Thursday November 20, 2025
By Frank Neill
Onslow College celebrated the 2025 success of its students at its P Whakanui (Celebration of Success) on 13 November.
The evening featured a series of outstanding musical performances, along with the presentation of a series of awards.
Continued on page 2.
Maggie Elder plays the Clarinet during her outstanding performance at Onslow College’s Celebration of Success.
Frank Neill.
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Continued from page 1.
Unlike other secondary schools in New Zealand, Onslow College does not have a prizegiving.
Nor does it name a dux or a proxime accessit.
Instead, Onslow College rewards a great many of its students for their achievements.
The P Whakanui “is about celebrating the extraordinary achievements of our students,” the college’s Tumuaki-Principal Jono Wyeth said in his speech.
“When you look at the sheer range of awards we’re presenting – from academic honours and cultural accolades to service and leadership – it’s clear that success at Onslow College isn’t just one thing. It’s many different things.”
Every musician or band “evolves through different iterations or versions of themselves and this is reflected in their music.
“Looking out at our award winners tonight I see the same thing.
“You are all your own incredible versions of yourself.
“We have scientists, artists, leaders and activitists.
“Each one of our nominees and award winners this evening are distinct, diverse and powerful.
“Tonight we’re not just celebrating what our students have done, we’re celebrating who they are and the values that guide them on their journey,” Jono said.
“We see pursuing growth in our academic award winners.
“These students have shown incredible determination.
“They understand what author Malcolm Gladwel wrote about in his book “Outliers”. He writes that mastery isn’t born, it’s built – through thousands of hours of deliberate practice.
“Our academic winners have put in those hours. Their success is a product of focused, relentless effort.
“We see Manaakitanga and Whanaungatanga shining through in our service and cultural leaders.
“They are the heart of our community.
“They organise events, lead clubs and make sure everyone feels like they belong.
“They are living proof of what researcher Brené Brown discovered – that connection is the very purpose and meaning of our lives.
“These students don’t just build projects, they build bridges between people.
“They lift others up and, in doing so, they strengthen us all.
“We see a deep commitment to valuing diversity in our artists, our musicians, our debaters and our performers.
“They bring our school to life with colour, sound and challenging ideas.
“They remind us that our strength comes from our differences and that a community where everyone can be their authentic self is a community that thrives.
“And finally we see kaitiakitanga in the actions of our students leaders and environmental champions.
“They are our guardians – of our school’s culture, our environment and our future.
“They remind me of the path taken by the likes of Bill Gates who, after achieving incredible
success with Microsoft, dedicated his life and resources to tackling some of the world’s biggest problems through philanthrophy.
Continued on page 4.
By Frank Neill
I recently hosted a meeting which included local property developers and representatives from the City and Regional Councils. The background for the meeting was the need to ensure all people involved in providing more housing in our electorate, whether it be those building them or those regulating and permitting that building, understand the issues which govern the ability to build the houses everyone agrees we need.
There is considerable angst and concern in the electorate about access to healthcare among constituents I speak with currently. Understandably, when Wellington has the highest average GP visit cost in the country.
Too many people who can’t afford to go to the doctor end up in emergency care when conditions which could have been dealt with earlier by doctors deteriorate, resulting in much more expensive hospital admissions.
There are essentially two types of development; greenfields and brownfields. Greenfields means building on currently undeveloped land, typically ex farmland on the edges of current urban areas, where infrastructure like sewers, water supply and other essential services don’t exist are usually built by the developer.
Brownfields development means rebuilding on existing sites, and there has been considerable discussion in recent times around how much intensification should be allowed in existing suburbs, especially changing of height limits to allow for more apartments.
Both have their advantages and disadvantages; the Regional Council in particular see their role to prevent more
What makes more sense is to ensure people can get free access to their doctor and keep most of them out of emergency wards and ultimately hospital. Paying for this initiative with a limited Capital Gains Tax also makes considerable sense. Heath and adequate housing are the basis of people’s needs,
up there with food and safety.
Getting people to get to their doctors first when they start to get crook will do more for their health than anything. Three free visits a year will facilitate this.
runoff and other material ending up in our harbours, especially the Porirua harbour in the case of development north of Johnsonville and Newlands. The Wellington City Council are concerned that the existing infrastructure cannot handle the pressure it comes under when new housing areas are developed. Existing infrastructure is aging and needs upgrading across our city, as evidenced by recent pipe failures. An advantage of intensification of existing areas means more people, therefore more ratepayers to pay for those upgrades.
Finally, a survey done by a market research firm this month showed my profile is the highest of any MPs in Wellington, and across all ages and genders.
Developers of course need to make a profit, and wish to keep their compliance costs as low as possible. Many believe the Resource Management Act is too cumbersome. We as government for our part have undertaken to rewrite that act.
I was humbled by this result, and it reminded me how grateful I was for the support of Ōhāriu voters during the last election.
The feedback was good, but the success will be when there are sufficient affordable houses to meetdemand. That is certainly my goal as your MP.
That, and of course having a vibrant and functioning Johnsonville Shopping Centre we can all be proud of.
There’s plenty to be getting on with.
Although the Ōhāriu electorate will disappear and be carved up into three new electorates at the next election, I will be available for MP duties until then and will continue to enjoy the interactions with the great folk of Ōhāriu.
Receiving a donated kidney “has been an amazing blessing,” says Karori resident Faá Feliuai.
Faá was speaking to the “Independent Herald” in the lead up to Organ Donation New Zealand’s “Thank You Day”, which is tomorrow, 21 November.
“A donor and their wh nau gave me life,” she says.
“It was awesome. It was so good.”
Faá received the phone call letting her know there was a donor on 30 July this year, and went straight into hospital the next morning, receiving her new kidney on 31 July.
The donor’s “selfless act gave me the chance to heal, to dream again and to be present with those I love,” Faá says.
“I carry their legacy with deep gratitude and a sense of purpose.
“It’s just been an amazing blessing in my life, my partner’s life and my family’s life actually.
“It’s so great.
“I can go out now any time I want and I don’t have to rush home to do my dialysis,” she says.
Before receiving the new kidney, Faá had beeen on dialysis for nine years.
That was due to having complications resulting from “out of control diabetes and just being in denial when I was younger,” she says.
“Being part of Thank You Day is more than just sharing my story, it’s about honouring
Faá Feliuai. Photo: Supplied.
those who gave, celebrating those who received, and inspiring others to consider the life-changing power of organ donation.
“It’s a chance to celebrate life, to acknowledge the courage of donor families, and to remind everyone that one act of kindness can change everything.”
Faá adds that she is very grateful for the backing given by her employer, Kupega o Moana.
“I had great support from work, because I was off for about six months,” Faá says.
Long-time Northland resident Fiona Knight has received the highest honour that the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) in New Zealand can bestow –. the Sir Bob Owens Memorial Award.
This award recognises a person who has contributed to the transport and logistics sector in an exceptional way over a sustained period of time and shown a commitment to supporting the careers of others and volunteeringwithin the community.
Fiona Knight has been a cornerstone of CILT in New Zealand for more than three decades.
She is not just a long-time member, however. She has been a Fellow since 1997, was the first woman to chair the New Zealand Section, and was a driving force behind the annual awards for more than 15 years.
Fiona’s leadership has shaped the organisation, but it’s her warmth, energy, and generosity that have truly made a difference.
Fiona’s career is packed with achievements. She has managed major policy reforms in shipping and land transport, advised government agencies and represented New Zealand at numerous international transport conferences.
She has chaired committees focused on road management and led the National Stock Effluent Working Group, showing her commitment to practical improvements in the industry.
Fiona served as Vice-President for Australasia for CILT International for five years, attending Zoom or Teams meetings that concluded at 2am New Zealand time to discuss the direction and management of an organisation active in more than 40 countries.
What really stands out is Fiona’s dedication to people.
She has mentored and coached countless young professionals, helping them find their feet in logistics and transport.
Colleagues describe Fiona as loyal, hardworking and always positive.
She is the person who encouraged teams to put themselves forward for awards, who pulled together judging panels and who did the behind-the-scenes work to make
everything run smoothly.
Taking over her role in managing these awards, others have realised just how much she did, often without fanfare.
“Fiona’s commitment, generosity and passion for CILT and the wider industry are
hard to match,” her award citation says.
“Recognising Fiona with the Sir Bob Owens Memorial Award is not just fitting, it’s a celebration of everything she has done to support, inspire and sustain the logistics and transport community in New Zealand.”
The Rotary Club of Karori is looking for people who are interested in attending the next RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards).
This is a programme for 18 to 24 year olds aimed at enhancing leadership skills and potential.
It is being hosted in the Wairarapa from 14 to 18 January 2026 at St Matthews College, Masterton.
The programme will be co-ordinated by the Rotary Club of Carterton, for Rotary District 9940.
Some of the participants at last year’s RYLA youth leadership course. Photo: Supplied.
Contact David Watt, Rotary Club of Karori, dwatt@xtra.co.nz or mobile 027 2466 339 for more details for the selection purposes.
Rotary will pay the full cost of attendance on this leadership course.
Local athletes joined the Law Enforcement Torch Run, carrying the Flame of Hope on its march to Parliament on 15 November.
The Flame of Hope was lit in Christchurch on September 1 and is taken around the country in collaboration with the New Zealand Police to get local communities excited about the country’s largest inclusive sports event – the Special Olympics Summer Games.
More than 1,200 Special Olympics athletes will compete in the games, being held in Christchurch from 10 to 14 December.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the traditional lead-in event for every National Summer Games event around the world, where local police officers and local athletes carry the Flame of Hope through their cities to allow the community to show their support.
The Torch Run was met at Parliament by the Associate Minister for Sport and Recreation, Chris Bishop.
Continued from page 2.
“He once said: ‘As we look ahead into the next century, leaders will be those who empower others”.
“Our students are already embracing that idea, taking on the responsibility to protect what we value and empower those around them.
“So to all our nominees and award winners tonight, your names are up on the screen, your certificates and awards are symbols.
“They are symbols of your talent and hard work, yes. But, more importantly, they are symbols of the values you have woven into the fabric of your character,” Jono said.
Six performances were presented during the evening, beginning with Kapa Haka: Te Wh nau o Tarik ka.
Archie Houston played This is my Life on keyboard and Maia Thompson and Tuia Reedy sang the award winning song they wrote, Mahuika.
Mustang, comprising Simone Tabili, Tilly Mainwaring and Jennah Mexted were next, followed by Maggie Elder playing Summertime on the clarinet.
The final performance of the evening was
I Put a Spell on You by Ng Waipahihi and Big Band.
Three major awards presented at the P Whakanui are the Onslow College Spirit Award, the Innovative, Creative and Critical Thinker Award and the Leadership Award.
Year 13 student Melina Hogg was presented the Spirit Award.
“Melina has been heavily involved with leadership, including sitting on the board, and the student council K k Tangi Haeata as well as across schools student leadership where she organised a beach clean up among other events,” her citation says.
“Melina is known as a problem-solver who is committed to supporting others and making sure that others are included in school life.
“She is an intelligent and thoughtful thinker who shows manaakitanga to all those around her.
“She fully embodied the Onslow Values in all areas that she participates in.”
Year 10 student Muhammad Sayan Abbasi was presented the Innovative, Creative and Critical Thinker Award.
“Zayan was judged first in Class 4 at the NIWA Regional Science Fair for his project ‘Pipe Patrol: The Robotic Saviour Below’,
wherein he developed an operational pipe inspection robot so that industrial workers wouldn’t need to be exposed to lethal chemicals and gases,” his citation says.
“He got first in Year 10 across all Wellington schools, an ikeGPS award which recognised excellence and innovation in precise measurement, and an Engineering NZ Award.”
Year 13 student Jessica Churchman was presented the Leadership Award.
“Jessica has shown leadership in many domains throughout the kura including as part of K k Tangi Haeata where she worked as part of a team to set up the first Te wiki o te K k ,” her citation says.
“She has been a M ori student representative on the school board, a peer supporter for Year 9 to guide those Year 9 students in their first year at Onslow, and even gave up morning teas and lunchtimes earlier this year to help operate our canteen when our former provider closed.
“She is also a leader of Te Wh nau a Tarik k , our kapa haka group.
“Jessica is known for being super supportive in everything she does, particularly helping boost the confidence of those around her.”
The following awards were also presented at the P Whakanui:
Academic group of the year: the year 9 Mathswell team of Mitchell Collier, James Curran, Eli Watson-Black, Lyndey Jiang, Atshaya Narayanan and Shwancheng Zhang, Community Contribution Award: Jacob Hemsley.
Cultural Individual of the Year: Scott Picard.
Cultural Group of the Year: Lilah Jane Abraham, Juliet Boys, Alice Churchman, Jessica Churchman, Tiriti Dalton, Frankie Elliot, Elsa Johnston, Gianni Martin, Dante Mataroa, Kailah Morgan-Conroy, Azariah Paenga, Tukino Paurini, Scott Picard, Tuai Reedy, Karlos Renata, Kian Sharp, Macy Stevens, Maia Thompson, Julian Timmins, Kymaani Waka-Tua, Api Waititi and Cassie Wilson. Te Amokura – Cultural Excellence at Onslow College: Tuia Reedy and Maia Thompson. Te Aupikitanga o te Reo M ori: Ted Henderson, Maia Thompson.
Vocational Pathways Awards: Kobi Harrington (automotives) and Cherike Du Plessis (health and animal health).
Year 9 Values Awards: Manaakitanga Award – Alice Churchman; Kaitiakitanga Award –Faith Cager; Pursuing Growth Award – James Curran; Valuing Diversity Award – Maia Smith; Whanaungatanga Award – Jessie Kirkcaldie.
Year 10 Values Awards: Manaakitanga Award – Kami Paverova; Kaitiakitanga Award – Dan Forster; Valuing Diversity Award –Louis Kelly; Pursuing Growth Award – Moritz Schwind; Whanaungatanga Award – Benjamin Carter-Wills.
Top Academic Awards: Year 11 – Evan Watt, Matthew Power, Luca Lavigne, Sophia Comoletti, Nakita Sharp and Eleanor Shaw; Year 12 – Ezra Shaw, Sarah Lee, Emma van den Eijkhoff, Scout Orange and Ashford Dickson; Year 13 – Jessica Churchman, Ingshwan Zhang, Scarlett Woods, Maia Thompson and Lotta Winkler.
By Frank Neill
Karori photographer Simon Woolf will launch his new book “Wellington Moods” at Marsden Books, 159 Karori Road, on 24 November.
The launch will be at 5:30pm for a 6pm start at the bookshop and people are welcome to attend.
People wanting to attend are asked to ring Marsden Books on 04 476 8066 to let them know.
The first book Simon has published, “Wellington Moods” is 172 pages.
Each page has a photograph or a number of photographs and they depict Wellington in a series of different ways.
“It’s a passion that has been developing for some time to get a book out on Wellington,” Simon says.
“It’s just been a gorgeous experience seeing the city in a different light and being able to record some of its moods.
“I just thrive on the different experiences the city has conjured up for over the last few years.”
Some people have run Wellington down recently, giving views and opinions about the city in a negative way.
“The book showcases Wellington for all the good things it is, including the weather,” Simon says.
“Wellington is a dynamic city as far as weather patterns are concerned.
“The weather can be that absolute entertainment package if you allow it to be,” he says.
All the photographs in “Wellington Moods” are black and white.
“Now we are working on a colour book,” Simon says and the new book will come out next year.
Not only does the book showcase Wellington, all its production has taken place in the capital. It is self published, the design is by young Wellington designer Eden Woodrow and the printing is by Wellington firm Milne Print.
Simon will be talking about the new book at the 24 November launch.
By Frank Neill
Ngaio artist Sarah Laidler is among the five artists featuring in an upcoming exhibition “Earth Wind and Sea”.
The exhibtion will open at the Thistle Hall Gallery in Cuba Street, Wellington, on 2 December and will run to 7 December.
The five artists will bring together their works to share their love for nature.
Sarah paints in oil, and works with clay and glass.
Her sculpture, vessels and paintings all express the many atmospheres of nature.
Sarah grew up surrounded by the native bush of Wainuiomata and “had the privilege of learning how restorative nature is from a young age – whether looking at it, being in it, or creating with it,” she says.
This will be her first exhibition, “so
it’s a bit like standing naked in front of the whole community,” she says.
“I’m a bit obssessed with it at the moment. It’s all I can think about,” she says, adding that there is “a lot of work to do” before the exhibition opens.
All five artists are connected through The Learning Connexion in Taita, Lower Hutt.
Pax MacKenzie needs to feel a physical connection to the natural environment. This is why she draws
Sarah Laidler’s ceramics that will feature in the upcoming “Earth Wind and Sea” exhibition. Photo: Supplied.
it, in her illustrative style, and makes small ceramic pieces inspired by it, to be worn close to the heart.
Kirsty Glasgow is a sustainable artist making sculptural pieces from found and recycled materials. Some of her most stunning pieces are made from natural beach-flotsam fibres.
Yorka is drawn to organic and abstract forms that evolve through touch, repetition, and response. She allows material to reveal their own language, celebrating irregularity, texture and transformation. The resulting pieces are abstract, organic, and tactile – bridging nature and process.
Dan Wilkinson’s work explores the physical and spiritual
energy of the land.
“Te Whanganui a Tara is like no other part of the country: an urban suburbia threaded with bush and native species, rugged and remote coastlines and hills, rural communities connected by roads that run beside rivers,” the artists say.
“We hope this exhibition will encourage people to reflect on their own connections with nature.
“Within the range of mediums and approaches towards the same topic, we hope people will find something that resonates with them – and perhaps be inspired to think about how they’ve been shaped by the natural world, and how they might like to express that.”
As the temperatures climb, our feet have to adapt to summer shoes and activities. Sandals offer a chance for the feet to breathe and stay cool. The best sandals are ones that have a strap or closed heel to help provide support to the foot. It
is important to clean sandals occasionally to prevent problems such as tinea or athlete’s foot.
Self-care in summer should also include using heel balm to keep the heels from drying out and cracking. Podiatrists help in maintain-
ing summer feet by trimming off the buildup and helping to prevent these heel cracks forming, known as fissures.
At Active Feet Podiatry we are here to assist and advise you to have pain free and attractive feet. Call for an appointment and start the new year with a spring in your step.
Active Feet Podiatry can be reached on (04) 473 8696. ActiveFeetPodiatry. com
Skylight Specialists have been specialising in skylights for 25+ years. We have yet to come across a brand/make/type or configuration of skylight that we do not know everything about.
Skylight Specialists is LBP (Government approved licensed building and roofing practitioners) , with 30+ years in the building industry and employ a highly skilled team which consists of trade qualified glaziers, roofers and builders.
When we come and assess your skylight/s we will provide you with a free, no
obligation quotation. We will also provide you with a detailed report including photos that will include our findings and recommendations whether it be for general maintenance, repairs or replacement. At this time of year everyone is concerned about insulation of their homes, trying to keep warm and retain heat. Unfortunately, skylights are often overlooked, even when they can be sometimes the main factor of heat loss. Older skylights are sometimes full-time venting without the homeowner even being aware of this, which is no
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
are what connects the skylight to your roof and keeps all watertight). This will cover if you have adequate condensation channels, drainage, seals, condition of flashings, thermal properties and of course longevity of the skylight/s and the surrounding areas.
So if you’d like to add A LOT more light into your home and want the job done well, contact them on 0800 85 86 87, 04 938 0721 or 027 595 4448.
“We are tradespeople not sales people”
The latest New Zealand Health Survey confirms a significant decline in the number of smokers over the past decade. The 2024/25 survey has found 6.8% of adults were daily smokers, a similar rate to the previous year (6.9%), but down survey.
Data collection for the 2024/25 Health Survey was completed between July 2024 and July 2025.
smoked daily. The number of daily smokers
Zealand now has around 278,000 fewer daily smokers. The latest data also highlights the decline children were exposed to second-hand smoke inside the home in 2024/25, down
Youth smoking rates have declined over time. The daily smoking rate for young
In 2024/25, the prevalence of daily vaping
Prostate cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in New Zealand men, and for those living with advanced or metastatic disease, the journey can be complex, overwhelming, and
navigate the realities of advanced prostate cancer, the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand (PCFNZ) is hosting a free Patient Information Evening with Medical Oncologist Anne O’Donnell.
The event will explore the latest developments in treatment, side-effect management, and supportive care. It will also visit the growing issue of treatment access, with several effective therapies for advanced disease currently available only in the private system — adding substantial financial pressure to men and families already coping with cancer.
This session is designed for anyone affected by advanced prostate cancer: men living with the disease, partners, family members, carers, and health professionals seeking up-to-date insights. There will be opportunities to ask questions, gather resources, and connect with others who understand the journey.
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand has supported men and families
for more than 25 years. The Foundation provides free services nationwide, including peer-led support network, a toll-free nurse-led information service, exercise programmes such as Prost-FIT and the home-based PCPEP (Prostate Cancer Patient Empowerment Programme). In addition to hardship grants PCFNZ also invests in research and advocates for improved access to medicines, equity in care, and early detection initiatives that save lives. Join us at The Oaks, 89 Courtenay Place at 7pm Thursday 20th November, and empower yourself with the knowledge, tools, and support to navigate advanced
As an example of Acorn’s commitment to excellence and safety, they are proud that 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.
features as the
All Acorn Stairlifts are easy to use, easy to maintain, and all feature the very best in design, engineering and safety. The Acorn
features built to keep you safe and provide a smooth ride around the curves of your stairs. 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 to keep you safe and provide a smooth ride around the curves of your stairs.
Hand Therapists use splinting, casting and taping to support and protect injured hands, wrists and elbows.
should do and what you should avoid to get back to your normal tasks as quick as possible.
Exercises are used to regain range of motion, improve strength and reduce sensitivity. Hands on treatment and education help you know what you’ve injured, what you
Let us help you get back to doing what you love after injury to your hand, www.handwristandelbow.co.nz
Diet plays a huge role in our health with foods that offer specific health
Book online or call our reception team to make an appointment
Alison
Cherryvite’s Montmorency tart cherries is one such food.
As one of nature’s richest sources of your body’s free radicals, and support heart health and joint mobility, reduce stress and enable a better night’s sleep. Montmorency tart cherries are warmed and pressed to remove the cherry juice. Cherry juice is concentrated to 68° Brix by removing water. Cherryvite products contain no additives, preservatives or colouring
Tart cherry juice concentrate can be reconstituted into a single-strength beverage.
Just a short drive from Wellington, Summerset Boulcott is a vibrant retirement village located in the sought-after suburb of Boulcott, in the heart of Lower Hutt. The village offers beautifully appointed villas, apartments, serviced apartments, and a range of care and specialist dementia care living options.^ The village centre features resort-style facilities and a resident bar with picturesque views over the golf course.
Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding valley and lush greens, while being close to supermarkets, medical centres, shopping centres, golf course, Hutt River walkway, and convenient motorway access to Wellington and the Kāpiti Coast.
There are a range of brand-new one and two-bedroom independent apartments available, with two-bedroom apartments starting from $751,000.*
Come along to our Open Weekend, Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 November and see why our residents love the Summerset life.
Love the life you choose.
Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 November 10am - 2pm
Summerset Boulcott
1a Boulcott Street, Lower Hutt 04 568 1442 | summerset.co.nz/boulcott
Diarrhoea and vomiting are not diseases themselves but are symptoms that can have many possible causes.
When either diarrhoea or vomiting occurs then the body can lose a lot of fluid and become dehydrated. It is very important to get fluid replacement and become rehydrated again.
There are a number of different reasons for diarrhoea and vomiting to occur.
One very common cause is a gut infection (‘gastro’) from either viruses (e.g.: noravirus), bacteria (e.g.: salmonella), or parasites (e.g.: giardia) from contaminated food or water.
Leaving food out of the fridge, possibly, is a common cause for food going ‘off’ due to contamination. In many cases, the ‘gastro’ is only a short-term inconvenience and the diarrhoea and vomiting tend to go away within a few days.
However if the symptoms go on for longer, then a visit to the doctor is advisable. Vomiting and diarrhoea causes the loss of body fluids and important electrolytes (salts), and if it goes on for a longer period of time can result in dehydration.
Babies under 12 months of age are particularly prone to diarrhoea and vomiting from contaminated food and drink and they can become dehydrated very quickly- for example the bottle of formula milk left out of the fridge.
“Look out”, caution Self Care pharmacists, “for the danger signs of dehydration - dry mouth, tongue and lips, reduced skin elasticity, sunken eyes and cheeks, weakness, little urination.
Children this young need to see a doctor if the symptoms continue for longer than 3 hours (for vomiting) and 24 hours (for diarrhoea).”
The best treatment for ‘gastro’ symptoms is drinking plenty of fluids such as oral rehydration solutions. These contain the right amounts of electrolytes, glucose and water to replace lost nutrients.
“A range of replacement fluids products are available from our pharmacies” advise Self Care pharmacists “and we can provide you with a copy of the Diarrhoea and Vomiting fact card that has helpful advice.”
Begin fluid replacement as soon as diarrhoea starts and give small amounts of fluid often as large amounts may not be kept down.
Babies and children should be given a teaspoon of fluid every minute and adults should take a quarter of a cup every 15 minutes. It is best to avoid undiluted sugary drinks as their high sugar content can make diarrhoea worse.
Light foods such as dry biscuits, cooked mashed vegetables (e.g. plain potato) dry white toast, boiled rice and clear soup are suggested if hungry and then slowly get back to eating normal meals.
For a few days avoid raw vegetables and fruit, wholemeal bread, fried or spicy food and milk products such as cheese and yoghurt.
Here are some simple food handling and cooking tips, and general hygiene measures to help prevent getting a ‘gastro’ bug or passing it on to others.
Wash hands in hot soapy water and dry them well after going to the toilet, after changing babies’ nappies, and before
touching food and preparing meals; have clean utensils and chopping boards; defrost meats thoroughly in the fridge and not out on the bench; keep raw foods in the fridge separated from cooked and ready-to-eat foods; refrigerate all foods until ready to use; use chilly bins with frozen pads inside to keep food cool, and keep them out of the sun; cook meats, especially chicken and other poultry, until the juices run clear and the flesh is no longer pink; cover hot food while cooling, and leave it to cool no longer than 30 minutes before putting in the refrigerator; reheat leftovers until they are steaming hot and only reheat once.
For more information on preventing and treating ‘gastro’-related diarrhoea and vomiting, come and see your Self Care pharmacist. and ask for a copy of the “Diarrhoea and Vomiting” Self Care fact card,. Also visit www.foodsmart.govt.nz for additional food safety and handling advice.
If you haven’t been to the Johnsonville Club before it’s in the heart of Johnsonville at 1 Norman Lane, across the road from Subway and up the driveway which gives us beautiful views over Johnsonville.
We have parking but are also close enough to taxis, buses, and the train for a worry-free way home.
Vista Café & Bistro aims for affordable, family friendly, delicious meals with a range of dining to suit everyone.
Locals regard the Innkeeper as an ambient and friendly pub setting, where the staff are eager to learn your name, and prepare your favourite drink from their extensive range!
With summer starting to bring its warmth, now is the time to experience the sunny verandah and summer menu of the Innkeeper!
The restaurant features hand-cut steaks, roast beef, pork belly, mouth-watering burgers, the best fried chicken, and plenty of kids’ meal options.
They specialise in catering for large groups, fundraisers, and birthday parties. Contact them today to organise your next outing!
Enjoy a Guinness, craft beer, or top shelf spirits at a bar leaner or in the lunge-style sitting area.
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CONSIDER DOING BUSINESS WITH THE HERALD’S ADVERTISERS – THEY HELP BRING YOU THE STORIES YOU LOVE TO READ
At Sewing Alterations (part of the Attire for Hire premises in Johnsonville) Judy Liddell can see to your rips, adjustments, darning, lining or whatever might be holding you back from wearing that special item.
Judy is Wellington’s answer to TV’s “Repair Shop” programme! Judy also runs Attire for Hire and is an expert in having you look great for your next big event – whether it’s dresses for the women or suits for the men.
She has a vast array of glamorous dresses and evening-wear from sizes 6-26 including brand new dresses from the United States.
TO
Let us dress you for your next event!
School Formal
Wedding
Work function
Awards ceremony
Party
Sunday Roast: Served 5:00pm–7:00pm the
By Felicity Wong
One of the highlights of the Wellington Heritage Festival was visiting the steam trains at Paekakariki.
For more than 53 years Steam Incorporated has been saving, preserving and restoring steam trains and classic diesel locomotives. It also operates the engines, with appropriate passenger carriages, on the main line railways.
The engines are huge and tower over visitors.
Four enormous jacks are needed to lift an engine.
One of the volunteers said he “used to work on vintage cars but this is next level”. Every piece of each engine is checked annually, with a deeper inspection made every five years and a complete and detailed overhaul given every 10 years.
Despite early setbacks, Steam Incorporated has flourished to become a leader in heritage rail.
It typically has at least two of its steam locomotives in full operational condition.
The Society is largely staffed by volunteers, though is augmented by a small team of part-timers.
Each excursion has between 20 to 50 volunteer staff on board, from engineers to catering and carriage attendants.
In 1972, recalled Peter Norman (President), he read in the local Paekakariki paper about a group of like-minded people who wanted to save the last of the steam locomotives that had just finished service in the South Island and run them on the main line again.
“In the beginning the people at Steam Incorporated were looked upon as troublemakers as we would not take no for an answer, and we could not understand why the old NZR (New Zealand Railways) didn’t want us out running on the main line.
“As time went on and a more enlightened management took over the NZR our chance came to run, and we have never looked back,” wrote Peter in the group’s 50 year anniversary publication.
Derek Brown, an early member, found a big shed at the Hutt Workshops where the locally designed steam trains were originally manufactured.
He paid $20 and the shed was dismantled.
The shed’s iron cladding and roof were sold and the strong heart rimu tresses reassembled at Paekakariki.
The Society did not originally have permission to build the shed but went ahead and “squatted” with the unofficial stewardship of Derek’s father, who worked at NZR Head Office.
The Society had to buy carriages in the late 1970s and restore them for running.
It now has a significant fleet presented in a traditional red colour scheme, totalling 15 operational passenger cars with a capacity for 635 people.
During the Heritage Festival the carriage sheds were open and visitors could climb through them, sink into the generous and luxurious velvety seats and sit at the dining car tables.
One visitor, settled in saying “this is my happy place”.
The society also picked up diesel locomotives which became an important part of the fleet and are used for excursions and for shunting duties at the depot.
Steam Incorporated now owns the land and buildings at the Paekakariki site.
Throughout it’s 50 years of operation it’s taken heritage trains throughout the country. They’ve gone everywhere from charters in the far North to a steam tour to the ‘end of the line’ at Bluff.
Many people from around New Zealand and international visitors have travelled with Steam Incorporated.
One of its heritage steam trains, “Passchendaele”, was still in Picton after taking a cruise ship excursion from a Blenheim winery. Back at the depot, current projects include heavy maintenance and boiler work on Ja 1271; the continued restoration of steam locomotive Ka 945; restoring heritage diesel electric locomotive Da 1471 and servery carriage A 1868.
All the projects are funded mainly by running excursions and charters around the country.
To support the society, take a stream train trip.
To follow their progress and see what excursions are planned visit www.steaminc. org.nz.
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
By Frank Neill
Mitre 10 officially opened its new store in central Wellington on Saturday 15 November.
The new Mitre 10 Wellington Central is located at 133 Tory Street, formerly occupied by The Warehouse.
Mitre 10 New Zealand’s Chief Executive Officer, Andrea Scown, opened the new store – the 85th independently owned local Mitre 10 in New Zealand.
The new complex in the shopping precinct known as “Top of Tory” is on three levels.
The lower level, formerly occupied by Laser Force, will be a trade drive through.
This is the only hardware and building supplies trade drive through in the central Wellington area, one of the new Mitre 10 Wellington Central owners, Brendan Hall says.
“We are hoping that will be a good drawcard.”
The second level will see the massive range of products Mitre 10 offers hardware, DIY and gardening shoppers.
An 85 seat café, along with an interior playground for children, will be located on the top level.
“The café on the top level has beautiful views overlooking Mount Victoria,” Brendan says.
“We have 70 staff employed in Mitre 10 and 20 employed in the café.
“That’s a little under 100 new jobs created for Wellington.”
In opening the new store “we are
showing our confidence in the Wellington market”.
With the Wainuiomata store opening in May and the new expanded Mitre 10 Wellington Central store in November “we continue to open new stores with further network expansion plan to follow in the new year to better serve our customers.,” Brendan says.
Brendan owns the new Mitre 10 Wellington Central along with
The new store will have a new addition next year – an outdoor garden centre.
Mitre 10 is New Zealand’s largest home improvement and garden retailer and trade merchant.
It is not only the largest, but it is also one of New Zealand’s most trusted.
Trust Brand Awards, and is consistently named one of the most trusted brands overall.
Both Nick and Brendan look forward to providing DIY, hardware and garden supplies to the greater Wellington area and becoming an integrated part of the Wellington community.
By Frank Neill
The Karori Residents Association’s (KRA) annual general meeeting will take place next Tuesday, 25 November.
The meeting will take place via Zoom, starting at 7pm.
It will provide residents both information on what the association has achieved over the past year and also what the KRA is working on for 2026.
The guest speaker will be Kieran Williams, who is on the Friends of Karori Cemetery committee.
The Friends are a wholly volunteer–based organisation whose purpose is to support the preservation, protection and enhancement of the heritage, recreational and ecological aspects of the Karori Cemetery; to advise and assist the Wellington City Council in its efforts to achieve this; to promote public interest in the cemetery; and to support and
Due (5)
undertake research into the history of the cemetery and those interred in it.
The Karori Residents Association is a volunteer community group championing the 16,000 Karori residents with the aim of making the suburb a better place.
The Zoom link to join the annual meeting is available at www. karoriassociation.nz/event/karoriresidents-association-agm-2025/.
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Monetary unit of Greece (7)
Foolish (5)
Heavy burden (9)
Drying cloths (3-6)
Trainmen’s car (7)
Small island (5)
Subtle difference in colour (6)
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Nobleman (4)
Tiered structure for spectators (10) 51. Devotees (8)
Stringed instruments (7)
Printing mistakes (6)
By Frank Neill
The Onslow premier cricketers completely dominated their 50 over match against Karori on 15 November, cruising to a seven wicket victory.
Batting first on their home ground of Karori Park, Karori was bowled out for just 73 runs.
Onslow then need only 10 overs and three balls to overtake the very low total, reaching 75 for the loss of three wickets.
Oscar Jackson finished the innings on 26 not out, scored from just 11 deliveries.
Micah Conroy also kept his wicket intact, scoring 21 not out from 13 balls.
Three Onslow bowlers took the 10 wickets to fall. Beck Cattermole took four wickets for 19 runs, Elliot Seddon three wickets for only 7 runs and Oscar Jackson three wickets for 25 runs.
Alex Thompson and T P Anirudh were Karori’s top batsmen, scoring 12 runs each, while Oscar Wilson contributed 11 runs.
Following the victory, Onslow was the only team to record five wins from the first six matches in the premier 1 competition, with five teams having three wins.
Onslow’s next one day match is against Victoria University of Wellington at Kelburn Park on 22 November, starting at 10:30am.
Karori will play Upper Hutt United at Karori Park on 22 November, starting at 10:30am.
Johnsonville’s premier cricketers did not have a good day against North City on 15 November.
Batting first on their home ground of Alex Moore Park, Johnsonville was all out for
exactly 100 runs.
North City then won the match when they reached 104 for seven wickets.
Will Martin was the best of the Johnsonville batsmen, scoring 29 runs.
Connor Lusty was the next best with 11 runs.
Maximus Petrie and Dominic McAlister were outstanding with the ball
Maximus took four wickets for 25 runs and Dominic three wickets for 24 runs.
Johnsonville’s next match is against the Sri Lankan Sports Club at Grenada North Park on 22 November, starting at 10:30am.
The Johnsonville Family Dentist women’s team lost both its T20 matches on 15 November.
Petone Riverside beat them by six wickets in the first match and Collegians won the second match by 90 runs.
The team will play one match next Saturday, 22 November, when they meet North City at Alex Moore Park, starting at 11am.
Karori author Inge Hartwell has just released her debut romance novel “Halfway Home”, a seaside escape about starting over and finding love when you least expect it.
Set against the coastal backdrop of Wellington, “Halfway Home” has struck a chord with both local and international romance readers.
“As I’ve lived in Wellington for many years, setting my book here was a no-brainer,” Inge says.
“I want Kiwi women to see themselves in the story, but it’s been wonderful to have it resonate overseas too.
“Who wouldn’t want to read about New Zealand?”
Warm and witty, “Halfway Home” celebrates what it means to rebuild when life hits a turning point.
The story reflects a growing trend among romance readers, women in their thirties and beyond, seeking authentic, relatable love stories, and they have no problem admitting they enjoy emotional escapism, connection and a bit of spice in their fiction.
“So many women reach a point where they ask, ‘Is this it?’” Inge says.
“This story is about reinvention, finally doing the things you’ve always wanted to do before it’s too late.
“Picking up a pen and writing this book was that moment for me.”
Featuring a strong, sassy heroine, a famous rugby player, paddleboarding, a few KitKats and plenty of local flavour, “Halfway Home” is the perfect feel-good summer read for anyone craving heart, humour and some heat.
An author event – “Wild Swimming in Aotearoa” – will be held from 6pm to 7pm on Thursday 27 November at Ng Puna Waiora Newtown Library.
Join Wellington City Libraries for afabulous event featuring three authors, each inspired in their own unique way by theocean.
Authors Ingrid Horrocks, Shona Riddell and Kate Camp will be in conversation with host and wild swimmer extraordinaire Corrina Connor.
Ingrid Horrocks' work spans poetry, travel, environment and community.
Her many books include the memoir “Where We Swim”, “Women Wanderers” and two collections of poetry.
Her new collection of short stories “All Her Lives”was published by Te Herenga Waka University Press in October.
Shona Riddell has been a writer for as long as she can remember.
Sheholds a Graduate Diploma in Journalism and a Master of Science in Society.
Her books include “Trial of Strength: Adventures and Misadventures on the Wild and Remote Subantarctic Islands” and, most recently, “Guiding Lights: The Extraordinary Lives of Lighthouse Women”.Kate Camp is an award-winning poet and writer.Her first collection of poetry, “Unfamiliar Legends of the Stars”, won the NZSA Jessie Mackay Award for Best First Book of Poetry at the 1999 Montana New Zealand Book Awards, and she has gone on to publish six more poetry collections, most recently the wonderful “Makeshift Seasons”(2025). Kate is also a reviewer,
Karori author Inge Hartwell with her new book “Halfway Home”. Photo: Supplied.
“Halfway Home” is available now at Marsden Books, 159 Karori Road (Marsden Village), Karori, and on Amazon (eBook, paperback, and Kindle Unlimited).
Inge is a communications advisor and romance author, writing stories about transformation, new beginnings, and rediscovering life and love.
When she’s not working, Inge enjoys walking, talking, reading, art endeavours in various forms, hanging out with friends and family, figuring out life, editing her historical romance set in 1590s Egypt, and writing “Halfway There”, the second book in her Second Half Series.
The first swim is started at the ceremonial opening of the old Karori Pool on 21 November 1936. Wellington Mayor Thomas Charles Atkinson is the starter.
Photo: Wellington City Libraries. essayist and a familiar voice on Radio NZ. Host Corrina Connor is a marathon swimmer, cellist and Wellington City Libraries librarian. In the past few years she has taken on several marathon swims, including Te Moana-o-Raukawa (Cook Strait), Te Ara-a-Kiwa (Foveaux Strait) and Lake Taup . She likewise participates in hypothermia-inducing ‘ice swims’, defined as swimming in water of five degrees or less. This is a free eventand everyone is welcome. It is expected this event to be extremely popular, and seating will be on a first come first served basis. See https:// www.wcl.govt.nz/news/wild-swimmingin-aotearoa-author-panel-at-newtownlibrary-27-november/.
