14 November Independent Herald by Independent Herald

Observer welcomed

By Frank Neill

Three local Wellington City Councillors have welcomed the appointment of Lindsay McKenzie as the Crown Observer to Wellington City Council.

Local Government Minister Simeon Brown announced the appointment on 11 November, and Mr McKenzie began in the role yesterday, 13 November.

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The new Crown Observer to Wellington City Council, Lindsay McKenzie.

Supplied.

Photo:

Phone (04) 587 1660

REPORTER

Frank Neill

herald@wsn.co.nz 027 490 3916

Sam Barnes

sam@wsn.co.nz 021 109 4406

Steve Maggs

steve@wsn.co.nz 027 765 8303

SALES

Brenda Ingram-Johnson

brenda@wsn.co.nz 021 640 152

Way to make a plan that truly works

Continued from page 1.

Mr McKenzie is the former Chief Executive Ofﬁcer of both Tasman District Council and Gisborne District Council.

Councillors Diane Calvert, Tony Randle and Ray Chung have all welcomed the appointment.

“I’m glad to see Lindsay McKenzie joining us as Crown Observer to help get council on a solid footing,” Cr Calvert says.

“With his strong background in local councils, a big part of his role will be to guide the Mayor’s leadership and encourage more effective collaboration between elected members and management.

“We need strong, clear advice and support to make affordable and realistic decisions for Wellington.

“Our city deserves a plan that truly works, and now we have a way to make that happen,” Cr Calvert says.

“Some time ago, I called for a Crown-appointed facilitator, and now the Minister of Local Government has conﬁrmed an observer will join Wellington City Council from 13 November,” she says.

“I think [Mr McKenzie] will be a real positive inﬂuence as we go through sorting out making the hard decisions on cutting our projects to re-establish our emergency

funding,” Cr Randle says.

“I’ve never met him but other councillors have talked to people who have worked with him and I think he is a good choice.

“He is very neutral, he has got good experience and he doesn’t come with any agenda other than having a good process,” Cr Randle says, adding that he is looking forward to meeting him.

In the meantime “the councillors are having some productive conversations and we will have a good set of projects to put to the public.

“We are committed to spending too much money at the moment.

“We need to carefully work out the low priority projects and protect the ‘must haves’,” Cr Randle says.

Cr Chung also said that he considers the observer will be a good thing.

Speaking about the appointment, Mr Brown said Mr McKenzie came with signiﬁcant governance and senior leadership experience in local government.

“When Invercargill City Council was facing governance issues, Mr McKenzie was called upon as an external appointee to support its governance performance improvement programme.

“He also has strong financial

acumen, which is reﬂected in his current appointment as an Independent Member of the Nelson City Council Audit, Risk and Finance Committee.

“Mr McKenzie will provide the support and advice necessary to assist the council as it delivers an amended Long Term Plan that works for the city, its ratepayers and communities,” Mr Brown added.

The Crown Observer will not have a decision-making role and will not be involved in decisionmaking, other than offering guidance or advice.

The role will run until 31 July 31 2025, or earlier if appropriate.

18 August 2025

Elvis Fans Group Tour

Cr Diane Calvert. Photo: Supplied.

Cr Tony Randle. Photo: Supplied.

North Wellington Citizenship Awards presented

A record turnout of people, including Mayor Tory Whanau and hariu MP Greg O’Connor, recognised 15 students from 13 primary and intermediate schools from the North Wellington area (Churton Park to Paparangi to Crofton Downs) on Friday night in Johnsonville on 8 November.

Mayor Whanau presented the North Wellington Citizenship Awards, saying it was one her favourite things to do. She said she was in awe of the students’ contributions and saw them as future leaders.

The successful tamariki are chosen by their schools who honour their students by reading out citations about their students’ inspiring contributions to the life and wellbeing of their schools and fellow students.

The fiften students presented

the North Wellington Citizenship Awards are:

Divan van Rheede van Oudtshoorn, Amesbury Shcool.

Milan Su’a, Bellevue School. Samantha Portis, Crofton Downs School.

Amélie Ellis, Johnsonville School.

Caleb Chan Some, Khandallah School.

Anna Richards, Marae Roa o Khandallah Cashmere Avenue School.

Elsie Saunders and Alex Rhodes-Robinson, Newlands Intermediate School.

Charlotte Sugarman, Newlands School.

Ruby Garrison, Paparangi School.

Florence Watson-Black and George Henderson, Raroa Intermediate School.

Brooklyn Wynyard, Rewa Rewa School.

Anotidaishe Mudengezi, St Brigid’s School.

Kaja Mojsa, West Park School.

Johnsonville Rotary has organised and sponsored this event for three years and this year was joined by the Rotary Club of Wellington North to ask the schools in Khandallah, Ngaio and Crofton Downs to participate.

Johnsonville Rotary is grateful for the recent grant from The Trusts Community Foundation.

Newlands Paparangi Progressive Association President Jim Bishop congratulated the students, saying they were very pleased to contribute book tokens as part of the awards.

Bayley Puha-Harris and Rhea Whiteman, Head Students at Newlands College, also spoke

about the value of good citizenship.

The signiﬁcance of the awards was demonstrated by the large turnout of principals, teachers, and whanau and the attendance of local Councillors.

To recognise their achievement each student receives a trophy, a certiﬁcate and a photo, as well as a book token. Every school has a shield on which all the winners’ names are printed.

This is one of many community projects led by Johnsonville Rotary, a small, diverse and friendly club that welcomes visitors and new members.

For more information see https:// johnsonvillerotary.org.nz/. Information about the Rotary Club of Wellington North can be found on their Facebook and Instagram pages.

Te Reo games

Newlands Community Centre has fun way for te reo speakers of all levels to practise. On the third Thursday each month, from 7pm to 8.30pm, there is a free Kēmu Pō – Games Evening.

Award recipients and dignitaries at the North Wellington Citizenship Awards. Photo: Supplied.

Beloved works in choral concert

As part of their 30th anniversary season, the Wairarapa Singers will join forces with the long-established Wellington Male Voice Choir to perform two of music’s most beloved choral works – Vivaldi’s Gloria and Handel’s Messiah.

Although both works are now some 300 years old, they have not lost their popular appeal, with their joyous choruses and soaring harmonies.

The concert will take place at St James Anglican Church, 71 Woburn Road Lower Hutt, at 4pm on Saturday 23 November.

The concert will be led by the Wellington Male Voice Choir’s music director, Mark Stamper.

The accompaniment will be by the Haydn String Quartet and Heather Easting (organist) and the performance will feature Barbara Paterson (soprano) and Maaike Christe-Beekman (alto).

Churton Park Dairy closing

The Churton Park Dairy on Middleton Road is closing after 58 years of service. The last day of trading will be Thursday 21 November.

Rakesh and Jyoti Gandhi are the fourth owners of the dairy, and the longest serving, having been open for 11 to 13 hours most days for 36 years.

The dairy was ﬁrst opened in 1966. Rakesh bought the lease in 1988, having migrated to New Zealand from Navsari, India.

Jyoti migrated to New Zealand in 1990 on marrying Rakesh and joined him in the business. They bought the property in 1994.

Groceries, milk, bread, magazines, and cigaretteswere more

popular when they started, howeverover the years, customers’ demand has changed and so has the dairy with changing times. Now the dairy sells more lollies, drinks, snacks and a few groceries.

Fresh ﬂowers are popular with locals andthe Pacific Island community who came from Porirua to buy them for their church services.

With good parking outside, buses and trucks also stopped by.

Covid was an exceptionally busy time for the dairy, with Jyoti sourcing goods to keep up supplies for the local community.

Rakesh says he has experienced few armed robberies over

the years. The offenders were mainly after cash and cigarettes.

The Gandhis said that they have enjoyed running the dairy, the best part being talking to the customers, having a few jokes with them and listening to their good days and bad days.

They say over the yearsthey have served the parents, their children and now their grandchildren are coming in too.

Likewise, the customers have seen the Gandhi’s children, Priyanki and Jainal, growing up there. Priyanki is now married and working as a Clinical Pharmacist in Auckland and Jainal is a Sofware Engineer in Sydney, however, Rakesh and

Jyoti will continue to reside in Churton Park.

The Gandhis would like to thank the Glenside community, the Churton Park community and the neighbourhood for their continued love and support over the years.

They feel very proud to be a part of this “wonderful community”. It is very emotional for them to say goodbye to the community they have served for so many years and are looking forward to the next chapter of their life.

They are very pleased to have sold the property to the family who operatethe Animal Medical Centre in Johnsonville, and who also livelocally.

When you have lost someone dear to you, anniversaries and the times you were happiest are often the times you are at your saddest.

Come and join us at our service of remembrance and gather strength from others. This Christmas let us support one another.

Rakesh Gandhi at work in the Churton Park Dairy. Photo: Supplied.

New book about NZ garden great

Local historian Clare Gleeson’s latest book, “The Fairer Side of Buxton: Alfred Buxton’s Gardens and the Women Who Loved Them” was launched at Homewood, the residence of the British High Commissioner in Karori, recently.

Surrounded by a garden created by Alfred Buxton in the 1930s, Homewood was the perfect venue for the event which was hosted by the Acting High Commissioner, John Pearson, and Andrew Buxton, Alfred’s grandson, who “launched” the book.

Buxton garden owners, past and present, also attended the evening.

“The Fairer Side of Buxton” tells an intriguing story of a man who played an important role in developing Aotearoa’s horticultural landscape, through the lens of the ‘fairer sex’ who supported and took pleasure in his work.

The foreword is by well-known garden writer Julian Matthews who grew up in and now lives in the Buxton garden created for Rita Angus’ parents in Waikanae. Well researched and full of archival and contemporary photographs, “The Fairer Side of Buxton” is published by The Cuba Press and available in bookshops now.

Intolerance

International Controversy

was “administrative decision caused by

in South Korea. The U.S. State Department’s prosecution of Shincheonji Church of Jesus mosque construction. Unification of Korea and Shincheonji freedom.

At the Homewood launch of “The Fairer Side of Boxton” (from left) John Pearson, Acting British High Commissioner; Mary McCallum, publisher at The Cuba Press; Dr Clare Gleeson and Andrew Buxton, Alfred Buxton's grandson. Photo: Supplied.

Onslow history – Kaiwharawhara

By Felicity Wong

Only hints remain of “Kaiwarra’s” mighty industrial, and smelly, past.

The original road between Hutt Road and Ngaio was the Old Porirua Road.

The present oil storage tank is the site of one of our earliest ﬂour mills. Charles Schultze built the ﬂour mill on land he purchased in 1845.

The Kaiwharawhara Stream fed the mill pond which powered the mill.

With good water flow in winter three pairs of stones ground wheat for 16 to 20 hours a day. In summer two pairs of stones ground for eight hours, producing six bushels of flour an hour. Up to 50,000 bushels of flour a year (more than 1,300 tonnes) gave a profit of 1,600 pounds per year.

Aotearoa/New Zealand’s ﬁrst tannery, built by John Holmes in Berhampore (Village on the Park/Athletic Park site), was relocated in 1857 to Kaiwharawharra to take advantage of the clean stream and proximity to the “Kaiwarra slaughter yards”.

Homes and partner Jonah Harris merged with an existing felmongery, tannery and carrying business set up by William Lockwood Hirst. They advertised their “excellent quality” tannery products (horse harnesses and leather goods).

A tannery dam, (in which a child later drowned in 1923), was built in 1865 when the stream was piped through the hill.

The mill stopped operating when its manager died in 1869 and became a “barracks for immigrants”.

The nearby tannery was promptly rebuilt in 1870 after it burnt down.

In 1873 the paper reported “a stir was occasioned … by attention being directed to the pestiferous atmosphere which pervades Kaiwarra and though nothing of a permanently beneﬁcial character has yet been experienced

by the inhabitants, they appear to live in hope and are very grateful for favours received.

“It almost seems incredible that such an all-pervading and sickening smell should be caused by one slaughterhouse”.

A resident said “the doctor has forbid us to drink the creek water … One time it was rare to have sickness in the village, now we are never without it” and described congealed blood and efﬂuent from a wooden shute to the stream. As a result the entire ground near the stream was putrid.

The resident did not think the tannery caused sickness. The paper said the Inspector of Nuisances seemed “unable” to make the slaughterhouse owner respond.

In 1876 the mill owner, Charles Schultze, took a Supreme Court case against the Wellington Corporation. He said the Council had deprived the mill of its power source by diverting its upstream water.

In asserting his right to a ﬂow of water on his land, he noted that the 16 horsepower mill had lost a third of its power from the water being diverted.

Schultze claimed 5000 pounds compensation.

The council asserted it’s right to divert water for town drinking purposes under the Wellington Waterworks Act 1871.

It also claimed Schultze was out of time to seek compensation (owing to having been absent) and that the mill was old and worthless. At the time of the legal case the mill was being used as a storeroom for Hirst’s tannery. The jury awarded Schultze 605 pounds damages. The council was told that fresh water was being sold from private wells as the down stream was so polluted.

Mr Hirst admitted to the Local Board that his employees had “placed refuse from the tannery at the mouth of the river”.

Legal action against him was considered but tannery employees demonstrated their opposition, citing “pigsties” draining into the stream

Horse grazing move considered

Wellington City Council officers are recommending to today’s (14 November) Regulatory Processes Committee meeting that the horse grazing lease is not renewed on Glenside Reserve, and that a transition plan for the Riding Club to leave is put in place.

The Glenside Progressive Association supports this recommendation as it will make the land made more accessible to the public

and enable a strategy and landscape plan to be developed for the restoration of the reserve for natural wildlife.

Under their Memorandum of Understanding with council for the reserve the association proposes inviting the wider community, not just locals, to help design the plan with ideas for track restoration, stream and pond restoration, pest control, a planting plan and protection of ground nesting birds.

opening of the Kaiwharawhara

as causing worse pollution.

The paper said it was “difﬁcult to say why the proper action had not been taken by the local authority” and that “Kaiwarra needed a thorough cleansing” being in “evil sanitary odour”.

Mr Hirst promised it would not happen again.

In 1885 iwi sold their Kaiwharawhara pa site near the mouth of the stream to the Caledonian Soap Works.

In 1893 another case of “nuisance” was brought, this time against a local man by Alexander Cameron, the Mayor of Onslow Borough, in his private capacity.

The Public Health issue complained of was Patrick Cavenagh’s Hutt Road dairy and cowshed, located in a residential area.

Cavenagh milked more than 30 cows twice daily to supply Wellington.

The Mayor lived across the road and said there were too many cows; allowed to roam freely causing “great ﬁlth”; attracting ﬂies and creating a bad smell on wet days.

Cavenagh argued that the tannery smelt worse and the doctor gave evidence that his shed was as clean as possible.

By the time the present Ngaio Gorge Road

was built in 1897, the “Kaiwarra Tannery” was a very large employer of local labour.

In 1902 nearly all the residents of Kaiwharawhara were employed there and Hirst had become a very wealthy but reportedly “generous and unassuming” man. Tannery waste disposal caused ongoing problems from using chemicals to strip hair from the skins.

By 1904 a sewer had been built but Onslow Borough Council asked Hirst & Co to clean it out as hair was blocking it.

In 1926 the tannery was advertised for sale as a “valuable asset, never-failing stream runs through the property, and is acknowledged by expert tanners to be the best water for tanning purposes in the Dominion.”

In 1927 a New Zealand subsidiary of two multinational oil companies, (Union Oil Company and Atlantic Reﬁning Company) was created called the “Atlantic Union Oil Company”.

The company bought the tannery site for oil storage. In the following years many of Kaiwharawhara’s early residential population departed. The Onslow Historical Society has published several histories of “Kaiwarra”.

Paparangi fun day a huge success

Paparangi School’s annual Family Fun Day on Saturday 9 November was a “huge success,” the school says.

Despite the wind families enjoyed all the activities, rafﬂes and stalls.

The community had come together to donate baking and pre-loved clothing, toys and books adding to what was on offer on the day.

“A massive thanks to our principal sponsors, Aston D'Silva of Ray White and Tania McCrystal of Copo Property Management and to all the wonderful businesses who supported us,” the school says.

“Without them we wouldn't be able to hold our Family Fun Day and have so

many exciting activities and rafﬂes.

“We thank them for their donations in whatever form they came, whether it was helping to ﬁll our BBQ gas bottles, supplying the sausages, or donating a voucher to rafﬂe off, we greatly appreciate it.”

The school also thanked “our amazing School and Greater Paparangi Community for showing up and supporting the event which is such an integral part of the schools fundraising activities that go towardscreating a creative and dynamic school journey for ourstudents.”

Fundraising from this event is going towards costs of the new junior slide which was installed earlier this year.

The

Post Office. Photo: Supplied.

New track for Birdwood Reserve planned

By Frank Neill

K K (Karori Kaitiaki), in partnership with the Rotary Clubs of Wellington, is planning to make Karori’s Birdwood Reserve more environmentally attractive and sustainable, including developing a new track through the reserve. And they are holding a quiz evening this month to raise funds for the project.

The quiz evening will be held at the Karori Tap House, 162 Karori Road, from 7pm to 9:30pm on Sunday 24 November. Booking for the quiz even can be made by emailing action-sanders@xtra.co.nz with BREPQuiz in the subject line or visit www.birdwoodreserve. com.

K K and Rotary have worked with Wellington City Council to decide the best route for the new track. Some parts are steep, and the track will also need to cross the Kaiwharawhara stream once. This means the track needs to be partly built by contractors, and partly by volunteers. The cost of construction in cash, materials and labour is estimated at $91,000.

Rotary is now raising funds, and so far have commitments for approximately a third of the $91,000 cost. Rotary is currently seeking assistance, whether through donations, sponsorship or offers of labour. For more information or to donate visit www.birdwoodreserve.com. To provide help email Dawn at action-sanders@ xtra.co.nz or Siva at karori.kaitiaki@gmail. com. Funding permitting, work on the new track will begin later this year.

The new track will give visitors a glimpse of interesting environmental features on the way to Zealandia. The journey along it is full of stories. The Kaiwharawhara Stream (Te Mahanga branch) runs through Birdwood Reserve, from the historic 1870s Karori Dam in Zealandia, to

The planned Birdwood Reserve track (marked in red). Image: Supplied.

a tunnel under the 1930s Appleton Park landﬁll. It passes the 1868-71 Golden Crown gold mine and the 1909 and 1933 St John's Pools. For decades Birdwood Reserve has been largely ignored despite being at the very entrance to Karori. It is a beautiful stream gully but is steep sided and hard to access other than via round the Sanctuary, Saint John's Pool track. As a result, Birdwood Reserve had been unloved, weedy and full of rubbish.

K K and its predecessor, Friends of Birdwood Reserve members, have in recent years pulled literally truckloads of rubbish out of the reserve. More extensive weeding and further tidying up is also planned.

Johnsonville Community

Christmas Lunch

Expressions of Interest for attendance

65+ non working residents of the Johnsonville, Newlands, Grenada Village, Broadmeadows, Paparangi, Churton Park, and Glenside area

13th or 14th December from 11.45am

Numbers are limited to 110 people per day

What’s cool in the

Wairarapa

Have you ever wondered what the Star of Bethlehem really was? Stonehenge Aotearoa answers that in an event celebrating the Summer Solstice on 21 December starting 7.30pm. Stonehenge Aotearoa goes down to the henge to watch the sun set. After that they return you to an audio-visual show to watch the Summer Stars. As the sky darkens music is played and visitors can look at the stars.

Adults $30, Seniors $25, Child (primary) $5, School student (secondary) $10.

Also available at Stonehenge Aotearoa: Stones Trek (daytime self guided tour) or explore Stonehenge on a self-guided tour. The programme includes a map of the henge and an audio-visual that explains how it works. Bookings not required.

Special presentation of an audio-visual followed by a story-telling guided tour of the henge. Allow 90 mins. Tours at tiered rates.

Ride Holidays Martinborough Charity Fun Ride this Sunday

Save the date for this iconic Martinborough fun ride!

It’s not too late to take part but you’ll have to register online by Saturday 16 November, though late entries are accepted on the Sunday with a $10.00 late fee.

www.greytownbutchery.co.nz

www.stonehnge-aotearoa.co.nz

Family/School Guided Tour, daytime mixed groups, can be booked online. Adults $30, Seniors $25, Child (primary) $5, School student (secondary) $10 The Star of Bethlehem & Summer Solstice 21st Dec, 7.30pm-9.00pm

This is an event for the whole family – a fabulous day out in picturesque Martinborough!

Set in the stunning Wairarapa countryside, the Martinborough Charity Fun Ride has been an essential calendar event for Kiwi cyclists since 1995.

All riders are welcome to enter, including

into a draw to win one of two registrations for the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge.

Both the 67km and 115km rides will do off Longbush Rd at Gladstone Road.

The 48km ride turns off Longbush Rd at Millars Rd and goes across to Ponatahi, then back towards Martinborough over the bridge at Boundary Rd.

left from Princess St into Huangarua Rd in the Huangarua bridge, and do the 48km loop.

All riders turn left from Princess St into

Drink stations are not provided. Entrants for the ride. A foodtruck/coffee cart will be available on site.

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.

The race starts just a short walk from the Martinborough village square. Awash with colonial charm, packed with great cafes, restaurants and boutique wineries, and criss-crossed with walking and cycle tracks, Martinborough is one of the country’s mustvisited destinations.

Ride packs will not be available until the morning of the race between 7am and 9am. Course marshalling and timing for the Martinborough Charity Fun Ride will

This allows you 4.5 hours to complete the 115km ride. If you have not reached Huangarua Road by 11.45am, you will be redirected to the 67km course.

Have fun learning about early Wairarapa European

Come and explore the ways in which European knowledge in the early days of Wairarapa.

Discover the histories of the heritage listed church, woolshed, school, stables, cottage, and hospital, along with the incredible stories of bravery, resilience, and determination.

Take a stroll through the picturesque gardens and park-like grounds and see how life was revolutionised by farming, transport, saw milling, and dairy industries.

Have some fun and photo opportunities in the

stocks and lock-up or take a seat in the glass coach and marvel at the horse-drawn modes

waka displays and delve into the narratives of the visionaries who shaped Wairarapa. Or simply bring a picnic, sit under the trees and soak up the unique setting that is Cobblestones. Spring and summer hours are 10am to 4 pm. Autumn and Winter 10am to 3pm. For cobblestonesmuseum.org.nz or visit our Facebook page.

Watch and learn about spinning and weaving!

If you want to know what’s made New Zealand a great agricultural country you can learn about it by visiting the 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. 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.

Greytown Butchery keeps on winning the Golds

Greytown Butchery has added to their impressive reputation of winning Gold Awards, this year they’ve won it for the Italian Tomato & Spinach Sausage. They consistently win awards with their multi-award winning sausages having so far clocked up 26 awards in the last 19 years.

Established in 1873, Greytown Butcheryis still operating in the same historic building and still keeping old butchering traditions alive since it

was 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. It prides 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! See them at 67 Main St, Greytown.

CELEBRATING 150 YEARS

Refresh for Vinnies Khandallah

Vinnies Khandallah store is currently undergoing a refresh, with all the work on the refurbishment being undertaken by volunteers and staff. The ﬁrst stage of the refurbishment is now complete, with new carpets and signage already in place. Further subtle changes are expected to follow, culminating in the exciting launch of a new loyalty voucher as well. The brand-new shopping experience begins on 18 November, featuring a week-long BuyOne-Get-One-Free offer on all books and a complimentary origami for every customer.

“We’ve worked hard to make your shopping experience even better,” says the General Manager of Vinnies Wellington Area, Mark Cassidy.

“It’s all about making Vinnies a more welcoming place for our local community and customers.”

Vinnies, a familiar name synonymous with thrift stores across New Zealand, goes beyond just offering pre-loved treasures.

At its heart lies a mission to empower communities and uplift those in need. The St Vincent de Paul Society, affectionately known as Vinnies, boasts a proud history of serving New Zealanders. Their vision is clear: to provide practical and compassionate support to those facing hardship. They strive to share burdens and joys, fostering hope and self-sufﬁciency But how does shopping at Vinnies translate into this vision? The answer lies in the “why” behind Vinnies. Every purchase at a Vinnies store becomes a contribution to a larger cause. Proceeds directly fund vital services that support the community’s most vulnerable. Imagine struggling families receiving

essential food parcels thanks to people making purchases, such as used books.

As Christmas season approaches, Vinnies Wellington is calling the community to support its annual Toy Appeal. Simply drop off a gift or a toy donation in the special wrapped box at your local Vinnies op shop or give them to the store manager. Brand new toys or gifts donated to Vinnies will be distributed to children and families in need this Christmas. For more ways to help this Christmas, visit Vinnies website. Vinnies core purpose remains – to give back to our community. The impact extends beyond financial support. Vinnies is a vibrant hub of generosity, powered by volunteers who dedicate their time and skills. From sorting donations to assisting customers, these volunteers are the backbone of the organisation. But what about the treasures you find on Vinnies shelves? Each item holds a story. A pre-loved jacket finds a new owner, a hidden gem becomes a cherished possession. This not only combats fast fashion and waste but also contributes to a sustainable future. So, the next time you step into a Vinnies store, remember – you’re not just browsing for bargains. You’re contributing to a movement of compassion, giving hope and fostering a more equitable society. By paying a small price, you’re giving a great deal – a chance to make a real difference in someone’s life. Vinnies welcomes volunteers, donations (both goods and monetary), and offers various ways to contribute to their mission. Visit their website at https://www.vinnies-wellington.org.nz/ for more information or speak to one of the vinnies team on your next visit.

Next Generation Real Estate.

Welcome to your solid three bedroom, one bathroom first home. 114 Newlands Road is your step on to the property ladder, with the added bonus of a great location. Not many first homes or investment properties sit pretty this close to all of life's amenities.

Once stepping inside, you'll be delighted with how spacious this home is. Original wooden floorboards shine and welcome you into the property and in the kitchen, allowing you to see the potential for the rest of the property. The open plan kitchen and dining area flows into the lounge. A heat pump warms the spaces with the flick of a button.

Deadline Sale Wednesday 27th November, 1 00PM

Step into your new home, where every corner whispers comfort and luxury. This three bedroom, two bathroom property commands breathtaking sea views that stretch out before you. It's a view that makes you feel like you're on holiday every day.

On the first level you'll find an open plan kitchen, dining and living area. With sliding doors that open on to a deck, and also a bay window facing the ocean - this is where you will want to relax the days away. High ceilings create a welcoming atmosphere, and the large windows allow sunlight and warmth to pour in.

Price By Negotiation

The sign above the till at Vinnies. Photo: Supplied.

Dress Circle, Newlands

114 Newlands Road, Newlands

ACTIVE summer

Challenge 2000 is excited to announce ‘The Good Foot 2’

This Wellington-based community event is designed to encourage and inspire our local young people into the creative arts, and will be a great day out for all ages.

After the success of the very first Good Foot event last year, we had to do it again.

Help us make this year bigger and better by coming along and supporting your community, get involved, be inspired and learn some new skills.

There will be breakdancing, live graffiti, food and berages,

plus free barberscuts! It’s a family friendly event so bring everyone and see, watch and learn!

Keep 7 December free because this is an event to remember!

The Good Foot 2 runs 12.30-5.30pm at the Newlands Community Centre, 9 Batchelor St, Newlands.

Kayaking’s guru Andy Blake will set you up for summer

By dealing with Canoe & Kayak owner Andy Blake you have the benefit of his 30 years of kayaking experience. He can tell you all you need to know about

Wellington’s best spots, what to look out for and how to get the most out of your kayaking.

Currently Canoe & Kayak have the popular Moana kayak at $899. This model is stable and easy to paddle, an ideal boat for the surf and is suitable for beginners as well as advanced paddlers.

Entry level paddlers often struggle with stability and steering, and the Mission Glide 390 solves both problems.

This is an incredibly stable platform and is very easy to control as it comes with a new custom designed rudder system. It makes steering a cinch.

The Kai Waka has stability, lots

of storage, a customised rudder system and is made for NZ conditions. At the Special price of $1599 it includes paddle and buoyancy aid.

And not to forget the kids for Christmas - the Tamariki is great fun at just $499.

Andy and co-owner Jenny also run The Roof Rack Centre so if you need more carrying capacity make sure you inquire about roofboxes and roof racks. They use their expertise to fit them safely and securely - and fitting is free for most roofracks!

See Andy and Jenny at 2 Centennial Drive, Ngauranga or contact them on 477 6911.

Otapawa – a rural experience of Wairarapa

Off the beaten track and set in a peaceful valley with views of the Puketoi Ranges and hill country farmland. Otapawa gives visitors a taste of the country lifestyle.

With both farmstay (optional B & B)) and backpacker accom-

modation available - Otapawa Farmstay and Backpackers is suitable for families, group bookings or backpackers wanting a rural experience. Otapawa is also able to cater for groups who would like to gather together for a special occasion. Located at Tiraumea on a hill country sheep and beef station. One-hour drive from Masterton. Otapawa makes an ideal halfway stop between Wellington and Hawkes Bay. Campervans and Caravans are also welcome.

Glenside’s “Walking Schoolbus” has again seen children active in this environmentally friendly iniative run by local Glenside parent Andrea Wilson.

Together with Wellington City Council’s “Moving March” programme, March has seen more children keen to join the “bus”.

The “Walking Bus” is where children, generally aged 5-10 years old, are led along a safe and parent-supervised walk to their local school, usually taking 10-15 minutes.

Andrea has been thrilled to see the engagement her

bus has as they learn about birdlife, flora, local landmarks and how it all relates to their local environment. Most walks have been dry and sunny, and in the “bus” hours the wind is generally very light. Andrea says she has experienced very few wet mornings whilst involved in it.

The “Walking Bus” is a great reason to leave the car behind, cut those emmissions and have your children learn about the natural environment.

See about having your children join in the new school year.

Photo:

raig Harris Photography

ACTIVE summer

Kapiti Women’s Triathlon – NZ’s longest running women’s event

The Kapiti Women’s Triathlon, to be held on Sunday 23rd February 2025, is the longest-running women’s-only event in New Zealand.

This iconic contest began in 1983 with the aim of encouraging women and girls to get out and have a go, focusing on fun,

fitness and health. It remains an amazing ‘grass roots’ event for women, run by women with a low key fun and friendly approach where any woman can find a challenge to suit them.

One of the unique aspects of this event is the great Group training options available to everyone.

From openwater swim practices to cycle and run technique sessions and regular Sunday morning group swim sessions at Coastlands Aquatic Centre. Details can be found on the ‘Training’ page of kwt.org.nz website.

Women can choose to take part in the full triathlon, a duathlon, a team event, a fun

run or the sprint distance triathlon for those who wish to push themselves.

From a 5km or NEW 10km fun run/walk to a short/med/long-distance triathlon or duathlon , the Kāpiti Women’s Triathlon truly offers events for every ability – you choose your own level of challenge!

The bike (or E-bike) and run component offers mostly flat terrain while giving you the best of Kāpiti’s coastal scenery.

Enter with your daughters, mothers and friends, either as individuals or in a team, and feel completely welcome by other like-minded wāhine.

If you’d like to get involved as a volunteer, KWT can find a role for you.

The Goldfields Mining Centre is a special place where visitors can gain an appreciation of the life and working environment of those early miners who struggled against the harsh and sometimes dangerous

conditions along Central Otago’s famed Kawarau Gorge.

Walk along the paths of the old miners. Find out about gold and where it came from. Discover how the goldrush has impacted places

throughout the world. Learn the technique of gold panning, and then try your luck at panning for gold. Allowing at least two hours to enjoy the full experience is recommended.

Karate is exhilarating! Try your FREE trial class

Aside from the confidence gained when learning self-defence, karate training can have a positive impact on children’seral behaviour.

For adults, it’s also a great way to relieve stress, learn something new, meet new people, and stay healthy.

GKR Karate promotes Karate for everyone, including children from 5 years old through to men,

women and families of all ages.

Apart from the obvious development of self-defence skills, Karate training builds confidence, self-discipline, determination, focus, courtesy, self-control and of course

GKR Karate’s classes are taught by passionate instructors who are committed to teaching and passing on the GKR Karate style and our way of life.

Ceramics New Zealand National Open Studios is coming to a studio/garage/shed near you soon!

It’s an amazing opportunity to unearth your local potter and

see them at work with over 60 artists taking part from Kerikeri to Ōtepoti!

All studios open daily 10am to 4pm Saturday and Sunday 23 and 24 November.

CNZ are very excited to have so many ceramic artists taking part in this event.

Find out more at openstudios. ceramicsnz.org and start planning your route!

full

Highway 6, Cromwell Situated on State Highway 6 in the picturesque Kawarau Gorge is the Goldﬁelds Mining Centre, an historic site from 1862

are open every day between 9am and 5pm for you to come and explore the goldﬁelds, spend time with our tour guide learning the history and seeing the relic machinery working, and then of course try your luck at panning for gold.

Jennifer Turnbull

Don’t Sugar Coat Diabetes

1-30 November 2024

Signiﬁcant increase in diabetes

The latest annual data from the national Virtual Diabetes Register (VDR) has revealed a signiﬁcant increase in the incidence of diabetes in New Zealand, which is well ahead of earlier projections. According to VDR ﬁgures released in August by Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora, the number of New Zealanders living with diabetes is now 323,700, an increase of 95,700 people in just three years.

The economic and social cost of Type 2 Diabetes report released in 2021 predicted that by 2040 there would be up to 430,000 people living with type 2 diabetes in Aotearoa.

The new data shows the ﬁgures are tracking well above this prediction.

“We can’t sugar coat the size of the problem,” says Heather Verry, chief executive of Diabetes New Zealand.

“If we continue at this current rate there will be approximately 510,000 people living with diabetes by 2040, which is alarming.

The prediction that was made in 2021 was one that none of us wanted to be right and now our worst-case scenario is coming true, with a more than 90% increase in the prevalence of the condition,” she says.

However, that’s not the only thing concerning Diabetes New Zealand.

The organisation is calling for more clarity around the data. While the rise in numbers is worrying, Ms Verry stresses that the data is incomplete and hampers efforts to plan for effective care.

“While we welcome any new data, the Virtual Diabetes Register fails to recognise that diabetes is not one condition.

“We simply don’t know how many people are living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes in Aotearoa, we only know a total.

“This makes it incredibly difﬁcult to design targeted healthcare services and patient support programmes.

“Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are distinct conditions that require different approaches in care, treatment, management and prevention.

There are different types of diabetes just as there are different types of cancers.

“Without better data, we risk missing the

opportunity to address the needs of those impacted, which is crucial for improving long-term health outcomes,” Ms Verry says.

Diabetes New Zealand’s call for more speciﬁc and accurate data comes as the organisation launches its annual Diabetes Action Month, with the theme ‘Don’t Sugar Coat Diabetes’. The campaign, which runs throughout November, aims to raise awareness of diabetes as well as breaking the stigma around diabetes by busting common myths.

“Lumping different types of diabetes together creates stigma in itself, because not all types of diabetes are the same.

“Misinformation and confusion about the types of diabetes leads to a lot of judgement and that perpetuates the stigma,” Ms Verry says.

“Education and awareness play a huge role in breaking down this stigma which is why we have chosen to focus on busting myths and telling the truth about diabetes this action month.

“We can’t sugar coat the size of the problem any longer. Real change requires real numbers.”

As part of Diabetes Action Month, Diabetes New Zealand is launching several initiatives including a myth-busting series aimed at dispelling misconceptions about diabetes and promoting accurate information.

World Diabetes Day on November 14 also serves as a reminder for everyone to know their risk and understand the importance of prevention, early diagnosis, and timely treatment for type 2 diabetes. Diabetes New Zealand is encouraging all Kiwis to take the “Know Your Risk” quiz, an easy online tool designed to help individuals understand their diabetes risk.

Diabetes New Zealand’s annual fundraiser, Sneaker Friday, is taking place on Friday 15 November, inviting everyone across the motu to wear sneakers to work, school, or play to raise funds and show support for those living with diabetes. For more information about Diabetes Action Month and to learn more about diabetes, visit http://diabetesactionmonth.org.nz.

Letters on issues of community interest are welcomed. Guidelines are that they should be no longer than 150 words. Email them to news@wsn.co.nz. Please note that your name must also be provided in e mails.

Potential harm

I am writing in response to your article published on November 7 2024 promoting a peace initiative led by Lee Man-Hee, the leader of the religious group Shincheonji (SCJ).

Khandallah pool

Dear Editor,

I was concerned to see that the Mayor, Tory Whanau, has listed the Khandallah Swimming Pool in the projects she has asked council staff to report back on, with a view to removal from the council’s Long Term Plan.

My major concern is that the provision of community services, such as the Khandallah Pool, is part of the core responsibilty of the council.

Yet there are projects that are not part of the council’s core function that were not listed by Mayor Whanau for consideration.

That includes some high cost options. Two examples of these are the Golden Mile Project and the zero waste programme.

I agree with the councillors who were quoted in last week’s “Independent Herald” saying that community projects like Khandallah Pool and the Grenada North community sports hub should not be cut from the council’s Long Term Plan.

The council’s Long Term Plan, Finance and Performance Committee voted by 17 to one on 30 May not to include closing the Khandallah Pool in its Long Term Plan.

It can only be hoped that the majority

of councillors will vote to stand by that decision.

People do not want to see the Khandallah Pool closed. That has been shown clearly by the fact that 3,412 people signed a petition to save the pool.

In addition more than 1,100 submissions on the council’s Long Term Plan asked the council to remove the demolition of the pool from the plan.

The people have spoken, and the council needs to provide what the people want, and that includes the Khandallah Pool.

Khandallah

resident

While the promotion of peace is admirable, I believe it is crucial for our community to be informed of the potential harm associated with SCJ and its practices.

Over the years, SCJ has been linked to signiﬁcant distress among families.

Many of its activities, often operating under a veil of secrecy, have led to severe familial divisions.

Former members and affected families frequently share stories of emotional and psychological manipulation, isolation, and, in some cases, ﬁnancial exploitation.

Many individuals who joined SCJ seeking a sense of purpose have

found themselves separated from loved ones and deeply entangled in the organisation’s strict hierarchy.

For more information on the experiences of former members and the methods used by SCJ, I recommend reviewing this article:

Anon

The item referred to in this letter was not an article. It was an advertisement, and the fact it was an advertisement was noted above it. Editor

I respectfully request that [this letter] be published anonymously to protect my privacy.

ON... O WHAT’S

Don’t Chuck It. Fix It

Ngaio Repair Cafe is free, open Saturday 16 November,10am - 1pm, Ngaio Union Church, corner Crofton Road and Kenya Street.

Public Notice

Public Meeting - Council Plans for Johnsonville When: Wednesday 20th November Time: 7.30pm – 9:00pm (Doors open from 7:10pm). Location: Johnsonville Community Centre Hall Speakers: Representatives from the Wellington City Council and the Greater Wellington Regional Council will present the current plans for Johnsonville. Q & A will follow these presentations. The event can also be viewed live on youtube. https://www. youtube.com/live/-omFVR5N_2M Hosted by the Johnsonville Community Association.

WANTED

KAT Theatre needs trailer

By Frank Neill

KAT Theatre needs a trailer so it can transport needed items to Khandallah Park for its 2025 Play in the Park.

The trailer it has used until now belongs to a former KAT Theatre member, and it was stolen earlier this year.

This has left KAT Theatre without a way of transporting the items it needs for the play.

It is looking for a caged trailer that is at least 2.4 metres long and 1.3 metres wide.

They will need it from 1 to 24

February next year.

If anyone in the community has that kind of trailer that KAT Theatre can use they are asked to contact Mary at 022 083 5499.

Next year’s Play in the Park will be “The Man Whose Mother was

a Pirate”.

It is an adaptation by Tim Bray of Margaret Mahy’s children’s story. It is a story about Sam, an ordinary man who wears an ordinary suit and works in an ordinary office. But extraordinarily, his mother is a retired pirate who yearns to see the sea again.

A wonderful and madcap adventure ensues as they travel to the sea, with a bit of singing and much audience involvement along the way.

Rehearsals for the play begin on 17 November.

Next year’s Play in the Park will take place in Khandallah Park on 15, 16, 22 and 23 February, at 1:30pm and 3:30pm each day. If the weather is unco-operative, the performances are held in the Cochran Hall. For more information visit https://kat-theatre.org.nz. KAT Theatre is

Motorcycle Parking Fees

Wellington City Council’s Long-term Plan provides for the introduction of parking fees for motorcycle bays in the central city in 2025.

The parking fee and structure will be decided by the Council’s Koata Hatepe Regulatory Processes Committee on Thursday 27 February 2025.

The Council invites feedback from the community on the proposal to introduce parking fees and on the proposed fee structure.

The proposed motorcycle parking fee is:

• $1/hour parking in central city motorcycle bays

• Between 8am - 8pm, Monday - Sunday.

Public feedback will be considered and shared with the Koata Hatepe Regulatory Processes Committee. It will help inform council officers’ recommendation to the committee and the committee’s decision when it decides on any motorcycle parking fee structure.

Subject to agreement, motorcycle parking fees will come into effect midJune 2025.

For more information and to provide feedback, go to transportprojects.org.nz/motorcycleparking

Complete the online feedback form before 5pm, Sunday 1 December 2024.

Graham’s Painters

Newlands craft fair

Experienced tradesmen and large team

your House Exterior and Interior painted! ~ Pensioner Discounts ~

E: grahamspaintersnz @gmail.com W: www.grahamspainters.nz Ph: (04) 564 9202 021 183 9492

BUILDING Consent

Approval and house plans. Free estimates provided. Call Doug on 934-1398.

The Newlands Community House is running its annual craft fair from 10am to 3pm on Saturday 16 November at the Newlands Community Centre.

It is free to attend and there will be a variety of stalls selling goods like plants and seedlings, hand-sewn crafts and knitting, candles, yummy food and heaps more.

All proceeds from the craft fair are donated to the Newlands Community House foodbank.

The foodbank is in need of the following items: spaghetti pasta, pasta, rice, tinned ﬁsh, tinned tomatoes, tea, coffee, ready mix sauces and pasta sauces.

Items can be dropped off at the Newlands Community Centre between 9.30am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, or can be dropped off at the donation bin inside Newlands New World.

For a paper version of the survey, download and print a freepost version at transportprojects.org.nz/motorcycleparking or contact the team at motorcycleparking@wcc.govt.nz or 04 499 4444.

A Newlands initiative where people can contribute $3 to help people in need is being launched today, 14 November.

New World Newlands has collaborated with the Newlands Community House Foodbank on the iniative.

People can add the “$3 Donation Box” available at Newlands New World to their shopping, scan it at the till, and will receive a receipt conﬁrming their donation.

Drying cloths (3-6)

Trainmen’s car (7)

(5)

Subtle difference in colour (6)

Nobleman (4)

Public Notice

Photo: Supplied.

Race heats up in both National Leagues

By Hamish Wareham

With just two rounds remaining in both the men’s and women’s National Football Leagues the race for the top two spots is as tight as ever with just a few points separating the leaders from the chasing pack.

Auckland United maintained their position atop the Women’s National League with a 1-0 win on Friday night over West Coast Rangers.

Fellow Auckland side, Eastern Suburbs leapfrogged both West Coast and Canterbury Pride into third spot with a 3-1 win in

Christchurch on Saturday.

The game of the round took place at Martin Luckie Park, where second placed Waterside Karori took on sixth placed and Women’s Central League champions Wellington United.

Emma Star scored her third goal in as many games to give Karori the lead after 14 minutes, United drew level in the 21st minute through a Sarah Alder penalty and that's how the scoreline remained for the remainder of the contest.

So as it stands heading into Round Eight, Karori sit two points ahead

of Eastern Suburbs in third with games against West Coast and Southern to come as they seek to qualify for the ﬁnal.

The men’s competition is even tighter, currently led by Napier City Rovers who traveled south on Sunday and defeated Coastal Spirit 3-1 at Linﬁeld Park.

Wellington Phoenix Reserves handed powerhouses Auckland City their second consecutive defeat, leading 3-0 at halftime before City tied the game up in the 87th minute.

Substitute Luke Flowerdew won

the game for the Phoenix 4-3 in a thriller at Kiwitea Street.

Defending champions Wellington Olympic will need plenty of results to go their way to make their third consecutive ﬁnal.

They helped their cause on Friday, coming from a goal down to beat last placed Western Suburbs 4-1 helped by a double to striker Hamish Watson.

This weekend sees Napier face third placed Auckland City at Bluewater Stadium, hoping to put the horrors of last year behind them when they lead 2-0 only to go on

Karori beats Onslow in Cricket

By Frank Neill

Karori bounced back from their ﬁrst round loss in Cricket’s Ewen Chatﬁeld Trophy to defeat Onslow on 9 November.

Playing on their home ground in the division one 50-over competition, Karori bowled Onslow out for 102 in the 37th over.

They then surpassed their opponent’s score to reach 105 for the loss of six wickets, taking just 18 overs and 2 balls.

Oscar Wilson notched up a half century for Karori, ending with a score of 59.

Liam Roche also provided a valuable contribution in the low scoring match and was not out on 20 runs when Karori reached its target.

Liam had earlier bowled outstandingly, taking four wickets and conceding only 18 runs.

Yashraj Kalsi also bowled well for Karori, taking two wickets at a cost of 27 runs.

Sam Keegan was the best of the Onslow batsmen, scoring 31 and Micah Conroy

added 22.

Elliott Seddon would have preferred not to have run out of partners and ﬁnished on 12 not out. He then took one wicket for 15 runs when bowling.

Two Onslow bowlers took two wickets each, Daniel Rose with two for 26 and Matthew Scoble with two for 34.

Karori’s next match sees them play Eastern Suburbs at Kilbirnie Park and Onslow will play Hutt Districts at Nairnville Park on 16 November.

A century by Janakan Kuranaharan helped Johnsonville to a 14-run victory in a closely contested match with Wainuiomata in the division two Hazlett Trophy on 9 November.

Batting ﬁrst on their home turf of Alex Moore Park, Johnsonville was all out for 254. They then bowled Wainuiomata out for 230.

Janakan finished on 101 from only 87 deliveries, and Zack Scott-Howman also contributed well with 62 runs.

Reece Edgecombe then netted a ﬁve wicket

New La Cloche opens

bag bowling for Johnsonville and finished with figures of five wickets for 44 runs.

Maximus Petrie took two wickets for 41 runs, Ashan Wanaginshe one wicket for 7

and lose 4-2.

Olympic face the Phoenix at Fraser Park on Sunday, while Western Suburbs need two wins to avoid last place. They take on fourth place Western Springs at Endeavour Park this Sunday with the kick off at 2pm.

In the women’s League, Waterside Karori will meet Western Springs at Martin Luckie Park on 16 November. Wellington United play Eastern Suburbs at Madills Farm and Wellington Phoenix play Western Springs at Fraser Park on 17 November.

runs, Sam Wakelin one wicket for 47 runs and Faaiz Yusuf one wicket for 40 runs. Johnsonville’s next match will see them face North City at Linden Park on 16 November.

More Karori car parks going

More car parks will be removed in Karori, Wellington City Council’s notiﬁcation of upcoming works states. The council began an upgrade to the pedestrian crossing at the Botanic Garden main entrance on Monday 11 November. As part of this work the council willtemporarily movethe city-bound bus stop near the Sharella Apartments while a minor kerb extension takes place.

The upcoming road works programme for Karori is:

installed on Karori Road between Eagle Street and Chamberlain Roadwith approximately ﬁve on-street parksremoved on the north side of the road.

Teresa's School will be extended, with two car parks removed.

Monaghan Avenue will be changedto P10 parks, for school pick up and drop off. outside Karori Mall. The bus stop will be extended to provide for longer buses, and the taxi stand will be retained in this location as requested during community consultation, but will be moved behind the bus stop to improve sightlines to the pedestrian crossing. The 30min parks directly outside the mall will be removed to allow for these changes.This work should be complete before the summer break, and nearby residents have been informed of upcoming changes by letter, the council says.