April 24 Independent Herald by WELLINGTON SUBURBAN NEWSPAPERS

Thursday April 24, 2025

Ending extinction

By Frank Neill

Creating 10 new fenced ecosanctuaries in New Zealand is being promoted by Zealandia founder James Lynch QSM. If implemented, this “could end the prospect of extinction for all forest species and greatly expand the range and abundance of many other forest species,” James writes in his proposal, entitled “End of Extinction”.

He is proposing a network of megasanctuaries (3,000 plus ha) pest exclusion fenced sanctuaries

with surrounding large managed predator free ‘halo zones’ (up to 100,000 ha each), spread across the nation.

The ‘halo effect’ refers to the migration of species which is expected to occur from a secure predator-free zone (the ‘nursery’)

into the surrounding, less secure, habitat (the ‘halo’).

“Little research has occurred into migration from fenced areas,” James says.

“The most notable and recent has been in Wellington City, where a significant increase in

diversity and abundance of indigenous birds has been recorded in the city environs over the last two decades.

“This has been attributed to the ‘halo effect’ from Zealandia.

Continued on page 2.

James Lynch QSM on location at Puketaha, which he is proposing as the first in a series of 10 national ecosanctuaries. Photo: Supplied.

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Only method to restore habitats

By Frank Neill

From page 1.

“In Wellington, the increase has been most pronounced for five species (tui, kereru, kaka, karearea and red-crowned kakariki) with titipounamu/rifleman more recently settling outside the fence.

“The increase in these birds, especially kaka, has been spectacular with kaka now a common sight all around the city,” James says.

The mega sanctuaries he is proposing “would rapidly become biodiversity, social, cultural and economic hubs for regions as Zealandia has done for Wellington.

“They would add materially to the local and national economy.

“Such a programme is affordable and can be achieved with existing technology and proven governance structures.

“The costs and risks are well known and manageable.”

More than 50 of New Zealand’s unique fauna species have become extinct.

“This is one of the highest extinction rates in the world.”

Fenced ecosanctuaries are now a “proven technology and governance model and it is the only method which enables long term restoration of habitats and the return of sensitive species populations to the mainland,” James says.

“They have been highly successful in engaging communities and in some cases, earning revenue.”

Zealandia, the Karori sanctary, is one of the success stories.

New Zealand’s first community ecosanctuary, it was founded in 1995.

Its novel 8.6 km pest-exclusion fence was built in 1999 enclosing an area of 225 ha of central city habitat.

In the 25 years since then, Zealandia has been an unqualified success, re-establishing viable populations of the most sensitive species on the mainland for the first time.

That has included the little spotted kiwi, hihi, tieke and tuatara.

established across the nation, covering over 12,000 ha of prime lowland habitat,” James says.

“The largest of these is 3,214 ha Maungatautari near Cambridge.

“Several sites have repeated the species translocation success of Karori,” James says.

“Nationally, an optimised programme could work like this.

“Up to ten sites are selected for optimum representativeness of national ecosystems and species distribution and for the presence of a fencible nursery zone.

“Logically this may mean five in each major island to ensure representativeness.

South Westland and Waitutu.

“This would provide up to 30,000 ha of genuinely pest-free habitat (in addition to the pest-free islands and community sanctuaries) and up to a million hectares of managed ‘predator-free’ habitat with an improving ecological integrity.

“Such a programme would permanently ensure the future of every forest fauna species across their natural range and extend the existing ranges of many range-restricted and at-risk species.

“It would also fully capitalise on the potential for public support and involvement and ensure meaningful iwi engagement.

“Places ideal for these sites include Waipoua Forest, the Waitakere’s, Coromandel, Pureora, Erua Forest, North Taranaki, Remutaka, Marlborough Sounds, Abel Tasman, North West Nelson, Okarito,

Those of us who got to enjoy the fine settled weather in Wellington over Easter weekend, while much of the rest of NZ was experiencing storms and flooding, can reflect on what a great city we live in, and why we need to be its greatest promoters, not its biggest critics which it seems we have become.

Is it any wonder our young people are leaving when they hear their elders continually telling them how stuffed

Start your journey and master the basics with our beginner-friendly golf sessions. No experience? No problem! All equipment is provided, so you can focus on learning and having fun. The program runs on Fridays from 5:30pm to 6:30pm, with six sessions on March 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, and April 4th and 11th.

“Over the long term, additional sites can be added to the network or the ‘predatorfree’ halo zones extended outwards.

“There is really no limit to such a programme other than suitable sites and funding.”

I recently hosted a meeting which included representatives from the City and Regional Councils. The background for the meeting people involved in providing more housing in our electorate, whether it be those building them or those ability to build the houses everyone agrees

allowed in existing suburbs, especially changing apartments.

I’m fortunate to get to visit many of the startup businesses, mostly IT based, which inhabit the city and even our suburbs, which, along with the film industry, have become the bedrock of Wellington.

Both have their advantages and disadvantages; the Regional Council in particular see their role to prevent more

development; greenfields and brownfields. undeveloped land, typically ex farmland on infrastructure like sewers, water supply and 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.

But an air of despondency seems to have settled over us

Both have their advantages and disadvantages; the Regional Council in particular see their role to prevent more

post-COVID especially, and only looking for and appreciating the good stuff that is happening will

The local body elections will shape up as potential candidates rubbishing Wellington so they can sell themselves as the

runoff and other material ending up in our harbours, especially the Porirua harbour in the case of development north of Johnsonville and Newlands. The Wellington City Council are concerned that the existing infrastructure cannot handle the pressure it comes under when new housing areas are developed. Existing infrastructure is aging and needs upgrading across our city, as evidenced by recent pipe failures. An advantage of intensification of existing areas means more people, therefore more ratepayers to pay for those upgrades.

Developers of course need to make a profit, nce costs as low as possible. Many believe the Resource We as government for our part have undertaken to The feedback was good, but the success will demand. That is certainly my

What we need to look for is people who get on with the job. There is no miracle pass, just hard work and smart leadership

We all want our kids and grandkids to not only have the option to live here, but to want

functioning Johnsonville Shopping Centre we

Get in and enjoy the city. You’ll be surprised how much is there

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. The feedback was good, but the success will be when there are sufficient affordable houses to meet demand. 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.

Two of the kaka who thrive at Zealandia. Photo: Scott Langdale.

Local is the Masters Scrabble Champion

Churton Park resident Dylan Early has become New Zealand’s 41st Masters Scrabble Champion.

Dylan won the title after a thrilling Easter weekend in which New Zealand’s top 24 Scrabble Players competed to become the Masters Scrabble Champion.

One of the three premier events in New Zealand’s Scrabble calendar, the Masters crown is hotly contested by a field of experienced players and grand masters.

This year’s tournament was decided on the very last game.

Dylan finished the event tied with current holder Howard Warner with 17 wins and then claimed the title by having a higher spread of winning points.

“It was a great tournament, always one of my favourites,” Dylan says.

“It’s such a tough field and there are no easy games.

“Going into the third and final day, any one of the top five were in contention.

“With so many strong players vying for the title, the winner was going to need a strong nerve and a bit of luck.

“I’m thrilled to have won, albeit by the narrowest of margins.

“I will definitely be back next year,” Dylan says.

Originally from South Africa, Dylan has been playing Scrabble for more than 25 years.

He started playing at university and joined a local Scrabble club where, he says, he caught the Scrabble bug.

When he entered his first South African National tournament in 1993 he was “humbled” when he failed to win a single game and came in last.

This prompted him to begin studying the game and he has never looked back since.

He went on to win the South African national title six times and also represented South Africa in the World Scrabble Championships.

When Dylan arrived in New Zealand in 2017, he joined the Wellington Scrabble Club.

Since then he has chalked up many and varied Scrabble victories.

He won the New Zealand national title in 2018.

He represented New Zealand against Australia in 2024, winning the Trans-Tasman Challenge for the first time in 14 years.

He represented New Zealand in the World Championships in 2019 in Goa India, finishing a creditable 47th.

He won the Masters Championship in 2021 and was runner-up in 2022, 2023 and 2024.

He holds the record for the highest individual game score in New Zealand with 756, scored at the Masters in 2019. This is also one of the top six scores in the world.

Dylan is a self-confessed mnemonics addict and has over 5,000 of them as ways to remember Scrabble words.

He says he now has so many mnemonics to remember, that he needs mnemonics for his mnemonics.

Outside of Scrabble, Dylan enjoys

This year for the first time, the tournament was livestreamed with commentary from expert international Scrabble players.

Thousands of viewers tuned in from all over the world to share the excitement, including expert players and non-Scrabblers.

mountain biking, chess, dog walking, Joseph Herscher videos and trying to make the perfect cup of coffee.

Dylan Early at the end of his winning game. Photo: Cathy Casey.

Correction

There was a mistake in the article “Twigland staff farewelled” in last week’s issue of the “Independent Herald.”

The article said that Twigland had its genesis when Ben Little opened the Plantwood Garden Centre in the Porirua shopping centre.

The name of the person who opened Plantwood was Don Liddle (not Ben Little).

OHS AGM

The Onslow Historical Society will hold its Annual General Meeting at 7:30pm on Wednesday 11 June at KATE, 86 Khandallah Road.

The meeting will be followed by a talk by John Martin and refreshments.

John is the new Editor of the “Onslow Historian” and also the author of the book ”Empire City”.

The next edition of the “Onslow Historian” is due to be published next month.

Wrap up of Prehistoric Earth

The Prehistoric Earth, a dinosaur-themed school programme, wraps with Pter-riffic Whanau Film on Sunday 27 April from 1:30pm to 3pm at Waitohi Johnsonville Library.

“Bring your dino-loving whanau together for a family movie,” the library says.

Movies chosen will have a G or PG rating and are suitable for families with young children. Contact the library to find out which movie is screening. Whichever film is chosen, it’s sure to be Pter-riffic.

This family-friendly event is suitable for children of all ages accompanied by their caregivers. Nau mai ra tatou katoa everybody is welcome.

“Wellington City Recollect”, Wellington City Libraries’ online heritage platform, is available 24/7.

Visit https://wellington.recollect.co.nz/ and search ‘ANZAC’ to see more historic photos of how ANZAC day has been commemorated around Wellington.

Hundreds of other historic images, digitised books and ephemera

Photo: Crowds gather for an ANZAC day service at the Karori Cemetery in 1960 outside the ‘new’ chapel shortly after its construction was completed. Photo: Wellington City Libraries.

relating to the western and northern suburbs can be viewed at “Wellington City Recollect”.

All Wellington libraries are closed on Friday 25 April for ANZAC Day.

4 PERFORMANCES: MAY 2 – 4

Jennifer Ioannou, St Brigid’s School in Johnsonville and Bernadette Murfitt, Sacred Heart Cathedral School in Thorndon were part of the New Zealand Principals’ Delegation to Xiamen, China, during the April school holidays.

The delegation was organised by the Confucius Institute at Victoria University.

Jennifer and Bernadette were joined by school leaders from Rotorua, Tauranga, and Rarotonga.

The visit began with a welcoming ceremony at Xiamen University, followed by meetings with leaders from primary, middle, and senior schools, as well as a music school and a foreign language school.

“Everyone was so welcoming, friendly, and supportive of our visit,” Bernadette says.

“Their schools were impressive.

“The delegation has strengthened our leadership capacity and cultural compe-

tency, which we will carry back into every aspect of life in our schools.”

“This experience provided us, as school leaders, with a valuable opportunity to gain insights into the Chinese education system and culture, and to build bridges of understanding, collaboration, and friendship between our two countries,” Jennifer adds.

“We are extremely grateful to the Confucius Institute for this incredible opportunity.”

ABOVE: The presentation to the Principals’ Delegation following the opening ceremony. Photo: Supplied.

Feeding a baby giraffe

Molly Staples-Clark, a mammals zoo keeper at Te Nukuao Wellington Zoo, was the speaker at the March meeting of the REBUS Club of Khandallah.

Molly spoke about how to look after a baby that’s taller than everybody.

It was an unexpected challenge to care for Nia, a baby two metre giraffe, when she and her mother, Zuri, couldn’t work out how to feed naturally.

Nia was trying to suckle at Zuri’s udder, and while Zuri was patient, she would eventually move away without successful feeding having taken place.

These first few feeds are integral to a baby giraffe’s welfare, so after many failed attempts to locate Zuri’s udder, zoo keepers helped Nia by providing her with a bovine colostrum feed. Fortunately, Zuri continued to allow Nia to be fed by the zoo keepers with a giraffe milk powder. She fed well for two days before regressing and needed to be tube fed a couple of times. Luckily, she latched back on to the bottle after this.

Once she was drinking consistently Nia was offered two to three litres at every feed. They trained her to come inside to the sound of a particular bell which meant they could feed her milk throughout the day, even when she was going outside.

Those looking after Nia received lots of advice and data from zoo colleagues all over the world to help navigate the process and ensure Nia and Zuri were as healthy as possible.

Now Nia is one and a half years old and is thriving with the rest of her family.

REBUS is a social club for retirees, and usually meets on the last Friday of the month. However, as

the last Friday in April falls on ANZAC Day, the meeting will be held on Friday 2 May at 10am at the Khandallah Bowling Club, Woodmancote Road.

The guest speaker will be Bill Paterson and he will talk about “Bhutan – a hidden jewel facing transition.”

For more information internet search “Khandallah REBUS.”

City Nature Challenge on now

The 2025 City Nature Challenge, where people share their observations of nature, runs from tomorrow, 25 April, to 28 April. Wellington will join more than 650 cities worldwide and across Aotearoa to record as many species as possible in the iNaturalist City Nature Challenge (www. citynaturechallenge.org).

Last year the Wellington region answered the call of nature, recording 18,172 observations of 2,490 different species from 272 participants.

In doing so it took scond place to Otautahi Christchurch on the Aotearoa leaderboard.

“We’re aiming to top it this year,” says Julia Baldwin from Wellington City Council’s Parks, Sports and Recreation team.

“The observations and data our local citizen scientists collate are a key tool in monitoring, retaining and restoring our native taonga, and providing important information about ecosystems and urban biodiversity for research and policy decision making.

“This event is also a significant contributor to our native bird monitoring programme, helping us better understand where they’re thriving and where they need a bit more support.

“With help from the community we can celebrate nature, get out and engage with the environment, maybe discover a new or rare

species, and more importantly, have some fun connecting with friends and whanau.”

To get involved people can download the iNaturalist app for Android and for Apple, available at www.inaturalist.org, and start making observations. More information is on Wellington City Council’s City Nature Challenge

web page.

The list of species the council is encouraging everyone to keep an eye out for are Kiwi, Rimu Kakauroa (giant kelp), Puriri Moth, Elvers, Buddleia (weed), Blue passionflower, the Noddly flycap, Ngaokeoke (NN Peripatus) and Arachnocampa luminosa (NZ glow worms).

PHOTO: A shag perched on rocks beside Wellington Harbour. Photo: Frank Neill.

PHOTO: Nia on the day she was born.

Photo: Molly Staples-Clark.

Support for Israel

In reply to Adam Harash (letters 17 April) Hamas in Gaza with the support of the whole population in the enclave suddenly attacked and tried to kill as many of the Israel people as possible.

So I’m happy to see the IDF response and

will support Israel whole heatedly urging others to do the same.

It was Hamas who tried genocide so they can hardly complain if they are on the receiving end.

History of Taranaki Whanui

A talk on the “History of Taranaki Whanui, the Mana Whenua of Te Whanganuia-Tara (Wellington)” by Te Karanga o Te Tui Marino (TK) will be presented by the Onslow Historical Society at 2pm on Saturday 3 May.

Hosted jointly by the Historic Places Trust the presentation will be held at KATE, 86 Khandallah Road, and afternoon tea will follow.

New group for zero rates rises

He has agreed to share his talk with the Onslow Historical Society.

TK will explain how Taranaki Whanui came to Wellington, and its relationship with other iwi and with colonial settlers.

TK gave this fascinating and foundational history talk at the Heritage Festival closing event held in Masterton last year.

TK is the Kaitarataki (Kaupapa Taiao) Environmental Liaison Officer with the Wellington Tenths Trust.

The trust has a long history, arising from the earliest days of colonisation and the establishment of Wellington city, and is actively involved in contemporary affairs.

Those attending will also hear from Rangimoana Taylor with his reflections on growing up in Simla Crescent.

To reserve a seat email John Galloway (jghgalloway@slingshot.co.nz) or phone 478 7603.

ANZAC DAY PARADE AND COMMUNITY SERVICES

Friday 25th of April 2025

Karori, Makara and Brooklyn Services

Karori Service

11am Karori RSA, 11am Karori West Normal School, 19 Allington Road Karori

Makara Service

10am St Matthias, 379 Makara Road

Brooklyn Service

10.30am Brooklyn School, Washington Avenue

Pukeahu NWMP, Cenotaph and Ataturk Memorial Services

Pukeahu NWMP

6am Dawn Service Pukeahu National War Memorial Park, Buckle Street, Te Aro

Wellington Cenotaph

9am Wellington Citizens’ Wreath Laying Service

Wellington Cenotaph, corner of Lambton Quay and Bowen Streets, Wellington Central

Pukeahu NWMP

11am Anzac Day National Commemoration Service, Pukeahu National War Memorial Park, Buckle Street, Te Aro

Ataturk Memorial

2.30pm Ataturk Memorial, Tarakena Bay, 166 Breaker Bay Road, Breaker Bay

Pukeahu NWMP

5pm Last Post, Pukeahu National War Memorial Park Buckle Street, Te Aro

Wellington RSA remembers fallen comrades

By Frank Neill

Wellington Mayoral candidate Ray Chung has joined with 12 people who will stand for election to Wellington City council at this year’s local body election.

Called “Independent Together”, the group says they will, if elected, maintain zero rates increases for the next three years.

After that they will only increse rates by the rate of inflation.

They will achieve the zero rates increase by cutting Council costs on unnecessary projects, the group says.

At the same time they will prioritise core infrastructure

– pipes, roads, parks, and public facilities.

They say there will be No More Debt Spiral.

They will

• Scrap wasteful projects – focus on essentials.

• Audit Council departments – for efficiency and value.

• Borrow less, spend smarter – make your rates work for you.

They will restore CBD access for all – and reinstate lost car parks. They will also:

• Ensure Council projects support, not harm, local businesses.

• Take a balanced approach to transport – cars,

public transit, cycling, and walkability.

They stand for “a Council for everyone” with “no party politics”.

And they will listen to what all Wellingtonians want.

The will “put residents first – not personal agendas” and they will “make decisions based on what’s best for the city”.

Joining Mayoral candidate Ray Chung are Council candidates Ken Ah Kuoi, Lily Brown, Andrea Compton, Phil McConchie, Michelle McGuire, Dan Milwood, Melissa Moore, Paula Muollo, Guy Nunns, Mike Petrie, Rebecca Shepherd and Stuart Wong.

PHOTO: Wellington Mayoral candidate Ray Chung. Photo: Frank Neill.

Plan to bring back J’ville market

By Frank Neill

The Johnsonville Business Group is currently looking to bring back weekend vegetable/night markets to Johnsonville.

The plan, described by the Johnsonville Business Improvement District Manager, Oliver Smith as “an exciting one” is to bring the markets to the triangle.

“We are in talks with a few land owners in the area and are optimistic that this will be well received if it is achieved,” Mr Smith says.

“As with all of our projects, the focus is bringing attention and business into the triangle, to help support and drum up further foot-traffic for our current tenants.”

Until two years ago, fruit and vegetable markets were held by Johnsonville School every Sunday.

They began in 2012 and ran until they were shut down in 2020 following complaints from a local resident and the fact that they were operating without a resource consent.

The resident complained about traffic congestion, parking problems and early morning noise caused by trucks.

Wellington City Council then appointed an independent commissioner.

Following a hearing, the commissioner gave resource consent to the Johnsonville market, and the market returned on Sunday 16 January, only to later close again.

Councillor plans switch to Greens CAIRNMUIR MOTOR CAMP

Wharangi/Onslow-Western Ward Councillor Rebecca Matthews has announced that she will seek the Greens nomination for the upcoming local body election.

Cr Matthews, who was a Labour Party nomination at the last election, announced her plan on her Facebook page on 22 April.

“With our city (and world) the way it is, there’s a need for constructive, pragmatic people at the table,” Cr Matthews’ post says.

“If I’m lucky enough to receive the Greens nomination, I’ll be asking for your help – for housing, infrastructure, for a Wellington where everyone can thrive.”

Cr Matthews is one of three Wharangi/ Onslow-Western Ward Councillors.

The other two are Cr Diane Calvert and Cr Ray Chung, who has announced that he is standing for the Mayoralty.

• 8kms from Cromwell

• Playground for the kids

• Cabin type accommodation

• Walk/bike to wineries • Walk to the Lake

• Powered and non-powered sites for tents and camper/caravans

PHOTO: A scene from a former fruit and vegetable market at Johnsonville School.

PHOTO: Cr Rebecca Matthews.

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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.

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are common in folks who don’t keep toes warm, by having the house too cool, or who don’t wear warm socks and slippers inside. Personally, I wear shoes and socks indoors and do not suffer cold feet. At Active Feet Podiatry we are here to help you whatever foot issues arise.

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Please check the sizing-guide to ensure the best chance of getting to enjoy your purchase straight away. If you do get the

wrong size just send them back and let us know what size you need, and we will get the replacements to you as soon as possible. For larger sizes, or other custom needs, please contact us and we will do our best to make it happen.

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A green heart

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Elite Arboriculture is a local, family-owned and operated tree management business on the Kāpiti Coast, offering professional arborist services across the Wellington and Horowhenua regions. Elite Arboriculture believes the mana of trees must be respected.

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EXPERTS

Local history – ANZAC Day

By Felicity Wong

ANZAC Day gives pause for war reflection.

The early 19th Century intra-Maori “Musket Wars” radically reshaped iwi boundaries. It was a bloody culmination of centuries of inter tribal warfare.

The pain of the later “New Zealand wars” (and associated government military activities and land confiscations) of the colonial period endures for Maori. Historian Professor Jock Phillips says Pakeha saw the wars as a sequence of frustrating stalemates, though they remembered Maori bravery and chivalry.

There were few memorials and battle sites were left unmarked and deserted.

He explained that two themes emerged – the military prowess of the Maori, and the difficulties faced by the British army dealing with Maori, in contrast to the adaptability and guerilla skills of the New Zealanders exemplified by Harry Atkinson’s Bushrangers and von Tempsky’s Forest Rangers.

The majority of the population was of British descent and referred to England as ‘home’, even by those who’d never visited.

In Johnsonville (Frankmore Avenue Park) there’s an historic monument to Trooper Leonard Greenwood Retter.

The Johnsonville born blacksmith served in the South African (Boer) War 1899-1902, the first major external conflict.

About 8,000 horses went with riders from New Zealand and only a handful returned.

The Boer war contributed to a colonial identity within the Empire, rather than to any national identity.

In the period up to World War 1

concern grew in New Zealand that the British were losing their fighting capability.

New Zealand could assist with soldiers proven to be strong, resilient and able to fight at the frontier.

Compulsory military training had been introduced, and war memorials erected.

On 4 August 1914 New Zealand quickly sent an expeditionary force to aid the “Mother Country” at the outbreak of what became the shocking “Great War”, World War 1.

Both Maori and Pakeha participated.

About 150,000 New Zealand men and women served, with 68,000 casualties and 18,000 deaths.

Most were buried overseas and many with no known grave. The population at the time was about one million people.

New Zealand suffered the highest proportion of deaths in the Empire.

Phillips said “New Zealanders came to believe they were good at war, with brave, strong, dependable, men who didn’t get flustered nor grumble and maintained self-control.”

Two further views emerged, he said –in the trenches all distinctions of class or creed were cast aside, and that the participation of Maori had the effect of unifying the races.

Commemoration of ANZAC Day was accorded new status.

The experience of Gallipoli in particular drew the New Zealand and Australian soldiers closer together out of self-respect for each other’s contribution.

By the 1920s ANZAC Day drew large crowds and the Returned Servicemen’s Association flourished.

Young men quickly enrolled for World War 2 (1939-45).

About 105,000 men and women from

New Zealand served overseas during the Second World War.

Of those nearly 7,000 died on active Army service and a total of over 11,000 in all services.

Nearly 16,000 were wounded as well. Casualties were a much smaller proportion of service men and women than in the First World War.

The role of New Zealanders in conflict such as the HMS Archilles at the River Plate, and the participation of airmen in the Battle of Britain gradually became well known.

New Zealand troops were now under New Zealand military commanders such as Freyberg and Kippenberger (who reported directly to Prime Minister Fraser). They, and others such as Charles Upham, emerged as national heroes.

The closeness with Britain remained as New Zealand decided not to withdraw troops from Europe when Japan entered the war and especially after the unexpected collapse of Singapore.

The all encompassing war culminated in the nuclear bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in Japan, and during the war millions of Jewish people were horrendously exterminated by Nazis.

The two global wars profoundly affected New Zealand society, despite it being a relatively safe distance from the appalling events.

Although the experience was deeply traumatic for generations of service men, women, and their (frequently bereaved) families, Phillips said they contributed to “a colonial people [finding] its identity”.

New Zealanders also fought in smaller and sometimes controversial wars.

In the Korean, Malayan and Vietnam wars, just over 100 lives were lost.

In the mid 1960s a new generation

started questioning the Vietnam war, and ANZAC Day commemorations were disrupted.

Since then, however, military personnel continued to serve with distinction in peacekeeping operations in many troubled places (such as Sarajevo, Bougainville and Afghanistan).

Most towns and cities have war memorials.

The First World War was typically recalled by statues or plaques, while the Second World War was more often memorialised by community facilities like swimming pools or community halls.

Sadly many of the latter have been or are being demolished. The Naenae Memorial Hall was demolished recently.

ANZAC Day has become a broadly supported day of remembrance, and expression of proud national identity.

The monument to Trooper Leonard Greenwood Retter in Johnsonville. Photo supplied.

& HOME Gardening LIVING

Using New Zealand’s abundant water resource to your advantage

May is forecast as another dry month for Wellington

Water Conservation:

At just 220mm of rain so far this year, Wellington is among the driest cities in the country and has a need to continue saving water.

Although conditions can vary, Kiwi summers are becoming hotter and drier, usually leading to water restrictions in Wellington. A rainwater tank allows you to collect and store rainwater for later use, reducing reliance on mains water and helping conserve this valuable resource.

So consequently the city is still at Water Restriction Level 2 – which means no sprinklers or irrigation.

A few tips are:

• Only water your garden by hand.

Environmentally Friendly:

• Check soil moisture – if your soil is moist 10cm below the surface, you don’t need to water.

Rainwater harvesting reduces demand on local water supplies, crucial in drought-prone regions. It also lessens the energy needed to treat and pump mains water to your property. Plants also prefer rainwater.

• Water in cool, settled weather – water your garden on calmer days, in the cool of early morning or in the evening.

Cost Saving:

• Aim low and slow – water close to the ground at a rate the soil can absorb.

Using rainwater for tasks like garden watering, car washing, or toilet flushing can lower your water bills, particularly during

• Use mulch – mulch protects your soil from the drying effects of wind and sun, and can cut evaporation by 70%.

Now’s

Twigland

drought periods when mains water costs may rise.

Autumn is Nature’s planting time and there are loads of new plants to choose from at Twigland!

Emergency Water Supply:

Benefits of a well-designed garden

preferred entrance.

hedging in full sun or dappled shade. They provide glossy green foliage year round and showy white, pink or red flowers.

From shrubs to trees, fruiting or flowering, native or exotic - our range is huge!

Warm soil and cooling air spell perfect growing conditions for almost everything in the garden!

With natural disasters, burst pipes, droughts, and other water outages having access to rainwater stored in a tank enables you to keep flushing the toilet, washing and when installed with a First Flush unit you can even drink it if needed.

A well-designed garden stands out from others, it draws your attention and feels just right. The layout flows seamlessly from one area to another, and above all has interest and appeal. The garden has a pleasing mix of plants that have seasonal interest and are suitable for the environment you live in.

Fruit Trees

Landscape structures such as decks, retaining walls, pergolas, and screens help define use areas and create an interesting setting for your outdoor living. They may be used to transform unusable areas into fully functional ones.

They also have an easy to set tank for bulk storage of drinking water – that is it’s not connected to your downpipe.

Make the most of mellow autumn weather and get planting!

Camellias

For a full range of tank options and setup advice for your situation give the Tank Guy a call – 0508 326 8888 – or visit their website – https://thetankguy.co.nz/ product-category/garden-tanks/

Plant camellias this autumn for some evergreen elegance in your garden.

The first new camellias have arrived at Twigland, with lots of gorgeous autumn and winter-flowering hybrids and sasanquas. These beauties are perfect for back-of-the-border structure, shelter and

Award in Garden History 2025

Autumn – time to plant trees and shrubs and lay lawns

Planting can make or break your garden – when done well, it creates a special place to relax and entertain friends and family. Now is the best time of year for planting and laying new lawns – it gives trees and shrubs a good chance to establish in moist soils before the next long hot summer.

Use Groundplanz expertise to create a garden you will enjoy. Natural planting and native plants are our specialty – we also have a very wide knowledge of trees and plants generally and can advise which ones to keep and which grow best in your location.

Clare Gleeson is a garden historian based in Wellington. She studied history at the University of Otago and Victoria University of Wellington. In 2020 Clare was awarded the Pratt Family Scholarship by Heritage Roses New Zealand to undertake research into garden designer Alfred Buxton’s use of roses. She has published several papers on this topic and given lectures on her Buxton research in New Zealand and Australia. This project led to further research on Alfred Buxton’s work culminating in The Fairer Side of Buxton: Alfred Buxton’s Gardens and the women who loved them published by The Cuba Press in 2024. The Fairer Side combined two areas of interest for Clare – the importance of Alfred Buxton and the frequently unrecognised role of women in New Zealand’s garden history

Groundplanz is a professional landscape design and construction business servicing the greater Wellington and Kapiti Coast regions. Our focus is on

Gardens and Climate Change, which was initiated with a grant from the Historic Gardens Foundation.

providing the right solutions for your needs and the environment you live in - solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

A special interest has been the role of women in New Zealand horticulture and her research in this area is ongoing.

The RNZIH Garden History Award recognises distinguished contributions to horticultural history and conservation, including a body of work published and presented. Dr Clare Gleeson is a most worthy recipient of this award.

www.groundplanz.co.nz

Clare is a regular contributor to New Zealand Gardener and has published articles on garden history in a range of academic and popular publications including, The Gardener’s Journal, Historic Gardens Review, New Zealand Listener and the Journal of New Zealand Studies. Clare has also authored articles for the Australian Garden History Society Journal and in 2024 Clare researched and wrote the New Zealand section for the Society’s publication Antipodean Historic

Warmth and security from Eco Doors & Windows

Eco Doors & Windows specialise in uPVC glazing. And as the cooler months arrive you’ll ﬁ nd just the advice and look you’re after at their new showroom at 29 Hutt Road, Thorndon. Their windows are ideal for helping keep your house cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

Combining uPVC’s natural insulating properties with double-glazing means their windows achieve thermal insulation levels that far exceed even thermally broken aluminium – and at a very competitive price. Their uPVC doors also offer these same thermal beneﬁts.

Eco Doors and Windows have over 16 years’ experience in fabricating uPVC doors and windows. They use uPVC proﬁles from Aluplast in Germany.

located on Hutt Road, Thorndon, As the city has awoken to the beneﬁts of uPVC windows and doors, our company has grown. They have a number of teams of installers with plenty of experience backed by LBP’s (Licensed Building Practitioners).

uPVC windows are perfect for heat and coolness insulation. uPVC is not a thermal conductor and by combining it with double glazing, windows can achieve first-rate insulation values.

Eco Doors and Windows are centrally

As the uPVC joinery uses a double rubber gasket engaged by a multi-point locking system, windows and doors seal tightly and evenly against their frames, unlike legacy products like timber and aluminium joinery. Enjoy lower heating costs this winter with uPVC joinery.

Autumn is both harvest season and planting season. With escalating prices and shortages at the supermarkets, there is no better time to get started on planting fruit trees and bushes for your

The design addresses your needs for access to your outdoor living areas and the more functional aspects of your garden, such as your vege and herb garden, clothesline and waste disposal bins. It leads visitors to your

Garden

Retaining walls, Fences,

Courtyards

Shelter

Planting

Groundplanz provides professional landscape design and construction services. We can help with garden layout, planting, the design of structural features, and provide solutions for problem areas. www.groundplanz.co.nz

own home-grown groceries. There is plenty of Pipfruit, Stonefruit, Citrus and Berries to choose from at Twigland. It’s a great reward being able to serve up delicious desserts using your own produce for the family from your own garden! Why not get creative in the kitchen on these cooler days and save money at the same time?

Paving, Decks, Planters, Pergolas

patios, paving

Retaining walls, planters, planting

Courtyards

Planting

Road Safety Week next month

Families and communities are being encouraged to take part in Road Safety Week from 12 to 18 May. Those who do will join hundreds of community groups, schools and organisations running activities to help raise awareness of road safety.

Road Safety Week is co-ordinated by Brake, the road safety charity and sponsored by the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) and Beca.

The theme of the week is Be a road safety hero, recognising all those who are working to make our roads safer for everyone – from designing safer roads to caring for people after a crash – and highlighting the part we can all play in making roads safer.

It’s also UN Global Road Safety Week the same week, focused on vulnerable road users including people who walk or cycle on our roads,

and Brake will incorporate this into the Road Safety Heroes theme. Brake is encouraging families and community leaders to go to www. roadsafetyweek.org.nz/communities for more information about the week and to register for a free online action pack of resources.

This includes downloadable resources and activity ideas, interactive resources, activity sheets, advice, and case studies showing how others

We know when our children are sick, they go from being active and alert to quiet, grumpy, sleepy, clingy and wanting more cuddles. Often they lose interest in food.

The most common general signs of illness are fever, pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, cough, headache and rash. Fever (body temperature above 37°C) indicates that the body is ‘fighting’ infection from either bacteria or viruses. Children’s natural defence mechanisms are less well-developed than adults’ immune systems, so children are at higher risk of infections.

Fever accompanied by cough, runny or blocked nose and headache can signify the common cold. “Ask us about our Children’s Pain & Fever fact card”, recommend Self Care pharmacists, “because this has a lot of helpful hints for looking after sick children. Also it indicates what other signs to look out for in children that indicate more serious illnesses.”

Keeping your child comfortable in bed, giving plenty of fluids, and using liquid medicines such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce fever, are best when your child has a cold.

“But” advice from Self Care pharmacists is “use proper medicine-measuring spoons when measuring-out doses of liquid medicines. Don’t use kitchen teaspoons because they are not accurate, the volume varies from spoon to spoon, and your child will not receive the correct dose of medicine.”

It is important to look out for sore throats in children as it can lead to Rheumatic Fever. This is a serious illness that affects mainly Maori and Pacific children and young people, aged four and above.

Sore throats generally clear up by them-

have got involved in previous years. There are ways communities can highlight their own Road Safety Heroes locally during Road Safety Week, and ideas are included in the action pack. Heroes will also be celebrated nationally throughout the week.

Brake is a member of the Yellow Ribbon Road Safety Alliance, a group of organisations working to raise awareness of road safety.

selves but “strep” sore throats can lead to rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease which can be life threatening. It is important to check up children with sore throats so if they do have a “strep” sore throat they can be treated with antibiotics and stop the illness progressing any further.

If you are unsure then get in touch with your pharmacist, doctor or nurse.

Parents can encourage their children to take simple steps to help prevent the spread of some illnesses.

Children should cover their mouths and noses when they sneeze and cough, and then wash their hands straight after. Washing hands is also VERY important after going to the toilet, and before eating. They should not share cups and drink bottles, nor spoons and other eating utensils. Tissues are best for blowing noses, and then they should be thrown away immediately after use.

Immunisation is generally one of the most effective ways of protecting children against infections that can cause serious diseases and associated complications (including death).

All forms of immunisation work by causing the body to produce an immune response, in the same way it would if exposed to the disease but without the child suffering all the symptoms and consequences. In the future, when the child comes into contact with the disease, the immune system responds quickly and helps prevent the child developing the disease.

The World Health organisation and the Ministry of Health recommend immunisation for your children. However there may be cases where it is not suitable to immunise and it is important to see your pharmacist or doctor regarding possible risks and/or

The Alliance will be presenting the annual Road Safety Hero Award during Road Safety Week, and Brake will also be highlighting the important work of a range of people working to make our roads safer. People who have a hero they would like to nominate for the award, to be highlighted on social media, or both can find out more at https:// yellowribbon.nz/road-safety-hero/.

Protecting your child’s health

contraindications.

Children with asthma or allergies, or who are recovering from an illness, such as a common cold, can be immunised. Free immunisation, at specific times in a child’s life according to the Ministry of Health’s immunisation schedule, is available to all children in New Zealand, to protect against a number of diseases – diphtheria, haemophilus influenzae type b (a cause of childhood meningitis), pneumococcal disease, hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella, polio, tetanus and whooping cough.

Side effects from vaccines can sometimes occur and include redness and soreness at the injection site. There may also be mild fever. While these symptoms may be upsetting at the time, the benefit is protection from the disease. More serious reactions to immunisation are very rare.

Ask your Self Care pharmacists for a copy of the Children’s Illnesses and Children’s Pain & Fever fact cards that contains useful information for parents.

Sue Dey Exhibition

Watercolours of Wellington & Hutt Valley

Artspace Gallery is proud to welcome Petone watercolour artist, Sue Dey, for her first solo exhibition in Wellington. Sue completed up to Level 5 Diploma of Art and Creativity in 2013 and soon after, she gave up her full time job to focus full time on painting with her favourite medium, watercolours. Since then Sue has developed her own amazing watercolour style using deep and rich colours and each painting she completes oozes the joy of watercolours clearly done by an artist now at one with this challenging but happy medium.

In 2024 Sue complet-

ed a residency at The Church, Rawene, where she painted landscapes and the tidal waters of the Hokianga. At the end of her residency she had an exhibition at the local community exhibition hall which resulted in a near sell out exhibition. This exhibition at Artspace Gallery is a collection of paintings capturing her own impressions of Wellington inspired by the work of Peter McIntyre, D.R. Neilson, and John Castle. Sue says I am fascinated by the shapes of nature and have attempted to capture these and the light as it plays on the contours of the land and

water. As well as Sue Deys exhibition. Artspace Gallery has four other gallery spaces to explore and features art by over two hundred local and NZ artists in all genres. The gallery has become a popular go to place for prints and art of Wellington and also provides an extensive range of unique NZ made gifts. Also popular are the fun art classes, Wine & Watercolour evenings for adults and school holiday art classes for youth. Exhibition Season from Saturday 12h April - Sunday 11 May.

Gallery Open 10.304pm Tuesday to Sunday

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

City needs serious leadership

Wellington needs “urgent change and serious leadership,” former Labour Party leader Andrew Little says.

and make a home.

That is why he has decided to stand for the Wellington Mayoralty.

“Expectations” Cochran Hall Khandallah. Five short theatrical delightsperiod, modern, comic, dramatic – all captivating. Only four performances over one weekend. May 2-4. https:// kat-theatre.org.nz/bookings EXPECTATIONS

“I believe I have the experience and the steel to end the chaos at Council and return it to what it should be doing, servicing the needs of all who live here,” he says.

“We all love this city.

“Wellington is the place I chose with my wife Leigh to raise our family and there’s nowhere else we would rather be.

“But it’s clear to me our city is in trouble.

“Living in Wellington is becoming unaffordable for working families.

POOLS OF SATISFACTION

“We’re creative, we’re full of talent, we’re diverse, and we’re a place where people from all walks of life can feel included

FACT OF THE

or millions of dollars in corporate welfare for an international cinema owner.

“It’s time for new leadership that listens to Wellingtonians and makes good decisions for our city,” Mr Little says.

SECURE STORAGE 14sqm $42 per week. Wainui Self Storage, Waiu St, 0274805150.

“Cuts to public services are hurting the city and in a time of crisis our Council too often seems like it’s out of touch with the people it’s supposed to serve.

“Wellington didn’t vote for regressive policies like asset sales, closure of community facilities

“My focus as Mayor will be getting the best for Wellington.

“That means being able to work constructively with the Government in the city’s interests and it means standing up to the Beehive when needed.

FOR ALL ELECTRICAL repairs and installations by top-qualiﬁed electrician with record of over ﬁfty years of giving locals the lowest cost “around-the-clock” service, just phone 977-8787 or 021-0717-674 or email jack.powell@outlook.com

“It means being clear in my Labour values but always working across political lines to be a Mayor for all of Wellington.

CROSSWORD

“My priorities are:

• Fixing the pipes and investing in our parks, swimming pools and libraries.

• Prioritising more housing development and cheaper public transport.

• Supporting our small businesses and revitalising Wellington’s economy.

• Taking action on climate and honouring the Treaty.

• Ensuring there is a firm grip on the Council and its finances.

“I firmly believe that together we can do this,” Mr Little says.

Wadestown School

1. Graduate with academic degree (6)

4. Person’s vulnerable point. (8,4)

11. Skull. (7)

12. Stack of hay. (4)

13. Nunnery’s female superior. (6)

15. Part of house let seperately. (10)

16. Deceptive. (8)

17. Large forearm bone(pl) (5)

18. Final. (8)

21. As soon as possible(abbr) (4)

23. Brazilian port, de janeiro (3)

25. Ox(pl) (4)

27. Notion. (4)

By Russell McQuarters

45. Nut of the areca palm. (5)

48. Old T.v’ series, Dr. Findlay’s (8)

45. Nut of the areca palm. (5)

49. Reeling. (10)

48. Old T.v’ series, Dr. Findlay’s (8)

52. Early counting frame. (6)

49. Reeling. (10)

53. Star. (4)

52. Early counting frame. (6)

54. Pale. (7)

53. Star. (4)

55. Female Relative. (12)

54. Pale. (7)

56. Deadly. (6)

55. Female Relative. (12)

56. Deadly. (6)

DOWN

1. In retreat (13)

2. Type of trumpet. (7)

1. In retreat (13)

2. Type of trumpet. (7)

3. A captive. (8)

5. Gold measurement. (5)

6. Former Peruvian rulers. (4)

By Russell McQuarters

33. Petroleum bore,

33. Petroleum bore, well. (3)

34. In two languages. (9)

39. Forbidden. (5)

41. Deny. (8)

In two languages. (9) 39. Forbidden. (5) 41. Deny. (8) 43. Having left

43. Having left a will. (7)

46. Success. (7)

47. Nonsensical. (6)

48. Coarse. (5)

50. Annoy. (5)

51. Ark builder. (4)

For January 12, 2005

port, de janeiro (3) 25. Ox(pl) (4) 27. Notion. (4) 29. Bay Of Islands town (7)

29. Bay Of Islands town (7)

31. Craggy. (6)

32. Sorrows. (4)

7. Overpower. (6)

8. Adversaries. (7)

9. Hard cotton thread. (5)

34. Male whale. (4)

35. Reach (6)

Craggy. (6) 32. Sorrows. (4) 34. Male whale. (4) 35. Reach (6)

36. Mongol conqueror, Khan. (7)

6. Former Peruvian rulers. (4) 7. Overpower. (6) 8. Adversaries. (7) 9. Hard cotton thread. (5) 10. Hasty. (9) 14. Smallest planet. (5)

19. Flavour. (5)

37. Win & place bet(horses) way (4)

38. Narrow opening. (4)

40. Arable land. (3)

42. Sworn to telling the truth, under ...(4)

38. Narrow opening. (4) 40. Arable land. (3) 42. Sworn to telling the truth, under ...(4)

44. Male soprano(pl) (8)

10. Hasty. (9) 14. Smallest planet. (5) 19. Flavour. (5) 20. Pardon. (6) 21. Aged. (5)

20. Pardon. (6)

21. Aged. (5)

22. Relating to the mind. (13) 24. Peaceful. (6)

26. Cloth measurement. (3)

Covered with water. (5)

Traditional saying(pl) (5)

Cloth measurement. (3) 28. Covered with water. (5) 30. Traditional saying(pl) (5)

ACROSS

well. (3)

Hawks topple unbeaten Eagles

By Frank Neill

Johnsonville’s premier Rugby team celebrated their club’s Old Timers’ Day by defeating the previously unbeaten Hutt Old Boys Marist Eagles 25-20 on 19 April.

Playing on their home ground of Helston Park, the Johnsonville

Hawks prevailed in a very closely contested encounter.

Late in the match, with the scores tied at 20-20, the Hawks decided not to kick for the goal when they were awarded a penalty.

They were rewarded when left wing Filimone Sadavo scored the match winning try with just two

Hugely successful festival returns

By Frank Neill

The phenomenally successful Porirua Rocks festival, directed by Oliver Smith, who is also the Johnsonville Business Improvement District manager, returns to Te Rauparaha Arena on Saturday 3 May.

Last year’s inaugural festival, held in April, certainly lived up to its name, rocking the arena with its craft beer, wrestling, food and music offerings.

It proved highly popular, so much so that it was voted the best event in the NZPWI [New Zealand’s only media wrestling outlet] people’s choice award.

“Building on last year’s overwhelming response and landmark first-time event, Porirua Rocks has solidified itself as a must attend festival,” Oliver says.

“Porirua Rocks 2 will feature over 20 food vendors and craft breweries as well as New Zealand’s best wrestlers competing in six exhilarating matches.

“Six of New Zealand’s top original rock bands will also hit the stage throughout the day, giving festival goers an immersive and unforgettable experience.”

The six bands featuring at the festival are Claemus (Wellington), Sidewinder (Wellington), Bad Schematics (Palmerston North), Volts (Christchurch), East York (Auckland) and Coridian (Auckland).

“We are proud to champion New Zealand’s vibrant craft beer, music and wrestling scenes,” Oliver says.

“Porirua is quickly becoming a hotspot for craft beer lovers, with venues like The Beer Engine, Abandoned Brewery, and Supply Room Mana consistently bringing variety to the area.

minutes left on the clock.

The Hawks had the better of the first half and led 13-3 at the break.

That was thanks to a try scored by flanker Louis Magalogo and two penalties by first five eight Niall Delahunt.

A 20-minute red card awarded against the Eagles openside flanker

also helped the Hawks cause.

Hutt Old Boys Marist came out with a roar in the second half, scoring two converted tries to take a 17-13 lead.

The Hawks took back the lead when Mike Faimalo scored a converted try.

An Eagles penalty kick tied the

scores at 20-20 before Filimone touched down to give the home team victory.

As well as celebrating Old Timers’ Day, the Johnsonville Rugby Football Club is also celebrating its 125th anniversary season.

“The recent opening of Kai Tahi only adds to the city’s reputation for excellent hospitality.

“Porirua Rocks 2 is the perfect chance to experience the best of what ‘The City of Two Tides’ has to offer in a truly unique setting.

“Porirua Rocks is New Zealand’s only Rock ‘n’ Wrestling Craft Beer Festival,” Oliver says.

“With a mission to promote local talent and bring together communities,

New mural in J'ville

By Frank Neill

Johnsonville has a new mural, the first to be painted in the suburb.

On Bill Cutting Place, the mural was painted by the secretary of the Johnsonville Business Group, Leanne Cubitt, and the project was organised by the group.

The new mural features the karearea / New Zealand falcon.

“You might recognize this fierce bird from the back of the $20 note, chosen by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand for its unique and threatened status.

“In Johnsonville, karearea sightings are becoming more common, a testament to the success of local conservation efforts across Poneke and New Zealand.

“It’s more than just a bird. It’s a taonga.

“Culturally significant to Maori, the

karearea symbolises strength, agility, and nobility — and its presence in urban spaces like ours is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we care for the environment together,” Leanne says.

This is the first outside mural Leanne has painted, although she has painted a couple of them inside, on the walls of chirldren’s rooms, and she has “done quite a bit of art”.

It all began when she was working with Ohariu MP Greg O’Connor, having started working there in 2017.

“Greg wanted to create a Johnsonville Business Group, which he did, and now we’ve turned into a BID, which is a Business Improvement District.

“I’m on the commitee and I said to Mark [Kirkburnand, the BID chair] that I wanted to create a mural.

the festival has quickly become a must attend event for festival goers across New Zealand.”

Tickets are available at https://poriruarocks.co.nz.

“My thing on the committee has always been vibrancy and murals, so I said to Mark ‘if you give me a wall I’m happy to paint a mural on it’.”

The BID arrranged the wall, Resenes donated the paint, and the mural has now been completed.

“I’m hoping to do more

around the place if we can find walls that the owners will let us do it on,” Leanne says.

“We are looking to continue to do murals within the triangle over the next few months, with a number of walls already identified,” the Johnsonville BID manager, Oliver Smith, says.

“We are looking at this as a quick and easy way to add a bit of colour to Johnsonville, and believe it will be a good supplement to other projects that are in the works including some planter boxes that are being installed on the main road soon.”

PHOTO: Jamie Tagataese in action at last year’s Porirua Rocks festival. Photo supplied.

PHOTO: The new mural in Bill Cutting Place, Johnsonville. Photo: Frank Neill.