By Frank Neill
Cody Stephens is the World Professional Solo Ballroom Dance Champion.
The Makara resident competed in the five different dance categories and won the gold medal in all five.
Continued on page 2.
Cody Stephens wearing his five World Championship gold medals with Peter Nash, the British Dance Sport Association’s Director of Sport and Development. Photo: Supplied.
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Becoming the champion in all five dance styles “felt so good,” Cody says.
“I have been trying for this since I was seven years old.
“In my dancing world I’ve always said I wanted to compete in all the dances at the highest level.”
Cody has now not only achieved that aim, he has also won all the dances.
“It was the first time I felt happy about anything since my mother passed,” he says.
Cody and his mother ran the Makara Cattery for around 20 years until she passed away in September 2022.
“Last week I took my first week off [since he began at the cattery] for dancing and came home from Mexico a World Cup Champion.”
Before moving to Makara to run the cattery Cody lived in Karori, where he was born and brought up.
Cody began dancing when he was four years old, starting with tap dancing. He then moved into rock n roll, becoming the New Zealand champion in his age group from when he was four until he was seven.
He began ballroom dancing when he was seven and since that time has won a series of championships, including a world championship in American Rythm, dancing with Rebecca Gibson in 2011.
The five styles Cody won at the World Professional Solo Ballroom Dancing Championships were:
included five dances: Cha Cha, Samba, Rhumba, Paso Doble and Jive;
included five dances: Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz and Quickstep;
Waltz, Carousel, Tango Terrific, Twilight Waltz and Gypsy Tap; four dances: Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango and Viennese Waltz; and Cha Cha, American Rhumba, East Coast Swing, Bolero and Mambo.
Cody danced the American Smooth section with a partner, Irina Chalkevitch, a Russian who lives in the United States and who wants to move to New Zealand with her husband.
Cody and Irina have just been selected to represent New Zealand in the American Smooth section at the United Kingdom Dance Festival, to be held in London in January.
“This is the first time a New Zealand couple has gone to a competition this big representing New Zealand,” Cody says.
“Irina is very excited to represent New Zealand.
“I’m also very excited. This
is the first time I have had a world class partner dancing in a competition.”
be
for
The first film Andy Carruthers and Hans Weston made has won the top honour at the prestigious Toronto Documentary Film Festival.
Northland resident Andy and Karori resident Hans won the Best Human Interest Film award for their film “Tararua S-K”.
This documentary tells the story of the major challenge of an 80km tramp across the Tararua mountain range, from Schorman in the north to Kaitoke in the south – hence the “S-K” reference.
“I was overcome with joy,” Andy said when asked his reaction to the award.
“It was amazing to have an audience from the other side of the world appreciate the story about our community and its relationship with the Tararua range.
“I love being above the bush line with the wind in my face and views for miles.
“Many years ago I attended my first mountain film festival and dreamt about making a film that inspired people to go on adventures.
“I attended the NZ Mountain Film Adventure film school and produced ‘Tararua S-K’,” Andy says.
Andy wrote and directed “Tararua S-K” and Hans was the film’s co-producer.
Two more residents in the Independent Herald’s area were also involved in the production.
Mountain runner Joe Murphy, who lives in Kelburn, appeared in the documentary as well as doing some of the filming.
Olivia Lawrence, who lives in Wilton, was also among the cast.
As well as winning the Toronto Documentary Film Festival award, the film has been selected for Air New Zealand's inflight entertainment, starting in August.
"Tararua S-K" captures the rich history and legacy of the Tararua S-K traverse.
The documentary celebrates the 60th anniversary of this formidable journey, intertwining stunning cinematography, archival footage, and poignant interviews that bring to life the stories of those who have tackled this enduring challenge.
Wellington’s four tramping clubs came up with idea of the challenge to complete the 80km trek in a single weekend in the 1960s
and the event has grown from there.
The challenge is a huge one. Not only do those taking part have to traverse 80km of the mountains, the route involves a vertical climb that is twice the height of the peak of Mount Everest from the base camp.
Around half the trail is also off the beaten track.
The film features Sir Graeme Dingle KNZM MBE, one of New Zealand's most famous adventurers, who shares his insights and experiences, adding a layer of depth and authenticity to the narrative.
"The Tararua range is a priceless asset to Aotearoa and the film ‘Tararua S-K’ captures it perfectly,” Sir Graeme says.
“As for the people who run the length of the range, there is a touch of Forest Gump
in all of us.”
Sir Graeme was the first person to traverse the S-K route in under 24 hours, which he achieved in 1965.
The film not only documents the evolution of the Tararua S-K route but also underscores the deep connection between adventurers and the landscape.
It is a tribute to those who have embraced the challenge and an inspiration for future adventurers to push their limits.
With its upcoming inclusion in Air New Zealand's entertainment lineup, "Tararua S-K" will inspire and captivate a broader audience, showcasing New Zealand's rugged beauty and the adventurous spirit of its people.
“Tararua S-K is available to view online. It is at https://tararuask.com.
The Wellington Region Emergency Management Office will be holding two workshops in the northern suburbs this month. A continuity planning workshop for community groups, volunteer organisations and not-for-profits will be held at the Johnsonville Community Centre from 7pm to 8:30pm on Tuesday 18 June. A schools emergency planning workshop will be held at the Newlands Community Centre from 3:30pm to 5:30pm on Thursday 20 June. To register for the workshops visit www.wremo.nz.
A traditional m tauranga M ori method has been used successfully to collect freshwater fish in the latest translocation at Zealandia Te M ra a T ne.
One hundred and thirty-nine toitoi/common bully (Gobiomorphus cotidianus) were collected from Kohangapiripiri in the Parangarahu Lakes area in late April and early May.
Whakaweku, a traditional M ori catching method made from bundles of r rahu/bracken fern, was successfully trialled as one of the collection methods.
Zealandia and mana whenua partners Taranaki Wh nui ki te poko o te Ika have begun releasing the fish at the Wellington ecosanctuary after a period of quarantine.
Toitoi are one of the most common freshwater fish species in Aotearoa New Zealand. Before 2023 they had been completely lost from Zealandia Te M ra a T ne, a problem common across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Poor water quality, habitat loss and introduced species are taking their toll on New Zealand’s unique species and ecosystems.
This project, in partnership with Taranaki Wh nui ki te poko o te Ika, is part of a freshwater focus for Zealandia Te M ra a T ne.
The Kaiwharawhara catchment begins in Zealandia and is home to thousands of animals, insects, and plants as well as 39,000 people.
The sanctuary is on a 500-year journey to create a corner of the world where New Zealand’s unique animals and plants can thrive in healthy, vibrant ecosystems – not just in the forests, but beneath the surface of the waters as well.
Toitoi were strategically selected to move to the sanctuary as they carry out an important job within the freshwater ecosystem.
“Diversity within an ecosystem is vital as each species plays a unique role and makes it more resilient and healthier,” says Jo Ledington, General Manager of Conservation and Restoration at Zealandia.
“Toitoi are an important species
for freshwater as they aid with the reproductive cycle of k kahi, the freshwater mussel,”
Last year Zealandia and R pū Tiaki (the co-management group for Parangarahu Lakes consisting of Taranaki Wh nui and Greater Wellington Regional Council representatives) worked together to collect and release 160 toitoi into Zealandia.
This was likely the first freshwater fish translocation done within Aotearoa New Zealand solely for restoration reasons.
The focus of the 2024 translocation was to help secure the newly establishing population in Zealandia and to trial using whakaweku, led by kaimahi M ori (M ori staff).
Whakaweku are bundles of r rahu/bracken fern which are submerged into water for a few weeks.
While in the water the bundles act as habitat for bottom-dwelling ika (fish), insects and k ura (freshwater crayfish) which move into these bundles.
Because the ika choose to move into the whakaweku themselves and can come and go before collection, it is a gentle and less stressful method of catching them.
While traditionally whakaweku has been used to capture k ura, studies have shown that whakaweku can be effective for sampling and collecting small-bodied bottomdwelling fish such as bullies.
Zealandia has a focus on utilising both western science and indigenous knowledge systems in conservation work.
Drawing on m tauranga M ori in this project allowed M ori staff and others involved to strengthen their connections with each other and with the natural world, all of which are especially important in a world of climate and biodiversity crisis.
“Embracing whakaweku in this way created rich k rero about traditional and contemporary translocation methods, natural versus people-made materials, and pros and cons to different methods,” says Terese McLeod (Taranaki
Wh nui), Bicultural Lead Ranger at Zealandia.
“It is a conscious commitment to actively continue to learn, increase and include m tauranga M ori in modern day conservation practice, and continue to dismantle generations of colonial impact of suppression and dominance at the expense of indigenous expertise.”
Kaitiaki Rangers at Zealandia and freshwater ecologists from NIWA tested the whakaweku throughout the Kaiwharawhara catchment in the weeks leading up to the translocation to practise using the method and also to see how freshwater species would interact with them.
Freshwater ecologist from NIWA Mark Fenwick, who has Taranaki Wh nui whakapapa, was nervous at first about using whakaweku.
“Although Te Arawa Lakes Trust has had great success with k ura, targeting toitoi was new and untested,” Mark says.
“We were thrilled, and relieved, that they were successful.
“I think we all felt the weight of responsibility in bringing m tauranga M ori methods into a modern construct.
“Whakaweku are relatively easy to use and cheap to make, so they are an ideal tool for iwi and hapu and community groups to use.”
Whakaweku had also never been used in a Greater Wellington Regional Park before.
“We are proud to see m tauranga M ori approaches to conservation being used to preserve the mauri (life force) of our native species,” says Lee Hunter of Taranaki Wh nui and R pū Tiaki co-chair.
“Translocating toitoi from Lake Kohanga Piripiri, one of the most pristine coastal freshwater lakes in Aotearoa, is a testament to the health of the wai – health that is now spreading across the region to restore freshwater ecosystems.
“Zealandia has approached this kaupapa with the utmost respect for Taranaki Wh nui, and it is always a pleasure working alongside those who share our long-term visions for this rohe.
Showroom:
“For wh nau, it’s about the continued relationship between ng uri o Ranginui me PapatŪanuku."
There is one more translocation of toitoi into Zealandia waters planned to take place in 2025.
This project is part of Kia Mouriora te Kaiwharawhara Sanctuary to Sea, which is a collaborative
initiative with a 100-year vision to restore the mouri (life force) of the Kaiwharawhara water catchment. This translocation will help to create richer and more interconnected ecosystems beginning at the headwaters of the catchment within the sanctuary and filtering down throughout the catchment.
A free workshop for people interested in starting their own business will he held at Te Whare Pukapuka o Waitohi Johnsonville Library at Waitohi Hub from 10:30am to 12:30pm on Saturday 22 June.
Called “Creating something from nothing” the workshop is also for people who are investigating whether a side gig can be turned into a business.
Facilitated by Tony Henderson-Newport, Founder of Rebel Business School, it will explore the opportunity of going into business with little or no money. Starting a side hustle or tak-
ing an existing hustle bigger are examples. The entrepreneurial journey is open to anyone and everyone, but the steps can seem daunting, Tony will also explore the local business ecosystem and how it can help. The session will seek to dispel some of the entrenched myths around business and there will be an in-depth question and answer opportunity. Places are limited to 24 so bookings are essential. People can book by visiting the events page on the Wellington City Libraries website https://wcl.govt.nz.
While Wellington City Council’s park rangers often find fairy houses in reserves made from harmful plastics and glitter, local artists Sharon Powick and Debbie Bidlake have been creating and installing sustainable fairy gardens in Karori.
Sharon and Debbie previously hosted a City Nature Challenge event based around the fairy houses and their nature connections along the Skyline Walk, inspiring tamariki to get out into the world and play.
Ensuring their creations are only made from natural materials, the artists feel strongly about making magic without microplastics.
“My first fairy houses were made from stained ice cream sticks and horseshoes, along with cool (non-invasive) nuts, seeds, and shells I found,” Debbie says.
“They were fantastic but couldn't withstand the weather in Karori. Now, I'm working on more durable versions.
“It's a balancing act. They need to biodegrade reasonably but also be sturdy enough to justify the effort involved.
“I'm experimenting with wood pallets and incorporating our locally present flora and fauna to better reflect our broader restoration work.”
“I started making fairy houses during Covid because I was bored,” Sharon says.
“I love making art and often collect driftwood and stones at the beach, so I decided
to try fairy houses.
“Living in Karori near the Skyline Reserve, I began placing my magical creations around for kids to find.
“My favourite elements blend subtly into their environment, like a tiny, bright red door in a natural space that catches the eye.
I think it's cool.
“I like doing things for the community — I'm probably a big kid at heart myself,” Sharon says.
“If you want to make fairy houses in our public spaces you just need to have a chat to your local [Wellington City Council] Park Rangers, and make sure that you're going to use natural resources that can just disintegrate and disappear in time,” she adds.
“Keep your creations as natural as possible.
Treated timber, glue, paint, and varnish are not natural so the less you use of them the better,” Debbie says.
“Definitely no plastic!
“Create with purpose. Fairy houses are about bringing magic and joy to our tamariki.
“But for me at least, they are also about celebrating the magic of our natural world and encouraging our connection to it through exploration.
“I honestly think the best fairy houses are the ones our tamariki make with rocks, sticks, and leaves so reuse and recycle.
“Use your imagination, not your wallet,” Debbie says.
Wellington City Council is introducing four new cars with the latest licence plate recognition technology (LPR) to its parking services fleet, to improve fair access to parking in the city.
Two areas the new cars will be used are Kelburn and Thorndon.
The council receives an average of 1100 complaints a month of illegal parking, for offences such as parking in residents’ areas without a permit and overstaying.
The new vehicles will enable parking officers to be in more places, more often.
They’ll increase the efficiency and consistency of the council’s parking enforcement and also be used to gather parking survey data to help plan for the city's parking needs.
LPR vehicles are successfully operating in Auckland, Hamilton, and Tauranga.
The cars will be fitted with the latest LPR cameras and technology to capture images and video relating to parked vehicles and the corresponding parking signage. They will be clearly identified as Wellington City Council Parking Services vehicles. Cars will be tested on-road from late June-September. From October they will be out doing parking surveys and used for parking enforcement of resident parking areas; in Kelburn, Kilbirnie, Mount Cook, Mount Victoria, Newtown/Berhampore, Te Aro, Thorndon, Miramar, and Clifton. Use of the cars will then be expanded to include enforcement of metered and other restricted parking in the city.
Samuel Marsden Collegiate School is celebrating the tenth anniversary of the Arrowsmith Program, a unique, cognitive training programme particularly effective for those with learning differences such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD, or auditory/visual processing difficulties.
Marsden celebrated its 10-year Arrowsmith anniversary with a special event on 10 June, bringing together past Arrowsmith students and their families, current Arrowsmith families, and the wider school community.
The event featured a keynote address by Debbie Gilmore, Executive Director of Arrowsmith, who travelled from Canada to join in the celebrations.
Created by Barbara Arrowsmith-Young, the programme harnesses the principles of neuroplasticity to strengthen brain pathways, facilitating more efficient and effective learning.
Since its inception at Marsden in 2014, Arrowsmith has made a significant impact on the lives of many students and their families, providing students with the tools they need to improve their cognitive functions and reach
Hey Everyone! There have been a lot of changes in the property market recently, and it is important that you make a decision, based on the right information. If you are thinking of selling, get in touch and we can have a market strategy discussion and go through important variables that relate to your plans and how to best position yourself for success. For now, here are a few market trends that you should keep an eye on.
In the history of New Zealand, nothing has affected property prices as significantly as interest rates, as interest rates fall prices go up and vice versa. The Reserve Bank’s forecasting indicates that the interest rates are likely to stay around this level until next year, we may see a few rates slip under 6% but there won’t be enough change to significantly increase prices.
Although we are past the peak supply levels, we are still in a high-supply market where there are more sellers than buyers. Although market confidence is improving and there is now a portion of the market that is selling better, there will be a portion of the market that will sit longer. As supply falls, we should see a healthier, balanced market.
Uniquely to Wellington, the lack of jobs and the tens of thousands of public sector workers who are being displaced now is having a significant impact on the number of buyers & renters looking. If we start seeing more Jobs in Wellington the market will recover quicker. But for now, the exodus of people continues.
People are moving to New Zealand, with more people there will be more demand for property – which will push rent and sale prices up. However, unless we have the jobs available, immi-
grants are more likely to settle in areas with opportunities.
The property market, for now, should remain flat. Professionally, these types of markets are great for buying/selling. It allows people to take a deep breath and make educated decisions without the pressure of prices going up/down at a rapid rate. If you are thinking of selling or renting out your property, get in touch – Love to kick ideas around and come up with the ideal strategy for you! Have a great week!
Written by William YIP
Investing in the success of young kiwis by changing the Fees Free scheme from first year to final year - saving $877 million.
Supporting KiwiRail with $200 million from the roading and rail infrastructure fund of $2.68 billion.
new academic heights.
Cathy and Matt Phillips, parents of an Arrowsmith student at Marsden, shared their experience.
"We think so highly of Lizzie and Mary who run the Arrowsmith Program at Marsden,” they say.
“They create a warm and supportive environment which our girls thrive in.
“Lizzie and Mary work in genuine partnership with parents and students which means our girls can excel.
“The Clocks programme is brilliant for teaching kids to tell time in analogue clocks and to deepen analytical thinking, and we've found the Word and Tracing programme really helps to boost reading skills.
“Most importantly, our girls are well supported in what are challenging exercises and they always look forward to their Arrowsmith sessions.
“We enrolled our eldest in Arrowsmith
because we wanted to give her the best chance in life.
“We saw first-hand what the exercises comprise practically during the Covid lockdown weeks and were impressed.
“If you can strengthen your cognitive functions, why wouldn't you sign up? That was and continues to be our attitude."
Marsden employs three specialist teachers trained in Canada and Brisbane, dedicated to working closely with students and their families.
The standard Arrowsmith Program runs for four periods a day for each child, with options for part-time participation and early morning sessions to accommodate various schedules.
For more information about the Arrowsmith Program and the 10-year anniversary celebrations, visit www.marsden.school.nz or contact Elizabeth Coyle, Arrowsmith Cognitive Trainer elizabeth.coyle@marsden. school.nz.
More than 200 people attended a celebration of Filipino Independance Day at the Newlands Community Centre on 8 June. Hosted by Hiyas NZ Society and Dames of Rizal Charitable Trust Board, the day included a traditional parade of colours, a series of guest speakers, cultural entertainment, filipino food stalls and a dinner.
The keynote speaker was former Governor General Sir Anand Satyanand, and the guest speakers were hariu MP Greg O’Connor, Green MP Celia Wade, Prem Singh and Racel Qi of the Mulitcultural Council of Wellington and Northern Ward Councillors Tony Randle, Ray Chung and John Apanowicz.
The cultural entertainment included a number of cultural dances, including the Lion Dance, songs, storytelling, Afrobeat and the Umbrella Dance.
The celebration was supported by a number of groups, including the Filipino community, the Multicultural Council of Wellington, the Chinese community, the Thai community and the Fiji Indian Association.
Getting tough on rising crime with $651 million for 500 more police officers and the tools they need to do their job.
Building our future workforce with $65 million for ‘Apprenticeship Boost’ to help tradies keep and take on new apprentices.
Nestled within an established community, Summerset at Aotea is a vibrant village set in spacious, beautifully landscaped grounds with easy access to public transport.
We currently have a variety of serviced apartments available, starting from just $345,000.* Located in the heart of the village, our serviced apartment features a light and spacious open living area, a kitchenette, and a large separate double bedroom with an ensuite. All safe and secure within our fully gated village community. Plus, with the peace of mind of having six months to sell your current home,# it has never been easier to make the move.
Join us at our upcoming Open Day, or contact the Sales Manager, Liz Mitchinson to make a private appointment.
Love the life you choose.
Open Day
Thursday 20 June, 10am – 2pm
Summerset at Aotea
15 Aotea Drive, Aotea, Porirua 5024
04 235 9613 | aotea.sales@summerset.co.nz
Wellington City Council has extended Trelissick Park after a generous gift of land from Frances Lee.
Frances gifted the 2,474 metres square area, located beside Trelissick Park on Ngaio Gorge Road, to the council in March.
The land has now been classified as Scenic Reserve under the Reserves Act 1977.
A former resident of Ngaio, Frances now lives in the Malvina Major Retirement Village.
Now 96 years old, she founded the Trelissick Park Group in 1991 and has worked tirelessly to enhance the park, along with the group’s volunteers who have been restoring the park with a focus on its natural values.
The group has worked with both
Wellington City Council and Greater Wellington Regional Council to significantly improve Trelissick Park.
Tracks have been re-opened or built, bridges have been constructed, weeds removed, thousands of native trees planted and streams given increased protection since the group was established.
The block of land Frances bought is right at the top of the Ngaio Gorge. It was previously owned by a developer who had planned to build 17 town houses on it.
There were two titles for the land and the new owner was prepared to sell the bush section to Frances, who was determined that the bush stayed intact and Trelissick Park was extended and protected.
The gifted land is part of an important indigenous forest remnant and includes a mature matai tree which
Letters on issues of community interest are welcomed. Guidelines are that they should be no longer than 150 words. They must be signed and a street address provided to show good faith, even if a nom de plume is provided for publication. The editor reserves the right to abridge letters or withhold unsuitable letters from publication. Send or fax them to the address on page two, or email them to news@wsn.co.nz. Please note that your name and street address must also be provided in e mails.
has been used as a seed source for propagating eco-sourced plants for the council’s indigenous restoration planting programme.
A small stream, which crosses the site, is a tributary of Kaiwharawhara Stream, which flows through Trelissick Park in the valley below.
Council ownership means the space will be managed as part of Trelissick Park and its natural values protected.
“After a connection with Trellisick Park of over 30 years, it has given me so much pleasure to have been able to purchase this bush-covered section which was zoned residential,” says Frances.
“With both bush and stream, this is an excellent result for this section of land, and I know the team of volunteers will look forward to working there.”
Dear Editor,
I had my mind on busses and which one to take if my direct route was not coming for a while.
Although 82, I walk fast (table tennis two or three times a week keeps one fit).
So I did not notice the speed bump in the Johnsonville Mall carpark – even though it had yellow lines
My toes hit it and I went down heavily to the ground scraping knee, banging the right side of my face and injuring my
Acquisition of this land aligns with council’s Te Whai Oranga P neke – Open Space and Recreation Strategy, which includes objectives to protect and restore the ecology of the city’s natural spaces. People interested in the work of the Trelissick Park Group can find out more on their website www. trelissickpark.org.nz.
right hand.
Thank you to the people who called an ambulance and stayed with me to help me get over the shock.
I don’t know their names and they only know me as Diana but they comforted me and wrapped me in something to keep me warm.
They were all so kind and giving of their time as the ambulance took a while to come from Wellington.
There were about six people and they
all played a part and I hope they will read this in your paper and know how much I appreciated their help.
The trip/fall happened on Thursday afternoon [6 June] and it was cold in the carpark. But they stayed with me.
I am OK now but rather unattractive with a gammy right hand, split lip and bruised chin – thank heavens for masks! And thank heaven for kind people.
Diana
National Wildlife Centre, nestled beneath the stunning Tararua Ranges, just 30km north of Masterton.
Choose from various tours, including a one-hour guided tour, Cultural Tour, pace with self-guided entry. Visit the new kiwi and their sibling, Ringakaha, in our nocturnal house and attend the 12pm kiwi talk to learn about these unique birds. At 1.30pm, watch the massive Tuna
(longfin eels) being fed and discover their incredible life cycle. End your day with to stories about these cheeky birds as they eat and fly around you.
experience Te Taiao and learn how to become a kaitiaki of the ngahere, supporting the conservation of New Zealand’s native wildlife. Create unforgettable family memories while helping protect our environment.
This Wairarapa luxury retreat boasts 102 bedrooms with leisure and business facilities, a relaxing heated indoor pool, tennis courts, and even a kids’ playground.
To celebrate the Greytown Festival of Christmas, we’re offering a festival family accommodation and breakfast package for $199, which includes:
2 children (13 years and under)
Full buffet breakfast for the family in The Grill.
penguin cookies for the kids (one each!)
Truckstop on Fri or Sat nights) or 2 mulled gins (to redeem at The White Swan, available Mon-Sun).
To take advantage of this offer for the month of July, contact the hotel on 06 3700 500 or email reservations@solway.co.nz. Be sure to quote Festival of Christmas to secure this special offer.
The Winter Solstice was, and still is one of the most important festivals of the year.
The Stonehenge Aotearoa programme will begin with an introduction, and then we move to the henge to watch the sun set over the winter heel stone (weather permitting).
Observing the Solstice isn’t the only attraction at Stonehenge Aotearoa – you can
The Stonehenge Aotearoa Star Treks programme begins with a short presentation on our place in the universe.
Star Treks are available on any evening but must be booked in advance. Allow 90 minutes for your tour which should begin about an hour after sunset.
This is followed by an audio-visual that takes you on a tour of our current night sky identifying the planets and notable celestial objects.
Learn about the cycles of nature, movements of celestial bodies and archeoastronomy: how our ancestors have understood the phenomena in the sky, how they used these phenomena and what role the sky played in their cultures. For more than 6,000 years, throughout Europe and Asia, the dawn rising of the Pleiades star cluster (Matariki, the Seven event. In this presentation we explore their meaning over time and through cultures and their physical nature.
WINTER SOLSTICE
June 22 at 4:00pm MATARIKI
Occurs on June 28 at 4:00pm
PRICES: Adults $30, Seniors $25, Child (primary) $5, School student (secondary) $10
Established in 1873, Greytown Butchery is still operating in the same historic building and keeping old butchering traditions alive.
It’s no wonder they con sistently win awards with their multi-award winning sausages, having so far clocked up 25 awards in the last 17 years.
Greytown Butchery has recently won their 25th award at the annual Great New Zealand Sausage Competition. 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 partner Julie Fairbrother, have transformed this iconic and popular business into a gourmet, European-styled butchery.
Itprides itself on top quality cuts with exceptional service to match.
Remember to bring your chilly bin with you next time for your goods – there’s always plenty to choose from!
New exhibition on the history of the 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 new 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.
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 fam. Find out about 170 year old woolshed. You can even ride the 1955 Fire Engine on open days. Bring a picnic to enjoy in our extensive gardens. and winter opening hours check Cobblestones Facebook page or our website www. cobblestonesmuseum.org.nz.
IMPORTANT: Because of night closures for ongoing roadworks on the Remutaka Hill Road travellers are advised to check www.nzta.govt.nz/projects/sh2-remutaka-hill-road-night-closures
and
Be sure to quote Festival of Christmas to secure this special offer.
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.
Design and Build Homes
earthworks, and landscaping.
Our prices are very competitive, we will deliver an affordable high-quality product to your satisfaction. Send us an email for a no obligation friendly chat about the project you have in mind. info@designandbuildhomes.co.nz
Be part of our friendly Village which is thriving with 99 residents already moved in. Our new build Villas in the heart of beautiful Wainuiomata Valley are a short walk to the shops including Woolworths, chemists, hairdressers and the dentist. Queensgate Mall is just a 15 minute drive. Our warm and modern Village Hub is a place where residents socialise and enjoy activities. It includes a spacious lounge area, dining room, conservatory, meeting room, and kitchen, which residents can also use for their private celebrations. Come see for yourself – book a tour today
Elite Arboriculture is a local, family-owned and operated tree management business on the K piti Coast, offering professional arborist services across the Wellington and Horowhenua regions. Elite Arboriculture believes the mana of trees must be respected. They love giving back to the Earth by planting trees and to the community through volunteer service. Elite Arboriculture has carried out free tree work at their local preschools and kindergartens, as well as for their Free Tree Initiative, where they offer one lucky recipient arborist services of their choice at no cost. “We had a team from Elite Arboriculture working at our son’s and daughter-in-law’s place in Paek k riki today”, a happy client comments “This work was being done as a prize that Elite Arboriculture had donated to a local competition.
Be
A great example of a local business supporting the local community… You folks are absolute stars, and we can’t recommend you highly enough”. Tree pruning and hedge trimming are important to maintain health and structure. From thinning to reductions, Elite Arboriculture can keep your trees healthy and looking their best. The team can also help with planting and mulching, assisting you in finding the right trees for the right spaces and with the right aesthetics. Trees are essential to our beautiful country’s ecosystem, but an unhealthy tree can be dangerous. If the time has come for removal, they are qualified to perform the job safely and professionally. Elite Arboriculture has a green thumb and green heart for the community and ecosystem.
New Zealand Football is calling for nominations for the 2024 Community Football Coach of the Year and Referee of the
People can nominate a coach who stands out. They could be a parent
fills the coaching role for their local junior team every weekend or a coach that has made a significant impact on the beautiful game in the Wellington region. Nominations for
Football Coach of the Year close on 31 October. New Zealand Football is looking for referees who volunteer every weekend and who ensure a
and fun game for all.
This could be the local referee who shows up every week through rain or shine, or the parent who takes up the whistle for their kid’s team week in and week out.
Nominations for Community Football Referee of the Year close on 7 November. Nominations can be made on the website www.nzfootball.co.nz/ communitycompetitions.
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
Don’t Chuck It. Fix It
Ngaio Repair Cafe is free, open Saturday 15 June,10am - 1pm, Ngaio Union Church, corner Crofton Road and Kenya Street.
Fifteen local volunteer organisations recently promoted themselves to prospective members at a recruitment evening organised by the local Ohariu Altrusa Club.
Groups included the Toy library, Orange Sky, Plunket, Meals on Wheels, Crafting threads of Aotearoa, Brain Garden trust, mothers network, New Zealand Blood Service, Lions Club of Johnsonville, Rotary Club of Johnsonville, Fire Service and Kiwi Community Assistance among others.
“It was great to see so many community volunteer organisations promote themselves at the event,” says Altrusa President Emily Burton.
“The various group displays showed a wide range of opportunities within our community“ she adds.
There was a good turn out and participating organisations were pleased with the public
(Managers of Khandallah Town Hall & Cornerstone Community Centre)
Wednesday 19th June 2024, 6.00pm
Refreshments from 5.30pm
Khandallah Town Hall Centre 11 Ganges Road, Khandallah Ph:479 5420 ALL WELCOME
interest in their activities and organisations.
President Emily says that the majority of people who attended expressed interest in following up with the volunteer opportunities.
At least one group received multiple requests for membership details.
Altrusa members were pleased with the result of their community support initiative.
“We will definitely look at holding another volunteer awareness evening in the future,” Emily says.
The next Altrusa events scheduled are a Bee Garden tidy up at John Walker Park Churton Park on 23 June at 11:30am – all welcome, bring your own tools; movie fundraiser for Plunket on Thursday 11 July at 6pm “Fly me to the Moon”; and a Wellness through Menopause evening on Sunday 14 July from
7pm to 8:30pm.
For movie tickets or to register for the Menopause evening contact altrusaohariu@ gmail.com
The Ohariu Altrusa Club supports a range of community activities and has 13members.
The club meets on the second Thursday of the month from 7.30pm to 9pm at the Johnsonville Collective Hub. Prospective members are welcome.
Altrusa clubs are a group of women who identify needs within the community and work together with the community to fulfil those needs. For more information or to get involved with the Ohariu Altrusa Club contact Emily Burton 021 424 353 or email altrusaohariu@gmail.com.
Why do people say knock on wood?
One explanation states that the tradition derived from the Pagans who thought that trees were the homes of fairies, spirits, dryads and many other mystical creatures. In these instances, people might knock or touch wood to request good luck, or to distract spirits with evil intentions.
His works include’Madam
‘ & ‘Tosca’(7)
Number (5)
Tolerates (7)
Interpret wrongly (11)
Droops (5)
Nourishing (11)
Abandoned
Round 10 in the Men’s Central Football League played out over the weekend and there were still a few surprises when the league table was updated after the final game on Sunday afternoon.
Waterside Karori were back to the green green grass of home at Karori Park after an extended stay at Martin Luckie Park due to a clover catastrophy over recent months.
The visitors were TFS North Wellington and the outcome was as patchy as the surface, until the very end.
It literally took until the final whistle to confirm a result and it was 3 goals a piece in the referee’s notebook at full time.
Waterside were out of the blocks from the first whistle and looked to dominate possession, but it was Henry Sinclair who scored for Norths first and really upset the apple cart.
The legendary Leo Villa evened the ship up for Karori on the 25 minute mark and that certainly silenced the away supporters.
Not to be outdone, Sinclair scored another for Norths in similar fash-
ion to his first with a right footed jab at close range just a minute later. The visitors went into the sheds 2-1 up at half time.
Nothing changed in the second half until there were 20 minutes to play and Norths looked like they needed some fresh legs.
This was all the encourangement that Tomas Alvarado needed and he literally pounced on the Norths’ defence and carved out a very fine individual goal to lock the match up at 2 all.
With substitutions aplenty for both teams, the final spell was chaotic and no quarter was given by either side.
Tuawhiorangi Reedy Dunn smacked home what was thought to be the winner for Waterside right on full time and the home town supporters roared in jubilation at a death knell vitory.
The rule book says that the referee is the sole judge of time though and Karori found themselves defending a corner and ultimately conceding an own goal – still on the 90 minute mark.
The worm had turned and now it was time for the opposition to make some noise on their own.
Unbelievably, play restarted again and those with pace makers were no doubt grateful that they had kept their maintenance plans up to date. Eventually the final whistle blew and not a sound could be heard after what had been a real value for money match.
In other games in the round the Wellington Phoenix Reserves brought their A game with them and won 2-0 over Miramar Rangers.
Wellington Olympic recorded the same score against Napier City Rovers, while Petone were too strong for Stop Out, winning 3-1. Western Suburbs had a comfortable 5-1 win over Island Bay.
In the Women’s Central Football League, Waterside Karori held on to second spot after a strong win at home, 4-0 over Seatoun.
Wellington United retain their one point lead on the table after travelling to the Taranaki for an impressive 5-0 win over Moturoa.
Victoria University lost 3-2 to visitors, Palmerston North Marist and Petone hosted Taradale, enjoying a 4-0 home win.
Capital Football is looking for young players aged from 14 to 18 years to join its Youth Participant Group (YPG).
The YPG aims to meet two times a year to discuss youth football and provide feedback and insight into the game in the Wellington region.
Capital Football is looking for a diverse group of participants who can input their
experiences to help improve youth football in the region.
This can include those still playing the game (competitively, socially, at clubs or college) and those no longer playing.
People interested in being part of the YPG or who have any questions can email Maika by 5pm on Friday 21 June at maika@ capitalfootball.org.nz.
By Frank Neill
Analin,
an impressive 11.98 metres. She smashed her own personal best by 65cm, and was just 5cm shy of the gold medal. She also placed fifth in the under 18 long jump with a big personal best of 5.37 metres. Analin represented New Zealand at the Oceania event, which ran from 1 to 8 June.
Khandallah New World has been granted resource consent to extend its car park at the supermarket.
In its decision dated 7 June an Independent Hearing Panel, delegated to make a decision by the Wellington City Council, said it approved the car park extension, subject ot a series of conditions.
The most notable condition is that the car park cannot provide access via Nicholson Road.
The supermarket’s owner, Foodstuffs North Island Ltd, applied to the council last year for a resource consent to demolish three houses and construct the car park extension.
New World’s current car park in Ganges Road has space for 38 vehicles.
The supermarket plans to create 67 new parking spaces which will result in a total of 101 supermarket car parks.
The decision to provide more parking at Khandallah New World was made following observed issues at the site with on-site parking provisions frequently unable to accommodate parking demand, Foodstuffs says.
“We are satisfied ... that there is a demand for additional car parking to support the supermarket in efficiently accommodating customers during peak times, as well as to accommodate staff parking,” the Independent Hearing Panel said in its decision.
“The car park expansion would allow for the supermarket to be more conveniently
An artist’s impression of one of the views of the proposed new car park at Khandallah New World.
used by the local community for their grocery and other essential needs and ensure that the existing supermarket maintains an important anchor role for the Khandallah Centre, supporting the vitality of the village,” the report said.
“Based on the expert evidence, and subject to the removal of vehicle access via Nicholson Road, as well as the imposition of consent conditions on the design and ongoing use and management of the car park, we find that the proposal is generally consistent with the relevant provisions of the District Plan.”
The three houses that will be demolished to make way for the car park extension are 3 Dekka Street and 31 and 33 Nicholson Road.
