Mike Puru has been a fixture in New Zealand media for over three decades—a warm, relatable voice and face that's entertained, informed, and connected with Kiwis across radio, television, and reality shows. Born on August 20, 1975, in Gore, Southland, the now-50-year-old broadcaster has worn many hats: radio DJ, weather presenter, reality host, contestant, and even entrepreneur. From his breakout days on The Edge to hosting The Bachelor NZ and appearing on The Traitors NZ, Puru's career is a testament to adaptability, charm, and a genuine love for the craft.
As of February 16, 2026, Mike Puru remains deeply embedded in the broadcasting world, with a strong focus on radio following major changes in New Zealand television. He's no longer a daily on-screen presence after the closure of Newshub in 2024, but he's busier than ever behind the mic—hosting shows on The Breeze, running his passion project Southern Cross Country Radio, and embracing personal milestones like fitness and family. In this in-depth profile, we'll explore what Mike Puru is up to right now, revisit his standout TV appearances, trace his career evolution, and highlight the personal side that keeps him grounded amid the spotlight.
Current Status: Radio Dominance and a Country Music Passion
In early 2024, Mike Puru stepped into a prominent role hosting the weekday afternoon drive show on The Breeze, a popular New Zealand radio network known for its easy-listening hits and positive vibes. This followed the shock closure of Newshub (Three's news division), where he had served as a part-time weather presenter since 2016. By 2025, his role shifted, and as of 2026, he continues to bring his trademark energy to The Breeze Drive (3pm onwards), delivering great music, interviews, listener engagement, and feel-good content to commuters across the country.
Puru is also deeply involved with Southern Cross Country Radio—New Zealand's dedicated country music station, which he founded and describes as his "little baby." Launched as a digital platform (available online and via apps), it features classic and contemporary country from Kiwi and international artists. Mike hosts the breakfast show here, curating playlists, interviewing talent, and building a community around the genre's storytelling heart. The station thrives in 2026, filling a niche for country fans and allowing Puru creative freedom outside traditional networks.
With dual radio commitments, Puru balances immediacy and passion. He's a regular on The Breeze's wellness segments, like The House of Wellness with Chemist Warehouse, sharing insights on health and self-care. Social media (@mikepuru on Instagram and Facebook) offers glimpses: radio set sneak peeks, family moments with partner Anton Chartier, and promotions for Southern Cross Country.
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Personal fitness remains a priority. After turning 50 in August 2025, Puru trained for and completed the Garmin Half Marathon at the Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Marathon event on November 2, 2025, finishing with a net time of 3:00:18. His refreshingly honest goals—"Finish—then bath, burger, beer"—and reflections on family, health, and aging gracefully were widely covered, inspiring listeners to prioritize wellness at any stage.
TV Shows with Mike Puru: A Memorable Highlight Reel
While Mike isn't fronting a major TV series in 2026, his television legacy endures through beloved roles:
- The Bachelor New Zealand (2015–2016)
Puru hosted the first two seasons on TV3 (now Three), guiding bachelors through rose ceremonies, dates, and eliminations with humor and empathy. His approachable style made the drama feel authentic and drew strong ratings. - The Traitors NZ (Season 1, 2023)
Shifting from host to contestant, Puru joined as a "Faithful" in this psychological game show hosted by Paul Henry. His media savvy and likable cunning shone through alliances and deception—fans still remember his performance fondly. - The Café (2016–2020)
Co-hosting this light-hearted morning lifestyle show on Three with Mel Homer, Puru covered entertainment, food, trends, and positive stories in a casual, engaging format. - Newshub Weather Presenter (2016–2024)
For nearly a decade, he delivered forecasts on Three's bulletins—often as fill-in or weekends. His warm delivery and occasional live "fluffs" (shared humorously in interviews) made him relatable.
Earlier credits include youth show Flipside (2002) and stand-in roles on The Paul Henry Show. Puru's TV strength lies in live, unpretentious formats where his personality connects instantly.
Career Evolution: From Small-Town Start to National Treasure
Mike Puru's journey began in Gore, Southland. After school, he joined The Edge in 1995, spending 20 years as a DJ with cheeky humor that built a loyal following. The 2000s brought TV crossovers: Flipside, home shopping, and more.
The 2010s marked peak versatility—leaving The Edge for The Bachelor, joining Newshub weather, and co-hosting The Café. Post-2020 challenges (pandemic shifts, network changes, Newshub's 2024 end) led him back to radio roots. A planned 2024 move to France with partner Anton (to run a B&B and launch country radio remotely) was canceled due to career opportunities at The Breeze and family priorities (including his father's health).
Personal Life: Love, Resilience, and What Matters Most
Mike came out as gay years ago and has been with partner Anton Chartier since around 2014. Their relationship is supportive and private—Anton influenced the France idea, though plans evolved. Puru credits family (parents, siblings) as his anchor, especially amid his dad's terminal cancer diagnosis shared in interviews.
He's open about mental health, including losing a colleague to suicide early in his career, emphasizing connection and support. At 50, priorities have shifted toward health (running, wellness), happiness, and loved ones over constant hustle.
Looking Ahead: What's Next for Mike Puru?
In 2026, expect continued mornings/afternoons on Southern Cross Country and The Breeze Drive, growing the country station, and possible event hosting (he's a sought-after MC). TV could return—speculation has included shows like Celebrity Treasure Island—but radio remains his core. Mike Puru embodies Kiwi broadcasting: authentic, resilient, and engaging.
Whether on airwaves or (potentially) screens, he connects because he's real. Tune into The Breeze or Southern Cross Country to catch that familiar warmth.
What’s your favorite Mike Puru moment or show? Share in the comments below!
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