Winston Peters talks at Wintec

The always controversial Winston Peters is guest speaker at a Wintec School of Media Arts event on May 16.

The New Zealand First leader will share his insights into the New Zealand media when he takes the stage at an invitation-only lunch held at the Ferrybank Reception Centre in Hamilton.

About 100 guests, including well-known identities in media, sport, politics, business, and hospitality in the Waikato as well as Auckland, will be in attendance to hear Peters’ forthright views.

Peters was approached by Wintec editor in residence Steve Braunias, who is thrilled that Peters accepted the invitation.

“Students of journalism can learn from the master,” he said.

“Mr Peters’ dealings with New Zealand journalists have always made for a fascinating and entertaining spectacle.  I fully expect his speech at the Ferrybank will leave the audience wanting another drink.”

Braunias will stage a series of three “Media Bites” lunchtime events in Hamilton this year.

A  long-established feature at Wintec,  “Media Bites” is an opportunity for students of journalism to rub shoulders with news reporters – and news makers.

Previous speakers include John Campbell, Paul Holmes (“His speech was so long that I think he’s still making it,” said Braunias), Michael Laws, foreign correspondent Jon Stephenson, business journalist Bernard Hickey, and comedian Te Radar.

VIPs at past “Media Bites” events have included Sir Patrick Hogan, Joe Karam, Hamilton mayor Julie Hardaker, MPs from both sides of the house, Lisa Lewis, former Listener editor Finlay Macdonald, unionist Matt McCarten, and Martyn “Bomber” Bradbury, who was Wintec’s editor in residence in 2011.

Braunias, who was previously editor in residence in 2010, took a sabbatical last year to write a book about 20 New Zealand towns. He has returned to his Wintec role for 2012, and says he is delighted to be back in Hamilton.