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Welcome to PowerUp, a podcast by Venture Taranaki and produced by Roar Collective. Here we celebrate the region’s entrepreneurs and innovators who are leaving their mark on the world, while living the famous Taranaki lifestyle.
Each episode features a prominent local entrepreneur, making waves both nationally and internationally with their trailblazing spirit and can-do attitude. They'll share their successes, ah-ha moments and celebrated wins, as well as their struggles and behind the scenes failures. Our guests also reflect on how being from Taranaki influences their work and the lives they lead.
Hosted by long time business advocate and honorary Taranaki local David Downs, this series illustrates the thriving business environment within Taranaki by telling the stories of everyday people who've been able to achieve remarkable things.
Taranaki is a region where the unique natural and entrepreneurship ecosystems collide to create a place where people can flourish and achieve their full potential. Nau mai haere mai, we welcome you to hear our enterprising stories like no other.
Episodes
Thursday Apr 09, 2026
Thursday Apr 09, 2026
Michael Mansvelt describes himself as a connector, someone who brings people closer to spaces, nature, and a sense of belonging. His career spans landscape, interior, and architectural design, alongside Jungle Nurseries, a nursery and creative hub based on the outskirts of New Plymouth.
In this episode of the PowerUp Podcast, Michael reflects on the experiences that shaped him as both a designer and an entrepreneur. Growing up in South Taranaki, surrounded by rainforest, farmland, and historic architecture, he shares how those early observations continue to inform his work today. Leaving school early due to dyslexia pushed him toward a creative path that eventually led to working on one of Britain’s largest private estates — reshaping his understanding of legacy, time, and design.
Michael also speaks candidly about building his business in the 1990s, the role television played in establishing credibility, and his philosophy of Everyday Opulence, finding beauty in both grand spaces and daily life.
A thoughtful kōrero about creativity, longevity, and building a values-led business grounded in place.
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