row from left) Michael Kraamwinkel, Viv Kraamwinkel, Nick Swan, Barry Jones, Claire Carruthers, Amber Proudfoot, Mark Gilmer and Adrian Douglas (front from left) Dave Wilkinson and Richard Joyce. Photo: supplied.
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Important role played by emergency services
Continued from page 1.
The ambulance was handed over by Adrian Douglas, who is an executor of Jack’s will.
“It’s an honour and a privilege to be here for the handover of this brand new ambulance,”
Adrian said in his handover speech.
As well as the donation of an ambulance “we are just finalising a donation for the [Johnsonville Fire] Brigade and several other community organisations.
“We all recognise that the emergency services play an important part in any community.
“Often we call on them when we are at our lowest point and the efforts they make to assist people in our community are very much appreciated.
“Jack was very mindful of this when he was making the donations.
“I would like to acknowledge Wayne Sommerville. He is a Life Member of the [Johnsonville] Club and he has put a lot of work in ... to raise the donation for this ambulance,” Adrian said.
Every donation or legacy made “is signifcant,” Wellington Free Ambulance’s General Manager of Funding and Communications, Claire Carruthers, said in thanking Jack for donating the ambulance.
“That ambulance is going to save lives.
“We are a small service with a mighty impact” and that was thanks to people like Jack.
“We cannot thank you enough,” Claire said, describing the donation as “wonderful”.
Born on 7 September 1937, Jack was a Johnsonville identity.
He joined the Johnsonville Volunteer Fire Brigade on 30 November 1959 and after serving as a fire fighter he became the brigade’s Officer in Charge on 7 March 1976.
He served as Officer in Charge for more than 13 years, retiring on 6 September 1989.
Jack was elected the eighth Honorary Life Member of the brigade the year he retired.
He joined the Johnsonville Club in 1967 and was a regular attender until he passed away aged 86 on 18 April 2024 at the Malvina Major Rest Home.
After completing his National Service in the New Zealand Army, Jack took up a career in plumbing.
He would become a plumbing inspector for the Wellington City Council, managing their refuse collection team.
Jack then moved to the Reserve Bank as its building manager, where he served until his retirement.
Screenwriter residency applications open
Each year a Wellington screenwriter is selected to complete a draft of their feature film screenplay/TV pilot and bible over seven months with the support of experienced mentors.
Called Write Room Wellington, the residency is offered in partnership with Toi Pōneke Arts Centre, POP Film and the Wellington City Council Aho Tini 2030 Arts, Culture and Creativity Strategy.
The aim of the programme is to support a writer to develop their work to a level where it can be pitched to a producer and secure further development funding and a pathway towards production.
Over the first seven years of the programme four projects have been identified and supported to a stage where they successfully accessed further development support from the New Zealand Film Commission.
The programme is comprised of three parts:
1. residency – a room at Toi Pōneke Arts Centre for 16 weeks from 26 January to 15 May 2026;
2. completing and polishing draft – a further 12 weeks of work from 15 May to 15 August 2026; and
3. script read-through with actors at the end of the programme on 15 August 2026.
During this time the
with a
Adrian Douglas speaking at the handover of the new ambulance. Photo: Suplied.
Claire Carruthers speaking at the handover of the new ambulance. Photo: Supplied.
This year’s Write Room Screenwriter in Residence, Esteban Jaramillo. Photo: Supplied.
Major award for Karori author
Karori author Vincent O’Malley has just won a major New Zealand writing award. He has been awarded the 2025 Copyright Licensing New Zealand (CLNZ) and The New Zealand Society of Authors (NZSA) Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ) Inc, CLNZ | NZSA $25,000 Writers’ Award for his project.
Vincent won the award, which was announced on 14 October, for a book he is working on which has the working title, ‘Whenua: Māori Land Loss Since 1840’.
“Māori land ownership went from 100% of the country in 1840 to a little over 5% by the time of the 1975 Māori Land March,” Vincent says.
“There has been a vast body of research into how and why this happened but much of it is unpublished and inaccessible to the general public.
“Drawing on 30 years involvement in the Treaty claims process, I aim to provide a much-needed resource for New Zealanders seeking to understand and explore the history behind these figures in an open, honest and accessible way.
“The CLNZ/NZSA Writers’ Award makes that possible and I am very thankful to be given this opportunity.”
“Vincent O’Malley’s aim to pull together the vast amount of research that iwi and others have undertaken on land loss and present it in an accessible book for a wide audience, has the opportunity to unlock and untangle this topic for a whole generation of readers,” Judging panel convenor Elizabeth Kirkby-McLeod says.
“He has a proven track record and as a panel we have faith in his ability to deliver this project.”
Judging panellist Jade Kake says that Vincent’s project is “a timely and important work by a highly respected historian.
“The project is of huge importance to Māori, who continue to experience the ongoing impacts of colonisation and alienation from whenua, but also to Pākehā and tauiwi seeking a better understanding of the history of Aotearoa New Zealand.”
Iona Winter, the third judge on the panel, Karori author Vincent O’Malley. Photo: Supplied. says Vincent’s work is “a vital project for Māori, Pākehā and tauiwi, exploring the alienation surrounding Māori land loss.
“This project asks for a historical reappraisal and will produce an engaging and accessible work for diverse audiences, contributing significantly to the shared history
of Aotearoa New Zealand.”
Vincent is a writer and historian whose work focuses on the history of how relationships between Māori, European settlers (Pākehā) and colonial governments shapes the development of New Zealand as a nation.
Pool opening
Wellington’s historic Thorndon Pool will reopen for the summer season on Saturday 25 October.
This pool is one of the city’s popular outdoor pools, as is the Khandallah Pool, which has yet to announce its 2025 opening date.
Celebration dinner
The New Zealand Malaysian Society is holding its Deepavali Celebration Dinner 2025 at 6:30pm on Saturday 8 November at the Johnsonville Community Centre Hall, 3 Frankmore Avenue.
This year’s feast will be prepared by Fat Fab Catering and will feature a festive Malaysian-Indian style menu.
The menu will include favourites like Putu Mayam, spiced fried chicken, salted lamb Peratal, Sambar, Tofu Sambal and sweet treats like Kerasi and Laddu, paired with rose syrup, water, coffee and tea.
The evening will also feature live performances, cultural dances, music, games and lucky draw prizes.
To take part in the celebration email NZMalaysianSociety@gmail.com.
Send your tips to herald@wsn.co.nz
Spokesperson for Courts and Veterans’ Affairs Assistant Speaker
Andrew Little is Wellington’s new Mayor following his landslide victory in this year’s local body election.
He won when 34,240 people voted for him on the progress count, compared with second placed Karl Tiefenbacher, who attracted 8,807 votes.
Cr Ray Chung was third with 6,838 votes.
“I’m honoured to have the opportunity to deliver the change Wellington needs,” the new Mayor says.
At the same time it is “daunting”.
“I’m grateful to everyone who has put their trust in me, and I will honour that trust,” he says.
“Wellington faces challenges but I believe that together we have the talent, the ideas and the ambition to get our city back to its best.”
The election result “is a clear mandate for the plan I put to voters – enabling more affordable housing; faster, more reliable public transport; investment in our community facilities; backing local businesses and getting the council’s costs under control.”
When asked what his key priority is, Andrew focuses on growing the population.
“The main thing we have as a city is that our population just hasn’t grown.
“One of the reasons for it is that it’s a city where people struggle with affordability.
“I’m keen to work with developers and others so we can get the high density types of housing that tends to be more affordable.
“That is the basis on which we can retain and attract more people and grow the city population.
“When we start growing the city population that adds to our economic base and gives a boost to businesses.
“It can give a boost to the arts and entertainment sector as well.”
When asked what are key issues for the northern and western suburbs, Andrew says that “we know there is the whole issue of what happens with the Johnsonville Mall and things around it.”
He will be working with the Mall owner “to try and get some development or improvement or something that is going to add to that area for the benefit of Johnsonville.”
When asked about an indoor recreation
centre for Johnsonville, Andrew says it is “something that ought to be part of a plan or development that enhances the whole of that Johnsonville Mall site, so that you start to really build a centre with some really comprehensive facilities in it.”
The first job the new Council faces, he says, “is to build back trust.
“Under my leadership Wellingtonians can expect a council that is solely focused on what’s best for the city, and that is my clear expectation.
“I will also make it a priority for the
and accountable
“Wellingtonians are smart, creative and care deeply about our city. You have big ideas worth listening to. And as Mayor I will listen.
“I’m honoured to have the opportunity to deliver the change Wellington needs.”
A new Councillor has been elected as the TakapŪ/Northern Ward Councillor.
Andrea Compton is about to start serving her first term.
She will join sitting Councillors Ben
The
Karori resident Simon Woolf topped the poll in the election for the Wellington Regional Constituency of the Greater Wellington Regional Council. He will be joined by the current Council Chair Daran Ponter, Yadana Saw, Tom James and Sarah Free.
Wellington’s new Mayor Andrew Little. Photo: Supplied.
Council organisation to be more transparent, open
to the public,” he says.
McNulty and Tony Randle, who have both been re-elected.
three sitting Wharangi/OnslowWestern Ward Councillors – Diane Calvert, Rebecca Matthews and Ray Chung – have all been re-elected.
Survey to boost Newlands resilience
The Newlands Resilience Group (NRG) is calling on residents to complete its 2025 Community Resilience Survey.
How can Newlands, Paparangi, Bellevue and Woodridge become stronger, more connected and better prepared for the unexpected?
The NRG believes the answer starts with one simple action: completing the 2025 Community Resilience Survey.
The survey, open from 16 October to 6 November 2025, is a vital tool to help the community understand its strengths, identify gaps and plan for a more resilient future. It takes just a few minutes to complete and is confidential and anonymous.
“By participating, residents can directly contribute to shaping the future of Newlands, making it a safer and more connected place for everyone,” says Rodney Barber, founder of NRG and long-time advocate for community-led resilience.
“Our ability to secure funding and support for building an effective community infrastructure depends on demonstrating the need
and showing widespread commitment and engagement,” he says.
“The survey, supported by Local Guardians, will provide crucial data to underpin our proposals for investment in community resilience.”
Mr Barber warns against complacency.
“‘She’ll be right’ is a dangerous philosophy. It puts complete faith in local authorities.
Ask those in Christchurch and Hawke’s Bay who’ve lived through disasters.
“We need to take more responsibility for our own preparedness.
“NRG is committed to working with Local Guardians, schools, health centres and places of worship to ensure that every voice is heard,” Mr Barber says.
“Together, we can prepare Newlands for whatever the future holds.”
The survey explores how prepared residents feel for emergencies like earthquakes or extreme weather, and asks about broader well-being issues such as loneliness, employment confidence and trust in government.
The results of the survey will inform
Buses replacing trains
All Metlink rail services will be replaced by buses over Labour Weekend (Saturday 25 to Monday 27 October) as KiwiRail carry out planned rail infrastructure upgrades.
These works will include slope stabilising and track replacement, bridge repairs and level crossing upgrades, as part of the ongoing rail improvements by KiwiRail and to prepare the network for faster and more frequent trains from 2028/2029. Delays are expected and passengers are encouraged to check timetables before travelling.
Bus replacements for all lines from Wellington will depart from Platform 10 at Wellington Station.
Once the planned work is completed,
delays are expected over the following two to three days as tracks settle.
Metlink is advising passengers to plan ahead using the latest travel information on the Metlink website, app or by calling 0800 801 700.
community conversations in March 2026, where residents will come together to discuss the findings and agree on next steps. Previous survey data will be combined with this year’s results and shared publicly to ensure transparency and collective ownership.
Residents who wish to get more involved can indicate their interest in the survey and provide their email address. Residents are asked to complete the survey by 5pm on 6 November. The survey is on the Newlands Resilience Group website, https:// newlandrg.weebly.com.
At the Newlands Community Gardens (from left) Rodney Barber (NRG Leader), Fionna Sheppard (Community Gardens) , Hamuera Orupe McLeod (NRG Tikanga Maori lead), Tim Turnidge (Community Gardens) and Sanaa Rafique (NRG Catalyst Lead). Photo: Howie.
Heritage Festival starting soon
By Frank Neill
The Wellington Heritage Festival, featuring more than 20 events in the northern and western suburbs, opens next Saturday, 18 October. Halfway House in Glenside is running two events.
The first is a free self-guided tour of the Halfway House garden, which is running througout the Heritage Festival, from 18 October to 9 November.
The second Halfway House event is a Heritage Garden Walk and Talk, which will run on two days – Sunday 26 October from 1pm to 2pm and Sunday 2 November from 1pm to 2pm.
This will give people an opportunity to discover the vegetables, fruit and flowers once planted by early settlers. People will also be able to buy heritage seeds and plants (for cash).
The Wellington Cable Car Winding Room will be open to view from noon to 2pm on Saturday 18 October, the festival opening day.
This will give people an opportunity to view the winding room, which is usually closed to the public, as well as hearing a talk from one of the winding room team members.
Wrights Hill Fortress will hold an open day on Monday 27 October from 10am to 4pm. Four events at the Karori Cemetery are already fully booked.
They are Our Fair Ladies Tour, Tragedies Tour, Gallows Tour and Tales from the Vaults Tour.
The Karori RSA is holding a Historical Memorabilia tour at its premises, 27A Campbell Street, from 11am to 2pm on Saturday 18 October and Sunday 19 October.
On this self guided tour people will discover
historic Halfway House, which will
historical events New Zealand forces were involved in over many generations. People can make these discoveries through photos and memorabilia, using notes they
Why strike needs people’s support
On Wednesday 23 October teachers and many other public service workers across Aotearoa will walk off the job in a co-ordinated strike – one of the largest in decades.
Alongside primary and secondary teachers, the strike includes area school teachers, principals, learning support staff, support workers and Ministry of Education specialists.
Outside education, many nurses, midwives, allied health workers and public service staff are also striking to demand fair pay and better staffing.
“We strike because the system as it is isn’t working – for our tamariki, for teachers, or for communities,” a teacher who asked not to be named in the newspaper says.
“We don’t have the capacity to offer the one-on-one learning many children need. We don’t have enough support staff.
“We feel unheard as experts in pedagogy, curriculum and child development.
“I’m striking in support of increased funding for public education and a rapid increase in the level of learning support available to our most vulnerable children and the skilled teachers who support them.
“In my 38 years of teaching, I have never experienced such regressive government
will be provided.
M ā kara’s St Matthias Church and St Patricks Church are running a tour of the churches and the historic cottage at 366 Makara Road.
Club, 34 Frankmore Avenue.
education policies, such a lack of consultation with experts and such ignorance about how students learn and thrive.
“I am striking because I believe that teaching is a profession best left to professionals. I’m fed up with being told how to teach … and the removal of the child at the centre.
“We are striking not out of anger, but out of hope and determination.
“We believe that every child has strengths, knowledge, and potential – and that to bring those out, we need the time, resources, and trust to pay attention to individual learners.
“We are not asking for favour. We are demanding what is necessary for a fair, vibrant, effective education system.
“We would love and deeply welcome the support of our communities.
“Your voices matter. When you rally with us, sign a petition, talk to your local MP, or simply continue to value and respect education, you amplify our message.
“Together we can bring about a shift: funding that matches the need, classrooms staffed to support every learner, and an education system that trusts teachers, listens to children and invests in the future.
“Will you stand with us on 23 October?”
The tours will take place from 10am to 3pm on Saturday 18 October and Sunday 19 October.
Local people will be on site to talk to visitors.
The cottage has information about early setlement of the area, St Particks Church has stained glass windows dedicated to early settlers and St Matthias Church has a graveyard where early settlers are buried.
A heritage walk through Thorndon, starting at Old St Paul’s Church in Mulgrave Street, will be running on four days.
It will take place from 1:15pm to 3:30pm on Sunday 19 October, Saturday 25 October, Sunday 2 November and Saturday 8 November.
The walk will focus on the period of time from the first people in the area to the changes of the early 1800s and to the Empire City of the late 1800s.
The Heritage of Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush – the gardens and gardeners will take place from 2pm to 3:30pm on Saturday 18 October and Saturday 1 November.
During this walk through the story of Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush people will learn about the garden’s rich history and the visionary people involced, while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
A walk through Ngaio is being run by the Onslow Historical Society from 10am to noon on Monday 27 October.
Walkers will gather for morning tea at the society’s home, the historic Khandallah Automatic Telephone Exchange, 86 Khandallah Road, and then set off for a walk throungh historic Ngaio, past 19th century cottages, grand houses and sites of historic interest.
Helpful Tools for Searching New Zealand Historical Records will be an information session run by the NZ Society of Genealogists Wellington Branch.
It will run from 7:15pm to 9pm on Wednesday 22 October at the Johnsonville Bowling
Deaf visitors have the opportunity to experience the Katherine Mansfield House and Garden, 25 Tinakori Road, Thorndon, with a New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) interpreted guided tour from 2pm to 3pm on Sunday 19 October.
Katherine Mansfield House is also the venue for another event – Katherine Mansfield’s Thorndon – A Guided Walking Tour.
As well as exploring the Thorndon Katherine Mansfield knew, the tour will also explore the traces of her legacy that remain in the landscape today, and it will begin with an introductory talk.
The tour will take place from 10am to 12:30pm on Saturday 18 October and Thursday 23 October.
A walk between the Randell Writers’ Cottage, Lilburn House and the garden at the Rita Angus Cottage in Thorndon will take place from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday 19 October.
The walk will begin at the Randell Cottage, 14 Mary Street.
A walk through the historic Wellington Botanic Garden, hearing the stories of heritage trees, will be held from 1:30pm to 2:30pm on Saturday 1 November.
The walk will start at the Founder’s Entrance to the gardens, 101 Glenmore Street, Kelburn.
The Rita Angus Garden, 194A Sydney Street West, Thorndon, will be open to visitors to sketch the spring flowers that surround the 1877 cottage from noon to 4pm on Sunday 19 October.
The Randell Cottage open day will be held from 1pm to 4pm on Sunday 19 October at the cottage, 14 St Mary Street, Thorndon.
The Randell Cottage, which retains most of its original 19th century configuration, is a rare example of colonial domestic architecture and is a listed historic place. It is only open to the public annually as part of the Heritage Festival.
The Wellington Heritage Festival website, wellingtonheritagefestival.co.nz, has for details of more than 160 scheduled festival events.
Glenside’s
hold self-guided tours of its garden throughout the Heritage Festival. Photo: Supplied.
Onslow students break NZ records
Two Onslow College students broke New Zealand records in their sports this month.
Year 10 student Elise Lewis is now a New Zealand record holder in Ten Pin Bowling. Her under 18 squad broke the national record at the Ten Pin Bowling New Zealand Youth Junior National Championship
during the school holidays. The squad shattered the New Zealand record by 49 points in winning the Gold medal. That record has stood since 2007.
A New Zealand representative, Elise also won a silver medal in the Under 21 women’s singles and collected a second silver medal in
the Under 21 women’s squad. Year 12 student Roman Anderson was Onslow College’s other record breaker.
Roman broke the New Zealand record in the 16 year boys breaststroke with a time of 28.64 seconds at Swimming New Zealand’s National Short Course Championships.
Roman added two more gold medals and two silver medals to his championship tally.
His gold medals came in the 50 metres breaststroke and 200 metres breaststroke.
His silver medals came in the 100 metres breaststroke and the 100 metres individual medley.
Year 13 students Morag and Jake
McLellan travelled to Brisbane to compete in the Australian Schools Orienteering Championships during the school holidays. They were members of the NZSS “Southern Cross” Orienteering team.
Jake secured four podium finishes at the championships.
Considering Downsizing or Making a Move?
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“Family working for Families in Tasman”
The Homestead is in the heart of Wakefield Village.
Helping to make a positive difference in people’s lives.
Live life to the fullest
Independence and strong community connection live hand in hand at Wainuiomata Masonic Village. Our beautifully designed independent living retirement village has 80 easy-care villas built over the last five years, a vibrant Village Hub, and a thriving community of more than 100 residents.
We’re located in the heart of Wainuiomata Valley and a very short walk to Woolworths, Mitre 10, pharmacies, hairdressers, and many takeaways. We’re next to a medical centre, opposite a pharmacy and dentist, and beside a park and children’s playground.
It’s a 15-minute drive to Queensgate Shopping Centre and less than half an hour into Wellington.
Quality of life is front of mind at Wainuiomata Masonic Village. The golden
years are meant for enjoying passions, hobbies, and time with friends and loved ones, which is why the facilities are thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of seniors, providing safe and comfortable spaces to relax, socialise, and thrive.
From well-maintained common areas to private residences, group activities to cosy corners, every aspect of the village prioritises resident wellbeing.
We’re a friendly village community, offering many activities as well as resident-run events and the opportunity to host your own celebrations in our Village Hub.
Wainuiomata Masonic Village prides itself on being more than a place to live. It’s a home – where meaningful connections are made and memories are cherished. Call our friendly village manager Esther to come for a visit and find out more at www. masonicvillages.co.nz
SENIOR YEARS
TIPS AND IDEA’S
Senior focus: Who should see a Podiatrist?
There are a number of conditions and situations that are red flags for having your feet assessed and treated by a Podiatrist. First on the list is Diabetes. Timely care by a Podiatrist can help prevent some serious problems that can develop in patients with Diabetes.
An annual check up is a bare minimum. A second category of necessary care is for patients with diminished circulation. Folks with limited blood flow are at higher risk if an infection enters the body via a wound or break in the skin on the feet or toes.
Driving Miss Daisy
Our Drivers chose this business because they love being around people and our regular customers love knowing exactly who will be driving them around. We are often told ‘it’s like driving with a friend’. Your companion driver can take you wherever you need to go – not just for medical appointments, but for shopping, visiting friends or if you simply want to go for a drive and maybe a coffee. We are very competitively priced and accept total mobility cards. Contact Shirley today on 021 256 6902 to discuss your requirements.
A third category is anyone with impaired eyesight which can make self-care of nails and feet a risky proposition. As we age there is a tendency for feet to get further away! This is not due to your legs getting longer (if only!) but our flexibility and ability to get down to our feet and safely attend to them becomes limited.
All of these situations, plus any pain you may suffer in your feet, are plenty good reason to make a booking to have your feet under the care of a Podiatrist.
Bible reading group
Events in life present us with opportunities and challenges. We can take what is offered, put it on the procrastination pile or push it out of our minds completely.
A small, mixed-age group has started reading the Bible together at Newlands Community Centre on a Sunday at 4pm. Maybe you went to Sunday School a few years ago, perhaps you have been brought up in a culture with a different holy book or no belief system at all, possibly
you are looking for a reliable message in anxious times, you may have time now to look at your spiritual health or you have a simple goal to read this book.
The aim is to follow the life of Jesus through the gospel of Matthew, reading a few verses, and reflecting on the message. No previous Bible knowledge is necessary and the atmosphere is relaxed. Take this opportunity. Come. You’re welcome.
Ever Wonder What the Bible Really Says?
Ever Wonder What the Bible Really Says?
Join a small group of friendly locals in reading the bible honestly and discussing it openly.
Join a small group of friendly locals in reading the bible honestly and discussing it openly.
y Sunday 4-5pm
turn up or message 027 629 7400
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P: (04) 478 5535 M: 021 256 6902
Elite Arboriculture believes the mana of trees must be respected. They love giving back to the Earth by planting trees and to the community through volunteer service. Elite Arboriculture has carried out free tree work at their local preschools and kindergartens, as well as for their Free Tree Initiative, where they offer one lucky recipient arborist services of their choice at no cost.
Elite Arboriculture heart for
“We had a team from Elite Arboriculture working at our son’s and daughter-in-law’s place in Paekākāriki today”, a happy customer comments. “This work was being done as a prize that Elite Arboriculture had donated to a local competition. supporting absolute highly enough. Tree pruning to maintain to reductions, your trees team can assisting right spaces Trees are ecosystem, dangerous. they are professionally.
Elite Arboriculture is a local, family-owned and operated tree management business on the Kapiti Coast, offering professional arborist services across the Wellington and Horowhenua regions.
Elite Arboriculture believes the mana of trees must be respected. They love giving back to the Earth by planting trees and to the community through volunteer service. Elite Arboriculture has carried out free tree work at their local preschools and kindergartens, as well as for their Free Tree Initiative, where they offer one lucky recipient arborist services of their choice at no cost.
“We had a team from Elite Arboriculture working at our son’s and daughter-in-law’s place in Paekākāriki today”, a happy customer comments. “This work was being done as a prize that Elite Arboriculture had donated to a local
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See the Little Penguins up close
Get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures on this conservation based eco-tour.
You are guaranteed to see penguins in their natural habitat during the breeding season from Sept ember to mid-February and from the second week in April throughout winter.
• 21 acres of parkland and woodland
• Numerous birdlife
• Beautiful surrounding countryside including the Dorothy Falls
This is a won derful option for people who wish to take part in Pohatu Penguins’ monitoring pro gramme and dis more, in depth, about their conservation efforts.
• Events like the famous Wild Food
This gives you some great insight into the life of a penguin and the chance to see the
A great family day out at Goldfields Mining Centre
The Goldfields Mining Centre is a special place where visitors can gain an appreciation of the life and working environment of those early miners who struggled against the harsh and sometimes dangerous
After a breathtak ing scenic drive over Akaroa ex tinct volcano and photo opportunities you will discover tranquil Pohatu Bay where you will set off for a conservation walk and talk around the colony to monitor nesting sites and make sure that the Little Penguins are doing well.
and natural obstacles that keep local golfers coming back for more.
As a designated golf sanctuary, we are deeply
Then, you will have the unique opportunity to spot some undisturbed from the hides, socializing on the water with provided binoculars and telescope. ing they have a high lihood of seeing penguins returning to shore and relaxing on the rocks before heading to their nests. As they have to walk so far to feed chicks tours leave before dark to leave them in peace.
conditions along Central Otago’s famed Kawarau Gorge. Walk along the paths of the old miners. Find out about gold and where it came from. Discover how the goldrush has impacted places
throughout the world. Learn the technique of gold panning, and then try your luck at panning for gold. Allowing at least two hours to enjoy the full experience is recommended.
Woodland Glen is a peaceful base for West Coast action
Whether you want a passive few days or to make it the base for experiencing the West Coast, Woodland Glen Lodge Bed and Breakfast – accommodation set in a beautiful country house 2km out of Hokitika is the perfect choice.
With five guest rooms, three of which are en suite; the other two share a private bathroom, but can be booked individually. Escape the bustle of the city for tranquility when you stay. They have 21 acres of park like grounds to
Tee off with nature at Manor Park Golf Sanctuary
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!
State Highway 6, Cromwell
wander through, they also have a wonderful orchard to sit and enjoy listening to the birds maybe enjoying a glass of wine and a picnic. Drive out to one of the beautiful local lakes where you can sit or swim in the crystal waters.
Otapawa Farmstay – an amble through nature
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. 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 it’s a one-hour drive from Masterton.
Otapawa makes an ideal halfway stop between Wellington and Hawke’s Bay. Campervans and caravans are also welcome.
The Royal Albatross Centre
The Royal Albatross Centre is nestled at the tip of the Otago Peninsula, Ōtepoti - Dunedin. 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 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.
Try your FREE Karate trial class
Aside from the confidence gained when learning selfdefence, karate training can have a positive impact on children’s fitness, concentration and general behaviour. For adults, it’s also a great way to relieve stress, learn something new, meet new people, and stay healthy.
GKR Karate promotes Karate for everyone, including children from 5 years old through to men, women and families of
all ages. They now have “Yoji” classes for 3-4yr olds. Apart from the obvious development of self-defence skills, Karate training builds confidence, self-discipline, determination, focus, courtesy, self-control and of course fitness.
GKR Karate’s classes are taught by passionate instructors who are committed to teaching and passing on the GKR Karate style and our way of life.
ACTIVE spring
ACTIVE spring
See the Little Penguins up close
See the Little Penguins up close
Get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures on this conservation based eco-tour.
Get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures on this conservation based eco-tour.
You are guaranteed to see penguins in their natural habitat during the breeding season from Sept ember to mid-February and from the second week in April throughout winter.
You are guaranteed to see penguins in their natural habitat during the breeding season from Sept ember to mid-February and from the second week in April throughout winter.
This is a won derful option for people who wish to take part in Pohatu Penguins’ monitoring pro gramme and dis cover more, in depth, about their conservation efforts.
This is a won derful option for people who wish to take part in Pohatu Penguins’ monitoring pro gramme and dis cover more, in depth, about their conservation efforts.
This gives you some great insight into the life of a penguin and the chance to see the birds up close with a unique opportunity to watch them social ising on the water.
This gives you some great insight into the life of a penguin and the chance to see the birds up close with a unique opportunity to watch them social ising on the water.
After a breathtak ing scenic drive over Akaroa ex tinct volcano and photo opportunities you will discover tranquil Pohatu Bay where you will set off for a conservation walk and talk around the colony to monitor nesting sites and make sure that the Little Penguins are doing well.
After a breathtak ing scenic drive over Akaroa ex tinct volcano and photo opportunities you will discover tranquil Pohatu Bay where you will set off for a conservation walk and talk around the colony to monitor nesting sites and make sure that the Little Penguins are doing well.
Then, you will have the unique opportunity to spot some undisturbed from the hides, socializing on the water with provided binoculars and telescope.
Then, you will have the unique opportunity to spot some undisturbed from the hides, socializing on the water with provided binoculars and telescope.
With night fall ing they have a high like lihood of seeing penguins returning to shore and relaxing on the rocks before heading to their nests. As they have to walk so far to feed chicks tours leave before dark to leave them in peace.
Tee off with nature at Manor Park Golf Sanctuary
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.
With night fall ing they have a high like lihood of seeing penguins returning to shore and relaxing on the rocks before heading to their nests. As they have to walk so far to feed chicks tours leave before dark to leave them in peace.
Tee off with nature at Manor Park Golf Sanctuary
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
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!
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
Discover the great membership deals at
Local history – Queens Park
By Felicity Wong
Queens Park is located between Grant Road and Wadestown Road.
It was developed to commemorate Queen Victoria's diamond Jubilee of 1897 (60 year reign).
The park’s southern area had formed paths, entry gates and plantings of exotic trees with shrubs and hedges.
Pakuao Stream and the waterfall in its northern area was a feature, reflecting the Victorian interest in wild landscapes.
Between the two areas is a group of houses around upper Newman Terrace, named after long serving MP, Alfred Kingcome Newman.
The park was developed with European deciduous trees and conifers and pines, an example of the ornamental and plantation planting fashion.
From 1899 Queens Park had a resident caretaker.
His duties were:
1. To attend to and keep in order the Queens Park, the Grant Road reserve and the Thorndon esplanade and;
2. to keep the water channels on Wadestown Road and other roads in the neighbourhood properly cleaned out.
The caretaker received wages of two pounds a week and lived in the newly built caretakers cottage.
The park contained carefully graded paths for promenading, popular with Thorndon families living nearby like Katherine Mansfield’s.
The Grant Road reserve had once been “wasteland” but after planting it was said to be “most agreeably green to the eye”.
The paper reported that “the famous spring in Grant Road, which used to trickle through
a gas pipe, is now much improved, and forms an artistic fountain in brick and plaster. It is much used by many people who believe the water to possess valuable medicinal properties”.
"It is lovely around about here, with all the willow, poplar and apple trees competing with each other to see who can be the most beautiful,” one local said, and "I notice that in Queens Park the leaves are beginning to turn yellow and red; and we found some chestnuts the other day. That means Autumn time at last."
By 1929 the Council reported that improvement work had been carried and that visitor numbers were up.
The annual cost of upkeep was 550 pounds, the same as for Miramar’s Polo Ground, but much less than was spent on the Botanical Gardens or the Basin Reserve.
On Arbour Day 1940 a tree planting event was held attended by the Mayor of Wellington, Thomas Hislop (1888-1965).
The Mayor said the City Council was carrying out a “vast comprehensive beautifying scheme” in many parts of Wellington.
The macrocarpa trees at the southern end of the park had been cut down and replaced by 12 mature Japanese flowering cherries and nine oriental pines.
Students from local schools and members of the “Wadestown Cottage and Beautifying Society" helped plant the trees.
The local Labour MP Charles Chapman said: “trees were wonderful things; trees were useful things. Without them New Zealand in a few years would become a barren rock on which it would be difficult to preserve life.”
“In preserving trees” he said they were “helping to preserve New Zealand”.
The Council’s reserves committee was
commended for its work to have “brightened Wellington considerably” with the “enthusiastic support of the Beautifying Society”.
It was suggested that a site be excavated on the slopes of the Tinakori Hills above the park for the illuminated fountain from the Centennial exhibition.
The fountain had been awaiting permanent installation in Wellington.
Queens Park still contains an oak forest but its origin is unclear.
In 1915 the Evening Post reported it was planted by Mr G E Tolhurst, but an article in 1941 also referred to acorns having come from the Great Park at Windsor Castle.
When asked about acorns from Windsor Park a young Princess Elizabeth said she would send some for “Miss Thompson to plant in Queens Park”.
Since its formation over 120 years ago many of the trees planted in the 1940s had matured or were damaged.
Some years ago the Council officially “deprioritised” its upkeep and Queens Park became neglected.
A number of Thorndon and Wadestown residents, (Friends of Queens Park, led by Peter Steel), took the initiative to restore the park.
An oak tree was planted by the Governor General in 2022 to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee (70 year reign), marked with a plaque.
The parks management plan recognises the cultural value and nature of its origins and historical plantings.
The group has since been working with the Wellington City Council towards further rejuvenation.
Regular working bees, involving planting, weeding and other maintenance, are now regularly held. Details are on the Thorndon Residents Association website. All are welcome.
Wilton scholar joins future global leaders
By Morris Robertson
While many parts of the world are immersed in wars, on the other side of the planet about 70 selected undergraduate students, described as future global leaders, from Pacific Rim countries had the opportunity to meet in Santiago, Chile, to bond and discuss the future from their perspective.
Two students, one of whom was Lily Haldane from Wilton, now in a second year of a Mechanical Engineering and Maori Studies degrees at Auckland University, were selected and funded by the university to attend the conference.
In Lily’s words: “The conference offered me an opportunity to build connections, refine leadership skills and explore Latin American perspectives while discussing global challenges.
“We participated in a huge range of activities, from seminars to group activities, to meet and greets and site visits.’’
Highlights included cultural presentations, where the participants were grouped by region and created displays to showcase their respective cultures.
Paired with Australia, the New Zealanders included sections on their shared history. This included a piece on te ao Māori.
Lily found it really interesting explaining parts of te ao Māori and Māori history to people from other cultures.
“I have never needed to explain in detail what Te Tiriti is, which made me think much more deeply about my own history,” Lily says.
“I also really enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about other cultures in a very comfortable and open space. We were able
to share stories, traditions and ideologies.”
A panel discussion took place on indigenous knowledges and their importance for the comprehension and development of the Pacific Rim, with Professor Veronica Fiqueroa, former President of Constitutional Convention, Chilean indigenous rights activist, Aymara leaders from the Andean Highlands and Mapuche leaders from South Central Chile.
“This was an amazing opportunity to hear directly from the indigenous leaders in Chile,” Lily says.
“I also enjoyed the discussion itself, which raised important questions as to the inclusion of indigenous knowledges in conversations, especially surrounding climate change.”
A final highlight was a visit with Professor Fabián Retamal to the Museum of Memories and Human Rights.
This museum commemorated the Pinochet dictatorship in Chile, under which many people suffered. This was not only an educational experience, but also a spiritual one.
“I felt a lot of mamae (pain) throughout the day and I know many other students had similar heavy feelings,” Lily says.
“While it was a difficult day, it was really important to me to connect with this part of Chile's history, because it is so key to understanding what it means to be Chilean today.
“I was equally saddened and honoured to be there.”
Lily’s concluding words are: “I found that the whole experience really changed me both as a leader but also as a person.
“I developed a much broader perspective of the world.
“One of the first things I noticed about Chile was that the pedestrian crossings are silent!
This really reminded me that while we often talk about assumptions in the context of big traditions and ideas, it actually often starts with very small pieces of everyday life.
“I learnt more about other cultures, I learnt more about how to listen and share openly, and I also learnt more about myself and my own values.
“My biggest piece of advice to future students, especially for young students or those who have never been outside of the region,
would be to never underestimate themselves.
“You belong in the room. and you should always make noise in these spaces.”
Lily’s journey towards a future Global Leadership continues apace.
Beginning with two consecutive scholarships from the Rotary Club of Wellington North, she has subsequently received scholarships from Waste Management and BECA. Most recently she was a delegate to the NZ Aerospace Summit 2025 in Christchurch.
The intersection of Grant Road and Wadestown Road, showing Queens Park.
Photo: WCC Archives.
The multinational team at work. Lily Haldane is centre rear. Photo: Supplied.
International Repair Day Comes to Ngaio
International Repair Day comes to Ngaio this Saturday 18 October through the Ngaio Repair Café.
International Repair Day has, since 2017, occurred on the third Saturday in October, sponsored by the Open Repair Alliance – a wide grouping of repair organisations including Repair Café International.
Ngaio Repair Café is just one of approximately 4,000 Repair Cafés around the world and one of 80 Repair Cafés linked to Repair Café Aotearoa New Zealand.
Ngaio Repair Café is three years old this Saturday, and is now well established in the Ngaio Community.
Open from 10am to 1pm in the Ngaio Union Church it offers to fix, without charge, all sorts of household items; to repair clothes and to sharpen knives and tools. And it offers morning tea as well.
The last time it met, 20 September, it dealt with 70 items and had a fix rate of 85%.
“Our motto,” says the café’s co-ordinator, John McInnes, “is ‘Don’t chuck it. Fix it’.
“We want to keep repairable household items out of the tip and we want to show householders how to fix things themselves.
“A skill we’ve been featuring recently is hand sewing or darning.
“Don’t throw away socks with holes in the toes. Darn them.
“One man who came said he had a drawer full of holes.
“We do machine sewing as well but hand stitching in today’s busy life has been fading away and we’d like to see it coming back.”
Following this Saturday, Ngaio Repair Café will open once more in 2025 – 15 November. Then it will be in recess until February 2026.
Three free family history websites
Luke Howison, will demonstrate three free websites he has developed to assist with New Zealand family history research at the next meeting of the Wellington Branch of the NZ Society of Genealogists.
The meeting will be held at 7:30pm on Wednesday 22 October at the Johnsonville Bowling Club, 34 Frankmoore Avenue.
The first website, Ancestor Search Helper (ASH), offers a gateway, a ‘one-stop shop’, to many online New Zealand record collections which would otherwise have to be searched separately, such as Births, Deaths, and Marriages, Archives NZ, military records, cemetery records, and many more.
It also links with other very important resources such as Papers Past, the Wilson Collection, and Find a Grave.
The second website, an ‘Archways’ style, gives access to Archives NZ.
The third, his ‘Intentions to Marry’
Project, features digitised and transcribed registers of ‘Intentions to Marry’ from 1855 to 1925.
Where possible these are cross-referenced with the actual registered marriage record.
Anyone who has done any New Zealand family history research will appreciate how helpful all these tools will be.
Those who have already tried Luke’s websites rave about them.
Luke’s talk is part of the Wellington Heritage Festival, which runs from 18 October to 9 November.
Visitors are very welcome at all the Wellington branch of the NZ Society of Genealogists meetings. Arrive at 7pm for coffee, tea and biscuits and a chance to chat with the branch’s friendly and helpful members.
The meeting should finish between 8:30pm and 9 pm.
Items being fixed at the Ngaio Repair Café. Photo: Supplied.
ON... WHAT’S
The Community Noticeboard is for non-profit organisations. For $15.00 you can publish up to 25 words. No AGMS, sporting notices or special meetings. Community Notices must be pre-paid. phone (04) 587 1660 or email classifieds@wsn.co.nz
Don’t Chuck It. Fix It!
Ngaio Repair Cafe is free, open Saturday 18 October,10am - 1pm, Ngaio Union Church, corner Crofton Road and Kenya Street.
Charter school to open in Wilton
By Frank Neill
Wellington’s first charter school will open in Wilton at the start of the 2026 school year.
POOLS OF SATISFACTION
Altum Academy will be taking over the premises of Cardinal McKeefry Catholic Primary School.
Through
Cardinal McKeefrey school will close its doors at the end of the 2025 school year after 55 years as a Catholic primary school in the area.
Severn
Altum Academy will open catering for 100 year 7, 8 and and 9 students with a teaching staff of about five, the school’s trust executive director Jonathan Ayling told the “Independent Herald”.
The longer term plan is to increase the school to provide education for students from year 7 to year 13 by 2030.
Associate Education Minister David Seymour announted on 14 October that three new charter schools will open at the start of the 2026 school year.
Altum Academy is one of those.
“We are really excited,” Jonathan Ayling said.
“We were thrilled to have an option to be party to that.
“It was a very competitive challenge and we had over 50 schools competing for the final places.”
Altum Academy “will look at
addressing the equity gap in education by enabling disadvantaged students access to a school with strong teaching workforce,” Mr Seymour said when announcing the three new charter schools.
“The school will teach Classical Education.
“Students will be taught how to learn and think based on the Trivium method.
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“The method identifies a threestage natural development of a students’ education; grammar, logic and rhetoric.
“In the early years (Grammar stage) students learn facts through recitation and repetition, and by asking ‘what’.
“In the middle years (Logic stage) students learn to ask ‘how’ and ‘why’.
“In the high school years (Rhetoric stage) students will learn to persuade others that facts are true.”
The three new charter schools announced on 14 October will joining the three new charter schools announced in August that will be opening in term 1 2026.
“This takes the total number of charter schools to 14.
“We expect more new charter schools to be announced before the end of the year, along with the first state schools to convert,” Mr Seymour says.
Live music at Te Awe Library
The Lockie Bennett Trio will be live at Te Awe (Brandon St) Library on Saturday 18 October, playing from 1:15pm to 2:15pm. Playing as part of the Wellington Jazz Festival, Lockie Bennett, a jazz guitarist based in Wellington, is regarded as one of New Zealand’s most indemand jazz guitarists specialising in bop-oriented jazz. He holds multiple residencies in the capital and plays around the city as both a band leader and a sideman.
There’s more on offer at the
LETTERS to the editor
library than amazing events.
“Did you know there’s also a range of equipment for loan to help the city’s music community?” Wellington Libraries asks.
“Whether you’re playing a gig and need a PA system, or want to record a new album at home then the WCL music equipment collection has you covered.
“Check out what’s on offer and the terms and conditions of borrowing at https://www.wcl. govt.nz/services/at-the-library/ equipment-for-loan/.
Change at Woolworths
What strange logic or ancient Buddhist text are the Johnsonville Road Woolworth’s (or is it Countdown?) leaders following in their reorganisation?
Only a minority of goods are where they used to be.
Is there some hidden purpose to this, or perhaps an intelligence test? ‘We have shifted the honey. See if you can find out where within one minute, starting now.’
CROSSWORD
CROSSWORD
Even staff are unsure: ‘I think it is aisle two – well anyway, somewhere down there’. Do they imagine that customers are trembling with anticipation at the thought of doing the weekly shopping and finding what they want with no apparent logic to its placement?
The person with whom I do
shopping and tells me what to get says: “I used to enjoy Supermarket Shopping. I don’t now’.”
An explanation would be appreciated. But it is useful for a church congregation to gain an appreciation of how lost Hindu or Buddhists souls appear when searching for Nivana. Confused and lost. And it is a helpful topic for the Ōhariu Toastmasters Humorous Speech Contest, or perhaps for the Prime Minister and Minister of Economics to make extra jobs for the 18/19year olds unemployed – ‘we can do your shopping for you’. Or better still, a replacement for the NCEA vocational exams – ‘Find these items within 30 minutes’.
Rob Julian, Johnsonville
By Russell McQuarters
By Russell McQuarters
The Lockie Bennett Trio. Photo: Supplied.
Missed
Karori tennis junior fun nights
Karori United Tennis Club’s popular Junior Fun Friday Nights are back.
These free summer weekly events introduce young players to the joys of tennis and build a strong sense of community.
The courts buzz with activity as kids from pre-schoolers to teens gather for a mix of skill games, drills and informal matches.
Free to attend for all kids, not just club members, the sessions run from 5:30pm until 7pm.
Experienced coaches and enthusiastic volunteers lead the activities, offering guidance, tips and plenty of encouragement.
The sessions are structured to emphasise fun, teamwork and inclusion, ensuring that every child – regardless of experience or ability ––has a great time on the courts.
The club even has racquets available for those who are trying tennis for the first time.
For some these evenings spark a lifelong passion for tennis; for others it’s a place to have fun with their friends on a Friday night. Whānau are welcomed to stay, enjoy the
club facilities and support their children.
The club runs a barbecue during the sessions, and for some juniors the sausage sizzle is just as important as the tennis.
KUTC is able to run the Junior Fun Friday Nights thanks to assistance from the New Zealand Community Trust.
Club President Sharon Cottrell says it’s thanks to support from the NZCT and the club’s sponsors that they’ve been able to run regular community events for more than 20 years.
“It’s fantastic to be able to offer this kind of opportunity to local kids and families,”
Ms Cottrell says.
“We want to promote healthy activities for our community, and it’s always great to see a child have a go at tennis for the first time.”
The sessions run on Fridays at Karori United Tennis Club, 226 Karori Road, throughout term 4 and term 1, subject to weather.
Parents can check the club’s Facebook page for any cancellations.
Short listed for national award
The restoration of Thorndon's Metropolitan Cathedral of the Sacred Heart has been short listed for the national Institute of Architects Award (NZIA).
This follows the project winning an Institute of Architects Wellington branch Heritage award which allows it to progress to the national awards.
Added to this was a Resene Colour Awards and two Property Council Property Industry Awards.
The NZIA national awards are announced
in Christchurch in November.
A tour, led by project architect Jane Kelly, is offered on Sunday 19 October at 1:30pm as part of the Wellington Heritage Festival. Various heritage elements covered by previous building work have been revealed and the story of these and other areas of work will be outlined in the 45 minute tour of the building. It is a rare opportunity to hear about this major refurbishment carried out over the last six years.
Wellington retains Maori Ward
By Frank Neill
Wellingtonians have voted to retain Wellington City Council’s Māori Ward. Voters were almost two to one in favour of retaining the ward.
When the progress election results were posted they showed that 38,125 people voted in favour of keeping the ward, compared with 19,622 against.
Local authorities that had Māori Wards were required by the government to hold binding polls on whether or not to retain their Māori Wards from the 2028 election and beyond.
Two of Wellington’s adjoining local bodies also voted to retain their Māori Wards.
Porirua City Council will keep its Māori Ward after more than two thirds of voters voted to keep it, with 11,372 people voting for the ward while 5,127 voted against.
Hutt City Council will also keep its Māori Ward after 19,316 people voted in favour of it. That compared with 11,479
who voted to remove the Māori Ward.
Greater Wellington Regional Council will also keep its Māori Ward after people voted overwhelmingly in favour, with 84,067 people voting to keep the ward while 52,203 voted against.
There was no referendum on Māori Wards in Upper Hutt as the Upper Hutt City Council voted in August 2024 to rescind its earlier decision to introduce a Māori Ward.
More councils in New Zealand voted to remove Māori wards than voted to keep them, with 24 voting for removal and 18 voting for retention.
Matthew Reweti was elected as the Councillor for Wellington City Council’s Te Whanganui-a-Tara Māori Ward. In doing so he defeated the outgoing Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau, and this means she will no longer have a seat at the Council table.
Shamia Makarini was elected unopposed as the Councillor for Greater Wellington Regional Council’s Te Upoko o te ika a Maui Māori Regional Constituency.
West Wind Farm back
to full health
More than two years after the loss of a key piece of machinery, Meridian’s West Wind Farm in Mā kara is back to full health and once again making the most of Wellington’s wild wind.
In May 2023 West Wind Farm developed a problem with one of its two transformers that meant a replacement would be required.
“The transformers used on wind farms aren’t something you can just pick up at the local hardware store,” says Meridian GM Generation Tania Palmer.
“They’re highly specialised pieces of equipment and there’s an enormous amount of demand for them internationally.”
A new 90 tonne transformer – a 110 MVA unit from Elsewedy Electric Indonesia –arrived in New Zealand in mid 2025.
The project to then transport it to site was a complex undertaking that required months of planning, and almost a week of careful heavy vehicle movements.
Once the new transformer was in place, a team of electricians and engineers then completed the installation and commissioning process late on Friday 10 October.
“It was a slick operation from everyone involved,” Tania says.
“The planning, procurement, transportation and commissioning – everything went beautifully.
“This was a huge piece of work that’s delivered huge results for the country.
“Having this piece of kit in place means
we can continue delivering a steady supply of clean, renewable electricity that Kiwi homes and businesses can rely on.”
While the loss of the original transformer in May 2023 had left West Wind 44MW short of its maximum capacity, Meridian was able to partner with Transpower to find an interim solution.
With low hydro lake levels and the scale of New Zealand’s gas supply shortage becoming evident over winter 2024, the loan in October 2024 of a temporary transformer from Transpower plugged the capacity gap throughout winter 2025 and restored West Wind’s capacity to 143MW.
Transpower Executive General Manager Grid Delivery Mark Ryall says winter is always a challenge in the electricity sector, with demand rising as temperatures fall.
“We knew that the additional 44 megawatts of power would make a real difference in helping us keep Kiwis warm through the colder months, so it was no-brainer to help out.
“While loaning an 81-tonne transformer from our reserves wasn’t a simple task, we know how to pull together in this sector to keep the energy flowing”
Tania says that co-operation was critical to supporting New Zealand’s electricity supply.
“We take our responsibility to New Zealand extremely seriously, and the outstanding collaboration with Transpower on this project meant we could continue to deliver on our commitment to provide Kiwis with the power they need.”
The Karori tennis junior Friday fun night. Photo: supplied.
The view looking towards the sanctuary of Thorndon's Metropolitan Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. Photo: Supplied.
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different from leaving a window open 24/7. Others are only single glazed or just plastic. By upgrading to double glazing you can retain up to 70% more of your heat. A lot of skylights we come across is simply a piece of glass glued to the roof structure of your home – This is by far inadequate for many reasons including thermal properties and condensation issues, as the moisture has no where to go but get absorbed by the structure of your home. We will assess the entire skylight including the flashings (roof flashings
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