By Frank Neill
The
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REPORTER
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This was not communicated to Councillors before the committee’s agenda was posted on Friday 16 May, Cr Diane Calvert told the “Independent Herald”.
Nor was any mention made of the plan to close the pool in the consultation the council recently undertook on the Long Term Plan.
The officers’ recommendation has already led to the resurrection of the Save the Khandallah Pool initiative, Save Khandallah Pool team member Marie Newsome says.
“If the council voted to proceed with demolition, there would be another push from the community to save it,” she says.
The Council officers’ recommendation to close the pool “is shocking, absolutely shocking,” Cr Calvert says.
“It was completely inappropriate I believe because the report that came through from the independent working group [which the council set up] said that we have got a solution and we can build it within the existing budget”.
That budget is $7.5 million.
“It is a design based on using the existing pool, putting a new liner in and mitigating the risk around the pool by doing work on the stream.
“It’s a perfectly pragmatic and realistic option to keep the pool.
“Officers acted because they still didn’t want the pool.
“It smacks of pre-determination.
“What’s the point of setting up the technical advisory group?
“The governing Council said we will give them an opportunity. Let’s see if there is an option within the budget and that’s what they came up with.
“Officers came back and said ‘you should close the pool’ and that was not the instruction we gave them last year.
“They never should have put in the recommendation [to close the pool],” Cr Calvert says.
“I am very disappointed that it was put in the [committee’s agenda] in this way.
“It was also something that was not consulted on in this year’s consultation document.
“It was consulted on last year and Council made a decision basically that [work on the pool] come within the existing budget,” Cr Calvert says.
Northern Ward Councillor Tony Randle also says it was wrong for Council officers recommending not proceeding with upgrading the pool.
“I think it is quite unfair for this particular project to be turned into a demolition,” he says.
The Council’s instructions were to go to the community and engineers to come up with a plan that was within the budget
of $7.5 million “and they succeeded in doing that.
“Why are they now recommending not proceeding?
“That is a complete puzzle to me and it is wrong as well,” Cr Randle says.
He also asks: “Why didn’t you tell the community you were going to do this?
“If you make a commitment to see if you can get a cost effective solution and you find it, then we will deliver it.
“If you renege on that it just breaks trust,” Cr Randle says.
Continued on page 3.
I recently hosted a meeting which included local property developers and representatives from the City and Regional Councils. The background for the meeting was the need to ensure all people involved in providing more housing in our electorate, whether it be those building them or those regulating and permitting that building, understand the issues which govern the ability to build the houses everyone agrees we need.
There are essentially two types of development; greenfields and brownfields. Greenfields means building on currently undeveloped land, typically ex farmland on the edges of current urban areas, where infrastructure like sewers, water supply and other essential services don’t exist are usually built by the developer.
Brownfields development means rebuilding on existing sites, and there has been considerable discussion in recent times around how much intensification should be allowed in existing suburbs, especially changing of height limits to allow for more apartments.
Both have their advantages and disadvantages; the Regional Council in particular see their role to prevent more
There is plenty happening politically to keep everyone interested at present. It seems that post-COVID, too many people, including politicians, are determined that the norms and rules which keep society ordered and citizens reassured, are not for them. Obviously, it starts with the USA, with Donald Trump seemingly determined to ignore conventions, alliances and even logic as he disrupts trade, treaties, and economies. It is spilling over into New Zealand, where basic democratic norms are being ignored in the use of Urgency, with legislation to bypass public and departmental scrutiny of bills like the Equal Pay Amendment Bill. This cancels 33 pending pay equity claims, designed to ensure our care or support workers, and the like, have the value of their work recognised. There are also considerable attempts to ignore the parliamentary rules by people who should know better,
which again doesn’t reassure the population they can have faith in their political leaders.
runoff and other material ending up in our harbours, especially the Porirua harbour in the case of development north of Johnsonville and Newlands. The Wellington City Council are concerned that the existing infrastructure cannot handle the pressure it comes under when new housing areas are developed. Existing infrastructure is aging and needs upgrading across our city, as evidenced by recent pipe failures. An advantage of intensification of existing areas means more people, therefore more ratepayers to pay for those upgrades.
Developers of course need to make a profit, and wish to keep their compliance costs as low as possible. Many believe the Resource Management Act is too cumbersome. We as government for our part have undertaken to rewrite that act.
On the other hand, there are those who have a vested interest in destroying people’s faith in the incumbent Government or Council for their own advantage so they can put themselves forward as the solution. The trouble is those people’s solutions rarely work, because if it was easy, someone would have done it already. The net result is the new administrations can’t repair the damage they did to people’s confidence in order to get their vote, resulting in a further loss of confidence.
The feedback was good, but the success will be when there are sufficient affordable houses to meetdemand. That is certainly my goal as your MP.
That, and of course having a vibrant and functioning Johnsonville Shopping Centre we can all be proud of.
There’s plenty to be getting on with.
The solution is to look beyond the headlines and at least read a counterview to what is being espoused. The best democracies are where voters are well informed. I am encouraging all around me to have your say in the local body elections this year, and to support what matters to you about Wellington’s future.
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When she discovered that Council officers were recommending the pool be closed, her reaction was “a combination of devastated and angry,” Marie Newsome says.
“There was a huge campaign and a huge outpouring of support [for the pool] from the community during last year’s Long Term Plan consultation.
The Save the Khandallah Pool team “participated in that consultation.
“We put together a big submission.
“We had that public meeting with over 200 people attending.
“We had that petition ... which I think was actually the largest petition that the Council had ever received and it has only just been surpassed by the Begonia House petition.”
Following that an agreement was reached where an advisory group was set up.
Marie was one of three community representatives on that group.
There were also two local engineers, who volunteered their time, along with Council officers from the parks, pools and civil works teams.
A team of external experts was engaged through an engineering firm too.
“We came up with an alternative plan to renovate the pool,” Marie says.
The plan involved renovating the existing pool tank, instead of demolishing it and the plan involved a different approach to flood mitigation.
That plan was “clearly under the $7.5 million budget, including margins, contingencies and consulting fees.
“We felt really good about that solution.
“It was a great outcome.
“It was a good example of the Council and the community working together,” Marie says.
“We prepared a paper that went to the Council officers and Council management to feed into the Long Term Plan agenda.”
The Council officers said there might be some change in the final recommendations.
“So we were really disappointed to see on Friday [16 May] firstly that the agenda still recommends demolition at a cost of $4.5 million when we came up with a really practical and good value solution.
“We were also really disappointed that what was left out of the agenda was the actual design and the actual cost” of the advisory group’s plan.
“So that leaves Councillors in a really difficult position because the officers are still recommending demolition but they are not showing what the alternative is ... the outcome of the advisory group.
“I have been told that they will share that information but it’s not on the [Council’s] website yet,”
Marie said on 20 May.
“We are still frustrated as well that the consultation document that came out a couple of months
ago for this round of the Long Term Plan consultation ... said nothing about the Khandallah pool.
“There was no indication that they would push for demolition even as we found an affordable redesign option.
“That feels like really bad faith,” Marie says.
“To have it essentially thrown back at us with ‘we don’t really care, we are going to go ahead with demolition anyway’ is extremely disappointing.
“And also it doesn’t give people confidence in the engagement process.
“The Council is putting a lot of money into these processes and then ignoring the feedback.”
The approach by the Council officers “gives people a sense that the decisions are predetermined and what the community says doesn’t matter.
“Even what Councillors asked them to do is not being given due consideration.
“We found an affordable solution and we believe that should be the way forward,” Marie says.
There was, however some good
news from Wellington’s Mayor Tory Whanau that came on 20 May, Marie adds.
“She’s planning to put up an amendment that will keep the pool and go ahead with the renovation.”
He was “disappointed” about the officers’ recommendation to close the pool, says John McGrath, who established the Save Khandallah Pool Team.
“But we trust the Councillors will listen to the voice of the community opinion.”
The Save the Khandallah Pool petition attracted 3,500 signatures in support of keeping the Khandallah pool.
“That was the biggest petition in support of a community facility the Council had seen.
“We trust that the Councillors will vote to keep the Khandallah pool open.
“We found a solution,” Mr McGrath said, referring to the finding of a work group the Council set up that presented a plan to save the pool within the $7.5 million budgeted.
“We found an affordable solution and we believe that should be the way forward.”
Nominations have opened for the BLAKE Awards, an annual celebration supported by Westpac which celebrates inspiring New Zealanders.
The awards are made in six categories: science, business, communication and education, community, youth and schools (which is the only group award).
A Blake Award will be made in each category and in addition the supreme award, the Blake Medal, will celebrate one person whose leadership has helped create a more sustainable future for New Zealand.
These awards honour famous New Zealander Sir Peter Blake.
Nominations close on 14 June.
For more information visit www.blakenz.org/programmes/blake-awards.
By Frank Neill
The New Zealand Remembrance Army is fundraising to repair a significant grave at the Karori Cemetery.
It is the grave of Private Peter Noon, a soldier who died from shell shock.
The grave, which was displaced by the 2016 earthquake, “has been a concern for ourselves for some time,” the Remembrance Army says.
“The grave is now off centre and requires lifting and reinforcing to stabilise it.
“Due to its size and location on a hill, there’s a real risk it could collapse and damage surrounding graves if left unaddressed.
“As it happens, one of the stonemasons will be on-site this week with a crane for another job and has generously offered to carry out the required repairs at the same time.
“Opportunities like this are rare, and we see this as a critical piece of work.” The Remembrance Army has set up a Givealittle page and is asking people to donate towards the repair of the grave.
The fundraiser is at https://givealittle.co.nz. Enter Remembrance Army in the search bar.
By Frank Neill
The Save the Begonia House petition will be presented to Wellington City Councillors today, 22 May.
The Friends of the Wellington Botanic Garden will present the petition at the meeting of the Council’s Long Term Plan, Finance and Performance Committee .
The petition closed with more than 8,600 signatures.
It is the largest petition ever presented to the Wellington City Council.
“In addition, we understand a private petition will also be presented which contains an additional 6,011 signatures,” the Friends of the Wel-
lington Botanic Garden say.
“A big thank you to the 1,191 people and organisations who made a Begonia House submission.”
Of those 61% supported the “do minimum” option which increased the budget from $8.1 million to $11 million (an increase of $2.9 million).
A further 12% wished the budget to be increased to $20 million to meet scope.
The demolish option received 18% submissions.
“The strong submission and petition support makes a compelling argument to the Council to repair this iconic Wellington destination,” the Friends say.
“One of the undertakings the Friends made was to fundraise.
“As well as fundraising in the more traditional manner we have worked with the Council and the Wellington construction community to develop costings that better reflect the work required on the Begonia House.
“The Friends position has always been that the Council must adequately fund the building and any further funds would be used to enhance the renovation.
“If the conservatory is approved for minimal work the community can make the building better by funding the upgrading of fixtures and fittings from the minimum specification to the best solution.”
At the last meeting of the REBUS Club of Khandallah, President Michael Harrison made a presentation to Sybil and Vince Keating who have been attending the club for 25 years.
Not many members achieve this feat. They joined the club after they retired and said that they always enjoyed the meetings, and the trips away, visits and group activities. Vince was President in 2003 and 2004, and Sybil was on the Committee from 2008 to 2010.
Sybil and Vince are both in their nineties. Vince came from Greymouth and was transferred to Wellington and Sybil grew up in Ngaio.
Sybil said they worked for the same company, but never worked together. According to Sybil they had lots of fun at work, and the company was a real matrimonial bureau.
They have always lived locally, apart from being transferred to Melbourne in the 1970s. They and their four children had about nine years there before being transferred back to Wellington.
REBUS is a social club for retirees, and usually meets on the last Friday of the month.
The next meeting will be held on Friday 30 May at 10 am at the Khandallah Bowling Club, Woodmancote Road.
The guest speaker will be Greg Foster,Salvation Army Territorial Director of Social Housing and Property.
Greg has worked withdevelopment projects in Bangladesh, Jordan and Tanzania and with Habitat for Humanity in South Africa and Slovenia.He will be talking about current social housing.
For more information internet search
“Khandallah REBUS.”
By Felicity Wong
The Johnsonville Bowling Club in Frankmore Avenue was originally sited where the mall is.
In 1908 22 people attended a public meeting and agreed to raise funds by issuing 200 debentures for five pounds each.
The needed land was estimated to cost 750 pounds.
At the meeting 61 debentures were taken up in the new company, raising 305 pounds.
Soon after the meeting the newly elected president, Mr W L Thomson of Kelburn, purchased the mall site for the company.
It was on the corner of “Wallace Street” (now named Gothic Street and subsumed into the mall carpark), and “Brandon Street”, the eastern remnant of which is the small service delivery lane now called Hawea Street.
A pavilion was built and flowering plants and
shrubs donated by the members.
In 1963 the land was sold for twenty thousand pounds so the club could shift to the bigger site in Frankmore Avenue.
There’s been political tooing and froing about Johnsonville street names.
When the club was set up the streets around central Johnsonville had different names.
Rotoiti Street was called “Balance Street“ (after Premier Hon John Balance, (MP from 1875-81 and 1884-1893); Broderick Road was “Waterloo Road” (after the Duke of Wellington’s 1815 military success, but later renamed after early settler Cressy Broderick‘s family).
In a political reversal, the currently named Disraeli Street was previously called Gladstone Avenue.
Benjamin Disraeli was Prime Minister of the United Kingdom off and on from 1868 to 1880 and played a major role in establishing the British
By Frank Neill
Selling the Karori Event Centre is being recommended by Wellington City Council staff.
This recommendation is being considered at today’s meeting of the Council’s Long Term Plan, Finance and Performance Committee meeting.
This recommendation is, however, opposed by the Onslow-Western Ward Councillor, Diane Calvert.
Describing the proposal as “ridiculous,” Cr Calvert says: “I think what we need to do is revisit the whole operating model of how we are operating the event centre.
“We need to look at what opportunities there are for improved commercial viability and we also need to look at how well we are using the community centre and the meeting space in the recreation centre.
“I think there is an opportunity to enhance the offering to Karori and make everything work much better and more entwined together.
“That’s what I will be pushing for.
“We also need to do our bit to help the Karori Business Association.
“They are struggling to get activated and we need to see what we can do.
“With everyone working together we can make this a much more viable hub,” Cr Calvert says.
“We are outraged” at the Council officers’ recommendation to sell the centre, says Heather Baldwin, Chair of the Karori Community Hall Trust.
“The people of the western suburbs spoke, and we had real hope that the Council would listen.
“After all, is this not the point of the public submission process – that the public tell the Wellington City Council what they want to see in the city that they live in?” Heather asks.
Overall 62% of the public asked the Centre to be saved and also repaired, “but despite the public voice arguing for the Centre, the Council officers are still recommending the site be sold,” Heather adds.
In a final attempt to remind Council of the community’s wishes, the Karori Community Hall Trust gathered their supporters at the centre yesterday, 21 May, the day before the Council Committee met to make its decision.
Representatives from many community groups were at the rally – Karori Rotary and Lions, local business owners, repre-
Conservative Party. Gladstone was alternate Prime Minister from 1868 to 1894 and led the Liberals (later the Lib Dems).
Frankmore Ave used to be called Railway Terrace and it extended eastward across the railway line and mall carpark to Johnsonville Road.
A few remnant steps of it remain on the eastern side of Moorefield Road.
Wanaka Street was the western end of Brandon/Hawea Street; and Phillips Street was called Brook Street.
In Brook Street (25-29 Phillips Street) stands one of Johnsonville’s few heritage recognised buildings, the Masonic Lodge Hall.
It was established on the site in 1908.
Prior to that the lodge met at the old Johnsonville school house on the main road (Johnsonville Road), and used the nearby Oddfellows Hall or the Temperence Hotel for dining.
The schoolhouse was sited near the Methodist Church.
The church used to be on Johnsonville Road,
sentatives from sports and activity groups, churches, clubs, and Karori Normal School’s principal and a senior teacher with some of the 72 school children who wrote submissions to the Council.
Andrew Little, a Mayoral candidate, was also at the centre showing his support.
“It’s the last stand,” Heather says.
After “20 years of fundraising and fighting for this centre we need Council to listen to the people of this community.
“This Centre replaces the 10 halls that Karori has lost. We need it,” Heather says.
The Karori Event Centre was gifted to the Council by the Karori Community Hall Trust in December 2022 with the intention that the Council would fund the completion of the project.
When the gift of the building was accepted, the Council agreed to use reasonable endeavours to complete the fit-out for a maximum cost of $1.9 million, with no guarantee this could be achieved.
The current cost estimate to achieve building code compliance for the building is $3.3 million, Council officers say in the Long Term Plan, Finance and Performance Committee agenda.
“Officers recommend approval of Option 1, sell the site as is, as this would best achieve the objective of the LTP Amendment by assisting to reduce the capital expenditure programme, noting we will ensure the Trust is provided an opportunity to put forward a tender,” the committee agenda says.
in front of the existing historic cemetery, (the grounds of which are now being restored by locals led by Anne Brodie).
The first public school was opened on its Johnsonville Road site in 1867 with 25 children. A second building on the site was built in 1876 behind the first one, and the later became the teacher’s house (afterwards used as the policeman’s house and later still the Johnsonville Town Board office.) In 1885, however, the school shifted to the site now called Memorial Park on Frankmore Avenue. The old (second) school building became the Masonic Hall, (and may have later been shifted to the Brook/ Phillips Street site). Johnsonville School kept on becoming too small and in 1908 an infant school was built on the grounds of the present school (now Morgan Street/Ironside Road but then called “Drake Street” after early settler Thomas John Drake). In 1912 a bigger building was constructed on Drake Street, the present Johnsonville Main school site.
PoliceCommissionerRichard Chambers has announced the launch of an independent reviewto ensure there are strong controls to prevent the misuse of police technology and equipment for non-work-related purposes, in the wake of the f ormer Deputy Police Commissioner Jevon McSkimming scandal.
However, according to multiple reportsthat have beenreleased by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA), the Police have a much bigger problem than improper tech use: lying.
The IPCA reports into the unlawful arrests of Lucy Rogers, Paul Burns and John Minto, just to quote three examples of many more, are replete with Police up and down the chain of command blatantlylying to the public, and lying to the IPCA investigators, whilst under investigation.
When caught out repeatedly lying, rather than act with some sort of humility and contrition, the Police simply doubled down, admitted no wrongdoing, and promptly ignored the multiple findings of the IPCA that the NZ Police are inveterate liars. It is time for a Royal Commission of enquiry into PoliceConduct in New Zealand, with wide terms of reference.
At the Ministry of Injustice New Zealand we fear that the New Zealand Policenow represent the Queensland Police of the Fitzgerald Enquiry in the 1980s – corrupt to the core.
If nothing else, the McSkimming scandal certainly affirms that the current and embedded rot within the NZPolice force most certainly starts at the top.
Stephen Taylor
Nga Mokopuna, situated at Victoria University in Kelburn, has been recognised as the pinnacle of commercial construction at the 2025 New Zealand Commercial Project Awards.
LT McGuinness Wellington received the Supreme Over $10 million Award for Nga Mokopuna (formerly The Living Pa) on 16 May.
Designed to meet the world’s most rigorous environmental certification, the Living Building Challenge, the project was built with a mass timber structure and incorporates solar energy generation, vacuum toilets, blackwater treatment and Red List-free materials.
“As one of New Zealand’s most complex buildings, this project confronted the pressing challenges facing commercial buildings as the sector transitions toward a more sustainable future. Its success is a testament to the shared vision, determination, and commitment of everyone involved,” the judges noted.
For Nga Mokopuna the accolades don’t stop there.
The LT McGuinness Wellington project team also took home the Commercial Project Over $25 million Value Award, the SpecAdvisor Education Project Category Award, and the Mitre 10 Environmental and Sustainable Award.
Owned by Master Builders, the New Zealand Commercial Project Awards celebrate
the very best in innovation, craftsmanship and collaboration across the commercial construction sector.
It remains the only competition in New Zealand to recognise and showcase the contribution and innovation of the whole project team, rather than just the building itself.
Master Builders CEO, Ankit Sharma, says this year’s winners of the Commercial Project Awards exemplify the incredible quality, collaboration, sustainable building practices and craftsmanship involved in bringing a commercial project to life.
“This year’s entries show just how far our sector has come in embedding sustainability into commercial building,” Amkit says.
“From innovative use of mass timber to low-impact systems and materials, we’ve seen green thinking integrated across a wide range of projects.
“These awards continue to recognise the strength of collaboration across the industry, and this year they also reflect a real shift in how we’re designing and building for the future.”
The award for Nga Mokopuna was one of two supreme awards presented by Master Builders.
Breen Construction was awarded the Supreme Under $10 million Award for the Scapegrace Distillery in Central Otago.
By Frank Neill
New homes on the site once occupied by the Teachers’ College in Karori are currently being advertised on Trade Me.
“Welcome to Campbell Village,” the Trade Me post says in offering the homes for sale.
“Nestled between Donald and Campbell Streets in the heart of Karori, Campbell Village is a premium new residential development bringing contemporary architecture and modern living to one of Wellington’s most sought-after suburbs.
“This thoughtfully master-planned community feature mostly standalone dwellings, designed with quality, lifestyle and longevity in mind.
“Campbell Village offers a diverse range of homes to suit every stage of life.”
One-bedroom homes will cost from $599,000, two-bedroom homes $789,000, two-bedroom homes with a garage $899,000, and three-bedroom homes with a garage at $999,000.
The listing is under the name Sam Newble.
Greater Wellington Regional Council
chair Daran Ponter is the new Chair of the Local Government New Zealand Regional Sector Group (RSG).
He succeeds Bay of Plenty Regional Council Chair Doug Leeder, who decided this month to step down from the role.
Mr Ponter says he is seeking a productive partnership with central government.
“We’re operating in a period of global uncertainty and domestic pressure.
“That calls for agility and the Regional Sector Group felt it was important to have a Chair who could engage regularly and positively with government,” Mr Ponter says.
“As regional government, there are things that we do that would not work well for central or hyper-local government to deliver.
“For example flood management, environmental monitoring and regional transport operate best as a network and demand a regional lens.
“We’re looking forward to productive conversations about the functions we deliver.”
In taking up the mantle, Mr Ponter recognised Doug Leeder’s service to the regional sector and thanked him on behalf of Te Uru Kahika.
“Like all Mayors and Chairs, Doug is passionate about the regional sector.
“He has shown that through his lead-
ership over three triennia as RSG
and by bringing us all together through Te Uru Kahika.
“This shared approach has strengthened the bonds across the regional sector for the betterment of the country,” he says.
OPEN DAY Sunday 15 June 11am-1pm
Glenstrae Farm 4 Wheel Adventures and Eco Tours
www.glenstrae4wheeladventures.com
Phone 0800 004 009 | Kaikoura info@4wheeladventures.co.nz
Glenburn is recognised as one of New Zealand’s truly iconic sheep and beef stations. It is a 7,000 acre property with Glenburn Station offers a range of accommodation, making it the perfect retreat for friends, families and couples.
Five holiday houses ranging from the large Station Homestead sleeping up to 16, Shepherd’s Rest sleeping up to 11, (Russ’s Bach) both sleeping up to 10 and Cook House sleeping up to 16. Beachcombers Bach sleeps 6 at the north end of the property.
Its well-known Honeycomb Rock, a large, distinctive outcrop known for its
unusual pitted appearance can be seen, or climbed, on the coastal walk. This walk makes an iconic Wairarapa day out. along the boundary of the farm is one of of the walk’s key features.
While walking the route, visitors can spot the seal colony and check out the remains of a 1960’s shipwreck.
With rolling farmland, pristine coastline and quiet walking tracks, Glenburn Station is the perfect place to relax, recharge and escape the daily grind.
Visitors are welcome to stay in the range of accommodation options available in this rural slice of paradise.
Glenburn Station is east of Martinborough but access is from Greytown.
If you love the wild outdoors Glenstrae Farm will deliver! You’ll see how you can mix the action of using 4WD quad bikes or their 5-person buggy to get you to see spectacular views of the Kaikouras or to remote shoreline spots to see the fur seals and maybe a pod of dolphins.
Situated just 20 minutes south of Kaikoura lies Glenstrae Farm 4 Wheeler Adventures on a spectacular coastal setting. Come and experience the breathtaking surrounds of this rugged coastline on a 3 hour quad bike ride over the working Glenstrae sheep farm in the Kaikoura mountains.
Embark on a ride of a lifetime as you ride through native bush and hill country farm land. You’ll pass through manuka glades on your way to the Haumuri Bluffs where you will see fur
seals basking in the sun before reaching a small cabin on the property for tea, coffee and cookies. Prepare for a highlight of your tour and exciting ride as you make your way up the middle of the creek.
If you are anxious about quad bikes, don’t be. Your safety is their priority with full training provided plus Glenstrae has over 25 years of providing a safe and memorable visit.
You will be required to test your skills on a small training course before setting off on your tour and if you are still feeling a little uncomfortable then there is always the Yamaha Viking 6.
This buggy is driven by a guide and can take up to 5 passengers, making it a perfect solution for younger members of the family. No previous experience or licence is required.
Urenui Beach Camp is situated 30 minutes north of New Plymouth, just off SH3. It is located within the unique Urenui Domain. The beach and tidal river are ideal for swimming, boating and fishing. They also have a wonderful 9-hole golf course adjacent to the camp, complete with sea and mountain views.
The Domain is located on a spit of land at the mouth of the Urenui River and has been a popular recreation ground for more than 100 years. They have wifi installed which covers all of the domain area. Urenui is a family friendly camp with a children’s playground and on site shop full of lovely holiday treats. The beach and tidal river are ideal for swimming, boating and fishing, They do not allow dogs within the camp so guests are asked to make alternative arrangements for them.
Urenui Beach Camp is a wonderful holiday destination in a unique Taranaki coastal environment.
When you’re heading into our great Outdoors this summer make sure you check out the great range of roofboxes at The Roof Rack Centre at 2 Centennial Drive, Ngauranga. They have specials throughout autumn so make sure you call in or give them a ring to find out how you can save so much on quality. But stock can be limited so call them soon!
Andy and the team have always been happy to install and advise about the best option roofbox brands including Rhino and Thule, and now the Yakima
Streamline roofrack range. Ask them about how quiet these roofboxes and roofracks are. Free fitting is offered (terms and conditions apply).
“We live, breathe and sleep for the outdoors so we know what works. It’s who we are” says owner Andy Blake. They are the professionals in roofbox and roofrack stocking and installation, and as specialists they aim to offer you the best range to give you the best choices.
You’ll find they work hard to resolve all your needs and concerns.
Experience the perfect blend of golf and serenity at Manor Park Golf Sanctuary. Our stunning 18-hole course offers a challenge for golfers of all skill levels, set against a backdrop of native birds, lush flora, with challenging holes. Each round is an adventure, with well-maintained fairways and natural obstacles that keep local golfers coming back for more.
As a designated golf sanctuary, we are deeply
The Royal Albatross Centre is nestled at the tip of the Otago Peninsula, ŌtepotiDunedin. Here visitors have the unique opportunity to view the only mainland nesting site of one of the greatest seabirds in the world.
The Northern Royal Albatross – with an impressive three metre wingspan is definitely an extraordinary bird to watch. The Albatross colony can be viewed from
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 accommodation available - Otapawa Farmstay and Backpackers is suitable for families, group bookings or backpackers wanting a rural experience.
committed to environmental sustainability. Our course is carefully managed to protect native wildlife, preserve natural habitats, and minimise our environmental impact. Nestled in the heart of Lower Hutt in the Wellington region, Manor Park provides a tranquil escape with breathtaking views, ensuring a peaceful and rejuvenating golfing experience.
Discover the great membership deals at Wellington’s renowned golf sanctuary!
our observatory, which is located a short walk uphill from the Albatross Centre on a guided tour.
At the Albatross Centre visitors can also learn about the Albatross and the history of the headland.
Our on-site Toroa Café provides freshly baked and cooked meals and our Giftshop has a big range of New Zealand and locally made treasures.
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.
The Glenside “Walking Bus” is where children, generally aged 5-10 years old, are led along a safe and parent-supervised walk to their school, usually taking 10-15 minutes.
Most walks have been dry and very sunny, and in the “bus” hours the wind is generally very light.
If you want advice setting up a “walking bus” for your school, contact Andrea on 021 216 0388.
Organiser Andrea Wilson 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.
By Frank Neill
Saving the Begonia House was supported by the majority of people who made submissions to Wellington City Council on its Long Term Plan.
The Council received more than 3,000 submissions and 61% of them supported the preferred Council option of increasing the Begonia House project budget by $2.9 million to do the minimum amount of work for it to continue operation.
As well as receiving submissions, the Council also surveyed a representative sample of 500 residents reflecting the demographic characteristics of Wellington. Half of the survey respondents indicated that they supported the preferred option to save the Begonia House.
A minority of submitters – 19% –supported the Council’s preferred option of selling the Karori Events Centre in its current state.
The centre should be repaired to achieve compliance 41% of submitters said, the Council says in a media release.
However a graph on the Council’s website indicates that 62% of people said the Karori Event Centre should be repaired.
Forty six percent of survey respondents said the site should be sold as is, while 24% backed the option to do repairs for compliance, which would increase the related budget by $1.3 million.
“In total, 3002 submissions were received on the amendment and the Annual Plan, while 713 came in about Local Water Done
Well reform,” the Council says in its media release.
“Along with the submissions, close to 175 people, groups and organisations spoke at an oral hearing.
“When it came to water reform, 72% of submissions and 82% of survey participants supported the Council’s preferred options of a multi-council-owned water organisation.
“The most important factors cited for the delivery model were value for money and legal compliance.
“Regarding the Long Term Plan amendment, over a third of respondents to both the consultation and the survey supported the preferred option of creating large debt headroom by making changes to capital spending valued at $385 million and establishing a small $68 million investment fund using proceeds from the sale of nine ground leases.
“Close to a quarter of respondents backed an alternative option of balancing borrowing and investing by reducing capital spending by $200 million and creating a medium-sized investment fund of up to $314 million.
“Most of these responses indicated their preference for establishing the fund was a partial sale of the Council’s airports shares plus the sale of nine ground leases.
“There was a high level of interest in the proposed changes to capital projects aimed at reducing spending,” the media release says.
“A quarter of submissions supported the Council’s preferred option to rephase the
Applications for the 2026 Fullbright New Zealand Scholar Awards are open. These awards, valued at up to $37,500, are for New Zealand academics, artists or professionals to lecture or conduct research at United States institutions or both.
Applications close on 1 October.
For more information or to apply visit fullbright.org.nz/study-in-the-united-states/awards-for-nz-academics-artists-and-professionals.
Wellington City Council has asked Greater Wellington Regional Council to undertake Pindone rabbit control operations at Makara Cemetery and in pockets of the Skyline reserves.
Operation delivery begins this week through to the end of June, weather permitting.
There are no changes to public access to the cemetery and Skyline tracks.
“Makara Cemetery is currently experiencing significant damage to its grounds,” Wellington City Council says.
“Wild rabbits are burrowing under headstones and having a wider negative impact on the cemetery’s natural environment.
“In 2024, a Pindone operation was run across the Outer Green Belt reserves but some areas were unable to be treated at the time.
“By working with landowners and local stakeholders, we’re now able to target a significant area of grazing land in the Skyline Walkway (Mount Kaukau).
“Our usual control methods (night hunting) are ineffective for the rabbit population growth we’re currently experiencing.
“These operations will make a significant contribution to retaining and restoring nature in the city, as well as allowing us to provide high quality cemetery services.”
The bait will be distributed by hand across the area in the form of diced carrots coated with Pindone solution.
The carrots are also dyed green to deter birds from eating them.
The Council is advising people not to touch baits or carcasses, always supervise children, always keep dogs on a lead, and stick to official tracks.
Paneke Poneke bike network over 20 years rather than 10, while 34% said only projects that are approved or under construction should be finished.
Thirty-six percent of survey respondents backed a rephasing of the network while 32% supported finishing what was started, approved or under construction.
“For the Annual Plan, 60% of submissions supported the Council partnering with Taranaki Whanui to manage the Matai Moana reserve, with 27 opposing joint management.
Sixty-four percent of survey respondents supported the partnership arrangement around Matai Moana while 22% did not.
(Four to 5 percent in both platforms didn't like either option).
“A large majority of submitters and respondents supported Council proposals to change the current policy around short-term accommodation providers.
“Sixty-six percent of submissions backed clearer guidelines around charging commercial rates to such providers with 20%
against the move. 71% of survey respondents also supported the move, with 13% against.
“Support for the overall budget, which would result in an average rates increase of 12% in 2025/26 (including the 1.4% sludge levy), was mixed.
“Thirty-eight percent of submissions supported the budget, and the same percentage of people opposed it; while 40% of survey respondents supported the budget and 30% opposed it,” the Council says.
Deliberations on the Long-term Plan Amendment, Annual Plan and Local Water Done Well water reform will take place at the Long-term Plan, Finance and Performance Committee meeting today, Thursday 22 May.
The final amendment and Annual Plan are scheduled to be adopted by Council on Thursday 26 June.
The full consultation summary is available on the Council’s website, in the agenda for the Long-term Plan, Finance and Performance Committee.
Aluplast is one of the leading developers of uPVC window and door systems around the world, and the brand is recognised internationally for its innovations. They are based in over 80 countries and have 1400 business partners.
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Our uPVC windows and doors will easily last 40 years or more in New Zealand. uPVC frames and uPVC windows do not need painting or special maintenance. uPVC is resistant to dirt and environmental conditions and cannot be deformed by moisture or temperature changes, like timber and aluminium joinery. Additionally the uPVC itself will never rot, rust or corrode. uPVC windows and doors can be easily cleaned with soapy water. Some periodic maintenance of hinges and moving parts is recommended.
MBS Digital is proud to be the go-to local printing specialist for the construction industry. Whether you’re an architect, builder, engineer, or site manager, MBS Digital provides high-quality A3 to A0 scanning, printing, and laminating services for all your plans, drawings, and
on-site documents. With quick turnaround times, MBS Digital understands the importance of speed and accuracy in the building industry. They’ll match any price you’re currently paying, so for dependable support on every project, get in touch with MBS Digital today, 04-477 5705.
Wellington Kebab Grill is your go-to spot for delicious and authentic Turkish Meals. Operating daily by passionate and dedicated Chefs to serve the best and most affordable price.
Craving a flavourful, satisfying meal for lunch or dinner ? Discover the rich taste of our Iskender dishes — where tradition meets your favourite flavours.
Iskender Meals are served on a bed of
hot rice. Choose from tender lamb, juicy chicken, vegetarian, or falafel. All served with Lettuce, Carrot, Onion, Red Cabbage, Hummus, Beetroot, Cacik, Taboulli. They are a perfect balance to delight every palate.
114 Johnsonville Road.
Open Hours : Sunday to Wednesday : 11AM – 9PM , Thursday to Saturday : 11AM - 10PM
Established in 2012 Leaping Lizards has grown and developed to become Wellington’s leading recreational dance school.
Our classes are buzzing with excited, energetic students who dance their way in, around, and out of our wonderful locations. Leaping Lizards prides itself on its firstclass dance tuition within a fun and relaxed environment.
We focus on sharing our love of dance through creative, original, up to date choreography which means classes are never boring! Leaping Lizards is a dance school any child can go to dance for pure fun and enjoyment. We look forward to welcoming you into the Leaping Lizards family.
Classes in Jazz, Hip Hop, Ballet, Lyrical and Pre-School. Ages 2+ Girls and Boys.
Churton Park, Wellington City
Classes in Jazz, Hip Hop, Ballet, Contemporary, Tap and Pre-School Classes. Ages 2+ Girls and Boys.
Churton Park, Johnsonville, Wellington City Phone Lorna 021 177 0685 www.leaping-lizards.co.nz
leapinglizardsdance@outlook.com
Wellington’s Leading Recreational Dance School www.leaping-lizards.co.nz
A progressive learning environment in the heart of Wellington City is empowering students to flourish in life as passionate learners, resilient w hine and future leaders.
Queen Margaret College Te K reti o KuĪni M kareta, an independent girls’ school in Thorndon, offers a continuous educational journey from Preschool to Year 13. Preschool welcomes girls and boys aged three and four, with a play-based curriculum introducing early concepts in literacy and numeracy while nurturing social development and curiosity.
The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, which emphasises inquiry, global citizenship, and critical thinking. The IB framework supports Queen Margaret College’s goal of developing learners who are both intellectually courageous and socially aware.
“We nurture growth within a culture
of unity and sisterhood,” says Principal Jayne-Ann Young. “We believe in the importance of girls’ education and in creating a space where students feel empowered to question, collaborate, and participate with confidence.”
For families seeking flexibility, the school also has boarding options, providing a home away from home for students in Years 7 to 13. Boarding enables students to fully immerse themselves in learning while forging lifelong friendships in a safe and supportive environment. Queen Margaret College is the only all-girls' boarding school in Wellington.
Regular tours and information sessions provide a glimpse into the school’s unique approach, rigorous learning and teaching, and community spirit.
Visit the QUEENDOM at a Tuesday Tour. To learn more, visit qmc.school.nz or contact enrolments@qmc.school.nz / 04 473 7160
the foundation for life-long
Purpose-built preschool with access to outstanding facilities with convenient drop-off and pick-up : Choose from 7.30am – 2.45pm or 7.30am – 5.30pm
Competitive pricing: 20 hours ECE subsidised, comparable with local preschools
Come and experience what Queen Margaret College has to offer your family, email and book
New Zealand Music Month continues with more fabulous free events across the Wellington library network.
The Swing Club Ukulele Group is giving two performances.
The first will be held at Te Takapu o Patukawenga Tawa Library from 11am to 11:30am on Saturday 24 May.
The second is at the Waitohi Johnsonville Library from 3:30pm to 4pm on Wednesday 28 May.
Swing Club is a ukulele, guitar and percussion music group playing and singing the hits old and new. “Bring your dancing shoes,” Wellington Libraries says.
Two quieter events follow at Waitohi Johnsonville Library:
Sit n’ knit will take place on Sunday 25 May from2pm to 4pm.
This is a fortnightly sewing and craft
group for thread-heads of all skill levels and ages.
“Bring along an existing project, some needles and some yarn, or use our basket of goodies,” Wellington Libraries says.
A Calm colouring-in session will be held on Monday 26 May from 4pm to 6.30pm.
“Use our colouring sheets, pens and pencils or bring your own. All ages are welcome to sit and enjoy being calmly creative.”
The Tuhura HIVE recording studioat the Waitohi Johnsonville Library will be open to anyone interested to learn how a fully functioning recording studio operates between 3pm and 5pm on Monday 26 May.
A staff member will be on hand to answer questions and guide those attending through the basics of the recording process. The
The Community Noticeboard is for non-profit organisations. For $15.00 you can publish up to 25 words. No AGMS, sporting
Enrolment at the school is governed by an enrolment scheme. Applications for out of zone places are now being invited for students wishing to enrol between 14 July 2025 and 17 December 2025.
The Board has determined that 10 Year 0 mainstream places, and 3 Year 0 spaces in our Special Education Unit are available during this enrolment period. The deadline for receipt of applications is Monday 9 June 2025.
If a ballot for out of zone places is required it will be held on Tuesday 10 June 2025.
Please contact the school office for details regarding the application process.
Ph 478 7155 or email office@johnsonville.school.nz
Enrolment at Bellevue School is governed by an enrolment scheme, details of which are available from our website: www. bellevue-newlands.school.nz.
The board has determined that up to five (5) places are likely to be available for out of zone students for the fourth enrolment period in 2025 (Saturday 20 September 2025 to Thursday 18 December 2025). The exact number of places will depend on the number of applications received from students who live within the school’s home zone. For students seeking enrolment within the fourth enrolment period of 2025, the deadline for receipt of applications for out of zone places is 9am, Friday 27 June 2025.
If the number of out of zone applications exceeds the number of places available, students will be selected by ballot. If a ballot for out of zone places is required, this will be held on Friday 27 June 2025. Parents will be informed of the outcome of the ballot within three school days of the ballot being held. Details of how applications from out of zone students are processed are available on the school website.
Parents of students who live within the home zone and intend enrolling their child at any time during the next year should notify the school by as soon as possible to assist the school to plan appropriately for next year. Students who live in the home zone are entitled to enrol at the school.
The Mākara Model School Board is pleased to announce that 10 spaces are now available for out of zone students. These are open from term 3 (14 July 2025) and will remain open until filled. The exact number of spaces will depend on the number of applications received from students who live within the school zone. There are four spaces for New Entrant, two spaces for Year 2, two spaces for Year 3-4, and two spaces for year 5-8. For students seeking enrolment during Terms 3 and 4 2025, the deadline for applications is Wednesday 2nd July 2025.
Pre-enrolment applications can be submitted in writing to Mākara Model School, 399 Makara Road, Karori, Wellington or emailed to office@mms.school.nz
Applications should include the student’s full name, DOB (copy of birth certificate), home address (with evidence, a phone or power bill) and sibling details. If we have more out of zone applications than available places, students will be selected in priority order by ballot. If a ballot is required it will be held on Friday 4th July 2025. Parents will be informed of the outcome of the ballot within 3 days of the ballot being held.
Enrolment packs are available online at www.bellevue-newlands.school.nz.
Do cats see color or just black and white?
Although it is commonly believed that dogs and cats see only in black and white, recent evidence suggests that animals may have some degree of useful color vision. The perception of color is determined by the presence of cone photoreceptors within the retina.
Hidden riches; treasure (5)
Made certain (7)
Qualified drug dispensers
Fundamental (5)
Out of action (11)
Offered (8)
Charm (6)
Follow (5)
Flaunt (4,3)
By Frank Neill
The Johnsonville Hawks scored a huge 79-0 victory over Avalon in their Swindale Shield Rugby match on 17 May.
Playing on their home ground of Helston Park, the Hawks may well have set a new club record in premier matches with the size of the victory.
They scored 13 tries over an opposition that is currently languishing at the bottom of the premier competition table.
The win saw the Hawks climb into sixth place on the Swindale Shield table on 24 points. Oriental Rongotai currently leads the competition with 35 points.
Two players scored a hat trick of tries.
The Hawks’ captain and wing Finlay Sharp dotted down three times, as did number 7 Louis Magalolo.
Ken Kurihara also scored a try and currently sits second on the most points scored table in the Swindale Shield.
Ken has 77 points while the leading scorer is Tom Maiaua of Oriental-Rongotai on 84 points.
Olly Paotonu, Regan Herbert, Ish Perkins and Asafo Faamafu were among the others in the team to score tries.
The Hawks next match sees them play the Wellington Axemen at Hataitai Park on 24 May.
By Glenise Dreaver
A union-organised demonstration opposing major changes to pay equity legislation was held in Johnsonville on the afternoon of Friday May 16.
Some 100 people assembled outside the Johnsonville Mall office of National’s Finance Minister Nicola Willis, with the Pay Equity Act amendments passed last week before she introduces Budget 2025 on Thursday May 22.
The Workplace Relations Minister, ACT’s Brooke van Velden, introduced this pre-budget move under urgency.
It amends and restricts the eligibility of those working in female-dominated fields to make wage claims under the 2020 Equal Pay Amendment Act.
That Act, passed unanimously, was designed to allow redress where female-dominated workforces are underpaid in relation to men working in comparable areas.
Under urgency means that the amendments do not go through the usual select committee process, representing all parties in the house.
The selection committee’s role is to scrutinise and amend proposed legislation, taking and considering submissions from interested parties and members of the public.
Urgency also means MPs debate beyond the normal house sitting hours, for example from
8am until 11pm.
The debate can be viewed on the Parliamentary website.
Those affected by the 2025 changes include care and support workers, social workers, nurses, those working in school-age education, librarians and some public sector groups.
Multiple different groups in these and other fields are finding their existing pay equity claims discontinued.
New claims will be subjected to different requirements of scrutiny, and related clauses in existing settlements will also be reviewed.
The good-humoured but clearly passionate crowd included some 20 or so men, with a small contingent from the Maritime Workers Union.
While there was acknowledgment that the issue affected only a few of their members “we’re here for our daughters and granddaughters,” said Barry Simonsen.
The crowd, assembled largely through social media with little notice due to the urgency issue, also included more than a dozen members from the area’s performing arts groups, with some also working in affected groups, or with neuro-diverse children. It meant the occasional musical interlude added to the ambience.
“We got lots of toots,” said one of that group.
“Only one guy, in a white ute, gave us the finger. He was the only one.”
