Spring in New Zealand means longer days, blossoming trees… and for one in three Kiwis, the unwelcome arrival of hay fever. So when the NZ Herald invited us in to talk about our invention, Goodair Nosebuds, we were thrilled to share how a simple, drug-free device could help.

Professor David White, our Chief Science Officer and inventor of Nosebuds, joined Ryan Bridge on air to explain the story. He shared how the idea first came about when his daughter, like so many New Zealanders, was constantly sneezing, taking antihistamines, and battling the daily frustration of hay fever. With his research already centred on the nose and breathing systems, David began experimenting with ways to strengthen the body’s natural defences without medication.

The interview touched on how Nosebuds work: two tiny motors generate air flow and vibration, creating a gentle humming sound that “massages” the nasal lining. This process supercharges the nose’s own airway defence mechanisms, helping it trap and dispose of allergens before they can cause irritation. Importantly, nothing enters the body, just fresh, clean air.

Ryan was curious: how often should someone use it? David explained it’s designed like a daily hygiene habit, around ten minutes twice a day, just like brushing your teeth. And because there’s no medication involved, there’s no risk of overuse. In fact, some people even pop them in while driving or working at their desk.

Perhaps one of the most engaging moments was when David demonstrated Nosebuds live on air. As the soft buzzing filled the studio, Ryan described it as sounding like “a bee in the room or a tiny plane taking off.” That sparked a laugh, but also highlighted an important point: just like we grew used to wearing headphones and earbuds, Nosebuds are designed to be practical and easy to integrate into daily life.

The conversation also touched on the business journey. From early prototypes tested at home, through to manufacturing and now sales, David explained how the company has grown. The feedback so far has been overwhelmingly positive, with users reporting noticeable relief from symptoms.

To wrap up, Ryan acknowledged what many Kiwis already know too well, hay fever can really ruin your day and suggested there would be huge interest in a product like this. For us, it was a fantastic opportunity to share the science, the story, and the vision behind Nosebuds with a national audience.