sending-long-emails/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/why-we-should-all-stop-sending-long-emails/ Work email etiquette comes with many things to consider, and email length should be one of them. Sam asked Toni and Jase their thoughts on the topic. Hear what they had to say in the video above!  Discover more: Toni's advice on making new friendships Nicki wins a dream trip to Honolulu Sam's weird food combo taste test Try this weight loss hack Follow The Podcast on 2026-06-05T10:42:25.566Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/music/coast-music-quiz/the-feel-good-500-rewind-music-quiz/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/music/coast-music-quiz/the-feel-good-500-rewind-music-quiz/ With voting now open for our annual Feel Good 500 Countdown 2026 ... How much do you remember about the top ten from last year? (function(d,s,id,u){ if (d.getElementById(id)) return; var js, sjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0], t = Math.floor(new Date().getTime() / 1000000); js=d.createElement(s); js.id=id; js.async=1; js.src=u+'?'+t; sjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, sjs); }(document, 'script', 'os-widget-jssdk', 'https://www.opinionstage.com/assets/loader.js'));   Here's how the Coast announcers scored: Toni Street: 6/10Jason Reeves: 7/10Sam Wallace: 4/10Lorna Riley: 9/10Grant Kereama: 8/10JT: 7/10 The average Coastie score is a 6/10. Discover More: All of Coast's Music Quizzes The Kiwi Classics Music Quiz The Double Trouble Music Quiz The Wonderful Waiata Music Quiz 2026-06-04T09:49:21.000Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/would-you-try-these-weird-food-combos/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/would-you-try-these-weird-food-combos/ Sam was told these weird food combos would create amazing tastes. Will tomato and sugar taste like strawberries? Or apple and salt taste like fries? Toni, Jase and Sam put it to the test in the video above. Take a watch! Discover more: Toni's advice on making new friendships Nicki wins a dream trip to Honolulu Kids basketball has got out of hand Try this weight loss hack Follow The Podcast on 2026-06-03T17:30:09.903Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/whats-on/iheartradio-music-festival-2026/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/whats-on/iheartradio-music-festival-2026/ Our iHeartRadio Music Festival is back, this September in Las Vegas! Now in its sixteenth year, the Festival features two nights of non-stop chart-topping hits, musical World Premieres, and never-before-seen collaborations from the world's most iconic and hottest artists. Past performers include Sir Paul McCartney, Taylor Swift, Foo Fighters, Mariah Carey, Ed Sheeran and many more. This year’s line up: BTS Benson Boone Cardi B Goo Goo Dolls Kenny Chesney Lainey Wilson Major Lazer Muse  Snoop Dogg Weezer Zara Larsson Saturday September 19th and Sunday September 20th, 2026 (NZT). Stay tuned in to Coast for your chance to win a trip to the iHeartRadio Music Festival, in the near future. LISTEN: Hear all of the artists performing this year on our iHeart playlist. Sign up for CoastLine! We'll email you exclusive prizes, concert info, and all the latest news & entertainment straight to your inbox. Campaign not loading? Click here 2026-06-03T15:42:21.538Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/how-to-turn-an-acquaintance-into-a-friend/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/how-to-turn-an-acquaintance-into-a-friend/ Have you ever wondered how to take an acquaintance into an actual friendship? Making friends as an adult can be hard, so Toni came to the table with some advice. And it turns out, Sam needs the advice the most. Find out what she had to say in the video above.  Discover more: Is it time to ditch the bath? Nicki wins a dream trip to Honolulu Kids basketball has got out of hand Try this weight loss hack Follow The Podcast on 2026-06-02T17:30:58.802Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/sir-mick-jagger-teases-the-rolling-stones-tour-plans/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/sir-mick-jagger-teases-the-rolling-stones-tour-plans/ Sir Mick Jagger "can't wait" to tour again with The Rolling Stones. The 82-year-old rock and roll legend is keen to hit the road again with Ronnie Wood and Keith Richards ahead of the band's 25th album Foreign Tongues dropping in July, but he admitted there aren't likely to be any live dates in 2026. Appearing alongside Ronnie on BBC Radio's Tracks of my Years, the iconic frontman said: "I'd love to go on tour, I can’t wait. "I don’t think it’s going to be this year. But hopefully it’s going to be as soon as possible." Back in December 2025, it was reported Paint It Black rockers had scrapped plans for a UK and European stadium tour this year because guitarist Keith wasn't able to "commit" to the schedule. A spokesperson told The Sun newspaper at the time: "The band were looking to tour earlier this year but couldn’t make it work either. “It’s hard for their fans but The Stones will get back onstage when they’re good and ready.” Last month, Keith admitted that a 2026 tour wasn't on the cards now, but the band were "considering what to do" once their new album has dropped. He told the Associated Press: "We can talk next year. At the moment, we’re just sort of saying, we’ve finished the record… [and we’re] considering what to do after. Pretty soon, but not this year.” The new album Foreign Tongues was recorded at Metropolis Studios in West London, and is said to capture the band’s unmistakable sound while pushing into new sonic and lyrical territory. Ronnie teased in a statement: "The atmosphere in the room was so creative, and the whole band was on top form throughout the whole process. Very often we nailed it on the first take. I hope everyone loves it." Steve Jordan will be behind the drum kit for the LP having been "recommended" by Charlie Watts, but the late drummer himself will still make an appearance, having worked on a number of new songs in the final years of his life, before he died in August 2021, aged 80. Hit Me In The Head has been finished for Foreign Tongues. Sir Mick previously teased during a special event after the album announcement: "We did that in LA with Charlie. It's a real fast punk rocker. It's a super fast song." This article was first published by Bang Showbiz and is republished here with permission. 2026-06-02T09:55:27.000Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/john-farnham-will-not-perform-live-again/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/john-farnham-will-not-perform-live-again/ John Farnham has confirmed he will not perform live again, saying ongoing impacts from mouth cancer treatment have made singing in public impossible. In a recent interview with the Herald Sun, his first in four years, the Australian music legend said surgeries to his mouth and face mean a stage comeback isn’t an option. Farnham was diagnosed with oral cancer in August 2022 and underwent a lengthy operation involving a large surgical team. After months of treatment and rehabilitation, he was declared cancer-free in July 2023. The singer also revealed he initially declined plans for a tribute concert in his honour. However, he agreed after learning the event would raise funds for Head and Neck Cancer Australia, which supported him during his recovery. The upcoming concert, John Farnham: A Living Legend, will feature performances from artists including Celine Dion, Jimmy Barnes, Kate Ceberano and Richard Marx, celebrating Farnham’s legacy while supporting a cause close to him. 2026-05-29T15:27:58.667Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/shania-twain-returns-to-her-roots-ahead-of-new-album/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/shania-twain-returns-to-her-roots-ahead-of-new-album/ Shania Twain will revisit her early bar‑stage beginnings with a rare one‑night performance in East London ahead of her new album Little Miss Twain. Shania Twain has announced an intimate London show that mirrors the bar stages she performed on as a child. Long before she became one of the world’s best‑selling artists, the Canadian star was singing late at night in Timmins, Ontario, from the age of eight - a formative period she revisits on her upcoming album Little Miss Twain. The new record draws heavily on those early memories, with Twain exploring the musical roots of Eilleen Twain before global fame took hold. To mark the release, she will perform for one night only at The Shacklewell Arms in East London on June 6, her first bar‑stage appearance in may years. Fans can enter a ballot for the £25 tickets, with the first wave opening Friday (29.05.26). A second chance will follow via Shania's social channels at 1pm BST for those who miss out. The show is designed as a full‑circle moment, tracing her journey from a shy child performer to a chart‑topping powerhouse whose influence has been cited by Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Sabrina Carpenter and Harry Styles. The London date lands just days before Twain joins Harry for his sold‑out 12‑night run at Wembley Stadium - the biggest shows of her career - followed by a headline appearance at Thomond Park Stadium in Limerick. The five‑time GRAMMY winner describes Little Miss Twain as her most soul‑searching work to date. The collection pulls together the sounds that shaped her: country storytelling, pop sparkle, rock grit, soul warmth and even a streak of bluegrass. She explained: “A lot of Little Miss Twain is reflective of my teens, my roots as well as the energy of the rock and R'n'B I loved so much, but still with that Western twang. “Where I’m from you don’t go anywhere on a horse - you go on a snowmobile. I was dreaming about the Western lifestyle and I was living in a very different world than where I ended up.” Little Miss Twain is out July 24. This article was first published by Bang Showbiz and is republished here with permission. 2026-05-29T09:50:29.995Z https://coast.iheart.com/win/the-feel-good-500-countdown-2026/ https://coast.iheart.com/win/the-feel-good-500-countdown-2026/ Coast's Feel Good 500 Countdown 2026 is here! Which song will claim the top spot? That's for you to decide.  Your favourite Feel Good song is somewhere in Coast’s Feel Good 500. Vote now in the form below, and gets yours to #1 - you’ll automatically go in to win $500 Feel Good Coast Cash! If that's not exciting enough, starting Monday 22nd June, from 9am daily, you can be in to win $5,000 Coast Cash just by listening every countdown hour for your cue-to-call.  The Top 100 songs will be playing live on Friday 26th June ... mark your calendars for a day of epic listening! Previous winners of the Feel Good 500 have been: 2022: Bohemian Rhapsody, by Queen 2023: The Best, by Tina Turner 2024: Bohemian Rhapsody, by Queen 2025: Hotel California, by The Eagles 2026: Coasties ... If you're serious about making sure Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody doesn't take that number one spot again, you know what to do! T&Cs apply. 2026-05-27T15:45:04.000Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/jases-new-ultimate-weight-loss-hack/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/jases-new-ultimate-weight-loss-hack/ This new weight loss hack could be a game changer. No it's not Ozempic, Wegovy, or some crazy crash diet. This one simple thing could help you lose weight, and it's easier than you think! Find out what it is in the video above.  Discover more: Is it time to ditch the bath? Nicki wins a dream trip to Honolulu Kids basketball has got out of hand Can we tell the difference between US and NZ butter? Follow The Podcast on 2026-05-26T18:49:38.827Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/lionsgate-pushes-ahead-with-michael-sequel/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/lionsgate-pushes-ahead-with-michael-sequel/ Michael Jackson's story is far from over and Lionsgate is ready to tell it Lionsgate is pushing ahead with a Michael Jackson biopic sequel, with film chief Adam Fogelson revealing the studio already has "25 to 30 percent" of Michael 2 in the can from footage cut from the first film. Speaking on a quarterly earnings call, Adam said all conversations with relevant parties are going "exceptionally well," and hinted the sequel may not be chronological: "We can go forwards or backwards in telling this story." The original film, directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jackson's nephew Jaafar Jackson, was a huge box office hit; ending on the words "His Story Continues" and leaving audiences hungry for more. Adam says there's no shortage of material to celebrate: "There is a ton of incredibly entertaining Michael Jackson story, and much of the biggest and most popular parts of his music catalogue that were not touched upon in the first film. We're very, very confident that we've got an incredibly entertaining movie that will appeal once again to a global audience." No release date has been announced for Michael 2 yet. The sequel is still in early development, with filming potentially beginning in late 2026 or 2027 depending on director Antoine Fuqua's availability. So, it's likely a 2028 release at the earliest. The first film, Michael, came out on April 24, 2026 - so it's already in cinemas now if you haven't seen it! This article was first published by Bang Showbiz and is republished with edits here with permission. 2026-05-26T10:16:13.620Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/barry-manilow-reflects-on-60-years-in-music/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/barry-manilow-reflects-on-60-years-in-music/ Barry Manilow has always been a reluctant showman. The 82-year-old star has enjoyed a hugely successful career in the music business, with hits such as Could It Be Magic, Weekend in New England, Can't Smile Without You, and Copacabana (At the Copa) - but Barry admits he still doesn't see himself as a singer.He told the Guardian newspaper: "My first love is not being a performer or even a singer."I don’t consider myself a singer; I consider myself a musician. And you know, if this wonderful part of my career hadn’t exploded the way it did, I would be playing piano in some Paris bar and I would be a happy guy, really."Barry's career has spanned more than 60 years, but he still doesn't feel entirely comfortable in the spotlight.He said: "I don’t think I’ve ever really gotten used to it … It’s just not who I am. I’ve figured out how to do it. And the way to do is to be honest with these audiences. Because I don’t know how to not be honest on that stage."Despite his chart success, Barry has received some fierce criticism from music critics over the years.He reflected: "It was as if I’d hurt somebody in their family."It lasted for so long – from putting me down for the songs, and then putting me down for what I looked like. If you wanted to get a big laugh, you would mention my name. It was 15 years of relentless, horrible reviews."The chart-topping star - who has released 13 platinum and six multi-platinum albums - admits that the criticism used to really bother him. However, he found a way of coping with the pressures of fame and success as his career has evolved.Asked how the negative reviews made him feel, Barry replied: "I would stupidly read some of this stuff and I would go into my self-pity, and I’d pull the covers over my head. And then I would get dressed and go to the sound check, and that was that. Because I didn’t agree with them."  This article was first published by Bang Showbiz and is republished here with permission 2026-05-26T09:53:05.000Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/humans-tend-to-love-ugly-shoes/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/humans-tend-to-love-ugly-shoes/ It's 2026, and ugly shoes are back. Fashion comes and go's in roundabouts, with clothing pieces that were trendy years ago becoming trendy again. Toni's come to realise, there are certain shoe styles that are back, and they're not cool. But they are fashionable. See what she means in the video above!  Discover more: Is it time to ditch the bath? Nicki wins a dream trip to Honolulu Kids basketball has got out of hand Can we tell the difference between US and NZ butter? Follow The Podcast on 2026-05-25T17:30:17.884Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/dame-jools-topp-one-half-of-the-topp-twins-has-died-from-cancer/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/dame-jools-topp-one-half-of-the-topp-twins-has-died-from-cancer/ Dame Jools Topp, one half of legendary New Zealand folk duo the Topp Twins, has died at the age of 68. The Topp Twins’ management company confirmed that Dame Jools died peacefully at her home on Saturday with her twin sister Lynda, brother Bruce, close friends and pets by her side. The name that topped the 2018 Queen’s Birthday Honours was unfamiliar to most New Zealanders: Dame Julie Bethridge Topp. For almost half a century, they had known her as Camp Leader, one half of the Kens, Raylene to her sister’s Brenda, and a taonga, a national treasure. Jools and twin sister Lynda sang, entertained and prodded Kiwi consciences in concert halls, TV and movie screens, in books and on street corners from the early 1970s until the early years of this decade. But the pair, born on 14 May 1958 in Huntly, had been harmonising since they were 5, growing up on their parents Jean and Peter’s Ruawaro dairy farm. Always close – “Say we’re apart for three days, we become physically sick sometimes,” Lynda said – their brother Bruce gave them a guitar and a Play in a Day manual on their 11th birthday. “It did exactly what it said it was going to do on the front cover,” Jools recalled. “So I learnt all the chords in a day and I’ve never done any other thing with a guitar.” Although, “I spent a lot of time down the back of the bus going home from Huntly College with the Māori kids in the back, where they would teach me the Māori strum.” After leaving school in 1976, they joined the Territorial Force and were posted to Burnham Military Camp near Christchurch. Performing at a city coffee lounge, they met and identified with other radical lesbian feminists. When they came out, “Mum said, ‘Wait until your sister finds out!’ And I said, ‘You’ve got another think coming, Mum!” one of the twins remembered. They’d followed older brother Bruce: “We’re all gay,” Jools said with pride. They’d planned to go back and take over the farm. Mum and Dad put their feet down: “Dad said, ‘If you come home and look after the farm, you’ll be tied to it for the rest of your lives. Go and see the world’.” They hit SH1 for the Big Smoke. Busking on Queen St, the twins were taken to court for causing an obstruction because their crowd was too big. They won the case and took their openly political protest songs around the country, spotlighting the anti-apartheid movement, Maori land rights, anti-nuclear action, abortion and homosexual law reform, developing characters to banter with the audience around the music. Their later success in TV comedy shows obscured that, first and foremost, the sisters always were a music act. The lead songwriter, Jools felt that deeply: “Sometimes people forget about our music because they see the characters on television. The most important thing is that the songs and the music have always been the vehicle.” If New Zealand’s cultural life was lacking one thing in the 1990s, it was a primetime TV series featuring two singing, strumming, yodelling, cross-dressing, wisecracking lesbian sisters. That was put right when they created Do Not Adjust Your Twinset, which ran for three seasons and showcased their cast of Kiwi characters - Camp Mother & Camp Leader, the Bowling Ladies, the Gingham Sisters – simultaneously sending up and revealing their affection for their heartland upbringing. Jools mused on the Kens’ place in Kiwi folklore. “These are two of our most favourite characters. They are a tribute to the New Zealand farmer because they are true-blue boys. They get asked to present the cup at the A&P shows for the best bull.” Which they frequently did. The twins would remain an ever-present fixture on the country’s small screens for three decades, but it wasn’t big enough for their personalities. Leanne Pooley’s 2009 feature, The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls, broke all records for a New Zealand documentary. Show at film festivals worldwide, it won awards in Toronto, Melbourne, Gothenburg, Portland and the NZ Film and Television Awards. And print: Jools published five children’s books, their cooking series Topp Country resulted in a recipe collection, and they published a memoir Untouchable Girls: The Topp Twins’ Story in 2023, largely compiled during pandemic downtime. Outside entertainment, Jools was a skilled horsewoman and shared a 7ha Helensville property, Liberty Circle Ranch, with her partner. Alongside dogs, chickens, cattle, cats and about 10 horses, the property helped families to rehabilitate and train equines. Jools was famous for answering her phone while riding her horses bareback in her arena; the property was sold when the couple split after 17 years together. Jools was diagnosed with breast cancer in October 2006 at the age of 48. She recovered well after a mastectomy and several months of chemotherapy. In typical style, the sisters incorporated her story into a show that toured New Zealand to raise funds for the Breast Cancer Foundation. In 2022 it was revealed that Lynda had also been diagnosed with breast cancer in the previous year. The Twins’ honours are too numerous to list: five platinum LPs, the Aotearoa Music Awards Hall of Fame, the Film and Television Awards statuettes, the Honorary Masters’ Degrees, the Comedy Trust’s gongs and naming the Topp Prize for “a practising individual, duo or group with a strong, clear and unique voice”'. Let’s remember Jools Topp with this true story that could only happen around her, or perhaps to Ken Smythe. In March 2018 the nation’s great and good turned out to honour the twins when an exhibition about them opened at the National Library, over the road from Parliament. Two other women, also raised on Waikato dairy farms, were among the guests. Helen Clark made a speech. The other revealed she’d bid for a caravan, to use as a mobile office, in a TradeMe auction, and won it for $1400, from an anonymous seller. She drove to the farm to pick up her prize. Jools met her at the gate and showed her to the somewhat tired caravan. As Jacinda Ardern tried not to look like a townie in her high heels, the door fell off. This article was first published by the NZ Herald and is republished here with permission. 2026-05-25T10:31:27.029Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/music/coast-music-quiz/homegrown-hits-music-quiz/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/music/coast-music-quiz/homegrown-hits-music-quiz/ It's the final week of New Zealand Music Month 2026 ... How much do you remember about Kiwi classics from the '80s? (function(d,s,id,u){ if (d.getElementById(id)) return; var js, sjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0], t = Math.floor(new Date().getTime() / 1000000); js=d.createElement(s); js.id=id; js.async=1; js.src=u+'?'+t; sjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, sjs); }(document, 'script', 'os-widget-jssdk', 'https://www.opinionstage.com/assets/loader.js')); Here's how the Coast announcers scored: Toni Street: 4/10Jason Reeves: 5/10Sam Wallace: 5/10Lorna Riley: 9/10Grant Kereama: 7/10JT: 7/10 The average Coastie score is a 6/10. Discover More: All of Coast's Music Quizzes The Kiwi Classics Music Quiz The Double Trouble Music Quiz The Wonderful Waiata Music Quiz 2026-05-25T09:47:29.000Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/how-to-make-your-home-look-expensive-for-cheap/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/how-to-make-your-home-look-expensive-for-cheap/ Want to make your home look more expensive but don't want to spend the cash? Don't worry - you don't have to! Take a watch of the video above for Toni's tips on how to elevate your home for cheap. Discover more: Is it time to ditch the bath? Nicki wins a dream trip to Honolulu A simple solution to being tired Can we tell the difference between US and NZ butter? Follow The Podcast on 2026-05-22T17:30:30.508Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/phil-collins-makes-rare-appearance-at-buckingham-palace/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/phil-collins-makes-rare-appearance-at-buckingham-palace/ Phil Collins has made a rare public appearance in London, months after speaking openly about his health issues. The Genesis drummer and solo artist attended a 50th anniversary event for King Charles III’s charity, The King’s Trust, held at Buckingham Palace. Collins has supported the organisation for decades, becoming its first ambassador around 40 years ago and previously serving as a trustee. He was joined at the event by his ex-wife Jill Collins, who shared a photo from the night featuring the pair alongside Rod Stewart and his wife, Penny Lancaster. Despite heavy rain, Jill said the evening was a proud and memorable occasion, and the couple were honoured to spend some time with King Charles, who was pleased to see Collins. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jill Collins (@waverlyondoheny) Jill also revealed the pair are organising a charity auction in November to support The King’s Trust. The auction will include hundreds of items from their personal archives, along with a T-shirt designed by Collins, with proceeds going to the charity. Earlier this year, ahead of his 75th birthday, Collins spoke in a BBC podcast about his ongoing health challenges. He said he now has a live-in nurse providing 24-hour care and has dealt with several medical issues, including complications during a hospital stay where he contracted COVID-19 and experienced kidney problems. Collins also shared that he has undergone five knee surgeries and currently has one functioning knee. While he can still walk, he requires assistance such as crutches. Despite these challenges, Collins continues to stay connected to causes he has supported for decades. 2026-05-22T16:31:03.381Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/sir-elton-john-teases-at-a-return-to-live-performances/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/sir-elton-john-teases-at-a-return-to-live-performances/ Elton John signals select live return after Farewell Tour. Elton John may have said goodbye to touring, but apparently, the Rocket Man isn’t done with the stage just yet. The 79-year-old brought his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour to a close in July 2023, ending a five-year run that spanned more than 300 concerts worldwide. While it marked the end of his life on the road, it was never meant to be a full-stop on performing. In the years since, Elton has made it clear that while global tours are behind him, he still has an appetite for live shows, just in a more limited and carefully planned way. After decades of touring, he has shifted his priorities toward family life, choosing to spend more time with his husband, David Furnish, and their two sons. That change is shaping what comes next. Instead of long international runs, any future appearances are expected to be one-off performances or special events, built around a schedule that works for him. He has already continued to perform in this more flexible format, taking part in select appearances that show he remains connected to live audiences - even if those moments are now far less frequent. There has also been industry speculation about possible short runs or residencies in major cities, particularly in the United States. While nothing has been officially confirmed, it reflects a wider trend in live music, where major artists are opting for shorter, more controlled engagements instead of traditional touring. For Elton John, the approach makes sense. It allows him to deliver high-quality performances while avoiding the physical demands of constant travel, something he has been increasingly mindful of in recent years. Despite stepping back from touring, his popularity hasn’t slowed. His catalogue continues to thrive, with classics such as Rocket Man and Tiny Dancer reaching new audiences through streaming and social media, alongside collaborations that have connected him with younger listeners. Away from the stage, he remains active with recording, creative projects and preserving his extensive body of work, ensuring his music continues to resonate across generations. For now, there are no confirmed concert runs or residencies. However, with occasional appearances still happening, it’s clear his live career is evolving rather than ending. For fans, that likely means fewer chances to see him live, but when those moments do happen, they could be even more special. 2026-05-22T10:00:59.264Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/trending-now/the-2026-new-zealand-outstanding-food-producer-awards-winners/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/trending-now/the-2026-new-zealand-outstanding-food-producer-awards-winners/ Cheers to the winners of the 2026 Outstanding NZ Food Producer Awards! The judges had a tough task deciding the winners this year, with 327 products from Kiwi producers and an outstandingly high quality of entries. The Champion Awards were announced, hosted by our own Lorna Riley, with Monty & Sons Radiatori pasta taking out the top spot and being crowned Leefield Station Supreme Champion.  Amongst the awards announced last night were two awards voted on by Kiwi foodies. Coast Kiwis Favourite Food Producer is the Kutai Guy. A popular choice with judges too, The Kutai Guy was also awarded one Gold and three Silver Medals for their smoked mussels. The 2026 Coast Kiwis Favourite Farmers Market is Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market. One of New Zealand’s oldest and largest markets, visitors are guaranteed a wide range of regional produce. Next time you're looking for a delectable dinner or luscious lunch, look out for Kiwi-made products with the Champion, Gold, Silver and Bronze Outstanding NZ Food Producer Awards medals for produce made in New Zealand, with aroha. Read on for the full list of awards and champions. Outstanding Food Producer Awards 2026 Champions: Leefield Station Supreme Champion: Monty & Sons, Radiatori Pasta                                               dish Hero Ingredient Champion: Fernglen Farm, Labneh (the Wairarapa) Leefield Station Dairy Champion: Dreamview Creamery, Natural Probiotic Yoghurt with Boysenberry Compote (Raglan) Emerson’s Paddock Champion: Conscious Valley, Conscious Valley Lamb shoulder pack (Ohariu Valley) Seafood New Zealand Seafood Champion: Southern Clams, Littleneck clams (Dunedin) Label & Litho Drinks Champion: Mons Flavors, Golden Honey (Rotorua) Dairy Free Champion: Raglan Food Co, Vanilla Bean Coconut Yoghurt (Raglan) Chocolate Bonbon Champion: Mind Your Temper, Miso Lemon Hazelnut Bonbon (Canterbury) Chocolate Bean-to-Bar Champion: Baron Hasselhoff's Butter Boom, Burnt butter & Cinnamon Chocolate bar (Wellington) Free-From Champion: Eat My Cake, Coconut Chocolate Brownie (Matakana) BYD Auto New Zealand Sustainability Champion: Hōhepa Hawkes Bay (Hawke’s Bay) FMCG Business New Product Champion: Barkers of Geraldine, Raspberry & Lemonade Slushie (Geraldine) Boutique New Product Champion: Pauline's Pasticerria, Savoury Tart Shells (Auckland) Coast NZ Kiwis Favourite Food Producer: The Kutai Guy (Northland) Coast Kiwis Favourite Farmers Market: Hawke's Bay Farmers Market (Hawke's Bay) The competition for the 2026 New Zealand Outstanding Food Producer Awards was yet again full of tasty talent and exquisite creations for the judges to assess.  2026-05-21T13:47:07.000Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/sir-rod-stewart-suggests-his-touring-days-may-be-coming-to-an-end/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/sir-rod-stewart-suggests-his-touring-days-may-be-coming-to-an-end/ Sir Rod Stewart has suggested he is ready to give up touring next year. The 81-year-old singer has been performing his One Last Time concert series since 2024, including the Legends spot at last year's Glastonbury festival, and while he has a number of US shows planned for this year, he has now teased he is thinking of one last UK run before calling time on the tour. Speaking on TalkSport he said: "I’m touring the UK next year, doing The O2, and that’ll probably be it, I think. “I’ll have to do something new, come on your show more often, maybe.” Despite his statement, Rod has not yet announced any dates for 2027. Back in 2024, the Maggie May hitmaker declared he is done with "large-scale world tours", once he finished that year's shows in Europe and North America - but insisted he wasn't looking to retire.  The You Wear It Well singer wrote on Instagram: "This will be the end of large-scale world tours for me, but I have no desire to retire. "I love what I do, and I do what I love. "I'm fit, have a full head of hair, and can run 100 metres in 18 seconds at the jolly old age of 79. "I'd like to move onto a Great American Songbook; Swing Fever tour the year after next – smaller venues and more intimacy. But then again, I may not..." And Rod previously teased he has "so much more music" he wants to make. Speaking to AARP The Magazine, he said: "There’s so much more music I want to create. "I’ve got a covers album, a country album, and a Faces album all in the works. I just can’t stop. "Even when I’m spending time with my grandkids, my passion for music drives me. "I feel like I’ve done everything I’ve ever wanted, but there's still more to come." Rod also admitted he enjoys performing at concerts "more" now than when he was a young musician, and he can appreciate "how lucky [he's] been". He added: "When I feel I might be sick enough to cancel a concert, that’s when I go, ‘Maybe I’m getting old.' Then a couple of days later, bang, I’m back at it again." "I enjoy doing concerts more than I did back then. Maybe I’ve come full circle to appreciate how lucky I’ve been." This article was first published by Bang Showbiz and is republished here with permission. 2026-05-21T12:00:44.000Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/kylie-minogue-shares-whether-she-appears-on-madonna-s-new-confessions-ii-album/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/news/kylie-minogue-shares-whether-she-appears-on-madonna-s-new-confessions-ii-album/ Kylie Minogue has broken her silence on rumours she has recorded a feature for Madonna's Confessions II album. She has denied she is featured on the album - despite making it known that she would jump at the chance to collaborate with the Queen of Pop, the Padam Padam hitmaker is yet to. She told the Los Angeles Times: “That’s a random thing. “There was a rumour I was on her album, but I’m not." Nevertheless, Kylie can't wait to hear the long-awaited follow-up to 2005's Confessions on a Dance Floor, which drops on July 3. She said: “I’m excited to hear it all!” Kylie was a surprise guest at Madonna's Celebration Tour show in Los Angeles in March 2024, but they haven't yet discussed joining forces on a track. She told People magazine at the time: "Obviously I would [collaborate with Madonna]. "So, there's been no discussion, but if it were to happen, that would be great." She hailed her performance with Madonna at the Kia Forum an "incredible night" and a "humble moment" for her and the "icon". She said: "That was an incredible night and an incredible moment. And a lot of people had been waiting a long time, probably including us, but I thought that was just perfect." At the show, the two stars surprised fans when they performed Gloria Gaynor's I Will Survive and Kylie's noughties hit Can't Get You Out Of My Head. Kylie reflected: "It wasn't a big choreography. It was just two performers, two women, two people that, without having to say much, you can understand some of each other's journeys. "[We wanted] to lift each other up and celebrate each other." Speaking on stage at the time, Madonna declared it a "privilege" to perform with Kylie. She said: "On the subject of survival, I would like to introduce a very special guest who's going to come up here and sing with me. Her name is Kylie Minogue. "Now this is what we call a survivor, okay? "I'm falling apart. Anyway, it's a privilege for me to be up here singing with you. You are a fighter, too. God bless you. Never give up. You never did." Kylie - who rocked a top emblazoned with Madonna’s name - shared a clip of herself in the audience on X and wrote: “Madonna It’s been a long time coming!!! Loved being with you!!!! Celebration Tour and it is now International Women’s Day …. Thank you and Love Love Love." This article was first published by Bang Showbiz and is republished here with permission. 2026-05-21T11:42:23.000Z https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/sam-almost-got-in-a-fight-at-kids-basketball/ https://www.thecoast.net.nz/shows/breakfast-with-toni-jase-sam/sam-almost-got-in-a-fight-at-kids-basketball/ Sam's son's basketball team won their basketball game, but the other team wasn't happy. After being accused of cheating, Sam saw red and knew he had to say something. Find out what happened next in the video above.  Discover more: Is it time to ditch the bath? Nicki wins a dream trip to Honolulu A simple solution to being tired Can we tell the difference between US and NZ butter? Follow The Podcast on 2026-05-20T17:30:58.725Z