7 March Independent Herald

Frank Neill

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Important things are worth fighting for

Continued from page 1.

“When things are important they are worth fighting for and it is disappointing that we have to fight for something that is the heart of our community,” he says.

The community centre is “priceless to our community because we are using it to nurture and teach our kids and as a place for our elderly to go.

“It’s all about community connectedness.”

The community centre is “priceless,” Greg says. “It’s far more than just a building.”

Despite the council staff saying the community centre was under utilised, it is actually well used, Greg notes.

Some of the groups regularly using the centre are the music teaching for nearly 300 students run by Music Box Academy that happens five days a week, the toy library, a mahjong group and a zumba exercise group.

A recent event held by the toy library was attended by around 200 families.

It is comparatively well used and it is one of the few community centres providing good revenue to the council, Greg says.

The battle to save the community centre has become necessary because the council’s Long Term Plan, Finance and Performance Committee decided on 15 February to include the sale of the Wadestown Community Centre in the council’s draft 2024-34

Long Term Plan.

The battle to save the community centre from being sold is one that the Wharangi/Onslow Western Ward Councillor Diane Calvert also plans to continue.

“I’m not walking away from this,” she says.

“You have got a Mayor and council wanting to close down community assets (like the Khandallah pool) or sell community assets to pay for pet projects like the Reading Cinema and cycleways.

“They are not making decisions in the best interests of the community.”

Rather the council “is using other people’s money to further their own ideology.

“I find it amazing that a Mayor who claims to be green would go against the principle of looking after community assets,” Cr Calvert says.

“We want the city council to realise that you can’t sell off community assets,” Greg says.

“We are trying to gather our ammunition so we can defend ourselves better.

“We are gearing for people to put in a mountain of submissions” on Wellington City Council’s draft Long Term Plan, he says.

Following the item in the 22 February issue of the “Independent Herald” about the proposed sale of the community centre, more items have appeared in the media, Greg notes.

That has included articles by

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And on Tuesday this week, TVNZ Breakfast visited the Wadestown Community Centre and broadcast an item about it.

“We are really thrilled that the Breakfast Programme has screened it ... and there was a good turnout from the community” when the programme came to the centre.

Four Wellington City Councillors – Cr Calvert, Cr Tony Randle, Cr Ray Chung and Cr Nureddin Abdurahman – were among the people at the community centre when Breakfast visited, as was Ōhariu MP Greg O’Connor.

“We are incredibly grateful that there has been media attention,” Greg says.

What the Wadestown Residents’ Association wants now is to work with the council to find a solution.

“The city has known for a long time that the facility is not ideal, but don’t sell it until we have got somewhere else to go.”

In 10 years time the residents’ association wants a “brand new community centre” and it wants to work with the council on interim solutions until a new centre can be built.

Formal consultation on the Long Term Plan will open on 12 April, the council says on its website. The consultation will run for a month, closing on 12 May.

After the close of the formal consultation, there will be opportunities for people to speak to their submissions at an oral hearing or an oral forum.

The final 2024-34 Long Term Plan, based on all the engagement feedback and decisions made at deliberations, will be adopted by the council on 30 June.

You will likely have heard Wellington City Council are proposing to close two much loved community facilities ie Khandallah Summer Pool and Wadestown Community Centre before it’s worked through affordable options with local communities. Both of these facilities were funded by local communities and have each been around for close to 100 years.

Update from your local city councillor

These planned closures are extremely disappointing given that these are the only two facilities up for closure across the entire city. In the meantime, the Mayor carries on using the money from closing the pool and community centre to help pay for her pet projects such as planting trees, cycleways, and helping prop up an American company - Readings.

Please get in touch if you have a question or concern 029 971 8944 | diane.calvert@wcc.govt.nz

www.dianecalvert.nz | /dianecalvertnz

You can email the Mayor, councillors and iwi representatives on councillors@wcc.govt.nz to share your views on these cuts.

Authorised by J Owens, 22 Agra Cres, Wellington 6035.

There is also an open petition on the Council’s website to save Khandallah Pool. It already has over 2, 600 signatures.

www.dianecalvert.nz | /dianecalvertnz

Authorised by J Owens, 22 Agra

A group of the nearly 300 students who are learning music with Music Box Academy at the Wadestown Community Centre. Photo: Supplied.

Plague skink sighted locally

By Frank Neill

A plague skink, a pest that poses a significant threat to rare native lizards, has likely been sighted on Rowell’s Road in Glenside.

The sighting has been reported to Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC), and the council is investigating.

If it turns out that it was a plague skink that was sighted, it will be the first in the region.

“We’re working with the Department of Conservation, Wellington City Council and the herpetelogical community to investigate the reported sighting of a plague skink,” says Jack Mace, GWRC’s director of delivery.

“Plague skinks, also known as rainbow skinks, are an invasive species that threaten our rare native lizards.

“We have 35 different native skink species here in Aotearoa – some with declining populations, and others that have already become locally extinct due to pests like hedgehogs, mustelids and rats.

“With the Wellington Region’s climate and forests, a plague

skink population could quickly establish and spread, which we will do our best to prevent.

“If you think you’ve seen a plague skink in the Wellington Region, please call the 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468) line or the MPI biosecurity line on 0800 809 966,” Mr Mace says.

Plague skinks (Lampropholis delicata) are native to Australia.

They were first recorded in Auckland during the 1960s.

They are now found in the North Island from Northland to the Waikato and the Bay of Plenty, the Department of Conservation (DoC) says on its website.

There are also outlying populations at Whanganui, Palmerston North and Foxton Beach.

They have been found in two South Island locations. Blenheim has an established population and they have been found in Havelock in the Marlborough Sounds.

“Plague skinks are able to reach high population densities in a relatively short time, DoC says.

“Because of this they potentially compete with our native

lizard species for food, habitat and space.

Plaque skinks are brown or grey-brown with a dark brown stripe down each side, and an iridescent rainbow or metallic sheen when seen in bright light.

“Although the adults are smaller than native skinks, they look very similar but can be easily distinguished with one distinctive feature.

“Plague skinks have one large scale on the top of their head, whereas New Zealand native

skinks have two smaller scales,” DoC says.

“Plague skinks reproduce rapidly – laying up to eight eggs three times per year (more than five times as fast as most native lizards) and mature in less than half the time of native lizards.

“They can reach high population densities in a relatively short time, competing with native lizards and other native fauna for food and habitat, and and increasing predation pressure on native invertebrates.”

Public transport fares going up

Public transport fares will increase by 10% Greater Wellington Council decided on 29 February.

Inflation and escalating expenses backdrop the stark decision faced by councillors, Greater Wellington Chair Daran Ponter says.

“Like all councils, we’re caught between a financial rock and a fiscal hard place.

“Do we ask passengers to pay more to use public transport, or do we hike rates even higher?

“We’d never consider an increase of this size if we weren’t

also faced with tough choices about raising rates and cutting spending in this year’s Long Term Plan, \” Cr Ponting says.

Public transport is jointly funded by central government and the regional council, with fares only covering about a third of costs.

Metlink estimates that without the 10% fares increase, a further 3.3% rates rise would be required.

“We have deliberately kept fare increases below the level of inflation over the last few years to protect people from

cost-of-living pressures,” says Greater Wellington Transport Committee chair Thomas Nash.

“But the cost of public transport has gone up significantly while fares have not.

“Given the effects of inflation on the cost of driving a car, a 10% fares increase would still leave public transport journeys competitively priced compared to using private vehicles, once you take into account fuel, parking, insurance and maintenance costs,” Cr Nash says.

“I don’t want to be putting

fares up. “But we want to continue to grow our services, and with what’s on the cards for rates, unless we were to see a significant increase in government funding, the alternative to a fares increase at this point is for our network to decline.”

Off peak and weekend fares on the Metlink network will remain half price as will travel for Community Services and Total Mobility card holders. The fares increase is scheduled to be implemented on 1 July 2024.

New playgroup

A free playgroup for tamariki aged up to 18 months old has started at the Churton Park Community Centre.

The Little Hush Playgroup is held fortnightly from 9am to 11am on Fridays, and is run by a qualified sleep consulatant.

For more information visit www. littlehush.co.nz or email littlehushnz@ gmail.com.

Rainbow Youth Night

A Rainbow Youth Night will be held at the Karori Library - Te Whare Pukapuka o Te Māhanga from 5pm to 8pm on Saturday 16 March.

This free event will be a celebration of Wellington Pride.

It is for rainbow and takatāpui youth aged 14 years and older and still at high school, as well as their friends, but not for adults.

The evening will provide those attending the opportunity to socialise, have fun and chat to a librarian about their favourite queer literature.

As usual, there will be pizza, gaming, movies, crafts and quiet spaces to chill out.

People will need to arrive and sign in by 6pm if they want to be fed.

Dogs ‘n’ Togs

The popular Dogs ‘n’ Togs event returns to Khandallah pool on Saturday 23 March.

The pool will have closed for the season for humans, with just this last event before it closes for the season and possibly for good.

Tickets are available at Eventfinda.

An adult plague skink. Photo: Tony Whitaker.

Outdoor fires now banned

The Wellington District moved to a prohibited fire season at 8am Wednesday on 28 February.

This means that no outdoor fires are allowed until further notice.

The Hutt Valley, Wellington, Porirua, and Kāpiti Coast zones were all be placed into a prohibited fire season.

The Wairarapa has been in a prohibited fire season since late January.

While there has been rain in the region recently, it hasn’t been enough to alleviate the fire danger.

In fact the recent weather has caused grass, gorse, scrub and pine to dry out across the region.

“This year is shaping up to be much drier than previous years and with the La Nina conditions forecast, it is only going to get hotter and drier,” says Rob Goldring, National Advisor Fire Risk Management, Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ).

“We have already had some quite significant vegetation fires, much earlier in the fire season than usual.

“It is really important that people abide by the fire season rules.

“The rules are there for a reason: to keep people and property safe from fire.

“The whole East Coast of the South Island, and the Lower North Island from South Taranaki, across to Hawke’s Bay and down to Wellington and the Wairarapa are particularly dry,” Mr Goldring says.

Any fire permits people have obtained from FENZ are suspended and new permits will not be issued.

People can go to www.checkitsalright.nz for fire safety advice.

Future Antactic scientists

“We clearly have the next generation of Antarctic scientists emerging in Room 6 at St Brigid’s,” says Victoria University’s Dr Holly Winton.

The Rutherford Discovery Fellow and Senior Research Fellow at the Antarctic Research Centre at Victoria University, Dr Winton gave a presentation to the Room 6 students at the Johnsonville school recently.

The year 4 and 5 students took up Dr Holly’s presntation offer after

an overwhelming number of them identified Science as an area of interest during whānau conferences.

Accompanied by her research assistant Emma de Jong, Dr Winton arrived with a Scott Polar Antarctic tent –the original design used by Captain Scott, heroic Antarctic expeditioner – and extreme cold weather gear for students to explore.

She explained the scientific inquiry cycle, the different science disciplines and the process a sci-

entist uses.

Students enjoyed learning about the phytoplankton in the Southern Ocean, how an ice core contains layers of information about the atmosphere, climate and significant events like volcanic eruptions.

“I was impressed with the students' inquisitive questions, their ability to quickly grasp scientific concepts about Antarctic ice formation, and their enthusiastic response to testing out the polar clothing,” Dr Winton says. St

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Brigid’s students with the Scott Polar Antartic tent. Photo: Supplied.

Ngaio Repair Café awakens

The Ngaio Repair Café opens for 2024 having been dormant from December through February during the holiday season.

The interior of the Ngaio Union Church, on the corner Kenya Street and Crofton Road, will once more become a workshop and free coffee shop.

Already enquires have been coming in.

“Could you fix a Rocking Chair?”

“What about a dehumidifier?”

“How about and old-fashioned clothes drier – one of those metal things you unfold then stand up?”

The answer always is, “Bring it in and we’ll have a look.”

“We can’t always fix things but based on 2023’s experience our repair rate on the day is about 70%,” John McInnes, the Repair Café’s co-ordinator, says.

John also explains that sometimes people need to go and buy a part and come back on the third Saturday of the following month when Ngaio Repair Cafe is open again. And sometimes a repairer will suggest a professional firm to whom it would be worth taking the item.

All that, he says, is better than just throwing something in the bin.

The Ngaio Repair Cafe is available by email, repaircafengaio@gmail.com.

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The stream running though the Glenside Reserve. Photo: Supplied.

Glenside stream tests as fair

Shelby Lockwood and Abbey Huriwai of Mountains to the Sea and Glenside Progressive Association President Claire Bibby tested the water quality of the stream running through the Glenside reserve on 16 February.

The tests were conducted above the concrete ford in the Glenside Reserve.

The physical habitat visual assessment was “Fair” scoring 36.

A “Good” score would be in the range 40 to 55. "Excellent" is over 55 and would include stable banks, dense vegetation cover and understory, no livestock access to stream, and a natural, meandering stream bed.

As a comparison, the physical habitat of Stebbings Stream at the end of Glenside Road was assessed on 21 January and scored a high "Good" of 51.

Important inquiry hears people’s stories

The Royal Commission of Inquiry into Covid-19 wants to hear people’s experiences of the pandemic. It has launched a dedicated online submission site – www.covid19inquiry.nz.

Submissions will be open until 24 March.

“It really is important that we do hear these stories, the Chair of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Covid-19, Professor Tony Blakely says.

“The unfortunate reality is that there will be another pandemic, and we need to take this opportunity to learn the lessons, both from our own experiences and from those overseas, so that we’re as prepared as possible,” he says.

“The Covid-19 pandemic affected all of us, and New Zealanders –both here and living overseas – were asked to undertake extraordinary actions during this time.

“We want to hear about the wide range of experiences people had,

and their observations of the pandemic, whatever they might be,” Professor Blakely says.

“The Government announced on Friday 2 February that it is committed to expanding the inquiry’s terms of reference and has asked us to undertake consultation, on its behalf, on a broader, clarified scope for the inquiry.

“Feedback on the terms of reference will be gathered alongside our public submissions process, and will be provided to the Department of Internal Affairs.

“They will then provide advice to the Government ahead of any changes that might be made to the scope of the inquiry.

“As a result of this consultation, the inquiry may be asked to look at additional aspects of the Covid-19 response.

“While we’re looking at a wide range of Covid-19 related topics, such as mandates and other public health measures, and a variety of

social and economic matters, we recognise there are additional topics that people might like us to consider, and likely useful clarifications to make (for example, regarding the scope and depth of inquiry into vaccine effectiveness).

“During February and March, we’ll be letting people know how they can make a submission on the terms of reference, and how they can share their story through a public information campaign.

“While changes to our terms of reference will likely alter how we analyse what we’ve been told, everyone should feel free to make submissions on any aspects of the pandemic.

“We’ll also have a presence at some public events, like community markets and A&P shows, during the consultation period to encourage people to share their experiences.

“We really do want to hear from you.

One person, one vote bill drawn

By Frank Neill

Ōhariu MP Greg O’Connor’s new bill, which will ensure a person has only one vote in local body elections, has drawn from the “Parliamentary biscuit tin”.

The bill will now go to a First Reading.

“I am hoping it will have the support of all parties,” Mr O’Connor says, adding that he will be speaking to every party seeking their support.

The bill is called the Local Electoral (Abolition of the Ratepayer Roll) Amendment Bill.

If passed by Parliament the bill would remove the ability of some Greg O’Connor.

Karori Karnival raffle winner

Jessica Lawton, with her daughter Vienna Atwill holds her prize, a PowerFit Compact Exercise Machine, raffled by Karori Lions at the Karori Lions Karnival at Ben Burn Park.

“It’s always good when we can personally hand over a prize to a really appreciative recipient – and especially at the end of a great Karnival day, after much hard work has resulted in so much enjoyment for so many in our community,” the Karori Lions Club President Jo Cameron says.

Karori school fair

The Karori Normal School Fair is back and will take place at the school, 19 Allington Road, from 11am to 2pm on Saturday 16 March.

As well as stalls, some of them featuring items such as kid’s toys and books, and cakes and sweets, there will be a food court and games.

It is five years since the school last held its fair.

The 2019 fair struck bad weather.

After the 2020 fair was completely organised it had to be cancelled due to the Covid lockdown, with just four days notice.

people to vote in different local body areas, and ensure that like in General Elections, it is one person, one vote.

“Currently, if a person or company or trust owns property in an area they don’t reside in, they can vote in that area, in addition to their regular vote in the area they do live and vote in,” Mr O’Connor says.

“Theoretically, and indeed in practice, an individual could vote in every mayoral election in New Zealand.

“A good example is in Thames Coromandel which includes a large number of absentee holiday-home

Gotilieb organised these owners to enrol on the ratepayer roll and to vote for him to go on the council.

“An individual can only vote once in each jurisdiction, but in the case of a company or trust, [they] can nominate a different person for each property, or rateable unit.

“Until 1893 in New Zealand, only property owners could vote in General Elections, until that was changed to universal suffrage that year.

“However, the local body rule was retained at that time except for a brief period when it was removed

“I have been very lucky with my Members’ Bills,” Mr O’Connor adds.

“I had my bill, which is to ensure sex offenders on the Child Sex Offender Register must supply all their overseas travel details, including addresses they will be staying at while overseas, drawn last Parliament and that is currently at Select Committee.

“A Member [of Parliament] is only permitted to have one bill in the ‘tin’ at one time, but once drawn, another one can be placed.

“I am always looking for ideas for a new Members’ Bills, which

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Women’s Women’s Day Day

8 March 2024

The theme of the International Women’s Day 2024 campaign is ‘Inspire Inclusion’. Celebrated on 8 March, the intention of this year’s day is to inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, so that together we forge a better world.

Day to commemorate women

By Frank Neill

Sundundiosam quam net aut eos upicimin

Ministers Helen Clark, Jacinda Adern and Chris Hipkins.

Dress Impress

Friday 8 March is International Women’s Day, a day to commemorate women and a focal point in the women’s rights movement.

It is a day to celebrate every single woman in the community, a time to recognise everything that they achieve.

The vast majority of women will not be recongised by receiving an honour or an award, yet their individual and collective contributions are outstanding.

While recognising the value of every single woman in the community, International Women’s Day also commemorates the cultural, political and socioeconomic achievements of women.

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Christine Hundleby, who lives in Newlands, was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to Pacific arts in the 2024 New Year’s Honours.

Ms Hundleby is a multifaceted artist, creative producer, and social justice advocate for Melanesian and Pacific Peoples.

She is Co-Chair of the Melanesian Steering Group to the Ministry for Pacific Peoples and has been an elected member of Wellington City Council’s Pacific Advisory Group for six years.

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Local women have certainly to the fore with their achievements recently.

Dr Anneliese Parkin, who has worked with four prime ministers, advising on and co-ordinating government policy, was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2024 New Years Honours.

She co-founded Hundleby and Chalmers Productions in 2012 and has worked in creative production of community and national arts projects and festivals. This has included the annual Wellington Pasifika Festival, Waitangi Day, WOMAD and CubaDupa festivals.

Mrs Morar is a prominent leader and respected voice in the Indian community.

Dawn Sanders

She was made an ONZM for services to the Public Service.

The Kelburn resident led the government’s Policy Advisory Group (PAG) during the Prime Ministerships of John Key, Bill English, Jacinda Adern and Chris Hipkins.

Dinah Okeby, who lives in Highbury was made an Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the Public Service in the 2024 New Year’s Honours.

Ms Okeby has supported Prime Ministers, Ministers and Leaders of the Opposition in a varitey of roles for more than 37 years.

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Kristeen Johnston, who lives in Karori, was awarded a Queen’s Service Medal for services to the community in the 2024 New Year’s Honours.

Mrs Johnston has supported women and girls through her involvement in several organisations in the wider Wellington community, including as President of Wellington Soroptimists from 2014 to 2015 and again in 2019, and Soroptimist International National President from 2020 to 2022.

As a member of the New Zealand Indian Central Association national body since 2001, she held offices for seven years including Vice President.

For more than 25 years, she has served the Wellington Indian Association, holding several voluntary roles including President, Gujarati language teacher and Historian since 2010.

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And that is just this year.

She began drafting correspondence for Prime Minister David Lange in 1989, leading to a long career in correspondence drafting for leading Parliamentarians, including Prime

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Wednesday

By Frank Neill

Your local community newspaper

Top editorial content

New Zealand’s Supreme Court – Te Kōti Mana Nui o Aotearoa has released a significant decision that allows climate change claims against corporate defendants to go to trial.

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This was one of the first occasions in common law jurisdictions that a court has recognised that it is possible to argue that tort law can be used to challenge the greenhouse gas emissions of a private entity.

Celebrating International Women’s Day

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The Supreme Court, in a unanimous decision, overturned an earlier decision of the Court of Appeal to strike out all three claims Mr Smith made against seven corporate entities.

The seven corporates are Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd, Genesis Energy Ltd, Dairy Holdings Ltd, New Zealand Steel Ltd, Z Energy Ltd, Channel Infrastructure NZ Ltd and BT Mining Ltd.

The Supreme Court has allowed Mr Smith’s claims of negligence, public

She has worked to educate, empower and enable women and girls in a variety of ways, including fundraising to donate period products to the City Mission and sitting on the International Women’s Caucus facilitated by the Ministry for Women.

Manisha Morar, who lives in Johnsonville, was awarded a QSM for services to the Indian community.

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nuisance and a “climate system damage” tort to go to trial.

Mr Smith is an elder of Ngāpuhi and Ngāti Kahu and a climate change spokesperson for the Iwi Chairs Forum, a national forum of tribal leaders.

In August 2019, he filed a statement of claim in the High Court against the seven respondents.

Each is a New Zealand company said to be involved in an industry that either emits greenhouse gases (GHGs) or supplies products which release GHGs when burned.

Mr Smith alleges that the respondents have damaged, and will continue to damage, his whenua and moana, including places of customary, cultural, historical, food gathering and spiritual significance to him and his whānau.

Mr Smith raises three causes of action in tort: public nuisance, negligence and a proposed climate system damage tort.

He seeks a declaration that the respondents have (individually and/or collectively) unlawfully either breached a duty owed to

The International Women’s Day (IWD) is more than 100 years old.

The first IWD gathering, supported by more than a million people, took place in 1911.

The day has three major aims, to:

• celebrate women’s achievement;

• raise awareness about discrimination; and

• take action to drive gender parity. “IWD belongs to everyone, everywhere,” its wesbite says.

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Climate change case can go to trial

him or caused or contributed to a public nuisance, and have caused or will cause him loss through their activities.

In addition to declaratory relief, injunctive relief is also sought which would require the respondents to either reduce their emissions by specified amounts over a defined period of time, or immediately cease emitting (or contributing to) net emissions.

The Supreme Court also granted the right to intervene to Lawyers for Climate Action NZ Incorporated, Te Hunga Rōia Māori o Aotearoa – The Māori Law Society, and the Human Rights Commission – Te Kāhui Tika Tangata.

The court noted that its refusal of strike out, and reinstatement of Mr Smith’s claim, was not an assessment that the claim was bound to succeed at trial.

Rather, it was a finding that it cannot be said, at this preliminary stage, that it is bound to fail.

The Supreme Court’s decision can be found at www.courtsofnz.govt.nz/assets/ cases/2024/2024-NZSC-5.pdf.

Anemones

Dinah Okeby with Jacinda Ardern when she was Prime Minister. Photo: Supplied.

Michael Houstoun in Waikanae

Michael Houstoun, New Zealand’s most acclaimed pianist, will perform for the Waikanae Music Society on Saturday 23 March.

His concert opens with the music of Bach, although with a difference. The Fantasia and Fugue in G minor, originally for organ, has been transcribed by Liszt who brilliantly captures the grandeur of this famous work. A selection of Liszt’s own compositions follows, from the flamboyant Concert Etudes to the contemplative Bénédiction. Three short pieces by Gao Ping lead to one of Chopin’s greatest masterpieces - the Sonata in B minor.

The concert will be in the Waikanae Memorial Hall at 2.30pm. For booking enquiries go to www.waikanaemusic.org. nz or phone 022 345 5316.

History and memorabilia at Paekakariki Station Museum

Head to Paekakariki and take in the sights and sounds of the local Station Museum located in the railway station on the main trunk line. Displays include stories about

Māori Taonga, Railway History, General History and a section containing US Marines WW2 items. Learn the story of the station bell that went to war. Read about local iwi Ngāti Haumia and Ngati Toa’s warrior Te Rauparaha. Admission is by donation. And for booklovers, check out Kakariki Books next to the museum.

Museum open hours : Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays 11 am to 3 pm.

To round it off why not call in at Finn’s Restaurant for a meal or beer after you’ve looked around the museum. For more information: www.stationmuseum.org.nz

Spiral Spectacular

Join Steam Incorporated on Sunday 21st April departing Paekakariki 7am and returning 9.25pm and discover what the Central Plateau has on offer. Choose to visit the National Army Museum, take a selfie with the Ohakune Carrot and indulge in a freshly cooked lunch at Osteria, or stick with the train and experience the Raurimu Spiral first hand, hauled by a combination of motive power!

It is planned for the train to be hauled by our restored 1950’s DA diesel locomotives on the Kapiti to Palmerston North legs, and a KiwiRail EF class electric locomotive on the Palmerston North to Raurimu legs.

Enhance your Central Plateau experience by choosing one of the following:

1 - National Army Museum

Sitting at the foot of Mt Ruapehu, The National Army Museum, Te Mata Toa, is a New Zealand Museum that showcases our nation’s military history – telling the stories of Kiwi soldiers and exploring our participation in major conflicts worldwide. Here you can engage with soldiers’ stories, history and the development of the Army, view personal photos and albums of WWI, and much more.

$10 per person to add this to your booking

2 - Ohakune Adventure and Osteria

After disembarking and taking a short bus ride into the town centre, you will arrive at Osteria for a buffet style lunch and a refreshment. After lunch, you may go by foot to the Ohakune Adventure Park. At 7.5 metres tall, there is a very large model of the tasty orange vegetable and has been installed in the same spot since 1984.

After your adventures, you will board the bus to rejoin the train for your return journey home.

$40 per person to add this to your booking

3 - Raurimu Spiral – Stay onboard

Upon completion the NIMT became important to New Zealand’s economic development, and was also socially significant.

The Raurimu Spiral is considered a feat of engineering ingenuity and the success of this solution contributed to the on-going effectiveness of the NIMT. Despite advances in technology and materials in the century since its completion, no feasible alternative to the Spiral has been found.

An Evening Meal

Sandy and the team at the Station Hotel will be on hand to provide an evening meal at your seat on departure from Hunterville. Being served is a tasty chicken salad main a freshly baked mini baguette, along with a sweet chocolate brownie to cleanse the palate!

Vegans, Vegetarians and Gluten Free options available, and if there are any allergies, please let us know when booking!

$30 per person to add this to your booking

Train Fare Pricing:

Adult Fare ex. Kapiti/Horowhenua & Return - $159.00

Child Fare ex. Kapiti/Horowhenua & Return - $129.00

We can cater for larger group bookings - these are best dealt with directly through us by emailing admin@steaminc.org.nz or contacting 0800 783 264.

Book online or call us on 0800 783 264

Welcome to the unique village of Paekakariki. We invite you to come and experience the real Kapiti Coast.

Finn’s Paekakariki is a contemporary cafe/restaurant and bar with great food and craft beers, in this seaside village just off State Highway 59.

It is also a boutique hotel of superior studio units with spa baths, king-size beds, microwave, tea and coffee-making facilities.

Finn’s is only a few minutes’ walk from the Paekakariki railway station which means it is very easy for visitors to travel by train from Wellington making it the ideal getaway destination for that weekend away from the pressures of city life and work.

Why not check out the nearby Paekakariki Station Museum while in the village?

Bach/Liszt: Organ Fantasy and Fugue

Liszt: Concert Etudes & Bénédiction

Gao Ping: Outside the Window Chopin: Sonata No 3 in B minor

2.30pm, Saturday 23 March

Waikanae Memorial Hall

•Restaurant

•Accommodation

Steam

Michael Houstoun Piano

Right next to Paekakariki Station!

MEET YOUR Principal

Jayne-Ann Young - Queen Margaret College

Jayne-Ann Young - Queen Margaret College

Queen Margaret College (QMC) offers contemporary learning in the heart of Wellington. We are the only girl’s school in Wellington that offers International Baccalaureate for Years 1 to 13. We also have a boarding facility and coeducational preschool. Principal Jayne-Ann Young joined QMC in 2017 as an innovator in educational delivery. She is passionate about creating opportunities for young women, and ensuring they have the confidence and resilience to pursue, and realise, their potential. “We nurture growth within a culture of unity and

Queen Margaret College (QMC) offers contemporary learning in the heart of Wellington. We are the only girl’s school in Wellington that offers International Baccalaureate for Years 1 to 13. We also have a boarding facility and coeducational preschool. Principal Jayne-Ann Young joined QMC in 2017 as an innovator in educational delivery. She is passionate about creating opportunities for young women, and ensuring they have the confidence and resilience to pursue, and realise, their potential. “We nurture growth within a culture of unity and

sisterhood, and we believe in the importance of girls’ education. With our learners at the heart of every decision, we cultivate a holistic environment to encourage questioning, collaboration, and participation. All students should be adventurous in how they learn and take their place in the world with curiosity and courage. Our college is small enough to ensure every student is valued as an individual, but large enough to offer an extensive range of subjects, alongside sporting and cultural activities”. Register for one of our Tuesday Open Mornings for a guided tour, and to have

of girls’ education. With our learners at the heart of every decision, we cultivate a holistic environment to encourage questioning, collaboration, and participation. All students should be adventurous in how they learn and take their place in the world with curiosity and courage. Our college is small enough to ensure every student is valued as an individual, but large enough to offer an extensive range of subjects, alongside sporting and cultural activities”. Register for one of our Tuesday Open Mornings for a guided tour, and to

your questions answered over morning tea. To find out more and discover what QMC has to offer visit qmc.school.nz / 53 Hobson Street Thorndon, or contact us at enrolments@qmc.school.nz / 04 473 7160

have your questions answered over morning tea. To find out more and discover what QMC has to offer visit qmc.school.nz / 53 Hobson Street Thorndon, or contact us at enrolments@qmc.school.nz / 04 473 7160

Kent Favel - Principal, St Mark’s School

Kent Favel - Principal, St Mark’s School

Kent believes that one of the main attractions of St Mark’s is its strong sense of community. “St Mark’s is a place with a real family feel,” he says. “We provide a warm, inclusive environment where children feel a strong sense of belonging - from day one”.

Kent believes that one of the main attractions of St Mark’s is its strong sense of community. “St Mark’s is a place with a real family feel,” he says. “We provide a warm, inclusive environment where children feel a strong sense of belonging - from day one”.

Located at the Basin Reserve, St Mark’s is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School where children receive a wellrounded education with a global outlook.

St Mark’s has been a co-educational school for over 100 years, and this is something

Located at the Basin Reserve, St Mark’s is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School where children receive a wellrounded education with a global outlook. St Mark’s has been a co-educational school for over 100 years, and this is something

which Kent proudly believes in. “Coeducational schools reflect the diversity of our society. This is boys and girls, learning, playing and working together, just like the world we live in”. St Mark’s offers a seamless education from Preschool through to Year 8 and we welcome your child at any stage of their schooling journey.

through the school website.

which Kent proudly believes in. “Coeducational schools reflect the diversity of our society. This is boys and girls, learning, playing and working together, just like the world we live in”.

through the school website.

Web:

Web: www.st-marks.school.nz

https://www.st-marks.school.nz/enrolmentenquiry/open-days/

Email: enrol@st-marks.school.nz

Email: enrol@st-marks.school.nz

Spaces are still available for 2024 and now enrolling for 2025.

Explore Year 1, Open Morning, Thursday 4 March 9 am - 10:30 am - please register

St Mark’s offers a seamless education from Preschool through to Year 8 and we welcome your child at any stage of their schooling journey. Limited spaces are still available for 2023 and now enrolling for 2024.

Explore St Mark’s Open Day on Friday 26 May and Saturday 27 May - please register

Paula Wells – Samuel Marsden Collegiate School

Paula Wells - Samuel Marsden Collegiate School

Now in her third year at the helm of Marsden, Principal Paula Wells is a passionate educational leader, strategic thinker and innovator. Her influence extends across New Zealand’s secondary education sector, notably as Chair of the governance board of School Sport New Zealand.

Set in 4.3 hectares of lush grounds, Marsden’s Karori campus is home to a coeducational preschool, primary school for girls in Years 1-6, middle school for girls in Years 7-10 and senior school for girls in Years 11-13.

Paula Wells joined Marsden in January 2022 following a seven-year tenure as Principal of Sacred Heart Girls’ College in New Plymouth. A passionate educational leader, strategic thinker and innovator, Paula continues to strengthen the exceptional offering that Marsden provides. She also chairs School Sport New Zealand, an organisation committed to making sure Kiwi students the opportunity to engage with sport and reap its benefits.

Marsden lays the foundation for lives of meaning, accomplishment and genuine

Marsden encourages and supports every learner in achieving personal excellence. Students are known, genuinely cared for and respected, and receive the individual attention they need to do well both academically and in their co-curricular pursuits. With small classes, an innovative and rigorous curriculum, exceptional teaching and a school-wide approach to hauora, children and young people thrive at Marsden.

(Preschool - Year 6) or Friday 22 March

Learn more at Marsden’s March

Open Mornings – Tuesday 19 March

happiness. Girls Years 1-13 experience dynamic, flexible learning and a futurefocused education. Students are nurtured, encouraged and respected, and receive the individual attention they need to do well both academically and in their co-curricular pursuits. With small classes, exceptional teaching and Visible WellbeingTM practices integrated at all year levels, children and young people thrive at Marsden. Find out more at our March Open Mornings - Friday 10 March (Years 7-13) or Tuesday 14 March (Preschool – Year 6).

Michael Bain - Wellesley College

Jennifer Ioannou - St Brigid’s School

Jennifer was welcomed as the new Principal of St Brigid’s School, Johnsonville in July 2022 and feels blessed and privileged to have joined the St Brigid’s community.

Michael Bain brings with him a wealth of experience and enthusiasm. He has been in principal roles for over 25 years, 18 of these being at Te Mata School in the Hawke’s Bay. Michael is a charismatic and visionary school leader who was the recipient of the prestigious Woolf Fisher Fellowship in 2017. This fellowship cannot be applied for but is given annually to three primary principals (and 2 secondary principals), in recognition of the qualities of “integrity, leadership, bold vision, exceptional zeal, keenness and a capacity for work”. Mike used his fellowship to visit schools in six countries, including Thailand, India, Spain, Italy and Germany and has brought back

St Brigid’s School is a multicultural Catholic school situated in the heart of Johnsonville that caters for over 300 students from Years 1-8. The St Brigid’s School vision, ‘Learning together with strength of character and gentleness of heart’ with the values aroha (love), maia (courage), whakapono (faith) and kotahitanga (inclusiveness) underpin all aspects of school life and the St Brigid’s culture. The school vision and values contribute to

the well-deserved reputation that St Brigid’s students have entering college and that is of being competent young people with good character.

and implemented innovative ideas from this research period. Michael believes our role at Wellesley is to ensure each boy has the best possible preparation to succeed in a constantly changing world. Providing learning opportunities that are not limited to the classroom. Offering environments that encourage enquiry, creativity, and critical thinking skills. Understanding that learning comes from challenging the norm. “It’s not about making learning happen – it’s about letting learning happen” - Sugata Mitra The foundation of this vision is based on the Wellesley values; Risk taking in learning, Perseverance for personal bests, and Respect

Jennifer is passionate about fostering a school environment that is supportive, inclusive and culturally-connected, and has a curriculum that is engaging, future-focused and integrates wellbeing education. “My daily focus is that our tamariki will be happy, engaged, challenged and supported; prepared for a future where they can be confident and connected, contributing with strong values, ability and citizenship.”

(Years 7-13). marsden.school.nz/register Ph. 04 476 8707

marsden.school.nz/register

Ph. 04 476 8707

Web: www.stbrigids.school.nz

Phone: 04 478 6516

and empathy for self, others, and Wellesley. We foster a school community which has high expectations of our boys, our teachers, and our parents. We are a team with a common goal – to empower each boy to discover their best. Wellesley is an independent Primary school for Boys years 1-8. www.wellesely.school.nz

Phone 04-562 8030

St Brigid’s School

New play area opens

The newly upgraded play area at Botanic Garden ki Paek ā k ā was officially opened on 1 March.

The new play area includes a modern dual flying fox, a large climbable tower, three long slides and an all-ages swing set.

Synthetic safety surfacing has been installed on the more accessible equipment, which includes a transferable carousel, talk tubes, musical panels, and a sensory play module.

Following a karakia led by mana whenua representatives Councillor Ben McNulty officially opened the play ground.

This was followed by a weekend of

whānau-friendly fun and activities.

The day of play in the city on Sunday 3 March saw giant bubbles and chalk art at the Botanic Park play area, plus free cable car rides all day for tamariki aged 5-15.

After 22 years of service, the play area was due for a well-deserved upgrade, so in 2022 the council engaged with the local community to seek ideas and feedback on potential new designs.

Construction on the final design began in October 2023.

Feedback and drawings from local schools and whā nau inspired the new look play area in the gardens, Cr

McNulty, a member of the Youth Council, says.

“Children wanted to be challenged and have more space to play, so we introduced a double

flying fox and more slides.

“People also liked the design that incorporated gardens within the play area, and theme of bees and the flora they pollinate.

CARPENTER

“We have added a number of accessible items including sensory play, inclusive swing seat, basket seat, and communication boards.”

• Home Maintenance • Kitchens

• Bathrooms

• Repair & Renovations

• Landscaping

• Qualified Carpenter

The new play area at Botanic Garden ki Paekākā. Photo: Supplied.

Devan’s outstanding batting

By Frank Neill

Johnsonville’s premier Cricket team will be looking to capitalise on the good start they have made in their match aginast Eastern Suburbs at Kilbirnie Park on 2 Mach.

Batting first in Cricket Wellington’s division one two day competition, Johnsonville reached 322.

Captain Devan Vishvaka made an outstanding contibution, passing his century and going on to score exactly 150 runs – close to half the Johnsonville total.

Jamie Oakley was also in great form with the bat, scoring 72 runs.

Eastern Suburbs were 133 for the loss of three wickets at stumps, with Muhammad Jawad taking all three wickets at a cost of just 27 runs.

Johnsonville’s top women’s team was not so fortunate in their match against Petone Riverside, played at the Petone Recreation Ground on 2 March.

They were all out for 94 after batting first. Petone passed the Johnsonville total for the loss of just two wickets.

Opener Anui Verma was outstanding as she batted throughout the innings, finishing on 52 not out while Olivia Clark scored 21.

Aesha Sukhu took one of the wickets to fall and Olivia scored the other with a run out.

Karori will be looking to gain at least first innings points in their division two match against Petone Riverside, being played at the Petone Recreation Ground.

Petone batted first and was all out for 194, thanks to a stunning spell of

bowling by Liam Roche.

Liam took nine wickets at a cost of 61 runs from his 23 overs, becoming the first Johnsonville bowler to claim nine scalps since 1975.

Kevin Weerasundara took the other wicket to fall at a cost of just 13 runs.

In reply to Petone’s 194, Karori were 152 for seven at stumps.

Max Sargentina continued his recent good form with the bat to score 35.

Max Parun, who is 17 not out, and Daniel Pile on 8 not out will

be looking to further advance the Karori cause when the match resumes on 9 March.

Onslow made 241 in their match against Taita at Nairnville Park. Taita were well placed at 195 for the loss of just one wicket at stumps.

Ethan Jefferson top scored with 78, while Daniel Rose scored 42 and took the only Taita wicket to fall.

Willam Julian contributed 33 and Sean O’Connor was 25 not out when Onslow’s innings ended.

Local bowling champions

A gust of wind may have decided the Johnsonville men’s bowling title for 2024 on 3 March.

When the scores were locked after 18 ends an extra end was called.

With one bowl to play the team of Allan Brider (skip) Alan Maclean and Ian Hutchison held one shot over Grant Wakefield (skip), Ken Brown and A J Cronin.

Grant’s bowl looked good to take out the shot bowl and give them the title until the

gust of wind blew it off course.

Both Allan and Alan used bowling arms in the match, giving them the title of “stickmen”.

Kaaren Guilford is the 2024 club women’s singles champion, in the wake of being a member of the 2024 Wellington women’s fours champion team.

Kaaren defeated Gill Oliver in the final after overcoming Paula Meredith in the semi-final.

New NZ record by Karori athlete

By Frank Neill

James Preston set a New Zealand 800 metres indoor record of 1 minute 47.59 seconds at the 2024 World Athletics Indoor Champions at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow on 2 March.

The Karori athlete slashed more than a second off the previous New Zealand Indoor record of 1 minute 48.68 seconds set by James Harding in Boston just last month.

Despite the outstanding time, James was not able to progress past the heats of the 800 metres, however, when he finished in fourth place.

He led at the halfway checkpoint in 53.46 seconds before quickly accelerating and opening up a three-metre advantage on the rest of the field down the back straight on the penultimate lap.

However he then faded and had to settle for fourth as Mohamed Ali Gouaned of Algeria (1 minute 46.49 seconds) and Botswana’s Tshepiso Masalela (1 minute 46.76 seconds) secured the two automatic spots for a place in the semi-finals.

James has been in excellent form this season.

The national 800 metres champion, he opened his 2024 campaign by winning in Hastings in 1 minute 45.89 seconds on 20 January.

This was by some margin the

time he had ever recorded in New Zealand and shattered the previous meet record by more than two seconds.

James continued his outstanding start to the year when he finished first in the 800 metres at the Maurie Plant meeting in Melbourne on 15 February.

The Karori runner clocked 1 minutes 46.02 seconds to win by 0.41 seconds over Australian athlete Luke Boyes.

James was one of 10 athletes in the New Zealand team selected for the 2024 event, the largest Kiwi contingent to feature in the history of the World Athletics Indoor Championships.

Market Update? YIP!

Hey Everyone! The market is everchanging, and there have been some very interesting adjustments to the market in recent times. With the Reserve Bank holding firm on the OCR, it has set an optimistic tone for the long-term outlook. This means ultimately the decision for the next interest rate decrease will fall with the banks. Historically it has always taken a minor bank to be the first to make significant rate changes to kick-start the competition that way. Just like recently they were the first to lead the charge on term deposit rates, putting pressure on the major banks to match. Buyers who have been waiting to buy, are continuing to return to the market and investors (particularly developers) are eyeing up opportunities to solidify their long-term plans. Here are the five key market variables we are keeping an eye on;

• Supply of Houses – Since the last update, the predicted jump in supply has happened and this has caused a major multiplication of houses for sale. Up in Auckland, there are near-record supply levels and in Wellington, this is climbing at a rapid rate. Although this may affect prices, it will ultimately affect time on the market, properties on average will take longer to sell.

• Immigration – Across the ditch, we have seen high immigration numbers positively influence the market. In NZ we have high migration numbers coming in and further immigrants are expected when the parental residencies start kicking in this year. But with a lot of people leaving Wellington, we have not seen the immigrant numbers necessary to make a significant difference to the local market yet. We have also started more people (particularly government workers) looking for jobs elsewhere and moving away from this area.

• Finance/Mortgages – The Reserve Bank’s debt-to-income ratio news will limit the positive impact that lower interest rates will provide. The DTI ratio is pretty much similar to the ‘stress test’ that banks have been applying and that restricts how much a buyer can borrow. Even if the market recovers, interest rates drop – buyers are still limited by how much they can offer, but they are more likely able to afford to go higher in their budget for a property.

• Cost of Living – With most industries and

employers doing it tough and the cost of living still high, we are still not seeing any hope of relief for our community. Affordability continues to be low until the quality of life improves. Until we start seeing more money in people’s pockets, we are unlikely to see any improvement in the house/ rental market. We are also noticing people going further away for cheaper rent.

• Politics – The biggest question mark here is around the public sector job cuts. On paper and policy promises, this is going ahead and it will have a significant impact on the rent/property prices in this area. At this stage, there have naturally been some vacancies not refilled, people resigning and some restructuring, but we are nowhere near the target the government has set here. At this stage, it still appears the government is going to meet tax cut promise, hopefully, they don’t just go ahead at all costs - as with fresh money sitting ready to be cut... hopefully, inflation won’t creep back in.

The current market is ever-changing and reacting rapidly to emotional differences. Remember, the market is simply the perception of the public mass and their reaction to variables changing. If you are thinking of buying/selling/renting/moving in today’s market, it is very important to have a pulse on the market and position your sale strategically. A wrong decision is very costly, and you need to make sure you weigh up different ideas and strategies before making a move. If you would like to discuss your plans and the ideal strategy for your family, get in touch – Love to hear from you! Have a wonderful week everyone!

Devan Vishvaka, who scored 150 on 2 March, in action. Photo: Supplied.

James Preston. Photo: Supplied. fastest