World record
By Frank Neill
Wilson Barbecue set a new world record when they sold 6,336 cheeseburgers in one day on 31 August. This eclipsed the record of 6,212 burgers sold in one day by New Jerseybased Jimmy “Mr Beast” Donaldson, although his record has not been recognised by Guiness World Record as he did not provide them proof.
Continued on page 2.
On the way to setting a new world record, another row of burgers being put together. Photo: Suplied.
Phone (04) 587 1660
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Pretty amazing to break the record
Continued from page 1.
Owned by Blair and Casey Wilson, Wilson Barbecue’s restaurant and food truck business is located at 17 Johnsonville Road.
”It was pretty amazing to take down someone like Mr Beast who has all the resources in the world, 100 million followers and tons and tons of money,” Blair told the “Independent Herald”.
“Little old Wilson Barbecue in Johnsonville getting up there and the Wellington community supporting it and all showing up to get it done was pretty amazing.
“It was a good fun day,” Blair says.
“We were very, very busy in the days leading up to it with the prep and obviously all the day [on 31 August].”
Between 6am and 9pm they averaged seven burgers a minute.
“It was pretty entertaining,” Blair says.
At the peak of the day Wilson Barbecue had at least 16 people working, possibly up to 20, Blair says.
“Some of the team did really long hours to make sure it was all prepped and ready to go.
“One of them even did 15 hours on his day off to make sure the meat patties were ready.”
The “most amazing” thing was
Yet more burgers being prepared for customers. Photo: Supplied.
not the world record but the fact that Wilson Barbecue donated 10% of sales to WELLFed.
“We raised $10,946 for WELLFed and that will feed 4,360 people,” Blair says.
“We also gave away over 500 burgers to people who wouldn’t otherwise be able to have burgers.
“When the welfare chap went to deliver them the kids were running up so excited because burgers aren’t things they have in their world.
“They were really stoked with it.”
Wilson Barbecue’s world record has yet to be recognised by Guiness World Records.
To achieve this they will be submitting a video of the day from start to finish, photos of the day, independent witness statements and social media posts.
“Then hopefully they will make it all official and they will send us a plaque and we will hang it up in the restaurant,” Blair says.
WELLFed benefitted to the tune of $10,946 when Wilson Barbecue set the new world record. Photo: Supplied.
Community garden’s shade house burns down
By Frank Neill
One of the Northern Community Gardens’ shade houses in the Jay Street Reserve, Paparangi, was burnt down on 1 September on what was probably an arson attack.
The loss “is absolutely devastating,” says the Northern Community Gardens Chair, Tatjana Manake.
The shade house was completely destroyed, along with the plants and equipment it contained.
The tree house will cost thousands of dollars to replace.
When the shade house was completed in June 2019 the material and the roff that was installed by a builder cost $11,000. Because it was built by volunteers there was no labour cost.
Northern Community Gardens has lost more than just the shade house, as it contained 100 totara, 50 tawa and 200 tenax.
It also contained about 15 trays of seeds and it is not yet known if they will be able to germinate. However, there is some good news.
Wellington City Councillor Ben McNulty has set up a Give A Little page to “help rebuild the community garden”.
In just its first two days it had raised more than $3,000.
“Years of effort by Tatjana and NCG team have gone up in smoke with equipment, property and germinating plants all gone,” the Give A Little page says.
People can donate by visiting the page at givealittle.co.nz/ cause/help-rebuild-the-northern-community-garden.
The 1 September fire was not just an isolated incident at the gardens in Jay Street.
“It just keeps happening,” Tat-
jana says.
“In the early days of the community garden a water tank was burnt down.
“We have a shed that has been broken into so many times that we don’t use it any more.
“Plants and trees getting stolen is quite common, and the shade house has been broken into too.”
Straw bales have been set on fire also.
“It has got to the point where we are saying ‘why are we doing this?’” Tatjana says.
was
The shade house that was burnt down on 1 September was the smaller of two shade houses at the gardens.
Northern Community Gardens is a project to establish community gardens across the northern suburbs of Wellington.
The first garden was established in the Jay Street Reserve, Paparangi, in December 2011.
The vision for the gardens is to establish places for the community to celebrate diversity and connect with food, how to grow
it and how to prepare it. They are places for environmental education and workshops on gardening and sustainability topics.
The garden supplies plants to Wellington City Council, for restorations and reserves planting, and to community organisations and householders in the area.
Northern Community Gardens is a not-for-profit organisations and the work is done by volunteers.
Fundraiser quiz
The Newlands Tamariki Playcentre is running a fundraiser quiz at the 1841 Bar and Restaurant, 1 Disraeli Street, Johnsonville from 7pm to 9pm on 6 October.
The quiz is being held to raise funds to upgrade the playcentre’s outdoor areas.
To reserve tickets email fundraising@ newlandstamariki.org.nz.
Keep moving
A new weekly Keep Moving class will start at the Newlands Community Centre on 5 September.
Keep moving is an exercise class suited to everyone, including those with limited mobility.
It is run by a physiotherapist and the 45 minute class starts at 11am.
No booking is required and the class costs $2 a session.
Extra game day transport
Extra Metlink services will be provided for the upcoming All Blacks versus Australia game on Saturday 28 September, with ticket holders and Sky Stadium members travelling for free on bus and rail.
Additional train services will also run on the Johnsonville, Hutt Valley, K piti and Wairarapa lines, with increased capacity on core bus routes.
Ticket holders are advised the East by West Ferry, On Demand, and Te Hunga Whaikaha Total Mobility taxis are excluded from the free transport, according to integrated ticketing terms and conditions.
Metlink advises people to plan ahead and travel early on game day using the latest travel information on the Metlink app, website, or by calling 0800 801 700.
The Northern Community Gardens shade house that
burnt down on 1 September. Photo: Supplied.
New way to control predators
The many predator-free groups in the northern and western suburbs can now benefit from new technology – a drone that removes predators and plants seeds.
The new conservation drone has been developed by Envico Technologies.
Envico, which is based in Tauranga, is a M ori tech company with a holistic approach to conservation.
Their heavy-lifting drones reach deep into remote corners to monitor and bait introduced predators.
Using their custom software, the drones also drop special seed pods that grow into trees, all at the click of a laptop button.
In 2018, Cam Baker and Samuel Vye imagined an Aotearoa New Zealand where it is normal to hear the rustling and cries of a kiwi in one’s own back yard every night. Their big leap of faith into drone-based conservation paid off in a big way in 2019. Envico was brought on to an international project in the Galapagos Islands to eradicate invasive rats.
Using two heavy-lift drones, almost 1.5 tonnes of bait was dropped on both Isla Seymour
Norte and Islet Mosquera, covering more than 184 hectares in just two days.
The project succeeded, making international headlines as a world-first approach to predator control.
Cam says it was proof what they were offering could be a game changer.
“There’s one undeniable thing that’s different with drone technology – there’s no pilot in the sky, and it’s all data-driven. You can run the whole operation from a laptop.”
There are also savings from safety, efficiency and cost perspectives.
“That’s where the accuracy comes into play, and the safety aspect is where you have to decide: is it going to be a helicopter with a person in it? Or is it going to be a human scaling down that cliff? We’re giving a new alternative,” Cam says.
Envico also uses its drones to disperse seed pods across the forest floor.
Created for New Zealand’s unique environments, their seed pods are made up of five to six different native seeds gathered from an area, mixed with water, clay and compost and pressed into a small ball about the size of a lolly.
J’ville Mall future being considered by WCC
By Frank Neill
The future of the Johnsonville Mall is scheduled to be considered by Wellington City Council at its meeting today, 5 September.
The meeting will consider a notice of motion put forward by Cr Ben McNulty.
Cr McNulty’s motion asks the council staff to prepare a report within six months on “options to facilitate and realise commercial development more quickly within the Johnsonville Metropolitan Centre Zone”.
The staff are being asked to “give us every option possible ... to make the mall redevelopment happen,” Cr McNulty told the “Independent Herald” after he put together his notice of motion.
“Effective redevelopment of the commercial zoned land in Johnsonville Town Centre is pivotal to the growth of the area,” he said.
“What I am trying to achieve is something happening.
“Something is better than absolutely nothing.”
His notice of motion was signed by eight other councillors and the Mayor Tory Whanau.
Following the submission an 11th councillor also signed.
One of the pathways the motion is asking council officers to report on is “options under the Public Works Act”.
That would include the option of compulsory aquisition of the land.
The motion also asks for the report to consider options under the Urban Development Act.
The council could, for example, partner with the government to speed up housing development.
“Inaction from Stride Property Group (SPG) has resulted in the running down of central Johnsonville with high numbers of vacant shops and stagnant regeneration,”
the background notes to the notice of motion state.
“Residents and inverstors in the northern suburbs are very supportive of the council taking action to see the Johnsonville Town Centre developed to its full potential.”
When the notice of motion was submitted it was signed by Cr McNulty, Cr Diane Calvert, Mayor Whanau, Cr Ray Chung, Cr Tim Brown, Cr Geordie Rogers, Cr Nureddin Abdurahman, Cr Wi Neera, Cr Laurie Foon and Cr John Apanowicz.
Since then Cr Teri O’Neill has also signed.
Today’s council meeting, which began at 9:30am, will also consider the future of Council’s Te Whanganui-a-Tara M ori Ward.
The council is making a decision because there is a new legisla-
tive
the future of those wards.
The meeting will consider a recommendation from council staff that the council agrees to retain its Te Whanganui-a-Tara M ori Ward.
One of the entrances to the Johnsonville Mall. Photo: Frank Neill.
Closed shops are now a feature of the Johnsonville Mall. Photo: Frank Neill.
deadline of 6 September for councils who have M ori wards to make a decision about
Envico’s heavy-lifting drone in operation. Photo: Envico.
Two Big Sing wins for Tawa College
Tawa College won two awards at the national Big Sing finale, held at the Michael Fowler Centre on 31 August.
The college’s Blue Notes ensemble won the significant award for the best performance in Te Reo M ori.
Their winning performance was “Nga Atua M ori” (Jack Baker and Te Kurahuia, Director Isaac Stone).
Elizabeth Te Puni (Ngati Porou and Taranaki), a year 13 student at Tawa College, took out the winning composition in the SOUNZNZCF Te Reo M ori Choral Composition Award.
Elizabeth’s winning song is “Te Oriori o Hine-Nui-Te-Po”.
Adjudicator Toni Huata said it had been difficult to judge as all the 10 Te Reo M ori songs were “announced and performed beautifully”.
The award was made on the criteria being a mix of composition, singing, reo M ori and performance and execution. The Blue Notes’ performance was superb.
Around 8,000 young people from over 200 secondary schools had taken part in regional Big Sing festivals, leading up to the national finale in Wellington.
The national finale of the 2024 Big Sing in full
Acorn Stairlifts commended by Arthritis Foundation
As people enjoy longer lives and wish to remain living independently at home, the demand for domestic stairlifts continues to grow.
As an example of Acorn’s commitment to excellence and safety, they are proud their products have earned the prestigious Ease of Use Commendation from the Arthritis Foundation.
This commendation is only awarded to companies whose products have passed rigorous testing proving they are easy to use for people with arthritis. They are the only stairlift company in the world to earn the prestigious Ease of Use Commendation from the Foundation. All Acorn Stairlifts are easy to use,
easy to maintain, and all feature the very best in design, engineering and safety. There are additional features built in to keep you safe and provide a smooth ride around the curves of your stairs.
Acorn Stairlifts are innovative on every level, making Acorn the safest alternative for staircase use in every home.
Staying in the home you love is one of the main reasons people purchase an Acorn Stairlift.
It is a simple truth that staying in your own home gives you a sense of stability, safety and independence. An important aspect of this is being able to move around freely and easily, without worry, pain, or struggle.
So why let getting up and down stairs keep you from fully enjoying your home?
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Some Cable Car history
Some interesting facts about the Cable Car are outlined in a post on the Wellington City Council’s website.
“The Wellington Cable Car has been operating for 122 years and is more than just a way to get up and down the hill — it’s a piece of the city’s history,” the post says.
“When the cable car opened on 22 February 1902, it was an instant hit.
“Over 4,000 eager passengers took a ride during the opening weekend, helped by the fact that free tickets were offered to people who were interested in buying land in Kelburn.
“The winding gear of the cable car was powered by steam until 1933 when it was replaced with electricity.
“This included the removal of the 19-metre smokestack, which had become a Wellington landmark for its smoke plumes that indicated wind direction.
“Making the cable car electric helped modernise the system, reduced labour and operating costs, and gave the gripmen more control of where the cable car stopped.
“Today, the cable car’s winding gear is powered by a 200kW electric motor, smaller than a Ford Ranger’s, and shuttles a million passengers a year,” the post says.
“The original grip cars made their final journey in September of 1978, paving the way for a major renovation in preparation
for the new line.
“The upgrades included new cars, track adjustments, and new cables for the cars to travel along.
“The stops on the route were realigned to be equal distance from the middle of the track so that the cars stopped at the same place each time.
“But it wasn’t all smooth sailing — literally! The new cars were lost at sea after being shipped from Switzerland and later found at the port of Sydney, adding a twist to their journey to Wellington.
“In 2014, lighting designer Angus Muir, along with Alexandra Heaney, brought the cable car experience into the spotlight.
“They added lights to the cable car tunnels, to delight passengers during the Power Plant Light Festival.
“The dazzling display was so popular that it became a permanent feature, expanding to 45,000 LEDs across two tunnels, and now brightens up the cable car trips, thanks to Wellington City Council and Contact Energy.
“In 2022, the cable car team installed special dotted decals on its terminal windows to protect native birds like the kererŪ from flying into them.
“These nearly invisible dots serve as a visual warning to birds, helping to keep them safe and avoid collisions, while blending into the scenery for human visitors,” the post says.
Spring Festival is now on
The annual Spring Festival is now on at the Botanic Garden ki Paek k and tariWilton’s Bush.
Te W o te K anga - Spring Festival at Wellington Gardens is the perfect way to get among the k anga flowers and celebrate the season of new beginnings when fresh buds spring into life. There are lots of events and activities for all to enjoy including an Ikebana Exhibition, garden performers performing the works of Shakespeare, and a free fun day celebrating buzzy bees.
While there’s no Tulip Sunday, there will still be pockets of tulips in the display garden throughout September. The switch to more climate friendly and longer-term crop rotations means there’ll be more diversity of species on display this year.
The main upcoming events in the Spring Festival are:
TŪwhera| Akoranga Learning Pavilion open day, on 7 September, from 10am to 2pm at the Discovery Garden, Botanic Garden ki Paek k ;
October, weekdays from 9am to 4pm and weekends from 10am to 3pm at the Treehouse, Botanic Garden ki Paek k ; TŪwhera ki tari| tari open day, on 14 September from 10am to 2pm at tariWilton’s Bush;
September from 9am to 4pm at Botanic Garden ki Paek k ; ra| Garden Performers, on 28 September from 10am to 2pm at tari-Wilton’s Bush and Botanic Garden ki Paek k ; and
throughout September at Botanic Garden ki Paek k
Then Prime Minister Richard John Seddon and a group of passengers at the Cable Car’s opening day in 1902. Photo: Supplied.
Inspiring TEDx talks at Newlands College
By Frank Neill
Eight young speakers will feature in the next TEDxYouthPaparangi evening.
The speakers will be making their presentations between 6pm and 9pm on Wednesday 18 September at Newlands College.
TEDxYouthPaparangi is a locally organised, independently run TEDx event aimed at providing a platform for young people in the community to share their ideas, stories and insights.
“This event is crucial for empowering youth voices, encouraging dialogue, and fostering the next generation of thinkers and leaders in our community,” TEDxYouthPaparangi says.
This year's theme is “Rewrite the Narrative”, aiming to break generational cycles, redefine success and reframe stereotypes.
Esther Sovinet is one of the speakers. Esther has had to battle being part of the African diaspora for as long as she can remember.
At the age of around 14 she realised there was so much power in words she went on to become an author when she was 16, writing her first book “The Young Poet” and participating in many speeches. In 2023 she was named the National Champion of the Race Unity Speech.
Youth empowerment is super important to speaker Aidan Donoghue.
He has worked with many organisations to enable youth to express their voice, whether it be at school, work or even local or central government.
Jared Heitonga Lasike will speak about M ori and Pasifika in academia, the current state of it in New Zealand, the stigma which surrounds it and what he hopes for the future. .
He is of Tongan and M ori descent.
Nioshka Parekh will speak about redefining success.
Her speech will be about the importance of small successes, highlighting the harms of stereotypes and the narrow way success is often depicted in New Zealand society.
In his talk Leo Robin Mwape looks forward to exploring with the audience human perception and its alignment to reality.
Leilani Faaiuaso will, by sharing her stories and experiences, unpack how her lived experiences have impacted her journey to connect with and embrace her culture.
Lola Fisher will speak about the perception of youth in the media.
Her talk will explore the power of youth storytelling, and how genuine representation can shape public perception and give young people not just a seat at the table, but a say in the conversation.
More information is available on the TEDxYouthPaparangi Facebook page, Instagram and website, where bookings can also be made.
Update from your local city councillor
Rates Increases
The Mayor and Councillors continue to receive many concerns from residents about the recent rate increases. I know many residents are hurting. I have prepared a substantive reply with my views and if you would like a copy please email diane.calvert@wcc.govt.nz and I will send you a copy.
Airport Shares
I recently signed a notice of motion to rescind Council’s decision to sell the airport shares. Nine out of the Council’s 16 elected members signed the notice. Whilst on paper, the deal looked OK, I am deeply concerned that any sale will not curb the Council’s spending on “nice to haves’ such as the Golden Mile ‘gold-plated’ design. Many of you have also expressed a
under the current conditions.
Water Reform
There will be more news coming out over the next month about how the Wellington region proposes to deal with the reform and also the likely costs to repair and upgrade both water supply and sewerage over the next 20 years.
Please get in touch if you have a question or concern 029 971 8944 | diane.calvert@wcc.govt.nz www.dianecalvert.nz | /dianecalvertnz
Please get in touch if you have a question or concern 029 971 8944 | diane.calvert@wcc.govt.nz www.dianecalvert.nz | /dianecalvertnz
Authorised by J Owens, 22 Agra Cres, Wellington 6035.
Authorised by Diane Calvert, dianecalvert.nz (Wharangi/Onslow-Western Ward)
Onslow history: Mall 1969-82
By Felicity Wong
Hundreds attended the 1969 opening and “Ball in the Mall” of Johnsonville’s new shopping centre built by Fletcher Trust and Investment Co Ltd.
It was half the size of today but one of New Zealand’s first malls and parking was at a premium.
Opening late on Friday nights (closed on Saturday and Sundays like all shops except dairies and petrol stations), working mums and dads circulated the car park hunting a park.
In April 1973 the local news headline announced “Overseas Style complex to Cost $1,500,000” and in June “Council Approves Big Shopping, Office Complex On Johnsonville Railway Land”.
Capital Projects Ltd (a Fletcher’s associated company) obtained a “development licence” from the New Zealand Railways Department for 3½ acres of station land around Hawea Street (the west end of which ran off Moorefield Road and is now absorbed by Gothic Street, one of three public roads inside the Mall carpark, along with Bill Cutting Place off Johnsonville Main Road).
On the land to the north of Hawea Street
Capital Projects got Wellington City Council approval for Stage 1 of a 67,600 square feet (6,280 m2) development comprising 305 car parks (211 on the roof accessed by a circular ramp); to incorporate the old railway station with separate shops including a tavern, department store, supermarket, liquor store and a bank.
Passengers waiting for the train would be able to “window shop”.
The council declined a petrol station since
four others existed in Johnsonville.
Stage 2 of the 1973 approved development was to be a second larger shopping and office area in a 200 ft (61m – about 16 floor) tall “circular office tower topped by a restaurant”.
In 1977 the headline read “Realism Forcing Johnsonville Redesign”.
The plan was amended again in 1978, and mall owner Fletchers objected to the new Capital Projects’ scheme, arguing there was enough retail space in the mall already.
Mainzeal Corp Ltd gave evidence supporting more shops. Capital Projects was relieved of the previous council imposed requirement to provide rail commuter parking by providing it at Raroa Station instead.
In 1982 Capital Projects got planning approval for a scaled down single storey development and the news reported “it was unclear where the station would go”.
Planners were asked to determine exactly where with landscaping. Building experts called the design a “cheapie without aesthetic value” and a “bargain basement barn of a building … appropriate for a Farmers store”.
The news reported that “quite out of reach” was something “common in Australia with distinctive style features and glossy touches like internal planted areas or even fountains and internal parking and plenty of airy space.”
(A similar mall was built in Porirua in 1990 with 1,100 carparks and 80 shops).
The Johnsonville site was leasehold land and in February 1982 reporter Janet Tyson noted New Zealand Railways was holding onto it which “scares away would be developers in droves”.
Cr David Bull was concerned about the “considerably smaller” plans for a new station while a railway spokesman reassuringly said
History of St Paul’s Cathedral
The history of designing and building the Wellington Cathedral of St Paul will be described by architect Crispin Kay in a one-hour illustrated talk at the Cathedral at 2:30pm on Sunday 15 September.
The free talk (koha welcomed) will reveal the challenges, quirks and amusing anecdotes that took place from the laying of the foundation stone in 1954 by Queen Elizabeth to the opening of the completed building in 1998, which she consecrated in 2002.
It will provide a memory-lane jaunt for long-time Wellingtonians, as well as an insight into what led up to today’s
in 1973. Photo: Suppiled.
it would have a “verandah”.
The wooden station with its old sheltered waiting rooms and ticket office was demolished. A large Farmers and Smith & Brown retail store was built (where the station had been) with a driveway and parking separat-
impressive building.
The final design of the cathedral came as a result of the Wellington Anglican Diocese deciding they wanted a new look for their flagship building.
Everyone is welcome and afternoon tea will be provided.
Traditional Choral Evensong will follow the talk at 4pm.
Eighty years ago the western block of Molesworth Street beyond Hill Street was a series of little shops. Today, proudly overlooking the Parliament precinct, stands the Wellington Cathedral of St Paul.
ing it from the Mall building.
Stage 2 was not built and the small, exposed, windy concrete station was slapped up south of Hawea Street. For 40 years train users have shivered in the biting, bleak winds.
Rides to raise road safety awareness
Rides like this will be taking place around the world to raise awareness of road safety this month.
By Frank Neill
Local horse riders will join riders from around the world, who will be riding on roads on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September.
The world-wide initiative is happening to recognise vulnerable road users and promote awareness of motorists passing horse traffic WIDE and SLOW.
Three rides will be happening in the Wellington area.
Local rider Prue Poata has organised a ride in M kara on Saturday 14 September and a ride in hariu Valley on Sunday 15 September, both starting at 10am.
Jacqui Lane has organised a ride in central Wellington on Saturday 14 September, also starting at 10am.
People are welcome to join the rides, either riding a horse, or cycling or walking.
“We only need minimum of two horse riders to count as a Vulnerable Road User / Pass Wide and Slow awareness ride,” Prue says. “Helmets and hi-vis vests will be worn.”
People interested in joining the rides can contact: makaravu@hotmail.com for the M kara ride, ohariuvu@hotmail.com for the hariu Valley ride, and jacquilane40@ gmail.com for the Wellington CBD ride.
There are around 242 Pass Wide and Slow Awareness rides organised worldwide including 35 in New Zealand.
Other countries taking part include the United Kingdom, Ireland, Scotland, the United States of America, Australia and South Africa.
Maps of rides are available at Pass Wide
and Slow 2024 – Google My Maps.
The three Wellington rides are also promoting a petition to Parliament, and encouraging people to sign it.
The Petition of New Zealand Equestrian Advocacy Network: Vulnerable road user status for New Zealand horse riders has attracted more than 4,000 signatures since it was posted on 17 July.
The petition requests “that the House of Representatives hold an inquiry into road user behaviour towards vulnerable road users, including people riding horses, recognise that horse riders are vulnerable road users, and amend the Land Transport Act and associated Rules to include safe provision for horse riders in legislation.”
The reason for the petition is that “the European Commission defines a ‘vulnerable road user’ (VRU) as any ‘non-motorised’ road user.
“NZTA told us it does not have a VRU definition,” the petitioners state.
“We think this has led to inconsistencies in how local, regional and central government agencies view horse riders in road safety, inclusion and access to off-road pathways.
“Horse riders are left out of road safety initiatives and shared pathways.”
The petition is supported by a number of groups including: NZ Equestrian Advocacy Network, Te Hapori H iho - The National M ori Horse Association Aotearoa Trust, Equestrian Sports NZ, New Zealand Riding for the Disabled and New Zealand Pony Clubs.
An artist’s impression of the $1,500,000 shopping complex planned for Johnsonville
Photo: Supplied.
The Wellington Cathedral of St Paul. Photo: Supplied.
Kelburn student in world top 30
By Frank Neill
Kelburn student Tali Whiteridge has been selected in the top 30 of the prestigious international Breakthrough Junior Challenge.
The 17-year-old Wellington Girls College student gained the top 30 placing in a science competition that attracts thousands of entries every year. To enter Tali had to submit a two minute video “to explain a big idea in one of these fields:
“I chose to look at the many worlds inter-
“This is super fascinating to me because the concept of parallel universes, no matter how crazy it sounds, can’t actually be disproven
The next phase of the competition is a popular vote, which will take place between
The top 30 videos will be posted today, 5 page, www.facebook.com/Breakthrough-
The winner of the popular vote automatically goes through to the final round of judging.
the winner will collect is a $250,000 college scholarship to anywhere in the world. Winning that, Tali says, “would be absolutely life-changing.
also been in the media recently due to our buildings not being earthquake safe.
“Another part of the prize is a $100,000 science lab for the school of winner, which
Breakthrough finalist Tali Whiteridge. Photo: Supplied.
As well as the popular vote determining the top people’s choice internationally a regional champion will be selected in each geographical area, with Australia-New Zealand being one of the regions.
Next Generation Real Estate.
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Lunch: 11am - 2pm Tues - Sun
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The open plan living and dining area, adorn sliding doors leading to a small deck with amazing views. Enjoy unwinding here and watching the sun set over Mt Kaukau. Beside the dining area is a well designed kitchen with generous bench space and ample storage.
By Negotiation
Plenty on at Heritage Festival
By Frank Neill
The northern and western suburbs will host a significant number of events during the Wellington Heritage Festival, which runs from 26 October to 17 November.
More than 150 events have already been included in the festival, and there are more to come.
The public release of the events, where people can book, will take place on 8 September.
More information is at wellingtonheritagefestival.co.nz.
Events in the “Independent Herald” circulation area include:
The Heritage of tari-Wilton’s Bush, the gardens and gardeners, from 2pm to 3:30pm on 26 October and 2 November.
Historic Wrights Hill Fortress, guide yourself tours, from 10am to 4pm on 28 October.
Anglican Cathedral Choirs Festi-
val 2024, 2 Hill Street Thorndon, from 7pm to 9pm on 26 October.
Wellington Cable Car Winding Room, from 12 noon to 2pm on 29, 30 and 31 October.
Heritage Thorndon, at Old St Paul’s Murphy Street, from 1:30pm to 3:30pm on 27 October and 2, 10 and 16 November.
A guided hĪkoi focused on the area around Pipitea P , 55-59 Thorndon Quay, from 10:45am to 12:30pm on 5 November.
A Book is a Book: Exploring the Value of Literary Archives, 21 Kelburn Parade, from 5pm to 6:30pm on 14 November.
Open day at St Luke’s Church, 34 Pitt Street Wadestown, from 2pm to 4pm on 26 October.
Heritage tours of Sacred Heart Cathedral, 40 Hill Street Thorndon, from 10am to 11am and from 11am to 12 noon on 26 October.
Sketching in the Rita Angus
garden, 194A Sydney Street West Thorndon, from 12 noon to 4pm on 27 October.
Randell Cottage annual open day, 24 Saint Mary Street Thorndon, from 1pm to 4pm on 27 October.
Open day at the Lilburn House, 22 Ascot Street Thorndon, from 1pm to 4pm on 27 October.
Thorndon Creative and Historic Cottages Walk, various locations, from 1pm to 4pm on 27 October.
Kelburn Croquet open day, Kelburn Park, Salamanca Road, from 12:30pm to 2:30pm on 31 October, 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9 and 10 November.
Katherine Mansfield’s Thorndon: guided walking tour, 25 Tinakori Road Thorndon, from 10am to 1pm on 26 and 29 October.
Halfway House heritage garden self-guided tour, 246 Middleton Road Glenside, at any time during the festival.
Halfway House heritage garden walk and talk guided tour, 1pm to 2pm on 10 and 17 November.
Futuna Exhibition – From the Archive: The Making of Futuna, 67 Futuna Close Karori, from 11am to 3pm from 29 October to 17 November.
Futuna Exhibition, floor talks, from 2pm to 3pm on 2, 9 and 16 November.
Futuna Exhibition, public talks, from 2pm to 4pm on 3, 10 and 17 November.
Strange Tales from the past of the Wellington Botanic Garden, 101 Glenmore Street Kelburn, from 2pm to 3pm on 16 November.
History of the Botanic Garden, 101 Glenmore Street, from 11am to 12 noon on 27 October.
Heritage Trees in the Wellington Botanic Garden, 101 Glenmore Street, from 11am to 12 noon on 26 October.
Road and rail reliability focus
A record $3.3 billion of transport investment in Greater Wellington through the 202427 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will increase productivity and reduce travel times, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.
“We're focused on delivering transport projects in Wellington that deliver reliability for commuters, benefit businesses and support economic growth,” Minister Brown says.
“Projects must also demonstrate value for money.
“Our Government is committed to making sure that every transport dollar is spent wisely on the projects and services that Wellingtonians need.
“Public transport needs to be reliable and roads need to be maintained to a high standard.
“With this $3.3 billion investment in
Weathertight? YIP!
Hey Everyone! Hope you all survived the big downpour alright, if you are in midst of sorting out a leak, hopefully things are sorted out soon and if you need any help/advice just yell out – here to help! This week want to share a few key points to consider when dealing with leaks, water-related issues.
1. Call insurance! At any point, you see any issues after the storm, call your insurance ASAP. They will let you know the next steps, if you go ahead and try sort things out, it can affect your cover – so best call your insurance and lodge a claim. They should send people out and sort out your issues.
2. Leaks you can’t see! By the time you see the leak, it would have been happening for quite some time, you can get things checked using a moisture meter or a thermal camera, most real estate agents carry these and also building inspectors. By checking the moisture content behind walls, you can find other areas to address before it gets worse.
3. Remediate Properly! Once you have resolved the leak, ensure every thing is repaired properly, this means that everything is dried properly, any water damaged areas are replaced and things like insulation are replaced/dried properly. If you leave any moisture trapped or things unfixed, it can mould/rot and cause more issues later.
4. Electrical Caution! Water will find its way through the smallest hole/crack, so it is very common for leaks to affect electrical components. If you suspect there is a leak, do not use the electrical appliances in that area (including lights). You may even see lights not working or flickering.
As always, call your insurance first. If you are stuck on what the best approach is to
remediate your situation and protect the value of your property for when you sell, feel free to call me – I’ll be more than happy to share my experiences with you. Have a great week everyone!
Wellington’s transport network over the next three years, that is exactly what we are delivering.”
The NLTP will deliver a significant pipeline of transport infrastructure for Wellington to reduce congestion and enable Wellingtonians to get to where they want to go, quickly and safely.
It includes:
Significance (RoNS) – the Petone to Grenada Link Road and Cross Valley Link, and improvements to SH1 from the CBD to the airport, which will include a second Mt Victoria Tunnel and upgrades to the Basin Reserve;
to improve commuter services to the Wairarapa and Palmerston North;
Significance – the SH2 Melling transport improvements to provide safer and more efficient access to central Lower Hutt and completing stage 2 of the safety improvements on SH58; and -
provements on SH1 Ngauranga Gorge and SH2 Hutt Valley.
“Wellington has faced significant transport challenges and non-delivery in recent years, with the previous government’s Let’s Get Wellington Moving programme only delivering speed bumps, a pedestrian crossing, and a roundabout,” Minister Brown says.
“Wellingtonians expect central and local
Karori Cemetery evening tour, 15 Rosehaugh Avenue Karori, from 8pm to 9:45pm on 26 October.
Accidentally Killed Tour, Karori Cemetery, 76 Old Karori Road, from 10:30am to 12 noon on 26 October.
Our Fair Ladies, Karori Cemetery, 76 Old Karori Road, from 2pm to 3:30pm on 27 October.
Hangman’s Noose tour, Karori Cemetery, 76 Old Karori Road, from 1pm to 3pm on 2 November.
Murder and Mayhem tour, Karori Cemetery, 76 Old Karori Road, from 2pm to 3:30pm on 28 October. The Eternal Woman of William Shakespeare, Old St Paul’s Cathedral, from 6pm to 7:30pm on 7 November.
Makara Historic Churches open day, 312-376 Makara Raod, from 10am to 4pm on 9 and 10 November.
government to be focused on delivering the basics brilliantly – delivering new RoNS to reduce crippling congestion, fixing and preventing the record number of potholes on our roads and increasing travel choices with a reliable public transport network.
“We campaigned on progressing the Petone to Grenada Link Road and Cross Valley Link to unlock land for much needed housing.
“The additional tunnel and upgrades to the Basin Reserve will provide a total of four lanes to the planes, connecting the city and Wellington’s eastern suburbs, and greatly reducing gridlock in Wellington.
“Delivering reliable, effective, and efficient public transport is a priority for our Government.
“The Lower North Island Rail Integrated Mobility Programme will improve service reliability, provide more travel choices for commuters and reduce congestion on our roads.
“Over $660 million will be invested on maintenance and pothole prevention to ensure the region’s state highways and local roads return to the safe and reliable standard motorists expect.
“This includes resealing and rehabilitation works on 138 kilometres of state highway to prevent pesky potholes from forming in the first place.”
Full details of NLTP investments can be found at https://www.nzta.govt.nz/nltp.
Wellington Male Voice Choir at Thorndon
The Wellington Male Voice Choir: “Songs of Travel”, will be held at 2pm on Sunday 8 September at Queen Margaret College, 53 Hobson St, Thorndon. Tickets to the concert are available at wellingtonmvcnz.org.
What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) is used to describe individuals who
either faster or slower than reality and their
What can be done about it?
can concepts of sequence and how to create
If you want to find out more, contact Margot Young at Wellington Learning Solutions phone 021 673 119 or email margot@wls.co.nz
Dress
TO Let us dress you for your next event!
Impress
School Formal Wedding Work function Awards ceremony Party
Dr. Tim Halpine DPM
Caring for your feet
Ph: 04 473 8696
Level 2, 85 The Terrace, Wellington 6011 (opposite Solnet House and Aurora Terrace).
Email: Tim.Halpine@xtra.co.nz
www.activefeetpodiatry.com
!
Daily walking is a key component to maintaining good mental health. Even the Greek philosophers understood the link between walking and good mental outlook.
Hippocrates quoted “ If you are in a bad mood go for a walk. If still in a bad mood, go for another walk”
Socrates quoted ”Surely a person of sense would submit to anything, like exercise, so as to obtain a well functioning mind and a pleasant, happy life.”
At Active Feet Podiatry we can assist in making walking a pleasant and comfortable experience by providing excellent care of the feet and offering advice and assistance with shoes and fitting of orthotics.
Active Feet Podiatry, Dr Tim Halpine can be seen at his clinic at 85 the Terrace in Wellington or at the Ngaio Medical Centre. Ph 473 8696 ActiveFeetPodiatry.com
To advertise on this Page contact Brenda NOW
Brenda Ingram-Johnson Sales | M: 021 640 152 E: brenda@wsn.co.nz
Pause, Reflect, Protect –
Avoiding Scams
In this digital age, scams have evolved and become quite sophisticated. It’s important to be on your guard. Some useful tips include considering requests andasking yourself how the request makes you feel.
It’s also important never to enter passwords on unknown sites. Even clicking on a link in a text message can be dangerous. Scammers are good at making things seem urgent, so perhaps the most useful advice is to‘pause, reflect, protect.”
Email and Text Message Scams
There’s also an increase in emails and text messages from scammers pretending to be from official places like IRD or NZ Post. Even if it looks convincing, don’t click on links or give out your bank details.
Government agencies like IRD don’t put refund amounts, or links directly in their emails or texts. Scam emails may come from an email address or include links that are wrong, but almost look right. For example: ird.co.nz or ird.qovt.nz instead of ird.govt.nz
To check a link, use your mouse to
hover over it. The address will appear in a box (or at the bottom of your screen). Make sure the link is correct before clicking on it.
Hints that it’s a scam:
The email address is wrong
The website link is wrong
The text message is sent from an overseas phone number.
Phone Scams
Unfortunately, scammers also pretend to be calling from organisations including charities. They will often try to sell membership or dietary supplements.
A good approach is to hang up and call the organisation back – this should help ascertain whether it was really them calling.
Please visit www.acwellington.org.nz/ scam-prevention for more information and tips.
*There will be technology support available at our Making Connections Day on 2 October so please bring your laptop, tablet or smartphone if you have
SUPPORTED BY 10 2
MAKING
WEDNESDAY AT 9AM
WEDNESDAY AT 9AM 24
A FABULOUS DAY AT THE ST JAMES THEATRE WELLINGTON OR CALL 04 499 6646 TO RESERVE YOUR PLACE
VISIT ACWELLINGTON.ORG.NZ
Plan for region’s water under way
Councillors from across greater Wellington were briefed on 30 August on the region’s water services delivery planning in response to Government’s Local Water Done Well policy. The session focused representatives on the changes to legislation, scale of the challenge, implications around funding and pricing, and prepared councillors for the significant decisions ahead.
Nine councils in the Wellington region and Horowhenua district have teamed up on water reform to take steps towards a joint water service delivery plan. Their Advisory Oversight Group is made up of elected members and iwi / M ori representatives.
Dame Kerry Prendergast, Independent Chair of the region’s Advisory Oversight Group, said the councils, representing more than half a million people, are committed to the process and are working at pace to ensure the right approach to water management is reached.
“We are committed to an enduring solution, as a sustainable and long-term approach is required to address the challenges our water networks face - now and into the future,” Dame Kerry said.
“Our region has a significant backlog of investment needed in three waters infrastruc-
ture,” Dame Kerry said.
“Currently about 22% of the region’s water assets are worn out and needing replacement, which presents significant risk of major services failures.
“If we don’t fix the network, we will keep on seeing major pipe failures like at Day’s Bay and Kent Terrace.
“Significant investment in water is going to be needed over the next 20 years.
“We know that this will be really challenging and we will have to work closely with contractors and suppliers to grow the workforce, explore new delivery models and find new and lower cost solutions.
“Our preliminary analysis of the water network and the level of investment needed highlights that there are no quick fixes. This will take sustained effort,” Dame Kerry said.
“We know what people pay for water will need to rise and we are looking at a range of options and scenarios to keep this affordable.
“This is why it’s imperative that councils work together, despite each facing different issues.”
New funding arrangements announced by the Government on 8 August for water organisations through the Local Government Funding Agency mean that if councils set up a
new delivery organisation these will have access to additional debt funding.
There are some real positives to this change, Dame Kerry said.
“The investment will enable growth and new home building; it will create a lot of jobs in the region.
“Over the next 20 years, about 44% of the network could be replaced, building significant resilience for future earthquakes. The investment will also address the region’s critical water
shortage challenges through meters, increased water storage, and fixing leaks.”
Local Water Done Well is the Government’s plan for water reform and requires councils to develop water service delivery plans.
The report outlining the regional option for water service delivery will be finalised and released early next month, for each council to then consider and make decisions on individually. These decisions will shape the next steps for the region.
Life Art Class
Songs of Travel
5.30-7.15pm Wednesdays, Untutored. St Andrews on The Terrace. Entrance lane at right of church. $15.00 waged / $9 unwaged. Please bring your own materials.
UK & Aotearoa/NZ Queen Margaret College, 53 Hobson St, Thorndon. Sunday 8 September 2024, 2-4pm (Wellington Male Voice Choir). Saturday 14 September 2024 7-9pm (as guests of NZ Male Choir). Journey through the UK and NZ. Sample different rhythms, and themes, distinctive vocal tones and styles. Patron: Mayor of Wellington. Tickets: www.wellingtonmvcnz.org
Spring Minifair
St Anne’s Northland, Corner Randwick / Northland Roads SATURDAY 7 SEPTEMBER, 9.30 - 1.00. Books, Craft, Plants, Household, Jewellery, Cakes, Jams, Pickles, BBQ, Refreshments. EFTPOS available
NORTHLAND SCHOOL Applications for Out of Zone Enrolment for Terms 1 and 2 2025
Enrolment at Northland School is governed by an enrolment scheme, details of which are available from the school office or the school website www.northland.school.nz.
The Board of Trustees has determined that places only in Year 1 and 2 and Year 3-4 will be available for out of zone students eligible for enrolment.
As the Board operates an enrolment scheme, it is required to fill any vacant out of zone places by ballot in cases where there are more applications for enrolment than there are places available. Under the terms of the enrolment scheme siblings of out of zone children and children of Board employees currently at the school get priority for available places.
The deadline for receipt of applications for out of zone places is 12.00pm Thursday 26 September, 2024.
Application forms for the ballot are available from: Northland School 14 Harbour View Road Northland Wellington 6012 office@northland.school.nz
Regional Council affirms
Maori constituency
Greater Wellington councillors have unanimously affirmed their resolution to establish a M ori constituency for local elections in 2025 and 2028.
The resolution was made in October 2023 with unanimous support from the regional council’s mana whenua partners.
Council chair Daran Ponter says the 27 August decision to affirm the resolution puts Greater Wellington “on the right side of history”.
“For our journey to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the Wellington Region elected leaders with the wisdom to establish a M ori constituency,” Cr Ponter says.
Johnsonville School ORS Funded Special Education Unit Enrolments for Term 3 & 4 of
2024
“In the best interests of our communities, we continue to support M ori aspirations for seats at the council table.”
Councillors agreed the Government has taken an “unfortunate approach” with the law change that requires a poll to determine whether the constituency will continue for the 2028 and 2031 local elections.
The council’s electoral officer estimates the poll, to be held at the 2025 election, will cost $350,000 (GST exclusive).
This is equivalent to about 0.07% of council expenditure in the 2022/23 financial year.
Chair of Greater Wellington’s Te Tiriti o Waitangi Komiti Hikitia Ropata says the council disagrees with the need for a poll.
“M ori have always been underrepresented in local decision making. Bringing back polls reinstates a longstanding barrier to M ori representation and inclusive democracy,” Cr Ropata says.
“We stand beside mana whenua and M ori knowing the potential for harmful race-based commentary in the run up to the election.
Enrolment at the school is governed by an enrolment scheme. Applications for out of zone places are now being invited for ORS funded students wishing to enrol in the Special Education Unit between 17 September and 21 October 2024.
The Board has determined that 3 spaces are available for ORS funded students in Korowai, the Special Education Unit, during this enrolment period.
The deadline for receipt of application is Monday 16 September 2024.
If a ballot for out of zone places is required it will be held on Tuesday 17 September 2024.
Please contact the school office for details regarding this application process.
Ph 478 7155 or email office@johnsonville.school.nz.
“Let’s rise above the rhetoric of fear and division and give M ori a voice in regional governance for years to come.”
Public Notice
Football’s Central League carnival is over
By Grant Stephen
The carnival is well and truly over as the final round played out in the Men’s Central League over the weekend.
It was dead rubber material everywhere you looked with Wellington Olympic, Western Suburbs, Napier City Rovers and the Wellington Phoenix Reserves safely confirmed the week before as National League participants and Stop Out’s relegation reservation also already ticked off the week prior.
In terms of the local teams, Waterside Karori could have nabbed fifth place had they beaten Petone, but that turned out not to be the case.
A late first half goal for Waterside to Seth Ward was eclipsed by two equally as late strikes to Petone in the 87th and 90th minutes for literally a last minute victory to Petone.
TFS North Wellington were never going to beat Wellington Olympic and so it proved to be at Alex Moore Park.
The end result was 5-0 to Olympic and maybe it could have been more as the top of the table side pressed continously in a dress rehearsal for their Chatham Cup final against Auckland City this coming weekend as well as a useful hit out prior to the upcoming National League.
In fairness to Norths, the defensive unit including young keeper Calum Martin-Bond, put in a solid shift but it was always going to be a struggle going head to head with likely the top team in the country.
Offensive runs against Olympic were snuffed out with ease and any North’s attack was quickly and efficiently blunted by a star studded and highly experienced side. Olympic had the most clean sheets and
scored the most points across the country –equal with Auckland City who had the benefit of a 22 game competition compared to just 18 games in the Central League.
It was an unhappy ending for Stop Out and they were put to the sword by Miramar Rangers 10-0, including an own goal by Stop Out as the last score of the match.
A fine result for Rangers without doubt, but it was a game too late, having missed their chance for the National League by five points in the end after salavaging a draw with Karori the week before instead of the win that they so badly needed.
Napier City Rovers got the better of Western Suburbs 2-1 at Endeavour Park and ended up in third place overall but on the same points as Wests. Win, draw, and goal difference statistics were all the same between the two sides, with Wests goals for being better by one in the final analysis.
Island Bay and the Wellington Phoenix Reserves had already concluded their campaigns in the weeks prior.
The final points table reads: Olympic 51 points, Wests and Napier 40, Miramar 35, Phoenix Reserves 24 (automatic entry to the National League), Karori 24, Petone 21, Island Bay 12, Norths 9 and Stop Out 5 points. Stop Out’s place in the Central League will be taken by either Upper Hutt City or Palmerston North United in a home and away play off series over the next fortnight.
Palmerston North won its federation league, while Upper Hutt placed third in the Wellington Premier League. The men from Maidstone Park are coached by former All White, Rory Fallon.
The actual Premier League winners were Wellington Olympic who eclipsed Miramar
Reward for community service
Sabah Ahmad has been honoured for his voluntary service as a Wellington North Community Patroller by the Glenside Progressive Association.
The association hosted a thank you afternoon tea at Halfway House for him on 29 August and Sabah was gifted a $100 garden voucher.
Sabah and another Glenside resident were the first to sign up for voluntary service for the patrol in 2007.
Sabah stepped down earlier this year. At the time he was the longest serving volunteer for the patrol.
Among those attending the celebration of Sabah’s service were John and Gabrielle Liddle from Waikanae, owners of Twigland Gardeners World; James Cameron, Manager of Twigland Gardeners World; Jacqui Ngan, manager/owner of Thyme Café; Bradley Schroder, Wellington City Council Manager Parks and Open Spaces; Parrish Evans, Halfway House lease; Wellington City Councillor Tony Randle and local members of the local community. MP Greg O’Connor sent his apologies as Parliament was sitting.
Rangers by a point. These teams are inelgible for promotion as the clubs already have sides in the Central League.
In terms of the Women’s Central League, it will take the catch up game this weekend between Waterside Karori and Wellington United to determine the top gun club.
Wellington United are back on top for the time being after their 6-1 win over Taradale.
Petone prevailed 3-0 over Victoria University and Seatoun finished the season on a no win, no draw outcome in their 3-1 loss against
Palmerston North Marist.
Seatoun will return to Wellington Premier League and their place will be taken by either Palmerston North United or Miramar Rangers in a home and away play off series. With Welllington United and Karori still to play the final game to conclude the competition, the points table currently reads: Wellington United 37 points, Karori 36, Petone 24, Taradale, 21, Palmerston North Marist 19, Moturoa 13, Victoria University 10 and Seatoun 0 points.
Action from the match between TFS North Wellington and Wellington Olympic. Photo: Terry Douglas.
Sabah Ahmad with the garden voucher he was presented for his service. Photo: Supplied.
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