The University of Canterbury has a new senior chaplain, radio show host  Joshua 'Spanky' Moore, who replaces Tom Innes.

The Rev Joshua Moore will start his new role in the second semester, from July 14.

He got his nickname "Spanky" from playing with Christchurch punk band Clowndog, which became infamous for throwing raw meat at their audiences.

``Initially, all of our band members took on these strange nicknames in the genuine belief it would help us get a record deal," Joshua recalls. "Obviously, that plan didn't work out, so I've ended up where most failed punk band singers find themselves, working for the church.". 

He is best known in more recent times as the host of "Breakfast with Spanky" on student radio station RDU 98.5FM.

Over the years he has developed a cult following of alternative radio listeners and every morning has helped them through their cornflakes and traffic jams. His quick wit and brave interview style earned him the on-air tagline of "The Saviour of Breakfast Radio."

Joshua was ordained in the Anglican Church in 2010 while hosting the breakfast show. He handed over the reins in 2013 to young adults ministry developer for the Diocese of Christchurch. But he still frequents the airwaves as a regular guest presenter on RDU as host of "The Wire" current affairs show.

Off air, Joshua has spent the last five years working closely with young adults and students and has become one of New Zealand's pre-eminent Christian voices on how faith connects with the Generation Y and the Millennial generation.

``My time as a breakfast host on student radio means I bring some unique perspectives as a chaplain," he says. "My student radio listeners were by and large people who viewed the church with suspicion and yet were intrigued by the idea of faith and spirituality.'' 

Previous chaplain Tom Innes had a central role in supporting staff and students after the earthquakes, working closely with student support services.

He was actively involved in University of Canterbury sustainability initiatives, including the community garden. 

Tom has moved to Springfield with his family to explore sustainable living and faith under the mountains