S01 E25 - Talanoa with Craig Smith of Counterpoint Group - June 6 2026

In this episode, Dave and Glen engage with Giles Jephcott, chair of the New Zealand Pacific Business Council and MD at Astrolabe Shipping, discussing his journey and experiences in the Pacific business landscape. They explore the significance of relationship building, the success of recent business missions, and insights from the Samoan business community, while also reflecting on future improvements and plans for the council. The conversation explores the challenges faced in logistics, and the role of organizations like the New Zealand Pacific Business Council and Astrolabe Shipping. Insights into market strategies, brand loyalty, and the evolving consumer landscape in the Pacific are also discussed.

The Two Palagi attended the Oceania Renewable Energy Summit so Dave and Glen discuss the summit itself and have a Talanoa with Cook Island's energy regulator Dean Yarrall. Dean also leads the Office of the Pacific Energy Regulators Alliance (OPERA) so has a unique region-wide view of energy transition and the challenges and opportunities in the Pacific. Dave also ran the Pacific stream of the summit so got to interact with some great speakers! Takeaways Climate and energy focus Regulatory challenges in Pacific Chapters 00:07 Introduction to Two Palagi 07:11 Discussion with Dean Yarrall 08:07 The Oceania Renewable Power Summit 09:12 Dean Yarrall's Background and Role 11:40 Transitioning the Cook Islands Energy System 16:43 Innovative Solutions for Energy Management 17:10 Complexity of Renewable Energy 19:54 Solar Power in the Pacific 22:29 Economic Factors 24:00 The Role of Regulators 25:43 Independent Power Producers 38:50 Talanoa Summary 41:02 Insights from the Pre-COP Meeting 44:10 Prospectus of Renewable Energy Projects 45:57 The Week Ahead and Outro Resources Two Palagi Website - https://twopalagi.com Contact Two Palagi - [email protected] Oceania Renewable Power Summit - https://oceaniapowersummit.com/ OPERA - https://gem.spc.int/projects/opera 'Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod' and all related content, trademarks, intellectual property, and copyright are the exclusive property of 2PP Pacific Commerce Ltd, a New Zealand-registered company. All rights reserved.

The conversation focuses on the significance of the tourism industry in Fiji, discussing its economic impact, challenges, and recovery post-COVID. Fantasha Lockington, CEO of the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association, shares insights on the industry's dynamics, including local ownership, climate challenges, and recent tax changes. The conversation delves into the complexities of tourism development in Fiji, focusing on sustainable growth, community involvement, and the importance of infrastructure. Fantasha Lockington emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to tourism that includes planning for future needs and ensuring local communities benefit from the industry. Good timing ahead of the Hotel and Tourism Expo being held in Nadi October 22 & 23.

The conversation delves into the world of Kava, exploring its preparation, varieties, and the journey of Zane Yoshida in the Kava industry. Zane leads the ASX listed Calmer Company that markets the FijiKava brand. We also discuss the invention of instant Kava and its significance in the Western market. The conversation delves into the cultural and regional consumption of Kava, exploring its historical significance and ceremonial aspects. It also touches on the changing dynamics of Kava consumption, including the inclusion of women and the emergence of Kava bars. Additionally, the health properties of Kava and its impact on the Pacific region's economy are discussed.

The conversation with owners, Qiuchee and Qiujing Wong, explores the journey of Lukbo, a business specializing in the importation and wholesaling of Pacific Island and Asian food. It delves into the challenges of sourcing, processing, and distributing products from the Pacific region to New Zealand, as well as the family history and legacy of the business. The conversation covers topics such as the impact of automation on quality and scalability, end-to-end processing capability, target consumer market, advertising strategies, sourcing dynamics, and staff retention. Qiuchee and Qiujing also discuss the challenges and opportunities for Pacific Island exporters in the New Zealand and Australian markets.