Gold medalist
By Frank Neill
Karori’s Chemistry Gin was named Best New Zealand Contemporary Gin and awarded Gold at the 2025 Australian Gin Awards on 3 September. It was the only New Zealand gin to take gold in the contemporary category, earning international recognition for the Wellington-based Karori drinks company.
Continued on page 2.
The founders of the Karori Drinks Company Marie van Drimmelen (left) and Laura Bruce. Photo: Supplied.
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Standing alongside the world’s best
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In addition to its spirits success, Chemistry Gin also received an honourable mention in the Australian Gin Packaging Awards.
Co-founded by wife-and-wife team Dr Marie van Drimmelen and Laura Bruce, this is the fourth international Gold medal for Chemistry Gin.
“To win Gold and Best New Zealand Contemporary Gin at such a prestigious competition is thrilling,” Marie says.
“It shows that a small, independent Wellington brand can stand alongside the best in the world.”
“We’re proud to be flying the flag for New Zealand gin on the international stage,” Laura adds.
“We hope this recognition will encourage more Kiwis to discover Chemistry Gin at home.”
A medical biochemist and talented home chef, Dr van Drimmelen created Chemistry Gin’s award-winning formula using Sichuan peppercorns – a nod to her chemist mother’s cooking–along with sage and New Zealand seaweed, which add depth and umami.
Wellington Central Grey Power Inc
Chemistry Gin is also the world’s only spirit dedicated to supporting women in science.
From the outset, the founders committed $2 from every bottle sold to fund women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).
This year the company will launch its inaugural Women in STEM bursary, recognising a woman working in or studying chemistry in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Launched in 2022, Chemistry Gin was New Zealand’s first spirit bottled in 100% post-consumer glass.
With a reusable glass stopper and plastic-free packaging (apart from its tamper seal), the design has already won multiple honours, including a Black Award at the World Brand Design Society Awards and Best Label in New Zealand at the 2023 Pride in Print Awards.
The recognition at the Australian Gin Awards adds to Chemistry’s 2024 Gold medals at the IWSC and the World Gin Awards, with IWSC judges in London awarding Chemistry Gin 95/100 and describing it as “sublime!”.
Tracey Martin, CEO Aged Care Association, opens the doors (and windows) on residential care. She advocates for excellent professional care for older people and unravels the criteria and costs. Come to Grey Power’s public meeting to discuss these important issues. No cost to attend.
Date: Wednesday, 17 September, 11am followed by finger food luncheon. Where: Quaker Meeting House, 7 Moncrieff St, Mt Victoria, Wellington.
No 2 bus route. Elizabeth Street stop. RSVP for catering purposes to Colleen Singleton, President, Wellington Central Grey Power.
Email: president@greypowerwellington.org.nz
Mobile: 027 200 0066
New Zealanders awoke to the news this week that a police officer had been shot and the shooter, Tom Phillips, had been killed in the ensuing firefight.
I recently hosted a meeting which included local property developers and representatives from the City and Regional Councils. The background for the meeting was the need to ensure all people involved in providing more housing in our electorate, whether it be those building them or those regulating and permitting that building, understand the issues which govern the ability to build the houses everyone agrees we need.
This concluded a four-year saga of Phillips being on the run from authorities with his three young children in heavy bush in the King Country.
There are essentially two types of development; greenfields and brownfields. Greenfields means building on currently undeveloped land, typically ex farmland on the edges of current urban areas, where infrastructure like sewers, water supply and other essential services don’t exist are usually built by the developer.
Brownfields development means rebuilding on existing sites, and there has been considerable discussion in recent times around how much intensification should be allowed in existing suburbs, especially changing of height limits to allow for more apartments.
Both have their advantages and disadvantages; the Regional Council in particular see their role to prevent more
It provided an insight into the fact there are those who live in our society who seek to operate by different rules, for reasons known only to themselves. Some of them live a criminal lifestyle, interrupted by stints in prison, but the common denominator is a belief the rules don’t apply to them. COVID seems to have aggravated the situation, with dissatisfaction with what is regarded as mainstream society becoming prevalent among some groups and individuals. It is being played out in Victoria currently with the search for a ‘sovereign citizen’
runoff and other material ending up in our harbours, especially the Porirua harbour in the case of development north of Johnsonville and Newlands. The Wellington City Council are concerned that the existing infrastructure cannot handle the pressure it comes under when new housing areas are developed. Existing infrastructure is aging and needs upgrading across our city, as evidenced by recent pipe failures. An advantage of intensification of existing areas means more people, therefore more ratepayers to pay for those upgrades.
Developers of course need to make a profit, and wish to keep their compliance costs as low as possible. Many believe the Resource Management Act is too cumbersome. We as government for our part have undertaken to rewrite that act.
The feedback was good, but the success will be when there are sufficient affordable houses to meetdemand. That is certainly my goal as your MP.
That, and of course having a vibrant and functioning Johnsonville Shopping Centre we can all be proud of.
There’s plenty to be getting on with.
who killed two police officers being carried out in that state. Both examples are obviously extreme, but what it does show is why we need a well-resourced and vigilant police and other government departments working together to ensure the damage done by such individuals can be minimised. Antiauthority figures unfortunately are often glamorised in entertainment, thus giving impressionable consumers of these genres an unrealistic and even aspirational view of such behaviour. It even spills over into the gaming industry, especially the violent aspect. Society works when we accept the need to conform to societal norms and empower society to enforce them. Anything less represents anarchy. That ensures cases like the two I have mentioned become very much the exception and can ultimately be resolved on our behalf by those trained to do so.
Karori’s gold medal gin. Photo: Supplied.
J’ville CAB celebrates 50 years
By Frank Neill
The Johnsonville Citizen’s Advice Bureau celebrated its 50th anniversary with a party at the Johnsonville Community Centre on 9 September.
The celebration was very well attended, and included a member of the first Johnsonville CAB committee, Mary Mowbray, who cut the 50th birthday cake.
As well as CAB volunteers and workers and members of the community, the celebration was attended by the three Takapū/Northern Ward Councillors, Tony Randle, Ben McNulty and John Apanowicz and Andrea Compton, who is standing for the Northern Ward in this year’s local body elections.
Johnsonville CAB volunteer David Brown presented a history of the CAB, followed by contributions from people attending and then the cutting of the cake.
A number of speakers thanked the volunteers past and present for their service and their assistance to people in the community.
The Johnsonville CAB opened its doors on 28 February 1975.
“It was initially open for one day a week but then increased to three days,” David Brown said in his presentation.
The CAB was at first located in the former Johnsonville Community Centre in Frankmore Avenue in what had been the old Town Board office.
“As the CAB activity increased, the Community Centre became too cramped,” David said. “In 1980 the City Council made available the old butcher’s shop on the corner of Moorefield
Road and Frankmore Avenue.
“This was a more public situation and closer to the town centre.”
That remained the CAB’s home for the next 15 years.
A new Community Centre had been discussed for decades.
“A public meeting in 1991 produced a steering committee to assist the City Council in making it a reality.
“The Council produced a plan then let and supervised the building contract.
“Finally the current building emerged.”
In the meantime, the CAB had to move out of the old butcher’s shop and was located in a house at 17 Dr Taylor Terrace while the Community Centre was being built.
The CAB then moved into the 68 square metres space it currently occupies in July 1995.
Today the Johnsonville CAB has 29 accredited interviewers, three trainees or probationers and runs 14 two-person shifts a week, including Saturday mornings.
In the last full year it conducted 1,874 clients interviews.
Solving the mystery of Sheila’s family
A very experienced family history researcher, Prue Theobald will be the speaker at the next meeting of Wellington Branch of the NZ Society of Genealogists.
The meeting will be on Wednesday 17 September at 7:30pm at the Johnsonville Bowling Club, 34 Frankmoore Avenue.
A former President of the Wellington branch, Prue recently moved to Levin and is now on the committee of the Horowhenua Family History Group.
Prue will talk about one of her most frustrating ‘brick walls’: how she spent 30 years trying to find her mother-in-law Sheila’s family.
The search was especially complicated because Sheila was adopted and a key bit of information was incorrect.
Finally, with the help of DNA, Prue was able to make a breakthrough.
Visitors are very welcome at all the branch’s meetings.
Arrive at 7pm for coffee, tea and biscuits and a chance to chat with the branch’s friendly members who are very knowledgeable about a wide range of family history subjects.
The doors open at 6pm for anyone interested in joining an informal discussion group. The meetingshould finish between 8:30pm and 9pm.
The “Independent Herald” printed the wrong date for the presentation on Navigating the Pacific in a canoe to the Onslow Historical Society this month. The presentation will take place at 2pm on Sunday 14 September, not 14 August as printed in last week’s issue of the paper, and will be held at KATE, 86 Khandallah Road.
Kel Nairn, whose family has lived locally for 150 years, teamed up with Jim Siers to assist in building and sailing an outrigger canoe from Kiribati to Fiji.
Kel’s talk will present that amazing story and afternoon tea will follow.
Johnsonville CAB volunteer David Brown, addressing the 20th anniversary celebration. Photo: Frank Neill.
Mary Mowbray, who was a member of the first Johnsonville CAB committee, cutting the 50th anniversary cake. Photo: Frank Neill.
Prue Theobald. Photo: Supplied.
MEET THE TAKAPU NORTHERN WARD CANDIDATES
Rides to promote road safety
By Frank Neill
Local horse riders will join riders from around the world, who will be riding on roads on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September to promote a life saving road safety message. The world-wide initiative is happening to raise awareness of how to safely approach and pass a horse on the road.
The advice being given to motorists passing horse traffic is to pass WIDE and SLOW.
Riders from the h riu Valley, M kara and Onslow Pony Clubs will be taking part in the ride.
Pass Wide and Slow New Zealand (PWASNZ)) rides will take place in 30 communities across the MotŪ, with a focus on sharing the message to pass wide and slow – kia tŪpato kia ta haere, hi-vis and ‘being seen’.
Booking: eventfinda.co.nz www.sgcnz.org.nz | Info: sgcnz.org.nz
Other countries taking part include the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Scotland, the United States of America and Australia.
“We are proud of the support for this mahi, both in communities where riders will go out, and from organisations that understand the benefit of the positive driver behaviour change we are leading,” PWASNZ founder Julia McLean says.
“Horse riders are vulnerable road users, just like cyclists and pedestrians, and yet until the creation of the permanent road safety platform – Pass Wide and Slow New Zealand – there has been little to no road safety education for this road user group.
“Kotahitanga – unity is a M ori philosophy
Rides like this one in Mākara will be taking place around the world to raise awareness of road safety this month. Photo: Supplied.
that underpins our approach to improving road safety outcomes for equestrians, and our relationship with NZ Police is significant in achieving this,” Julia says.
“We continue to encourage all road users about the shared responsibility to keep everyone safe,” says Superintendent Steve Greally, the Police’s Director of Road Policing.
“Pass Wide and Slow New Zealand’s efforts to educate and raise awareness of safe and respectful behaviours when travelling past horses and riders is one Police continues to support.
“Police have an ongoing commitment to
reducing the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads and ensuring every road user, including equestrians, remain safe on roads right throughout the country.”
PWASNZ presented new evidence to Parliament’s Select Committee in June this year on the number of people killed while riding or driving a horse drawn vehicle on the road.
Health NZ figures show that between 2000 and 2021 41 people aged between 10 and 79 years have died.
Worksafe NZ has a further three fatalities on its books for 2022.
Book fair returns to Karori
Once again Karori Lions are partnering with Karori Rotary to bring the community the 2025 Karori Community Book Fair.
The fair will be held on Friday 3 October from 10am to 7pm and again on Saturday 4 October from 9am to 4pm at the Karori Baptist Church in Marsden Village.
The Karori Book Fair has proved to be one of the key calendar events in Karori and it sees the two service organisations, Lions and Rotary, working together to support community organisations.
Funds raised at the book fair are used
to support Lions and Rotary community projects.
“There will be great bargains and anyone who spends $25 or more will be able to enter a draw for some fabulous prizes at the end of the book fair,” David Watt of Karori Rotary says.
The prizes will be drawn at the end of the Fair on the Saturday.
“We have all the books we need for this year’s fair, sorted and ready to go. See you all on 3 and 4 October in Karori at our book fair,” David says.
Rarely performed gem coming
Audiences in Wellington and the K piti Coast will get the opportunity to hear a live performance of a rarely performed gem of the chamber music repertoire in concerts this month.
The members of the Wellington-based Aroha String Quartet will be joined by friends from the NZSO and Orchestra Wellington (Oleksandr Gunchenko, double bass; Nick Walshe, clarinet; Justin Sun, bassoon and Alexander Hambleton, horn) to play Franz Schubert’s mighty Octet in F.
The other two works in the programme are Mozart’s gorgeousString Quartet in B-flat K589 and Nielsen’s sparkling ‘Serenata in vano’, a musical depiction of anattempted seduction.
Half the Aroha String Quarter live in Churton Park – Haihong Liu and Zhongxian Jin, who are original members of the quartet.
Robert Ibell joined the group in 2009 and Konstanze Artmann in 2018.
“We are really enjoying rehearsing the
wonderful Schubert Octet,” first violinist Haihong Liu says.
“The combination of instruments is so rich and warm, and the music is to die for. We can’t wait to share it with our audiences.”
The two performances are on Sunday 21 September at 2:30pm in the Waikanae Memorial Hall for the Waikanae Music Society and Sunday 28 September at 3pm in St Peter’s Anglican Church, Willis Street, Wellington.
Acclaimed as demonstrating "accomplished brilliance, soulfulness and sublime intensity in perfect balance and tonal unity"
(“The Dominion Post”), the Aroha String Quartet is firmly established as one of New Zealand's finest chamber music ensembles.
Founded in 2004, this versatile Wellington-based quartet is known for its passionate musicality, impressive technique, and multicultural innovation.
Tickets are available in advance from Eventfinda for Wellingtonand at various outlets for Waikanaeor at the door.
The Aroha String Quartet (from left) Haihong Liu (first violin), Zhongxian Jin (viola), Konstanze Artmann (second violin) and Robert Ibell (cello). Photo: Supplied.
Zealandia backing kiwi pukupuku
Voting in the annual Bird of the Year opens at 9am on Monday 15 September.
This will be the 20th year of the event, run by Forest and Bird.
People can vote by visiting www.birdoftheyear.org.nz until 5pm on Sunday 28 September and the winner will be announced on 29 September.
Information and pictures of the birds people can vote for are on the birdoftheyear website.
People can vote for up to five native brids. In a change to the voting system this year there will be no ranking system so each bird a person votes for gets one point, regardless of the order in which they vote.
Zealandia Te M ra A T ne are backing the kiwi pukupuku (little spotted kiwi), as is Capital Kiwi.
“We here at Zealandia think it’s the perfect time for kiwi pukupuku to strut onto the Bird of the Year podium,” Dr Danielle Shanahan
Zealandia Te M ra a T ne Chief Executive
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says.
“They are our national namesake, Wellington’s most notable nightlife, and full of surprises with this year’s discovery of a previously unknown population on the West Coast of the South Island.
“Right now, this vulnerable wee kiwi needs all the backing it can get.
“Wellingtonians, make this election count. Vote kiwi pukupuku.”
"To quote M kara local legend Ted Smith (97): ‘If we can't look after the animal that has gifted us the name by which we're known as a people, then we deserve to be renamed idiots’. Vote kiwi," Paul Ward from Capital Kiwi adds.
Kiwi pukupuku is the smallest of the five kiwi species.
They were once widespread on both the North and South Islands, but are now mostly confined to offshore islands and two mainland sanctuaries.
Zealandia Te M ra A T ne is one of these.
Kiwi pukupuku died out in the North Island in the late 1800s, possibly as a result of predation by dogs.
The decline and ultimate extinction in the South Island was probably the result of predation by mustelids, dogs and cats.
Fortunately a few birds were introduced to Kapiti Island in 1912, where they flourished despite the presence of weka.
It is believed that the current population is descended from five birds that were introduced to Kapiti Island.
SUPERIOR TREE MANAGEMENT
Be prepared when going bush
The Police are advising people to be prepared before heading into the bush this spring. They are reminding people to take the right equipment when going tramping and hunting.
“We’re lucky to have great access to the outdoors, across the country,” says Detective Sergeant Alex Simister.
“But we need people to make sure when they’re heading into the bush they’re doing it safely.
“Take the right gear, let someone know your return time and please take a beacon or communication device.
“Beacons are an essential piece of gear and can be rented for as little as ten dollars.”
Some new smart phones also have the capability to connect with satellites, giving them service in remote locations.
This feature does need to be set up beforehand.
“With the weather improving we’re expecting to see an increase in trampers and hunters. We don’t want anyone’s trip ending in tragedy.
“Even experienced people can end up in situations where they need help.”
If you are going outdoors, no matter if it is hiking, hunting, or climbing, please follow the five simple steps of the Land Safety Code,, the Police say.
1. Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it. It is important to choose a trip that suits everyone in your group. When you are looking at options, make sure to think about everyone’s fitness levels and experience in the outdoors.
2. Understand the weather. New Zealand weather can change fast. Check the forecast and change your plans if needed. Weather can make or break a trip. It is one of the most important things to consider when going into the outdoors.
3. Pack warm clothes and extra food. Prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out. Any trip, even if it is short and easy, needs preparation. Packing the right things can make trips safer and more enjoyable.
4. Share your plans and take ways to get help. Telling a trusted person about your trip details and taking a personal locator beacon can save your life. We all want our trips to go as planned, but sometimes they don’t. If you get hurt or lost on your trip, how would you get help?
5. Take care of yourself and each other. Eat, drink, and rest, stick with your group and make decisions together. The best way to enjoy your experience in the outdoors and make it home safely is to look out for one another. Distress beacons can be hired for as little as $10 from many Department of Conservation Visitor Centres, and outdoor tramping and hunting stores.
Those who have purchased a beacon need to make sure they register it at www.beacons. org.nz.
For more information on outdoor safety, helpful free resources and videos, head to Know Before You Go - AdventureSmart - NZ Search & Rescue Council | AdventureSmart. More information on trip planning can be found at: Trip Planning –
A little spotted kiwi – kiwi pukupuku. Photo: Judi Lapsley Miller.
Wildlife inspires The Kilns resident
By John Draper
Jasmina Vuckovic took up
clay, making what she describes as precarious pieces.
the residency at The Kilns at Te Horo intent on exploring shipwrecks and strandings on small islands, drawing personal experience and a global view.
That she has done. But the view from the window at the Doreen Blumhardt Studio has now taken Jasmina’s work in another direction.
“Looking across the Hautere plains to the Tararuas is stunning,” Jasmina says. “It’s so alive with birds and animals.”
The pukekos, tuis, rabbits along with shags and kotuku from the Waikanae estuary can now be seen amongst the reeds and grasses in a range of decorative plates and orbs.
“I didn’t want to be stuck to the one idea of shipwrecked Noah’s Ark and could not help but respond to the environment.
The sheer scale and textures of the driftwood on local beaches particularly resonated with the themes I am drawn to; decay and bygone times while offering hope and new forms. My ark now has many of its residents safely sailing away and reaching new islands.”
That has led to Jasmina’s pushing out the boundaries of
Some of Jasmina’s ceramics are made with black clay, a medium she was determined to experiment with during the three-month residency at The Kilns. The residency has also provided an opportunity to work with salt glazes using The Mirek Smisek Art Trust’s offsite diesel fired Hautere brick kiln. It has also been an opportunity to meet with many potters and ceramics collectors.
“There must be more potters per capita in Kapiti than anywhere else I’ve been. And the facilities at the Otaki Pottery Club and Summerstone in Otaki are amazing.”
Jasmina will be returning to England at the end of September to become the Senior Ceramics Conservator at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.
All will be on view at Jasmina’s end of residency exhibition at The Kilns on 27-28 September, 10am-3pm, and entry is free.
Visitors to the exhibition on Sunday can combine their visit with ‘Soup Sunday’, The Kilns fundraiser to support the residency programme. Tickets for Soup Sunday are available from www.thekilnsattehoro. co.nz/products/soup-sunday.
Ruth Cooper
Kapiti artist will be in the Kapiti Arts Trail 1st/2nd + 8th/9th Nov ruth.cooper486@gmail.com
Spring Flowers
See Vincent Duncan’s new exhibition 13 - 28 September
Kiwi Art House Gallery
225 Cuba St, Wellington Ph (04) 385 3083 0211674550 www.kiwiarthouse.co.nz
ART WORKSHOPS
THE PORTRAIT CLUB
The Portrait Club meets on Monday nights (aside from public holidays) from 7:30 - 9:30pm at the Karori Arts Crafts Centre.
WADESTOWN TOASTMASTERS
Ever wished you could articulate your ideas well, win a pitch or motivate others? Join Wadestown Toastmasters Club to gain confidence speaking whatever the setting.
OUTDOOR
PAINTING CLUB
Session held at Bolton St Cemetery (top end) 10am to 12 noon, Sunday 21st September. No cost. Followed by coffee/brunch in a nearby cafe.
Watercolour NZ
LIFE DRAWING
SPECIAL WORKSHOPS
Watercolour at the Watering Hole 27 Sept
Watercolour at the Winery 22-23 Nov
Life Art Class 5.307.15pm Wednesdays, Untutored. St Andrew’s on The Terrace. Entrance lane at right of church. $15.00 waged / $9 unwaged. Or if you bring a friend it’s $8 each.
BLUE SEPTEMBER
Dr
Tackle prostate cancer this Blue September
Blue September is currently being run by the Prostate Cancer Foundation NZ to raise funds to help tackle prostate cancer.
way to bringing down [prostate cancer].
The foundation is asking people to ride, host an event, reach a push-up goal or set a challenge of their choice this September.
“Inspire your community to tackle prostate cancer together,” the foundation says.
“Raise vital funds and show support for your mates and wh nau impacted by the most commonly diagnosed cancer in kiwi men.
“Here's how your funds will get to work: and treatments to improve outcomes from prostate cancer diagnoses; for improved healthcare services for men with prostate cancer; and and the importance of getting regular checks for men,” the foundation says.
“The funds you raise when you host an event, smash a push-up goal, ride a heaps long distance, or set a challenge of your choice this Blue September will go a long
To register a challenge, or for more information, visit www.blueseptember.org.nz. When this issue of the “Independent Herald” deadline arrived, Blue September has raised $295,314.
Celebrate the fabric
Local embroiderers know that exquisite pieces of needlework are on display and in use every day at Wellington Cathedral of St Paul.
Beautifully decorated fabrics hang at the front of the altars.
There are also spectacular robes and stoles worn by priests at services, and fine linens used at every service of Holy Communion.
People can see examples and hear Jo Dixey talk about the techniques, fabrics and threads used in a “Celebrate the Fabric” session at the Cathedral on Wednesday 24 September at 10:30am.
Jo is an internationally regarded professional embroiderer who graduated from the Royal School of Needlework and now lives permanently in New Zealand.
She teaches, exhibits, sells her work and has had contracts from the film industry.
Jo has a collection on display in The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, and also “Glimmers of Gold” at Old St Paul’s church, Mulgrave Street, until the end of September.
Everyone is invited to this talk, a project of Friends of Wellington Cathedral, at St Paul’s Cathedral, corner of Molesworth and Hill Streets, on Wednesday 24 September at 10:30am. Entry is free, while a $10 koha from non-members of Friends is welcomed.
Golden Mile has lost is way
By Frank Neill
Wharangi/Onslow-Western Ward Councillor Diane Calvert has welcomed Greater Wellington Regional Council’s Chair Daran Ponter’s statement that the council will not be removing two bus stops from Courtenay Place.
Plans to remove the two bus stops had been scrapped pending the city council rescinding changes in its own planning, Cr Ponter said at a meet-the-candidates meeting on 3 September.
Greater Wellington Regional Council would be reversing its decision to remove the bus stops in the coming weeks, Cr Ponter predicted.
His statement received overwhelming support at the meeting.
This decision means the Golden Mile project has “lost its way,” Cr Calvert says. “They [Wellington City Council] are going to have to re-think the whole thing now.”
The decision to keep the bus stops undermines the project’s business case as it relied on fewer bus stops and people walking further to catch a bus with so-called health benefits used to justify the cost of the design. “These latest changes should be the trigger for an honest reset before we spend extra millions on a project that no longer stacks up in its current form.
“Let’s put the pedestrians, buses and businesses first as originally intended,” Cr Calvert says.
“I support the decision to keep these bus
stops, and it’s something I have consistently championed along with a better design suited to the very people and businesses that use the area.
“It’s the right move for accessibility and for those who rely on these stops both day and night.”
The Golden Mile project “started with the best intentions but was overtaken long ago by ideologists and became gold-plated in the process.
“Its design pushed people and businesses to the back of the queue.
“With a $20 million cost blowout already forcing a redesign, bus stops now being retained that will require further redesign, and a population that is not growing, the credibility of the project’s cost–benefit claims has collapsed,” Cr Calvert says.
Karori’s annual art exhibition
Karori Arts & Crafts Centre opens its Annual Art Exhibition on Thursday, 12 September, from 6:30pm to 8pm.
The exhibition showcases the best work from the Karori Arts & Crafts members over the last year.
The exhibition will run on Saturday 13 September and Sunday 14 September from 10am to 4pm at the Newman Centre, 7 Beauchamp Street, Karori.
“The Annual Art Exhibition is a beautiful representation of the amazing work created every day at Karori Arts & Crafts Centre,” boosts Daisey Bingham, the Centre Manager.
“We transform our main room, our largest work room, into an art gallery for the weekend.
“The transformation is a delight.
“The room where so many artworks are created throughout the year becomes
the place where the best of the best is showcased.”
This year, the annual art exhibition will not only include watercolour and acrylic paintings as well as three-dimensional work, but also two stunning quilts. Karori Arts & Crafts Centre has been a cornerstone of the Karori area arts community, fostering creativity since 1966.
They offer four terms of art and craft classes over the course of the year as well as interest groups that meet regularly. Interest groups offer an opportunity for members of the centre to practise their chosen art or craft in a supportive social setting.
Join Members of the Karori Arts & Crafts Centre on the opening night to experience these impressive works first-hand and meet many of the artists behind them.
Jo Dixey. Photo: Supplied.
Cr Diane Calvert. Photo: Supplied.
Some of the art on display at the Karori Arts & Crafts Centre’s Annual Art Exhibition. Photo: Supplied.
Local history – Chinatown
By Felicity Wong
In Frederick Street is the last remnant of a once thriving Chinatown – a little brick building, the (former) Anglican Chinese Mission Hall.
It was designed by renowned architect Frederick de Jersey Clere in the Gothic revival style and completed in 1906.
It has lost the original cross fixed above the timber double-doors, and only a few of the original raised lettering for the signage of ‘Chinese Mission Hall’ remains.
The interior is in very poor condition but the building largely retains its authenticity and original look.
In 2023 Heritage New Zealand recognised the historical significance of the building as one of the last remaining buildings of the old Chinatown, known as ‘Tong Yan Gaai’.
From the 1880s Chinese arrived in Wellington from elsewhere in New Zealand, including from areas of gold mining.
The Wellington Anglican Diocese identified the need for a Chinese Missioner and church to meet the needs of the growing community.
The Wellington Anglican Chinese Mission (ACM) was set up in 1903 and based in temporary quarters in Haining Street.
In 1905 the ACM purchased the Frederick Street land and the Vicar of St Marks Church, Reverend Richard Coffey, led the design and construction of the hall with the Chinese community raising half the cost of the building.
The rest was met by the Anglican Diocese of Wellington, various trusts and individuals.
In 1905 the foundation stone was laid by Bishop Frederic Wallis and on 9 March 1906 the opening was presided over by both
Reverend Coffey and Venerable Archdeacon Thomas Fancourt.
Daniel Wong (1864-1908), an Anglican lay evangelist, interpreted for over 100 Chinese present.
Wong was held in high regard and ministered to about 500 Chinese residents teaching Anglican spiritual traditions and English literacy in the hall.
The community prospered and the building was used as both a church and community hall.
By 1922 there were reportedly up to 160 people attending Sunday church services who were often “packed in like sardines”.
For a time under Baptist Missioner, Mr Chiu Kwok Chun, both Anglicans and Baptists shared the space.
Although it was primarily members of the Chinese community who ran and attended traditional celebrations, P keh also assisted with playing the organ and running the Sunday School.
Youth Groups and Chinese folk dance classes were held in the hall and parents sent their children there for socials and to meet other Chinese for romance with other Wellingtonians of Chinese descent, hoping to keep alive Chinese culture and traditions.
Next door the Murdoch family firm built one of the first industrial structures in the street, running a prosperous business on the corner of Frederick and Taranaki Streets.
The ‘evil-smelling vinegar’ emanating from the pickle factory however ‘proved too much’ for the worshipers next door and it prompted them to sell the Chinese Mission Hall to the Murdoch family in August 1956 for £3,725.59.
The ACM moved to a new site at Taranaki
Street, then in 1978 it moved to its impressively beautiful Chinese architectural style building in Glenmore Street.
After the Murdoch family purchased the Hall in 1956 the building was used as a photography studio, a design studio called “Mission Hall”, and from 2009 as a sound studio. From 2013 to 2017 it was a ‘MENZSHED”.
The building had been purchased in 2009 from the Murdoch family by its current owners, along with several other parcels of land.
The building is earthquake prone but it’s owner intends to strengthen it, having generously built a 14 storey “Housing First” social housing building next door.
That’s the large bright green modern building with 24 hour care for 72 vulnerable
and homeless tenants.
That building is a couple of storeys higher than it would otherwise have been given the owners’ intention to strengthen the historic Mission Hall.
Next door will be a new Wellington City Council park facing Taranaki Street on the site that used to be the Murdoch Pickle factory.
The Chinese community is looking forward to the park being completed and the Mission Hall being strengthened for a new use.
In the long term, there’s potential for the adaptive re-use of the building and perhaps for such use as a small museum or gallery to display historical photos and artifacts related to the history of Chinese settlement in New Zealand.
Locals hit the city stage
New Players Theatre Company, which is based in Newlands, is hitting the big stage at the Gryphon Theatre in Ghuznee Street this September.
The director of this production is well known local seamstress, Maria Schrader, a long standing director/actor, who returned to the boards last year with New Players, and this year has stepped up to be the one in charge.
She has kept the wardrobe and props person Anne Megget (also a local) on her toes with her wonderful ideas.
Many of the cast and crew involved are from nearby.
The play is ‘Crazy Ladies’, written by Tauranga author Devon Williamson. It’s a hilarious comedy about a high school reunion of ‘the gang’, a group of fiesty (ok, crazy) girlfriends, 25 years down the track. Friendships are renewed, secrets are revealed. How will it all end?
‘Crazy Ladies’ opens at the Gryphon Theatre on 17 September and runs to 27 September. Bookings can be made at www.newplayers. org.nz.
Three local residents involved in ‘Crazy Ladies’ (from left) Director Maria Schrader, Sound and Lighting ace Samual Davies, and prompt Jenny Jebson. Photo: Nikki Parlane.
The former Anglican Chinese Mission Hall in Frederick Street. Photo: Supplied.
What’s cool in the
Wairarapa
The Wairarapa Art Trail this month
With almost 40 artists the Wairarapa Art Trail is a vibrant celebration of creativity, showcasing the diverse talents of artists across the region. Over the weekend, visitors are invited to explore open studios and meet painters, potters, photographers, sculptors, printmakers, textile artists, and more in their creative spaces.
This self-guided trail offers a unique opportunity to see art in action, hear the stories behind the work, and purchase original pieces directly from
the makers. One of the artists, Jacky Pearson, has been commissioned to write a book on the art of watercolour painting.
It’s a fun, inspiring experience for art lovers of all ages and a fantastic way to explore the Wairarapa’s rich artistic landscape.
DATE: Sat & Sun 27, 28 September
TIME: 10am-4pm
LOCATION: Artists’ studios located all over the Wairarapa COST: Free.
Finding out about the life and times in the early Wairarapa
Find out about William Hastwell, the man who got Wairarapa moving, in our new exhibition. What must it have been like to make sure the mail got through the hazardous ranges through rivers and howling winds?
Our recently installed exhibition tells the story of how he built the biggest transport business in the lower North Island in the late 1800s.
You can see the original stables and the cobbles that were the foundation of his business and get your photo taken in the Glass Coach or the replica stagecoach. The history really does come alive at
Cobblestones but why not also bring a picnic to enjoy in our extensive gardens. Explore the old one classroom school, the original church, built and shared by all the different denominations, the tiny cottage that was home to a family with ten children.
woolshed. You can even ride the 1955 Fire Engine on open days. Enjoy experiencing our New Zealand Heritage. Cobblestones is part of the famous Festival of Christmas in Greytown, an ideal place for a cosy winter weekend.
Greytown Butchery knows how to win awards –sausages are their specialty
Established in 1873, Greytown Butchery is still operating in the same historic building and keeping old butchering traditions alive.
It’s no wonder they consistently win awards with their multi-award winning sausages, having so far clocked up 25 awards in the last 18 years.
Greytown Butchery has recently won their 25th award at the annual Great New Zealand Sausage Competition.
Craft and garments at the Wool Shed
If you want to know what’s made New Zealand a great agricultural country you can learn so much about it by visiting the National Museum of Sheep and Shearing in Masterton. The complex is housed in two authentic old wool sheds trucked in from local farms, plus a newly constructed gallery building – full of sheep farm gear, including shearing and wool handling equipment.
the history of sheep farming and its importance to our nation. For many years New Zealand was said to “live off the sheep’s back.” Demonstrations are held about spinning and weaving on Wednesday mornings and by arrangement. See the history of spinning from ancient times and our collection of spinning wheels.
Ironically it was the Sausage Competition’s 25th year running.
Greytown Butchery have also marked the Butchery Building’s 150th year, with its establishment when Greytown Butchery first opened, by original owner, Sam Haigh. Artisan butcher Gavin Green and Julie Fairbrother, have transformed this iconic and popular business into a gourmet, European-styled butchery.
Feed ’em up Friday
Watercress ’n’ doughboy boilup. Fry bread. 5.30pm onwards.
Karaoke with Mike Kawana 7.30pm
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs: 9am close between 9:30pm & 10:30pm. Fri & Sat: 9am – 1:30am. Sun: 9am-8:30pm
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www.greytownbutchery.co.nz
Shearing and farming memorabilia plus types of wool and their uses.
The story of shearing – its beginnings and how it became an international sport.
The history of sheep farming. Live shearing demonstrations for groups arranged with prior notice. Spinning and weaving demonstrations on Wednesdays or by arrangement.
Wool garments and souvenirs.
GARDENING THIS WEEK COFFEE
I am sometimes asked about what are the benefits of using coffee grounds around gardens?
So using my favorite A1 search engine ‘Perplexity’ I found the following:
plants by improving soil structure, adding nutrients, enhancing water retention, and aiding composting, but should be used in moderation to avoid potential harm.
Coffee grounds release nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and trace minerals (such as magnesium, calcium, and copper) when they break down in the soil, supporting plant growth and health.
They act as a slow-release fertiliser, feeding plants over time with these nutrients.
Adding coffee grounds to soil improves drainage, aeration, and water retention, making the soil more suitable for healthy plant roots, particularly for moisture-loving plants.
The coarse texture helps combat compacted soils, allowing water and air to reach plant
Coffee grounds are highly effective in compost piles, providing nitrogen that boosts microbial activity and accelerates decomposition.
They help mulch regulate moisture and keep soil from drying out, and can be mixed with other organic materials for best results.
Application of coffee grounds may protect plants from fungal infections and discourage pests, such as slugs, due to caffeine content.
Coffee grounds should not be applied too heavily or too frequently, as excessive amounts can create a barrier that prevents water or air from reaching roots and may cause acidity issues.
After brewing, coffee grounds are nearly soil, contrary to popular belief.
Overuse can encourage mold or overheating
in compost and soil, so balance with other materials and avoid exceeding 25% of total compost volume.
So if in a coffee shop and they are giving away free coffee grounds grab some for your gardens.
Now another tree seed which has great advantage to your soil and plants is Wallys Neem Tree Granules and Powder.
My search engine has this to say: Neem cake (What they are called in India) is an organic soil amendment and fertilizer that improves soil fertility, boosts plant growth, provides natural pest control, and enhances overall soil health in gardens.
Neem cake enriches soil with essential nutrients, including NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) and important micro nutrients like magnesium, calcium, iron, and zinc. -
ity, improving soil structure, water-holding capacity, aeration, and the decomposition of organic matter, which increases soil fertility.
Neem cake helps balance pH and reduces harmful alkaline content by producing organic acids during decomposition.
The slow-release properties provide a sustained supply of nutrients throughout the growing season, reducing the need for frequent fertilizer applications.
Neem cake stimulates healthy root development, supports nutrient uptake, and boosts plant immunity, which results in better growth and higher yields.
The cake naturally repels common garden pests (e.g., nematodes, soil-borne pathogens, and insects) and disrupts their life cycles due to the presence of azadirachtin and other compounds.
It acts as a natural fungicide, preventing diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Plants grown with Neem cake show improved resilience to environmental stressors such as drought and heat.
GROUNDS AND NEEM GRANULES: By
Wally Richards
Neem cake is a versatile and eco-friendly input for soil fertility management and natural pest control, making it highly valued in sustainable and organic gardening.
I found years ago that sprinkling Wallys Neem Granules under my citrus trees took care of all the insect pests in the tree including borer within 6-8 weeks.
In India the kernels of the Neem Trees are harvested and then cold pressed for Natural Neem Oil like Wallys Super Neem Tree Oil.
Sometimes chemical extraction is used but no longer is the Neem Oil natural.
After one pressing of the kernels they are left with very dark Neem Cake which indicates there is still a good residue of oil in the end product.
Sometimes they will cold press again and even for a third time to get more oil out.
That leads to light colored inferior Neem Granules or Powder which are cheaper by the ton to import but not any where near as effective as the real McCoy from only one cold pressing.
Wallys Neem Granules which are various sizes to largest bits are most suitable under trees and shrubs for use as they will slowly break down over several months.
On the other hand Wallys Neem Tree Powder is of even particle size and nice to use in planting hole, mixed with potting mix or side dressing of plants.
the row with the carrot seeds and later when the tops are up side dress the row with more powder.
For Grass grub in the lawn sprinkle the powder over the affected areas after mowing the lawn when the soil is moist. Lightly water to wash down onto the soil and if able roll the lawn with a roller to press the powder into the moist soil... Good bye grass grubs. Mix the powder with your potting mix to control root mealy bugs and nematodes in the pot plants.
Using Neem Cake and Coffee Grounds are great products for enhancing your soil and garden plants.
Responding to School Bullying
Steps Parents Can Take to Stop Bullying at School
1. Recognize the Signs
- Look for changes in behavior: withdrawal, anxiety, reluctance to go to school.
- Watch for unexplained injuries, lost belongings, or sudden drops in academic performance.
- Be alert to signs of cyberbullying—like secrecy around devices or emotional reactions to online activity.
2. Create a Safe Space for Conversation
- Encourage open dialogue at home. Ask about friendships, school dynamics, and online interactions.
- Avoid judgment or overreaction—listen calmly and validate your child’s feelings.
- Use storytelling or role-play to help younger children express themselves.
3. Document and Report
- Keep records of bullying incidents: dates, locations, what was said or done.
- Report concerns to the school promptly—ideally to a teacher, counselor, or principal.
- Request a meeting and ask about the school’s anti-bullying policy and response plan.
4. Collaborate with the School
- Work with teachers and administrators to ensure follow-up and accountability.
- Ask about peer support programs, restorative practices, or classroom interventions.
- Advocate for school-wide education on empathy, respect, and digital safety.
5. Support Your Child Emotionally
- Reassure them that bullying is not their
fault and they are not alone.
- Build their confidence through activities they enjoy and positive social experiences.
- Teach assertiveness skills and safe ways to respond to bullying.
6. Address If Your Child Is Bullying Others
- Stay calm and open-minded—seek to understand the root cause.
- Set clear expectations for respectful behavior and consequences.
- Work with counselors or psychologists if needed to address underlying issues.
7. Empower Bystanders
- Teach your child how to safely stand up for others or report bullying.
- Reinforce that silence can be harmful— being an ally matters.
8. Stay Informed and Involved
- Attend school meetings, workshops, or parent groups focused on wellbeing.
- Monitor your child’s online activity and educate them about digital citizenship.
- Share resources with other parents to build a united front.
For a deeper dive, Bullying Free NZ’s guide: https://bullyingfree.nz/parents-andwhanau/tackling-bullying-a-guide-for-parents-and-whanau/ for parents and wh nau offers excellent strategies and support.
Quiz club at Tari-kaka Khandallah Library
One of the joys of a small community library like Khandallah is getting to know customers and share their enthusiasm for books and reading.
Last year library staff decided to build on this by hosting a monthly quiz.
While children’s events were well catered for at libraries there was very little scheduled regularly for adults.
Khandallah Library customers and a local book club were enthusiastic about the idea.
The quiz brings together around 25 to 30 new and regular participants each month for a sociable, non -competitive event. It creates a buzz with conversa-
tion and laughter and new friendships developing.
The Tari-k k Khandallah Library Literary Quiz happens on the third Friday of the month from 11am to 11:30am. The next quiz is on Friday 19 September.
“Everyone is welcome,” Wellington Libraries says.
“Come along and put your knowledge to the test for half an hour of community bibliotherapy (wellbeing through people and books).”
As part of Wellington City Libraries’ Te Wiki o te Reo M ori (M ori Language Week)events and tours of the Waitohi Hub are on offer.
Be guided around the spaces by
the Hub Co-ordinator and learn the history of the site, the architecture behind the building and stories of all the wonderful artworks.
Tours are being offered on Tuesday 16 September from 11am to noon and Wednesday 17 September from 1:30pm to 2:30pm.
For more information orto book ring Waitohi Johnsonville Library (04) 477 6151.
People can take the younger members of their wh nau to a bilingual taniwha themed story time on Tuesday 16 September from 10:30am to 11am at Waitohi Johnsonville Library.
The story time is recommended for tamariki aged two to six with their caregiver.
Repair cafe helping with Windows 10
By Frank Neill
The Karori Repair Cafe is offering more than its usual repair service at its 12 October session.
The cafe is going to help people who have Windows 10 computers.
Windows 10 reaches the end of its support provision on October 14.
After that, Microsoft will stop providing security updates or bug fixes.
That does not necessarily mean that a computer running Windows 10 will not be able to run Windows 11, or that other options are available.
The 12 October Karori Repair Cafe can help people find out if their PC can can Windows 11. There is no cost to the service
If it’s not compatible, safer, more sustainable alternatives can be explored.
People are asked to register their interest by messaging the Karori Repair Cafe on its Facebook page.
The cafe will be held at the Karori Community Hub, 7 Beauchamp Street.
As well as helping people with their Windows 10 PCs at not cost, the cafe will also repair a range of items for a koha.
A Windows 10 laptop.
A recent literary quiz at the Tari-kākā Khandallah Library. Photo: Supplied.
Join Onslow Fibrecrafts
ON... O WHAT’S
The Community Noticeboard is for non-profit organisations. For $15.00 you can publish up to 25 words. No AGMS, sporting notices or special meetings. Community Notices must be pre-paid. phone (04) 587 1660 or email classifieds@wsn.co.nz
Voting papers being sent out
Over the next ten or eleven days 160,000 voting papers will be arriving in the mailboxes of all enrolled voters in Wellington City for next month’s local body election.
bins at Wellington supermarkets, Council libraries and several other locations around the city.
until 12 noon on 11 October 2025.
The Council’s Deputy Electoral Officer
To knit, spin, weave, felt, sew, embroider and learn new skills. Every Tuesday morning in Johnsonville. First meeting free. Phone Elizabeth 049705348
Don’t Chuck It. Fix It!
Ngaio Repair Cafe is free, open Saturday 20 September,10am-1pm, Ngaio Union Church, corner Crofton Road and Kenya Street, Ngaio.
New Players presents ‘Crazy Ladies’ by Devon Williamson, at the Gryphon Theatre, Sep 17 - 27. Bookings at www.newplayers.org.nz
This means voting is now open.
People can read about the candidates in the booklet included with the voting papers, by visiting Wellington City Council’s website for candidate statements and short videos, which are at wellington.govt.nz/your-council/ elections/2025-elections/information-forvoters/your-candidates.
Statements for Greater Wellington Regional Council candidates are on the council’s website at elections.gw.govt.nz/meet-the-candidates.
To make voting easier, as well as the postal option, there are more than 50 orange voting
This year Councils are also required to run binding polls to decide whether to keep or remove their M ori wards beyond 2028.
Anyone who is enrolled to vote, whether on the M ori or general electoral roll, is eligible to vote in the poll, which will be included with the voting papers. No matter the outcome of the poll, the M ori ward will remain in place until the 2028 election.
After receiving the voting pack, open it, read it, mark itand post it before Tuesday 7 October, or drop it off at one of the voting bins before 12 noon on Saturday 11 October.
If you haven’t received your voting papers by 22 September, have lost or damaged them, aren’t enrolled or are on the unpublished electoral roll, you will need to cast a special vote.
People can cast a special vote at the election hub at Te Awe Library, 29 Brandon Street during the voting period from 9 September
Jennifer Parker says everyone counts in a democracy, and every vote counts in an election.
“Get curious, do some research and have your say by voting to make a difference for you, your wh nau and your community – and choose a candidate who will advocate for you at the Council table.”
As well as the online candidate statements and videos, there will also be candidate booklets in accessible formats online and at the Election Hub at the Brandon Street Te Awe Library throughout the voting period.
The Electoral Commission website vote. nz also has information about enrolling and voting in alternate formats including braille, audio, large print and in different languages.
This election uses the Single Transferable Vote system (STV).
Under STV, voters rank their preferred candidates by placing a ‘1’ in the box next to the candidate they most prefer, a ‘2’ beside the candidate they next prefer, and so on.
People can rank as many or as few candidates as they like – they do not have to rank them all. A detailed explanation of how STV works can be found at stv.govt.nz. NEWS TIPS
Send
funerals should reflect this.
Khandallah School currently has student places available for Years 1-6
These places are open to students living outside of Khandallah School zone. Applications for out-of-zone places will close on Friday 7th November 2025
For further information, or to apply for an out-of-zone place, please contact the school office, phone 04 479 6685 for the details regarding the application process or email office@khandallah.school.nz.
Out of Zone Enrolment
Rewa Rewa School has places available for New Entrants and Year 1 students starting in 2026. These places are open to students living outside of the Rewa Rewa School zone. The deadline for receipt of applications for out of zone places in Term 1 2026 (Friday 19 December 2025 to Thursday 02 April 2026), is 9am, Friday 10 October 2025. Submit an online enrolment application at www.rewarewa.school.nz Enrolment at our school is governed by an enrolment scheme, details of which are available on our website. The board has determined that up to 12 places will be available for out-of-zone students in 2026. The exact number of places will depend on the number of in zone student enrolments. If the number of out of zone applications exceeds the number of places available, students will be selected by ballot. If a ballot for out of zone places is required, it will be held on Monday 13 October 2025. Parents will be informed of the outcome of the ballot within three school days of the ballot being held.
Parents of students who live in zone should notify the school when their child turns 4, to assist the school to plan appropriately.
Sri Lankan School celebrating 30 years
By Frank Neill
The Wellington Sri Lankan School will celebrate its 35th anniversary at the school, which is located at Tawa College, on Saturday 14 September.
The celebration will begin at 9:30am.
What is now the oldest Sinhala language school in New Zealand began with the birth of a Sinhala class in Newlands in 1990.
The class was housed at the Batchelor Street Community House which would later be replaced by the Newlands Community Centre.
The teachers were late Mr.Karu Wijewardena (retired Principal of Polgahawela Central College, Sri Lanka) and his wife Hema (retired teacher of the same school).
The setting up process was co-ordinated by Gamini Settinayake, who continues his association with
Action for 50th Maori Language Week
Te Wiki o te Reo M ori, M ori Lanuage Week, which will run from 14 to 20 September, takes place for the 50th time this year.
In the lead up to the week Te Taura Whiri i te Reo M ori (the M ori Language Commission) has announced the launch of nationwide activities to help all New Zealanders get involved in this year’s golden anniversary of M ori Language Week.
“First up, we’re inviting Aotearoa to take on ‘50 Wero Reo M ori’, a series of challenges created for beginners through to fluent speakers,” says Ngahiwi Apanui-Barr, Tumu Whakahaere, Te Taura Whiri.
“There’s something for everyone on our list of 50 fun activities.
“People can choose as many as they like to help them go beyond just supporting te reo, to using it in their everyday lives.
“The kaupapa builds on our award-winning online campaign, ‘Reo M ori Moment’, which saw a million people come together at a single moment in time to speak, sing, read or sign in te reo M ori”.
The‘50 Wero Reo M ori’ challenges include teaching pets to respond to commands in M ori, supporting the Black Ferns with M ori phrases or saying your pepeha.
People can complete the wero (challenges) over Te Wiki by themselves, with their kura or at their workplace.
Each wero completed earns an entry into the draw to win 1 of 50 Te Wiki giveaways, including exclusive 50 Years of Te Wiki merchandise. Sign up at reomaori.co.nz/50-wero.
“As we reflect on 50 years of Te Wiki, we also think about the next 50 years,” Ngahiwi says.
“We’re inviting people to contribute to Te PŪtahi Mahara, a digital time capsule.
“It will carry the hopes and dreams that 2025 Aotearoa has for te reo M ori and will
the school.
At the end of 1991 the class had to be discontinued owing to the Wijewardena family leaving Wellington to reside in Dunedin.
In 1992 Seedevi De Silva initiated a Sinhala Class at Oswald Church Hall in Newlands.
At the beginning of 1993 the two Sinhala classes were combined and relocated to Redwood School, Tawa owing to an increased number of students.
In 1995 the classes were relocated again, firstly to Paparangi Primary School Hall and then to Newlands College.
In 1996 the classes moved to Rewa Rewa Primary School, Newlands, and continued until end of 2006.
After this period of 10 years the class, with its newly formalised name Newlands Sinhalese School, relocated to Tawa College.
The school’s name was changed
again, this time to the Wellington Sri Lankan School, in 2007.
The Wellington Sri Lankan School currently occupies five classrooms at Tawa College and has more than 40 students in it’s roll.
The school provides all learners with the opportunity to experience and acquire knowledge and understanding of Sri lankan (Sinhala) culture, language and Buddhism.
be opened on the 100th anniversary of Te Wiki, in 2075.
“What if we could hear first-hand, the dreams that those reo champions had 50 years ago?
“That’s what this will be – a taonga we're creating for the reo champions 50 years in the future,” Ngahiwi says.
People can share a message, a photo, short video or recording.
All levels of reo M ori speakers, whakapapa M ori and non-M ori alike are welcome to contribute.Te reo M ori is New Zealand’s language.
Contributions to Te PŪtahi Mahara will be made online and stored securely until the time capsule is opened in the year 2075. Visit reomaori.co.nz/time-capsule.
M Ake Tonu te Reo - Te Wiki webinars will be held at lunch times every week day during Te Wiki.
The past 50 years tracks a powerful legacy of activism, growth and aroha for te reo M ori.
Over five days, Te Taura Whiri i te Reo M ori will be hosting a bilingual series in which leading experts will discuss kaupapa ranging from the origins of Te Wiki o te Reo M ori, to the future of te reo in the age of AI.
To register or to ask your question of the experts visit reomaori.co.nz
This year’s Te Wiki o te Reo M ori parade will take place in Wellington on Monday 15 September. It’s a day to walk together in celebration of our national language.
“Wherever you are, we encourage you to mark the date, gather your wh nau, friends and colleagues, and be part of a movement that shows te reo M ori is treasured, spoken, and here to stay,” Ngahiwi says.
These are just some of the 50th anniversary events Te Taura Whiri is running. For more information visit reomaori.co.nz.
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