Jon Reeves (a.k.a. Kiwi Jon)

Business Manager, Co-Founder, Producer, Reporter

Naturally a bit extrovert I’ve always liked radio and broadcasting though never had formal training. I first got into radio by producing overnight talkback radio shows in New Zealand in 1994. I enjoy meeting interesting people, music, traveling and my classic car, a 1967 Riley Elf, which I had to leave back in New Zealand. I like nature and I had a huge garden in NZ – found I have green fingers!

Where were you born, and where have you lived so far?
I was born in Takapuna, Auckland in New Zealand. I have lived in London, Switzerland ( in the Swiss Romande and Swiss German regions), Aberdeen (Scotland), St. Louis (France) and Basel.

How long have you been living in the region for?

I have lived in the region a number of time for various durations. From March 2001 – October 2002, then again from November 2003 until August 2005. I returned to Basel in 2011…and still here!

Why Basel?
It’s such a cool little city. I like the fact it is on the border of France and Germany. The people are open minded, and there’s always something going on here. The tram system is awesome and on a summers afternoon or evening you will find me floating down the Rhine (on the Klein Basel side) and having BBQ on the concrete steps near Kaserne.

What's your favourite place for a coffee or drink with friends in this region?
I have a couple of favourite places, like Café Fumare Non Fumare, in the Non Fumare side of course!   

Favourite bands or singers?
Of course some Kiwi bands and singers like Gin Wigmore, Kids of 88, classic Kiwi bands like Split Enz and Supergroove from the 90’s. But also international groups The KLF, Utah Saints, Westbam ( from Germany) and Manu Chao (from France/Spain).

Where's your favourite place in Switzerland?
Actually, having lived all over this country I have plenty of favourite places. Like wandering around the old Roman ruins in Avenches (canton Fribourg), Lac Noir (Schwartzsee) or hiking around the treks in Canton du Valais.

What is the most important advice you would give to someone new to Basel or Switzerland?
Don’t sit around at home after work. Get out!  Then you’ll find out about what’s going on and meet other expats and locals (plenty of whom speak English).

What languages do you speak?
I speak excellent Kiwi English, French at a good level and German, well, no I don’t but I should really learn it!

What is your favorite word in Swiss German or French

“Putzfrau” I laughed when I heard it many years ago as it sounded so funny.