Wednesday August 20, 2025
Lions Club’s 60th
By Frank Neill
The Lions Club of Wainuiomata celebrated the 60th anniversary of its charter with a dinner at the Wainuiomata Bowling Club on 12 August.
The club was chartered by the Lions Club of Lower Hutt on 7 August 1965 with 27 members.
Continued on page 2.
Long serving Wainuiomata Lions Pamela Bunney and Dave Gulde about to cut the 60th anniversary cake.
Frank Neill.
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Continued from page 1
The charter President was Bruce Bain and the charter was presented by the then Lions District Governor, Lloyd Morgan.
“It’s a great privilege to be here with you tonight to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the charter of the Lions Club of Wainuiomata,” the current Lions District Governor Leon Downes said in his speech.
Over the last 60 years “Wainuiomata Lions have truly shown what it means to live the Lions motto ‘we serve”.”
As members of the club “you have put your heart and soul into serving the community.
“You have built something special here,” Mr Downes said.
“Tonight, we gather to celebrate a remarkable milestone – the 60th anniversary of the Lions Club of Wainuiomata,” the club’s President, Neil Watkins, said in his speech.
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“Thank you to every Lion who has contributed to this incredible journey, and to the Lower Hutt Host Lions Club for setting us on our path.
“Congratulations, Lions Club of Wainuiomata, on 60 inspiring years.
“Here’s to many more,” Mr Watkins said.
Over the 60 years, the Wainuiomata Lions “strove to help the local community as our mainstay, defined by unwavering service, fellowship and compassion”.
“From the outset the found-
ing members set a standard of purpose and belonging, inspiring countless acts of kindness.
“In 60 years, we have supported local youth, aided families in need, partnered with schools, protected our environment and championed health and wellbeing.
“Each project, each act of service, has shaped the legacy we honour tonight.”
Since 2009 the club has made donations of more than $184,000 for charitable purposes both to the community and Lions charities, Mr Watkins said.
One big donation was $30,000 to the Heart Kids Trust.
“Early projects included donating a four-wheel drive fire truck to the local Volunteer Fire Brigade, support and running of the local cancer drivers and 10 years of the Orongorongo Mountain Bike Classic, with proceeds from this and other events going to a number of causes, including Ronald McDonald House where we have a written mention of our donation.
“More recently a double barbeque was donated to the community (in Queen Street) and we have had big fundraisers such as the book fair and multiple raffles, not to forget the Wendy House built by Pete Fellows,” Mr Watkins said.
“As we look to the future, let us recommit to our values – service, friendship and hope – and welcome new members, ideas and opportunities to make a difference.”
Lions District Governor Leon Downes congratulating the Wainuiomata Lions on their 60th anniversary. Photo: Frank Neill.
(Right)Lions Club of Wainuiomata President Neil Watkins addressing the club’s 60th anniversary celebration.
Photo: Frank Neill.
Local facing a huge battle
By Frank Neill
Wainuiomata resident Jo Bull is facing the fight of her life.
Jo has been diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer and despite intensive treatment the cancer has spread to her bones.
She and her family were recently told that her condition is now incurable, with an average prognosis of 18 months.
There is hope, however.
That comes in the form of a new medication, Trodelvy, which could help prolong Jo’s life. Trodelvy is not funded by Pharmac in New Zealand.
That is in marked contrast to Australia, the United States and the United Kingdom, where it is funded.
The cost of Trodelvy is huge – around $13,000 a month for 12 months. That comes to a total cost of $156,000.
In a bid to make the treatment possible for Jo a group of her friends have formed a fundraising team.
The group has set up a Givealittle page for Jo to help raise funds.
The page is at givealittle.co.nz/cause/helpjo-create-more-time-with-her-son.
They are also looking to run fundraising events in Wainuiomata, including:
• a community family fun day, including a petting zoo, market and food stalls;
• a quiz night; and
• a bingo night.
In addition, the team has contacted many local and national businesses seeking support.
“We need people to attend our events and/ or donate to our Givealittle page, so that we can raise as much money as possible and Jo can get the help she so desperately needs and deserves,” says fundraising team member Renee Wilson.
The fundraising team has also started a petition to have Trodelvy funded on Parliament’s petitions website.
“We need to people to sign the petition, so that we can push the government to fund medications that are widely available elsewhere, but not in New Zealand,” Renee says.
“We need people to know that there are drugs available that help Cancer patients to save or extend their lives, drugs that are not funded in New Zealand.”
Jo is only 43, and “has so much more life to live — especially for her precious three-yearold son, Russell, her loving husband Joel and her four wonderful stepchildren.
“Jo is one of the most selfless, caring people you could meet.
“She has spent her whole life helping and looking after others.
“We’re asking for your support to help Jo access this medication, so she can spend more time being the mum, wife and friend she loves to be.
“Every single day counts.
“Jo’s greatest wish is to see her little boy grow, make memories, and know his mum’s love for as long as possible,” Renee says.
Meet candidates
Wainuiomata Grey Power is hosting a Meet the Candidates event on Wednesday 27 August.
The meeting will be held at the Wainuiomata Bowling Club at 1A Moohan Street starting promptly at 1.30pm.
This meeting is open to the public and Grey Power warmly welcomes any visitors.
Historic landmark
made a National
of Aotearoa New Zealand.
“Receiving this recognition for our country’s National War Memorial is incredibly significant, and it is only the second place in New Zealand to receive Landmark status,” says the Secretary for Culture and Heritage Leauanae Laulu Mac Leauanae.
“The National War Memorial is central to Pukeahu and the story of Aotearoa New Zealand.”
Chris Bishop
MP for Hutt South
Please contact my Wainuiomata office, my staff and I are here to help.
Phone
Jo Bull, who is facing the fight of her life, and her son Russell. Photo: Supplied.
Authorised by Chris Bishop, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.
The National War Memorial at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park has been
Historic Landmark
Brady Dyer launches Mayoral campaign
Brady Dyer held a “festive, familyfriendly” official launch of his campaign to be elected Lower Hutt’s Mayor at The Crooked Elm on 17 August.
Mr Dyer says he's been overwhelmed by the support so far from his “orange army” and, with 55 days to go until election day, he is feeling excited and energised for the next phase of the campaign.
“I’m standing to be Mayor of Lower Hutt because I genuinely love this city,” he says.
“I’ve lived here, built businesses here, raised a family here and served on council for six years.
“My background means I know
TRADES
what’s working and where and how we can do better.
“We are a city with enormous potential but unlocking it requires leadership that is bold, experienced, able to bring people together and relentlessly focused on outcomes that matter,” he says.
Mr Dyer’s campaign is based on three clear pillars: Do the basics better, boost Hutt businesses and build stronger communities.
“My vision for Lower Hutt and the incredible future we can build isn’t just nice rhetoric.
“I have a 30-point plan that serves as a road map for a Lower Hutt that’s smarter, stronger and more inclusive
– all while keeping rates affordable,” he says.
The plan includes initiatives that will see Council deliver great core services, better prioritise spending and get the fundamentals right so Lower Hutt runs better for everyone.
Mr Dyer will also make sure the Council backs local industries and supports innovation that creates jobs, so Lower Hutt continues proudly punching well above its weight.
The 30-point plan also focuses on supporting projects that create and celebrate vibrant, connected communities and ensuring people are part of every decision.
Mr Dyer admits the plan is ambitious.
“But under my leadership, I know it can all be achieved.
“I have a track record of working tirelessly for this city. And I know how to bring a team together to actually get things done,” he says.
During the event Mr Dyer thanked his family, campaign team and volunteer army for all their work so far – and all the mahi to come.
“We have a chance to build a city that embraces innovation, where people and business flourish and everyone feels like they belong.
“I'm looking forward to cranking this campaign up a gear and doing this together.”
At the launch of Brady Dyer’s Mayoral campaign. Photo: Supplied.
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Reserves win promotion
By Ryan Imray
For the first time in a couple of weeks the sun was out and all Football was good to go last weekend.
While the sun was out, it was a gloomy afternoon in terms of the mood at Richard Prouse Park as the Capital Premier side had a day to forget.
A 5-1 defeat to the Wellington Phoenix Academy caused a speed bump in terms of the team’s end goal, which is to qualify for the play offs to gain promotion into the Central League for 2026.
Promotion is still in the team’s hands, though, and they could seal that play off spot in their last home game of the season on Saturday 23 August against Victoria University.
The club was finally able to acknowledge first team captain Baxter King making his 100th first team appearance after the Capital Premier game.
He was presented with a trophy and specially designed poster to remember the milestone occasion.
Over in Johnsonville, the Wainuiomata Reserves were in a celebratory mood as a Lachlan Harris hat trick not only gave the Wainuiomata side a 3-1 win but secured them promotion into the Capital 2 division for 2026.
This is an incredible achievement for coach Scott Mcleod, manager Dean Brown and the whole squad whose goal for this season was to gain promotion.
In other games across the weekend, the Thirds had to sadly default their game against Miramar which resulted in a 3-0 defeat.
Halfbaked Roundballs travelled to Stokes Valley and each side left with a point as the game finished 2-2.
Pasifika Originals had a narrow 2-1 defeat to Stop Out while Pasifika Old Boys defeated Wellington Marist 3-1.
The OCs travelled to Naenae for their Masters 6 Cup clash and the Wainui side made it a worthwhile trip.
Goals to Ben Rogers, Brendan Whyman and Troy Wood gave the OCs a 3-1 win with stand-in goalkeeper Richard Armstrong putting on a goalkeeping performance for
Five Ulalei teams make Grand Final
Ulalei will again have the biggest representation across all of the clubs at the Netball Hutt Valley Finals Day with Aute, Mālili, Puālulu, Moso’oi and Fuesina deservedly taking their place in the Grand Final.
Ulalei Mālili struck again, beating favourites Petone Panthers for the second week in a row with a 53-50 victory.
"There were stand out performances from Co-Captain Bailee Potangaria with her accurate shooting and bombs into Lanna Melesala who was able to bring those passes in with ease,” Coach Eleanor McLeod says.
“Crucial tips and rebounds from Natalie MacDonald and Co-Captain Ria AberdeinTapua’i and strong defence from Spirit Te Moana.
“Mālili have all the potential and I am so pleased for us all that our season is finishing this way, in the finals," Lanna says.
Ulalei Fuesina caused another upset,
tipping over the Petone Panthers in a heart stopper, both teams going goal for goal for much of the game. The young guns used their speed and skills to hold out for a 26-22 win.
It was just another day in the office for Moso’oi, charging into the Senior 4 Grand Final when they dispatched High School Old Girls 45-24
Ulalei Puālulu had to come from behind to clinch their victory over Te Aroha 38-30, avenging their one point loss two weeks earlier and booking themselves a Grand Final spot in the Senior 3 Final.
Ulalei Aute had already booked in for the Premier 1 Grand Final before last weekend’s round of matches.
It was a heart breaking loss for Ulalei Laga’ali, leaving their run too late to claw back an eight point deficit to come despairingly close going down 39-36 to Resene. Puataunofo went to extra time against
the ages.
The Women’s side travelled to Island Bay and they extended their unbeaten run to three games as Bailey Te Maipi’s goal helped the side to a 1-1 draw.
On Sunday five goals to Braydon Gelderblom helped the Under 17’s to get one hand on the league title with a convincing 12-1 win over Seatoun. The side could get both hands on the trophy next week should Petone beat second place Island Bay while the Wainui side have a bye. If that does not happen, Wainui could seal it themselves on the final day a week later as they travel to Wellington College to face Wellington United.
Naenae Collegians United in a real nailbiter going down 64-62.
Laga’ali and Puataunofo are now on cheerleader duties gearing up to bring the mauri and warm up the crowd as Ulalei seek five championships.
People can go to Walter Nash Stadium this Saturday to support Ulalei, with the following teams featuring in a grand final: 9am Fuesina, 10.30am Puālulu and Moso’oi, 12pm Mālili and the big one, the Premier 1 final featuring Ulalei Aute at 2.30pm.
Braydon Gelderblom scores his rst of ve goals in the Under 17’s 12-1 win over Seatoun. Baxter King (left) being presented with his 100th appearance trophy by club president David Meiklejohn. Photo: Imray’s Snaps.
Ulalei Mālili who earned their place in the Premier 3 Grand Final with an upset win over Petone Panthers. Photo: Supplied.
Playcentre open week
Playcentres across the country have opened their doors to families with children from birth to school age during Playcentre Open Week, which began on Monday 18 August and runs to 22 August.
There are two Playcentres in the valley. The Wainuiomata Playcentre is at Fernlea School, 25A Lees Grove, and the Wood Hatton Playcentre is at 64 Wood Street. To arrange a visit go to www.playcentre.org.nz.
This year’s theme, “Early childhood education where whānau play, learn and grow together,” celebrates the unique Playcentre philosophy that affirms parents as the first and best educators for their children.
“Open Week is a chance for whānau to visit their local centre and experience the unique
Playcentre approach to early learning,” says Nepia Winiata, Chief Executive of Playcentre Aotearoa. “We encourage families to attend alongside their children, supporting learning through play while connecting with others in their community.” Playcentre offers licensed early childhood education at nearly 400 centres nationwide. In addition, Playcentre provides a free NZQA-accredited adult education programme for parents and caregivers, supporting their understanding of child development and strengthening their role as first educators. Each centre provides three visits before enrolment, offering a nurturing space for self-directed play and respectful relationships where children can explore sand and water play, arts and music, outdoor adventures, messy play and more.
Parking metres going cashless
Ongoing theft and vandalism has resulted in Hutt City Council converting all remaining coin parking meters to accept card payments only.
Since the start of 2025 30 parking meters have been intentionally damaged or destroyed.
The Council is working with Police and the Safe City team to respond to the vandalism and thefts and is asking local businesses to share any CCTV footage that may help with investigations.
Thieves stole $2,975 from the parking metres they vandalised.
Replacing just one vandalised meter costs $2,500 to $7,000 and Hutt City Council has spent $114,000 replacing vandalised meters so far this year.
"These crimes are completely pointless," says Justin Roberts, Head of Environmental Protection at Hutt City Council.
"The damage done far outweighs the small
amount of cash stolen per meter.
“It’s ratepayers who end up footing the bill, and the result is frustration for drivers and added pressure on businesses."
On 17 August around 96 of Council’s 181 parking meters across Lower Hutt still accepted cash. While this was originally done to suit all payment preferences, the ongoing vandalism means that cash payment is no longer practical. As meters have been vandalised, they have been replaced with cashless meters, but Council will now move to proactively block off coin payments at all meters to prevent further vandalism.
Conversion to card-only payments began on Monday 18 August and is expected to be completed within two weeks.
"Most people are very comfortable with using a card at meters or paying via the PayMyPark app, but we understand this change will be an adjustment for some people," Justin says.
Final meeting of current Community Board
By Frank Neill
The Wainuiomata Community Board will hold its last meeting of the current triennium this evening, 20 August.
The meeting will be held at the Wainuiomata Library and will start at 6:30pm.
This will be the final meeting for three of the six elected community board members.
Leah Clark, Tamsyn Harker and Gary Sue are not seeking re-election.
Although she is not seeking re-election as a community board member, the board’s current Chair, Te Awa Puketapu will continue as one of the two nominated members.
The two nominated members of the community board are the Wainuiomata General Ward Councillor and the Mana Kairangi ki Tai Māori Ward Councillor.
Both Ms Puketapu as the Mana Kairangi ki Tai Māori Ward Councillor and Cr Keri Brown as the Wainuiomata Ward Councillor have been re-elected unopposed as Hutt City Councillors and will have seats on the new board.
The other six members will be elected in the upcoming local body elections, and 11 people are standing. Lower Hutt Mayor Campbell Barry will address the final meeting of the board, in what will be his last presentation to the board as he is not seeking re-election as Mayor. Wellington Regional Councillor Quentin Duthie is also scheduled to make a presentation, as he has done at community board meetings throughout the triennium.
A positive outcome to a matter raised during the public comment at the last community
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board meeting on 11 June has been reported to the board.
Rosie Goss made a plea for consistent enforcement of the P120 time limits outside the Neighbourhood Hub.
She said she had heard that parking wardens were instructed to ignore parking violations on Wednesdays due to a particular event at the hub.
She believed that the inconsistency limited access to parking for other users.
The Head of Transport agreed to refer the matter to Council’s parking enforcement team and ask that they report back to the Board.
At the Board’s meeting on 11 June officers agreed to report back on a matter raised under public comment regarding inconsistently applied parking enforcement at the Wainuiomata Community Hub, Hutt City Council’s Democrary Advisor Judy Randall says in her report to the board.
“A response from officers is as follows:
“’Thank you for raising concerns around potential parking enforcement inconsistencies connected to a Wednesday programme at the Wainuiomata Hub.
“’As of 12 June 2025, the newly appointed Parking Manager has written to the Senior Host at the hub, confirming the need for consistency in parking monitoring and enforcement at the hub.
“’Parking Services have confirmed that participants of the programme are required to shift their vehicles every 120 minutes when parked in the P120 car parking spaces, or they should use longer term parking on nearby Queen Street.’”
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