Power Up with Sumaria

Real Talk. Real People. Real Energy Solutions.

 

Join Sumaria Beaton from Awarua Synergy in the Deep South as she hosts Power Up with Sumaria, a bold new podcast tackling the big questions around energy-efficient living. Each episode features inspiring conversations with industry leaders, community advocates, and technical specialists—both local and international—who are transforming how we build, retrofit, and power our homes.

From passive housing and retrofitting tips to uncovering what’s worth the investment—and what’s a waste, this show delivers practical advice and powerful insights. Discover amazing programs, grants, and subsidies available across Southland and Aotearoa, and learn how to navigate the challenges of energy hardship in our communities.

Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, designer, or just curious about creating warmer, drier, healthier homes, this podcast is your go-to guide for energy-wise living.

🔌 Power up your knowledge. Power up your home. Power up your community.

I’m Sumaria Beaton, General Manager of Awarua Synergy and host of Power Up with Sumaria. With over two decades of experience, I’ve helped thousands of homes across Aotearoa become warmer, drier, and healthier.

My mahi has taken me from the Far North to the Chatham Islands, delivering workshops, training, and hands-on support to whānau and communities. I’ve worked alongside university researchers, trained over 100 home navigators, and contributed to both local housing initiatives and national energy policy.

I’ve proudly served on the Energy Hardship Expert Panel, the Insulation Association of New Zealand, and supported the Community Energy Network. I’ve collaborated with government agencies, local funders, suppliers, and energy experts to drive change from the ground up.

My work has been recognised with awards in both New Zealand and Australia, including the Kiwibank Local Hero Medal.

I’m passionate about real talk, real people, and real change—starting in the Deep South and reaching across New Zealand.

Join the Movement

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  • Invite Sumaria to speak at your next hui or workshop
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