Hub needs money
By Frank Neill
A major donor or donors are needed to keep open Johnsonville’s much loved and used Collective Community Hub.
The community hub actually closed yesterday, 16 April, but if funding can be found it will keep operating.
An incredible community initiative
The hub was established by Johnsonville real estate agent William Yip, of Collective First National Real Estate.
The hub has been “99% funded by the company personally and the real estate market hasn’t been wonderful recently,” William says.
Because of that Collective First National is no longer in a position to provide the $855,000 a year that it costs to run the very popular space.
The hub has been seeking grants recently, but they have not materialised.
“We were quite disappointed that our efforts to get external grants were rejected,” William says.
Despite that “we are doing everything we can to try and keep it open.”
“This has been a long time dream of William’s to have a community space that groups can come to and
use free,” says Tracy HurstPorter, the hub’s co-ordinator.
“He is doing this incredible work in the community.”
Collective First National “have spent about $1 million give or take over the last four years,” Tracey says.
“What we need now is for the community to take ownership of this hub, and to help out – the ones who are able.
“We need some big amount of financial support.”
She has her fingers crossed, also, about a funding application the hub has made.
“We find out on 7 May.
“There’s always the hope that this place can be saved. This space is needed.”
If the hub closes “it is going to be really hard for these community groups to get the space they need,” Tracey says.
Wellington City Councillor Tony Randle paid tribute to William Yip for his vision to establish the Collective Community Hub.
The hub “is essentially a gift to the community,” he says.
“It has certainly been very
generous ... and it has provided a very good community facility.
“It is very, very popular.
“Even though it is closing, it has made a very big difference to Johnsonville,” Cr Randle says.
“I have been here four years,” Tracey says. During that time “over 428 unique groups have used our space.”
That has included churches, community groups, sports groups, community meetings, NGOs, the Police, Health, Ministry of Education, even embassies.
In addition the community hub has helped beginning businesses become established, and children’s art classes have begun there. “You name it, we’ve had it,” Tracey says.
The hub is run by the Collective Community Hub Trust. This is a registered charity, so donations are tax deductible.
People wanting to give donations, or receive more information can contact Tracey at info@collectivehub.co.nz, or William at 021 106 9997.
The Johnsonville Collective Community Hub Co-ordinator Tracey Hurst-Porter.
Photo: Frank Neill.
William Yip, who established the Collective Community Hub in Johnsonville. Photo: Supplied.
How to reach us
Phone (04) 587 1660
www.independentherald.co.nz
REPORTER
Frank Neill
herald@wsn.co.nz 027 490 3916
NATIONAL SALES
Les Whiteside
les@wsn.co.nz 021 360 008
SALES
Steve Maggs
steve@wsn.co.nz 027 765 8303
SALES
Brenda Ingram-Johnson brenda@wsn.co.nz 021 640 152
Classified sales classifieds@wsn.co.nz
Twigland staff farewelled
A farewell for the staff of iconic Wellington garden centre, Twigland Gardeners World, was held on 13 April.
Located at 240 Middleton Road in Glenside since the early 1990s, Twigland closed on 4 April.
The farewell for the current and former staff was held at Café Thyme and hosted by the Glenside Progressive Association.
Financial support for the farewell was provided by the association, Glenside residents, Café Thyme, and John Liddle of Twigland.
The well loved family owned garden centre had its genesis when Ben Liddle opened the Plantwood Garden Centre in the Porirua shopping centre.
He established a second store in Tawa and another in central Johnsonville, before the name change and shift to Glenside.
After Downer and Company Ltd bought the site where Twigland was, Downer and Twigland began the process to subdivide the land on each side of the stream for the Twigland Garden Centre and Café Thyme.
The subdivision was approved and sealed on 8 June 1995.
Twigland has operated at the site following the subdivision, and Café Thyme is still open there.
Ngaio book fair returns
This year’s popular Blue Dragon Book Fair will be held in the Ngaio Town Hall over the weekend of 17 and 18 May with all proceeds supporting the Blue Dragon Children’s Centre in Hanoi.
Trustees welcome donations of books, DVDs, CDs, records, puzzles and board games.
“We’re always pleased to see the quality of the children’s books and how popular they are with families,” trustee Iona McNaughton says.
People are asked to only donate good quality books and not books in bad condition, old atlases, academic text
books, encyclopaedias or magazines.
There is also a limited market for self-help books, travel guides and older recipe books, and donors are asked be selective with these.
This will be the 14th Blue Dragon Book Fair in the Ngaio Town Hall.
The Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation in Hanoi works to improve the lives of Vietnamese children by breaking the poverty cycle through education and training, and stopping child trafficking. For more information or to offer help, email Iona at iona.mcnaughton@ gmail.com.
At the farewell for Twigland staff (top row from left) Dan, Todd, Ryan, Sarah, Vandy (a good friend and customer of the Twigland staff) and Fran (bottom row from left) Harper, Kathy, Liz, Hannah and Lynne. Photo: Claire Bibby.
A scene from last year’s Blue Dragon Book Fair. Photo: Supplied.
Dream coming true for local muso
By Frank Neill
When Bob McNeill was growing up in Khandallah he dreamed of putting on a show in the Khandallah Town Hall.
The dream is about to become a reality for the Highbury resident.
He and Melbourne-based Rennie Pearson have teamed up as the duo Half Light.
Now an international concert act, Half Light will be bringing their original Celtic music for a one night special at the Khandallah Town Hall on 25 May.
The show will feature fiery dance tunes, beautiful airs and award-winning songs.
Festival favourites in New Zealand and Australia, Half Light regularly tour in both countries.
T he duo combines the virtuoso flute and whistle playing of Rennie with Bob’s dynamic and intricate fingerstyle guitar playing.
They add Bob’s multi award-winning songs to their live show of original music, peppered with a select few classic tunes from the archives of Irish and Scottish tradition.
The two virtuoso players bring a new slant on live folk music, full of dark energy. It is Celtic music at full tilt.
Both Rennie and Bob are heavily involved in the folk music scene in New Zealand and Australia, touring extensively together and as part of various groups.
The music they play delves deep into their musical creativity, with Bob’s intricate and evocative song writing and Rennie’s wide array of sounds and styles on the wooden flute and other instruments.
Their show features wooden flute, Irish tin whistles, various guitars and some unfamiliar sounds for a Celtic act.
Rennie grew up in Wellington with Celtic music in his blood.
With Irish music as the cornerstone of his knowledge, he went on to
delve deep into the traditional music of Scotland and maritime Canada.
A multi-instrumentalist, he is a master of the wooden flute and Irish whistle.
He regularly tours with large international stage productions.
He has played and taught all over New Zealand, in Australia and in Canada, including music schools such as Ceol Aneas, ScotsStrings, CelticANZ, Gaeltached, Boxwood and folk festivals all over New Zealand and Australia.
Bob has won three New Zealand Music Awards, all for Best Folk Album. His songs have been covered by artists in New Zealand, Scotland, Australia
and the USA.
The “Dominion Post” compared him to Jackson Brown, James Taylor, Luka Bloom and Dougie MacLean and “New Zealand Musician” compared his songwriting to Bruce Springsteen and Mark Knopfler.
A guitar player, he is known for his sensitive playing, driving rhythms and unique on-stage sound.
He has toured extensively in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, the USA, Ireland and the United Kingdom.
Tickets to the Khandallah Town Hall show are available on Half Light’s website www.halflight.nz.
Churton Park fire
A transformer caught fire in Churton Park, cutting electricity to about a thousand homes, at around 11:30am on Monday 14 April.
Two fire trucks from Johnsonville and Thorndon Fire Stations attended the blaze.
They had to wait until power was turned off before they could extinguish the fire, Fire and Emergency
Spokesperson Murray Dunbar said. The blaze cut power to houses in Johnsonville, Glenside and Ngauranga.
Power was restored to all but 150 homes in Churton Park by 2pm on 14 April and it was close to midnight before the power was restored to the Churton Park homes.
ABOVE: Half Light performing their Celtic music. Photo Supplied.
Marlborough Airshow cancelled
The combined Marlborough Classic Fighters and Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre Trusts met on Monday and determined that the risks involved with attempting to run CF2025 at Easter are too significant. The decision needed to be made immediately to allow all attendees time to mitigate the effects of this decision a spokesperson said.
Community Awards
Nominations for the Wellington Airport Community Awards are now open.
Each year Wellington Airport and the five local councils join to recognise the valuable work of community group volunteers in the wider Wellington region.
Sixty groups will be recognised across the region this year, with more than $50,000 in award money and prizes to be won.
There are six award categories – arts and culture, education and child/youth development. Health and well-being, heritage and environment, sport and leisure, and the rising star award.
Nominations close on 31 May. For more information or to submit a nomination visit www.wellingtonairport.co.nz/community-hub/.
My office is open 9am- 4pm Monday to Friday
greg.oconnor@parliament.govt.nz 2/18 Moorefield Road, Johnsonville, Wellington Labour.org.nz/gregoconnor /GregOhariu
City-to-Sea Bridge could be demolished
By Felicity Wong
The cost of unnecessary earthquake “resilience” is crippling.
The Council decided in December to demolish the City-to-Sea Bridge, a structure that’s not “earthquake prone” under the correct bridge standard used by NZTA.
WCC has demolished the Municipal Office Building (MOB), not even earthquake prone.
At least a reprieve is offered for the Begonia House.
This month the Civic Trust is challenging in court the process around Council’s decision to demolish the City-to-Sea Bridge.
Council plans to have a pedestrian crossing over six lanes of traffic instead.
Last week Helen Ritchie of the Civic Trust talked about the bridge’s history to a U3A audience.
In 1982 Wellington declared itself a “nuclear weapons free city” and the “Waterfront Watch” led the fight to retain the waterfront as an open, free-to-visit space and this fight was won by the
On top are the peace symbols of artist Paratene Matchitt: the moon, the rising sun, a star and the bleeding heart motif of early Maori religions opposed to land confiscations.
His words are recorded in the
1993 plaque:
“’How we got here’ is the theme for the ‘gateway poles’.
“The celestial representations and symbols of love illustrate how our ancestors arrived in Aotearoa, as today people arriving at the waterfront can cross to the heart of the city.”
The giant sea birds and whales on top of the bridge guide the navigation of waka and ships across the bridge (to Aotearoa/ New Zealand).
The maunga, through which you can walk, with its greenstone/pounamu tip, signifies the mountains of the South Island.
On each side of the steps down to the square are the double prows of the symbolic Hourua waka and European symbols and patterns.
They lead to the shared cultural space of civic square.
The ramp from the bridge along the side of the library with Ian Athfield’s Nikau palms was designed as a “processional route” for students being capped at the end of their studies.
With the square being demolished and the bridge under threat, this year students won’t gather to celebrate or have their photos taken on the bridge with its spectacular view of Wellington Harbour/Te Whanganui-a-Tara.
In the square itself, (more recently covered by artificial grass), is the intricate Toi Te Rito Maihi’s paving, designed by her as a noted
weaver and eloquently described by Dr Anna-Marie White in her report last year. For more than a decade the maintenance of the extraordinary collection of art, sculptures and paving has been neglected.
In 2021 the Civic Trust held a large consultation on community aspirations for Civic Square/Te Nakau.
During the recent District Plan process Council removed the heritage status of the square, and only the City Art Gallery and old Town Hall retain any protection.
As for other such bridges there is no obligation to strengthen it, and it meets the standard NZTA uses for bridges.
Council staff used a standard which is stricter than for apartment buildings.
The Civic Trust says there’s no justification for the demolition because it’s not an Earthquake Prone Building, and even if it was, the estimated cost of fixing the
specific aspect (the associated sea wall next to the lagoon) would be much less than the Council’s cost guesstimate (less than $5 million versus $80 million).
Demolition will cost more than the remediation. “Then why?” an audience member asked. Helen Richie said the Council had made up its mind to demolish and the “consultation” was merely a formality. Some see the bridge as an enormous, quirky work of art in its own right.
“This bridge is us” said a submitter and another said it’s a “connection to ourselves”.
Others see an asset to free flowing traffic on busy Jervois Quay, useful both to separate pedestrians from fast and dangerous traffic, and aid the efficient flow of traffic.
Since Council staff are also contemplating demolition of the Michael Fowler Centre, this court case is very important for the Civic Trust to win.
Mahi Aroha nominations open
Volunteer Wellington has opened nominations for its 2025 Mahi Aroha Awards.
These awards recognise the contribution and achievements of outstanding volunteers – the dedication, passion and impact of those who give their time to help the community.
Volunteer Wellington has introduced three new award categories for this year.
The award categories are:
Mitre10 MEGA Volunteer of the Year Award
This award celebrates an outstanding volunteer who has made a lasting impact in their community.
W hether through ongoing service, leadership, or inspiring others, this individual embodies the spirit of volunteerism.
The winner will be someone who goes above and beyond – a unique individual who makes a special contribution as a volunteer.
Te Ao Māori Award
This award, which is new this year, recognises a volunteer who has been instrumental in leading or supporting their organisation’s journey to honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Whether through governance, advocacy, cultural initia-
inspired Be
tives, or meaningful engagement with Maori communities, this individual has played a key role in embedding Te Ao Maori values.
Volunteer Team Award
This award is also new for 2025 and celebrates a group of volunteers who make an impact together.
Some of the best volunteering happens when people come together for a common cause.
This award recognises a group of volunteers –whether staff from a local business volunteering regularly or team of volunteers that is part of community group, who together make a significant difference to a community organisation.
Youth Volunteer Award
Young volunteers can bring fresh ideas, energy, and passion to their communities. This award, which is also new this year, recognises an outstanding volunteer under the age of 25 who has made a meaningful impact through their time, skills, and dedication.
The closing date for nominations is 9 May.
More information about the award categories and nomination forms are on Volunteer Wellington’s website, https://volunteerwellington.nz.
Ohariu seat removal objections close soon
By Frank Neill
People wanting to object to the current plan to remove the Ohuriu electorate have until 27 April to do so.
In its review of New Zealand’s electorates the Electoral Commission has proposed that the Ohariuelectorate will be disestablished.
Under the commission’s proposals three Wellington electorates – Ohariu, Mana and Otaki – will be replaced by two new seats – Kenepuru and Kapiti.
Wadestown, Ngaio, Khandallah and Broadmeadows will become part of Wellington Central.
Newlands and Horokiwi will become part of Hutt South.
Johnsonville, Churton Park and Glenside will be in the new Kenepuru electorate.
One of the reasons people who live in Newlands and Horokiwi will be encouraged to lodge an objection about the proposed change is that the Electoral Commission’s proposal means they will be removed from their community of interest.
The community of interest for Newlands and Horokiwi is Johnsonville and Wellington, rather than the Hutt Valley.
More information on the electorate boundary review, and information having a say on the proposed electorate boundaries and names is available at https:// vote.nz/boundary-review/ about/2025/.
mission will hold public hearings of objections and counter objections between 9 and 18 June.
Greg O’Connor is the current Member of Parliament for Ohariu.
Ohariu “is part of a community of interest, stretching as it does from Wilton to Tawa,” Mr O’Connor says.
Following that, the public can made counter objections between 8 and 21 May.
The Representation Com-
“While diverse, the communities have relatively the same needs and interests, and are quite different from the electorates either side of them by way of demographics particularly,” Mr O’Connor says.
He fears that with Ohariu being cut in half and with the centres being in the new seats of Wellington Central and Kenepuru and the Hutt Valley, “they won’t get quite the attention” that they deserve.
Elite Arboriculture is a local, family-owned and operated tree management business on the Kapiti Coast, offering professional arborist services across the Wellington and Horowhenua regions.
Elite Arboriculture is a local, family-owned and operated tree management business on the Kapiti Coast, offering professional arborist services across the Wellington and Horowhenua regions.
Elite Arboriculture believes the mana of trees must be respected. They love giving back to the Earth by planting trees and to the community through volunteer service. Elite Arboriculture has carried out free tree work at their local preschools and kindergartens, as well as for their Free Tree Initiative, where they offer one lucky recipient arborist services of their choice at no cost.
2x
A green heart
Science meets art for teen director
KAT Theatre is the only community theatre group that regularly puts on a season of short plays.
As well as providing a diverse and interesting theatre experience for audiences, it’s a chance for new directors to flex their muscles and take charge of a production without the pressure of a full-length script.
Five directors, three of them first-timers in the director’s chair, are helming a season of one-act pieces collectively called Expectations.
Each script is unique, but the common thread is that all the key characters are negotiating the expectations of others while trying to achieve their own.
One of the new directors is high-school student TJ Duggan.
Having been introduced to theatre at a young age by his mum Lisa, a long-time KAT Theatre member, it was a natural progression for TJ into directing.
“Last year at my school, they didn’t have a drama class,” TJ recalls.
“I thought what can I do to
still be involved in drama but also try something new.
“I acted in KAT’s Puss in Boots, played in the band for Alice, and came to the conclusion that why not direct a play and see what it’s like in the hot seat.”
TJ has chosen a 10-minute script called Poverty by local writer Angie Farrow, one of a series she’s written recently about climate change.
“The main reason I chose it is that I see myself in it,”
TJ says.
“It’s a play about relationships between children and parents and environmental issues.
“I’m looking at studying environmental science at uni so it’s something that’s close to my heart, especially as I’ve become more politically conscious in the last few years.
This is me trying to convey the emotions I have about the subject.
“The best part about it being a short play is that we can go through the whole play and find one little thing to focus on for an hour, completely iron it out, and by the end of doing that for two months
of rehearsals, we have this brilliant piece of art.
“I could never do this alone and the teamwork’s amazing. It’s inspiring to see the actors convey these heavy emotions over and over again.”
This is only the beginning for TJ, who has ambitions to direct more plays in future when time and life allow.
“Incorporating my interests into art is like spreading my beliefs through it, or how important it feels for society, or that long string of messages that needs to be conveyed somewhere.
Theatre’s a great way to do that,” TJ says.
With his sights set on Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington for his future studies, people will happily be seeing a lot more of TJ’s talent on the stage in the coming years.
For now, people can catch his work and that of four other talented directors in Expectations at Cochran Hall in Khandallah from 2 to 4 May. Tickets can be booked online through kat-theatre. org.nz/bookings.
competition. A great example of a local business supporting the local community… You folks are absolute stars, and we can’t recommend you highly enough.
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.
James Tucker Isaia Walker-Leawere Devan Flanders
7x marinated lamb chops $30 – Du’Plessis Kirifi
8x choice of any sausage $20 – Brad Shields
Tree pruning and hedge trimming are important to maintain health and structure. From thinning to reductions, Elite Arboriculture can keep your trees healthy and looking their best. The team can also help with planting and mulching, assisting you in finding the right trees for the right spaces and with the right aesthetics.
Every Wednesday (please ensure your order is made by Monday night) Every Friday
“We had a team from Elite Arboriculture working at our son’s and daughter-in-law’s place in Paekākāriki today”, a happy customer comments. “This work was being done as a prize that Elite Arboriculture had donated to a local
“We had a team from Elite Arboriculture working at our son’s and daughter-in-law’s place in Paekākāriki today”, a happy customer comments. “This work was being done as a prize that Elite Arboriculture had donated to a local competition. supporting absolute highly enough. Tree pruning to maintain to reductions, your trees team can assisting right spaces Trees are ecosystem, dangerous. they are professionally.
Trees are essential to our beautiful country’s ecosystem, but an unhealthy tree can be dangerous. If the time has come for removal, they are qualified to perform the job safely and professionally.
Elite Arboriculture heart for
Elite Arboriculture is a local, family-owned and operated tree management business on the Kapiti Coast, offering professional arborist services across the Wellington and Horowhenua regions.
Elite Arboriculture believes the mana of trees must be respected. They love giving back to the Earth by planting trees and to the community through volunteer service. Elite Arboriculture has carried out free tree work at their local preschools and kindergartens, as well as for their Free Tree Initiative, where they offer one lucky recipient arborist services of their choice at no cost.
“We had a team from Elite Arboriculture working at our son’s and daughter-in-law’s place in Paekākāriki today”, a happy customer comments. “This work was being done as a prize that Elite Arboriculture had donated to a local
MANAGEMENT
From Wellington, Porirua, Kapiti to Horowhenua, we provide qualified and professional arborist services.
Our services include: • Tree trimming • Felling • Dismantling
Hedging • Pruning
Full waste removal
Fully qualified and totally insured. Please get in touch to receive your
Elite Arboriculture has a green thumb and green heart for the community and ecosystem. www.elitearb.co.nz
First-time director TJ Duggan (left) in rehearsal with actors Clare Docherty and Maggie Long in KAT Theatre’s production of Poverty by Angie Farrow. Photo: Supplied.
Keeping it LOCAL
MBS Digital offers some of the most competitive pricing available
MBS Digital Print is your local North Wellington printer — now under new ownership!
We’re excited to bring a fresh approach, top-notch service, competitive pricing, and a full range of high-quality printing solutions to the community. From business
cards, flyers, brochures, and posters to signage, banners, custom labels, and promotional products, we’ve got all your printing needs covered.
Whether you’re a small business, community group, or individual, our friendly team is here to help bring your ideas to life.
Wellington Kebab Grill presents: The History of Turkish Cuisine
• Superior energy efficiency
• Tough and durable
• Low maintenance
• New Build, Retro Fits
• Free measure and quote
• Full installation service Double Glazing with German PVC Joinery Ph: 04 974
E: sales@ecowindows.nz www.ecowindows.nz
To advertise contact Steve@WSN.CO.NZ
Wellington Kebab Grill is your go-to spot for delicious and authentic Turkish Meals. Operating daily by passionate and dedicated Chefs to serve the best and most affordable price.
Craving a flavourful, satisfying meal for lunch or dinner ? Discover the rich taste of our Iskender dishes — where tradition meets your favourite flavours.
Iskender Meals are served on a bed of
hot rice. Choose from tender lamb, juicy chicken, vegetarian, or falafel. All served with Lettuce, Carrot, Onion, Red Cabbage, Hummus, Beetroot, Cacik, Taboulli. They are a perfect balance to delight every palate.
114 Johnsonville Road.
Open Hours : Sunday to Wednesday : 11AM – 9PM , Thursday to Saturday : 11AM - 10PM
Superior materials and engineering by Eco Doors & Windows
Aluplast is one of the leading developers of uPVC window and door systems around the world, and the brand is recognised internationally for its innovations. They are based in over 80 countries and have 1400 business partners.
We are supported from the other side of the world by the Head Office in Karlsruhe, Germany. For 35 years they have been developing superior, high quality uPVC extrusions, and uPVC window and door products.
Our German Engineered uPVC profiles are treated for the New Zealand UV environment and are sure to last over 50 years, exceeding
lifespan and performance of aluminium and timber.
Our uPVC windows and doors will easily last 40 years or more in New Zealand. uPVC frames and uPVC windows do not need painting or special maintenance. uPVC is resistant to dirt and environmental conditions and cannot be deformed by moisture or temperature changes, like timber and aluminium joinery. Additionally the uPVC itself will never rot, rust or corrode. uPVC windows and doors can be easily cleaned with soapy water. Some periodic maintenance of hinges and moving parts is recommended.
Watercolour NZ and the Outer Art Group are two groups of artists that come together on the third Sunday of each month to paint en plein air, enjoying the beauty of Wellington’s natural surroundings.
The sessions are typically held in calm, settled weather, making for a relaxing and productive day.
Known for its laid-back and welcoming atmosphere, they have become a regular fixture for both novice and professional artists alike.
Artists bring their easels, who work on both pocket size and larger A3-sized boards, making it easy to capture the essence of the landscape while still producing a portable piece of art.
The subjects of their paintings often include the cityscape, stunning waterfront, parks, and the unique coastlines that define the city, offering a diverse range of inspiration for painters. These outdoor settings provide perfect opportunities for artists to hone their skills and experiment with different techniques.
If you wish to find out a little more, please email Martin at apdc1@outlook.com Wellington a
Karori’s incredible generosity
The Karori Community Centre was alive with colour, music, laughter, and delicious aromas last week as locals came together to celebrate Eid – a joyful festival marking the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting observed by Muslims around the world.
This year’s celebration had an especially meaningful touch, thanks to a moving presentation delivered by a very special guest: Nighat Hyder.
Nighat, a former social worker and director of SOS Children’s Village in Lahore, Pakistan, and a past team member of Abroo School for underprivileged children, has
been spending the past few months in New Zealand.
During her time here, she has immersed herself in the vibrant community life of Karori, attending numerous events and activities hosted at the centre.
What struck her most, she says, is the incredible spirit of generosity that threads through Kiwi culture.
“I am absolutely in awe of the amount of work that volunteers do here,” she said with a warm smile.
“It’s beautiful. The giving culture in New Zealand is so strong – people genuinely go above and beyond for the good of the community.”
During the Eid celebration, Nighat’s heartfelt presentation gave attendees an insight into the festival’s deeper meaning – not only a time of celebration and gratitude after a month of reflection and fasting, but also a time to remember and support those less fortunate.
She described how, in many Muslim communities, Eid is marked by acts of charity, sharing meals, and giving small gifts or money (called “Eidi”) to children, who in turn are encouraged to share their joy with others.
Nighat has found striking similarities between her own culture and what she has experienced in New Zealand.
A view of the Eid celebration at the Karori Community Centre. Photo Supplied.
“In Pakistan, giving back is a cornerstone of how we live,” she explained.
“To see that same passion for helping others here in New Zealand – whether it’s through volunteering, sharing time, or simply being there for one another – it has been truly heartening.”
As the Eid event drew to a close, guests lingered – sharing sweets, chatting, and exchanging smiles. It was more than
just a cultural event – it was a moment of shared humanity, a reminder that, no matter where we come from, kindness and community are values we all hold dear.
And as Nighat so eloquently put it, “This country is unique in how it brings people together. It’s a land full of smiles – and I am taking many of them home with me in my heart.”
Three locals feature in musical
By Frank Neill
Three Karori residents are among the team that is bringing the major musical comedy “Give Way – The Musical” to Circa Theatre.
Jacqueline Coats is directing the production, actor Carrie Green is playing a variety of roles and the set and costume designer is Tony de Goldi.
“Give Way – The Musical” makes its world premier when it opens at Circa on 26 April and it runs until 24 May.
Written by Steven Page, who is a Southland postie, the musical was inspired by New Zealand’s give way rule.
The script won Steven the 2023 McNaughton South Island Play Award, with judges declaring it “hilarious and unique – an inherently Kiwi story with a universal message”.
Everyone will recognise themselves in the story, Steven says.
“We get easily worked up over small things, and changes that shouldn’t be a big deal get blown out of proportion.
“I’ve dialled up what happened so people will see how entertaining a kerfuffle it was. But audiences will find truth in it, and hopefully the play will make
them think.”
“I’m loving working alongside our talented musical director, Hayden Taylor, on Steven Page’s anarchic and joyful script and songs,” Jacqueline says.
“We are creating a wonderful ‘controlled chaos’ in the rehearsal room with a group of very funny actors, playing on the ingenious ‘roundabout’-inspired set, created by Tony de Goldi.
“I’m sure all the Karori residents who experience the roundabout at the Kelburn Viaduct every day will be familiar with this feeling of controlled chaos.”
Jacqueline is already acclaimed as a director of opera (Tosca, Porgy and Bess). Directing musical theatre is an exciting departure for her.
“It’s the first time I’ve directed a musical,” she says.
“I’ve done lots of theatre with music, staged concerts and operas, but this is my first proper musical.”
Toni is best described as “a Scenic Artist” who has worked across the film, theatre, TV and exhibition industries for 30 years.
He is a senior tutor in design, set and props at Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School.
The set he designed for the show features large panels displaying
New Zealand road rules and a suspended cluster of traffic lights.
He has also designed multiple costumes, as four of the five actors play varied parts.
The costumes include three Wellington public servants, a PR executive, a nurse, a professor and the Minister of Transport.
Carrie has written and directed for the stage, and her acting credits span theatre, film and TV.
Recent roles include Nic in TVNZ’s “Under the Vines”.
“I moved to Karori 13 years ago and was surprised to find so many creatives living here,” she says.
“It’s probably time to start a company or something.
“We could definitely put together a play or film with the number of locals that work in the industry. It’s become a bit of a hub.”
The show is perfectly timed for Wellingtonians, its producer Dave Armstrong says.
“We’re in the middle of a recession and the news is always grim.
“While serious drama about big issues has its place, it’s also nice to laugh together about how, in this country, traffic issues rile everyone up.”
For more information and to book visit www.circa.co.nz.
SUBMISSIONSCLOSE20APRIL
Director Jacqueline Coats with a Give Way sign. Photo: Supplied.
MATE URUROA
WORLD PREMIERE OF THE OPERA BY Dame Gillian Whitehead
David Tahere - baritone
Ariana Tikao - taonga pūoro and voice
Sara Brodie - Director Hannah Playhouse 11 - 13 July
Performed in te reo Māori and English with surtitles
Stroma - ensemble Hamish McKeich - conductor WITH NOTES FROM THE FRONT by Ross Harris
A WORLD WAR I STORY | Tickets at wellingtonopera.nz
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
A NZAC DAY Commemorations
ANZAC Day commemorations include two events in Karori and Makara this year. The following services will take place:
Dawn service, 6am at the Pukeahu National War Memorial Park, Buckle Street.
Makara ANZAC Day service, 10am at St Mattias’ Church, 379 Makara Road.
ANZAC Day National Commemoration Service, 11am at the Pukeahu National War Memorial Park. Karori RSA ANZAC Day service, 11am at Karori West Normal School, 19 Allington Road. Atatürk Memorial Service, 2:30pm at Atatürk Memorial, Tarakena Bay, 166 Breaker Bay Road. Last Post, 5pm at the Pukeahu National War Memorial Park. - WoF $80 - Brake Checks - Pre-Purchase Checks from $45 - Inquire about our Services
81c Kenepuru Drive, Porirua
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them.
ANZAC Day
National commemoration
Anzac Day takes place each year on April 25 and commemorates all New Zealanders killed in war, while also honouring returned servicemen and women. April 25 marks the anniversary of the landing of New Zealand and Australian soldiers, on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915. The aim was to capture the Dardanelles, the gateway to the Bosphorus and the Black Sea, however, at the end
of the campaign, Gallipoli was still held by its Turkish defenders. Among those who lost their lives in the Gallipoli campaign were 2779 New Zealanders, almost one in four of those who served on Gallipoli. As always, ceremonies are held at war memorials up and down New Zealand and in places overseas where New Zealanders gather to pay tribute.
This quote made by Ataturk, a great Turkish statesman in 1934, is inscribed on the memorial at Anzac Cove, Gallipoli. It is also inscribed on the Ataturk memorial at Tarakena Bay, which is said to be similar to the coast around Gallipoli:
Johnsonville and Districts RSA Welfare Trust
ANZAC
DAY PARADE AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
Friday the 25th of April 2025
10.00am
The Chairman and Trustees of the Johnsonville and Districts RSA Welfare Trust cordially invite citizens and service and youth organisations in the Johnsonville area to at tend the annual ANZAC Day parade and community service to be held in Johnsonville on Friday the 25th of April 2025. The parade will assemble in Burgess Road at 9.30am, and step off at 9.45am for the march to the service at the Salvation Army Citadel at 125-137 Johnsonville Road at 10.00am.
“Those heroes that shed their blood and lost their lives; You are now lying in the soil of a friendly country. Therefore rest in peace. There is no difference between the Johnnies and the Mehemets to us where they lie side by side here in this country of ours. You, the mothers, who sent their sons from far away countries, wipe away your tears; your sons are now lying in our bosom and are at peace.
After having lost their lives on this land they have
For further information, please contact: Glenton Waugh mobile: 0274 416 290 email: glenton.waugh@ salvationarmy.org.nz
T H J Knight Chairman
Windows 10 deadline looms
• The market leader in computer and technology support for home and small business
• Providing support across NZ, from Whangarei to Invercargill
Windows 10 was released with much fanfare in mid2015 and one year on, the offer to upgrade to Windows 10 for free is just about to expire.
• Support at your business or home, over the phone, by email or remotely
• Highly trained technicians are professional, efficient and know their tech
Microsoft estimates that a total of 300 million devices are now running Windows 10, with about a third of those being new devices. But the majority - about 60% - of Windows based PCs are still running Windows 7 so if that’s you and you want that free upgrade, you’ve got until 29 July 2016 to do it.
• Computer sales, repair, maintenance and ongoing support made easy
We remember the ANZACs
To date, most Windows 10 upgrades have gone reasonably smoothly, but with the sheer volume being done, there’s no shortage of horror stories. Many of these have happened in the last two months when Microsoft made Windows 10 an automatic update without really letting anyone know and around the world people woke up
Book a Nerd online at www.needanerdwellington.co.nz or phone 04 212 6413
East E r CHU rCH sE rVICEs 2025
Traditional Easter Symbols
Eggs represent new life and rebirth, and it’s thought that this ancient custom became a part of Easter celebrations. In the medieval
period, eating eggs was forbidden during Lent (the 40 days before Easter) so on Easter Sunday, tucking into an egg was a real treat!
What is Easter ?
Easter is celebrated throughout the world.
Whether it be with an egg hunt for the kids, or to have a day off, it’s an exciting holiday for both young and old. But for some, Easter is a special time to celebrate sacrifice, love, and triumph over death.
As Christians, we know that God became man, died for our sins, and was resurrected on the third day. This is the basic tenet of the Christian faith and the reason we celebrate.
In John 11:25-26, Jesus claims to be the source and the giver of life. He guarantees eternal life to those who would put their faith in Him. Such assurance results in a great song
of triumph - as the apostle Paul writes, “O death, where is thy sting? O grave where is thy victory?” (1 Corinthians 15:55 kjv)
Christianity possesses a founder who transcends death and promises that His followers will also be resurrected to new glorious bodies.
The resurrection of Jesus has a great impact on the lives of His followers.
Because they know they will be resurrected to a new life, they can endure the trials and persecutions of life just as Jesus did, knowing well His promise that He will never leave nor forsake His own.
holy week & Easter at Ngaio Union
service of shadows 17 april 6:30pm supper, songs & silence
Good Friday 18 april 9:30am coffee & contemplation
Easter Sunday 20 april 10am “He is not here for he is risen!”
facebook.com/ngaiounion
Free mentoring experience
After the successful pilot of its new group programme, Big Buddy is calling for young boys between 14 and 17 who would benefit from a free seven-week mentored experience ending with a four-day adventure camp.
Enrolments for Term Two programme, closed on 31 March.
Each young man receives $3,500 worth of mentoring, adventure and personal growth at no cost to their whanau.
It is open to boys who do not have a significant male role model at home.
The programme connects boys with mentors and facilitators to tackle challenges, build confidence, resilience and responsibility and complements core support programme “Big Buddy One-2-One” which matches one Big Buddy to one Little Buddy aged between 7 and 13.
Reponses to the pilot have been very positive.
“When my dad passed away, I held all my emotions inside because I didn’t want to worry the people around me.
“This programme showed me it’s healthy to show how you feel and not hold everything on the inside.”
Of participants surveyed after the pilot, 80% felt calmer and more positive, 90% said had better understanding of others and seeing things from their perspective and 86% felt more confident in overcoming challenges.
Big Buddy co-CEO Steve Sobota in excited about the feedback and what’s ahead.
“This isn’t just about giving boys something to do, it’s about giving them the tools to navigate life with strength, courage, and support,” he says.
The progamme has been enabled by generous sponsorship.
Applications can be made at https:// www.bigbuddy.org.nz/buddy-up/finda-big-buddy/ or by emailing info@ bigbuddy.org.nz.
Big Buddy works on the simple philosophy that a boy will benefit greatly from having a positive male role model in their life.
Big Buddy has been matching boys without a dad in their lives to volunteer Big Buddies for more than 25 years, matching over 1,200 boys and men.
The programme supports boys aged between 7 and 17 in Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga and Wellington.
A Big and Little Buddy typically catch up for two to three hours most weeks.
“I’ve really grown into a different person on this programme,” one participant says.
Big Buddy will run the eight week programme in Auckland, Wellington and Tauranga, delivering four programmes in 2025, with a future plan to expand the programme into Hamilton in 2026.
They choose what they want to do together. This can be anything from walking the dog, throwing a ball around, or visiting a café or even a museum.
A group of Big Buddy mentees during one of their activities while on a camp. Photo: Supplied.
GOOD FRIDAY 18 APRIL
@ 9.30am Ecumenical Procession of Witness. Starting at St Thomas More Church - Worcester Street, Wilton To St Anne’s - Northland Road, Northland All ages welcome
DON’T CHUCK IT
Time to check smoke alarms
By Frank Neill
People who did not check their smoke alarms are working when daylight saving ended last Sunday are advised to do so now.
alerted to a fire sooner.
EXPECTATIONS
Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) reminded people to check their smoke alarms are working when daylight saving ended.
“If you do have alarms - do you have enough, are they in the right places, are they clean, and do they work? Press the button to be sure. If they do not make a sound, replace them immediately.
May, June and July compared with the rest of the year,” he says.
“So having a working smoke alarm is even more essential right now.”
Don't Chuck It. Fix It! Ngaio Repair Cafe is free, open Saturday 19 April,10am - 1pm, Ngaio Union Church, corner Crofton Road and Kenya Street, Ngaio.
“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
Not everyone would have seen the reminder and some of the people who saw the reminder may then have forgotten to check their smoke alarms.
“Make sure you push the button on each of your smoke alarms,” FENZ Community Education Manager Tom Ronaldson says.
POOLS
“That beep is the sound of knowing you and your household can sleep safe at night.
“When you’re asleep, you can’t smell smoke, but smoke alarms can and they’ll wake you up if a fire gets started so you can get out fast.
“Having working smoke alarms in every bedroom, living area and hallway is the first step in your three-step plan to escape a house on fire.
dash. Through native bush we twist and wiggle. From the children brings a giggle. Severn days a week the place is
“If you don’t have alarms, it’s time to put that right.”
Assistance with smoke alarms is a free service provided by FENZ. To receive assistance, phone the nearest fire brigade or email FENZwellington@fireandemergency.nz.
“We recommend long-life interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms,” Tom says.
“If one alarm detects a fire, interconnected alarms will all go off at once, so everyone will be
CROSSWORD
CROSSWORD
Inundate (9)
“Step two of your escape plan is having at least two clear paths out of each part of the house, and step three is having a safe meeting place.
SECURE STORAGE 14sqm $42 per week. Wainui Self Storage, Waiu St, 0274805150.
“We suggest you go to fireandemergency. nz/escape to create a three-step plan for your home.”
Fire and Emergency provides this advice to keep smoke alarms effective: Once a month press the test button to sound the alarm.
Tom says that every year, the cooler weather brings a spike in the number of house fires caused by heat sources, such as heaters, chimneys, ash disposal, electric blankets and dryers. Therefore, it is important people are alert to the risks these items pose to their household.
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
“We see at least 50% more of these fires in
If your smoke alarm beeps regularly when there is no smoke or fire, it might mean you need to change the battery or replace the alarm. We recommend long-life photoelectric smoke alarms.
Clean each smoke alarm with a vacuum cleaner every six months, as dust buildup can cause false alarms.
Check the expiry date on the bottom or side of the alarm. If there’s no expiry date, it’s best to replace the alarm.
Wadestown School
Out of Zone Enrolments for Term 2, 2025 New Entrant Students APPLICATIONS OPEN
The Wadestown School Board invites applications from parents out of zone who wish to enrol their children at Wadestown School for Term 2, 2025. Enrolment at the school is governed by an enrolment scheme, details of which are available from the school office or at www.wadestown.school.nz. Students who live in the home zone are entitled to enrol at the school.
Limited places are available in the following areas of the school.
● 4 Out of Zone New Entrant places
Where there are more applications for enrolment than there are places available, the Board are required to fill any vacant out of zone places by ballot.
Applications from out of zone students will be processed in the following order of priority:
● Priority will be given to applicants who are siblings of current children at the school.
● Priority will then be given to applicants who are siblings of former students of the school.
● Priority will then be given to applicants who are the child of a former student of the school
● Priority will then be given to applicants who are children of an empl oyee of the school’s board or a child of a member of the school’s board
● Priority will then be given to other applicants.
If the number of out of zone applications exceeds the number of places available, selection will be by ballot. If a ballot for out of zone places is required, it will be held at 12:00 pm on Wednesday 7 May 2025 under external supervision. Parents will be informed as to the outcome of the ballot immediately following the ballot being held.
The deadline for receipt of applications for out of zone places is 12:30pm on Friday 2 May.
Applications are to be made in writing by email, marked ‘Confidential’ to Amanda Frater (amandaf@wadestown.school.nz) using the Subject Heading; ‘Confidential - Out of Zone Ballot 2025’.
Ngā mihi nui, Amanda Frater
Tumuaki/Principal
Wadestown School Board
For further enquiries, please email: office@wadestown.school.nz or phone:
Pounds,shillings & pence(abbr)(3)
55. Of sight. (5)
By Russell McQuarters
By Russell McQuarters
Heavy wooden hammer. (4)
Sets fire to. (7)
Halo round heavenly body. (6)
Consumed. (3)
Papal letter. (5)
Cotton fabric. (7)
32. Accustom. (5)
33. Parson-bird. (3)
34. U.S. Intelligence agency (abbr) (3) 35. Facial twitch. (3) 36. Ingenuous. (5)
37. One who urges wrongdoing. (7) 38. Muslim title. (5)
39. Electric fish. (3)
41. Tributary stream. (6)
42. Embellished. (7) 44. Agitate. (4)
38. Muslim title. (5) 39. Electric fish. (3) 41. Tributary stream. (6) 42. Embellished. (7)
Agitate. (4)
47. The same. (3)
49. Paid motor-car driver (fem) (10) 51. Valet. (8)
The same. (3) 49. Paid motor-car driver (fem) (10) 51. Valet. (8)
55. Of sight. (5)
56. Soaked in blood. (7)
56. Soaked in blood. (7)
57. Cooped up. (5)
57. Cooped up. (5)
58. Act of formally withdrawing from the church. (9)
58. Act of formally withdrawing from the church. (9)
59. Loathes. (9)
59. Loathes. (9) DOWN
DOWN
1. Most favourable. (7) 2. Ant. (5) 3. Twists. (6) 4. Splendour. (5) 5. Covering for horse’s head, -sheet. (4) 6. Artist’s paint board. (7)
(5)
1. Most favourable. (7) 2. Ant. (5) 3. Twists. (6) 4. Splendour. (5) 5. Covering for horse’s head, -sheet. (4) 6. Artist’s paint board. (7)
7. Girls name (6)
7. Girls name (6) 8. Of the nerves. (12)
8. Of the nerves. (12) 9. Sapid. (5)
Sapid. (5)
10. Professional writer. (11)
Professional writer. (11)
Ailing. (3)
15. Ailing. (3) 16. Mine entrance. (4)
Mine entrance. (4)
Husband-to-be. (6)
Use. (7)
Friendly. (6)
Rich. (7)
Consequences. (5-7)
Right of access. (6)
Well-doers. (11)
Outfit. (3)
19. Husband-to-be. (6) 21. Use. (7) 23. Friendly. (6) 25. Rich. (7) 26. Consequences. (5-7) 27. Right of access. (6) 28. Well-doers. (11) 30. Outfit. (3) 31. Cafe. (6) 40. Prepare for publication. (4)
Cafe. (6)
(4)
43. Rubbish container. (7)
Snow runner. (3) 45. Ornamental screen behind altar (7) 46. Star sign. (6)
48. Early cavalry soldier. (6) 50. Garret. (5)
Furnish. (5) 53. Dusk, fall. (5) 54. Real name Ella Geisman, actress Allyson. (4)
43. Rubbish container. (7)
Snow runner. (3)
Ornamental screen behind altar (7)
46. Star sign. (6)
48. Early cavalry soldier. (6) 50. Garret. (5)
52. Furnish. (5)
Dusk, fall. (5)
Real name Ella Geisman, actress Allyson. (4)
New electric buses on local run
Sixteen new zero-emission electric buses are joining the Metlink fleet, bringing core routes like the number 4 service closer to becoming fully electric.
Route 4 runs from Wilton/ Mairangi Road Wadestown to Strathmore.
Owned by Metlink operator, Kinetic, the new buses will replace 10 older diesel models that were temporarily introduced to accommodate increased service frequency and grow the fleet.
This brings the total number of electric buses in the Metlink fleet to 119, making it 25% electric.
Greater Wellington transport chair Thomas Nash
says the new electric buses mark another step towards achieving the council’s carbon reduction goals.
“The aim is for all 16 buses to be in service by the end of April, making a noticeable difference to noise and pollution, as we continue to drive down our carbon emissions and work towards the electrification of all core bus routes by 2030,” Cr Nash says.
“The introduction of the new buses means bus services such as the number 4 will be almost completely electric, like route 2 from Karori to Miramar and Seatoun, which was electrified in February 2022.”
Since its introduction in January 2024, route 4 has become one of the busiest Metlink services, carrying more than 1.4 million pas sengers in the past year and connecting key locations across Wellington CBD, in cluding Wellington Hospital.
“About one third of the kilometers travelled by Metlink buses are now pow ered by electricity instead of fossil fuels and this has been a major factor in the increase of air quality on central city streets like Manners, Willis and Lambton Quay, where noxious fumes have dropped markedly in the last couple of years,” Cr Nash adds.
Award winners at Library
Five award winning Kiwi story tellers will speak about Capital Crimes at Te Mahanga Karori Library at 6pm on 1 May.
This free event will be the library’s second Ngaio Marsh Awards event of the year.
The five panellists are Dame Fiona Kidman, Tina Makereti, David White, Claire Baylis and Branavan Gnanalingam.
Dame Fiona is a Poneke
literary gem, acclaimed author and past Ngaio’s Best Novel and Ockhams / Acorn Prize winner.
Tina is a Commonwealth Short Story Prize winning writer and novelist, and 2025 Ockhams longlisted author.
David is an award-winning filmmaker and true crime writer.
Claire is the 2024 recipient of the Ngaio’s award for Best First Novel.
Letters to the Editor
Gaza situation
I want to talk about something that I believe is incredibly important — not just for those involved, but for all of us. The situation in Gaza, and why it should matter to us here in New Zealand.
As a nation, we pride ourselves on fairness, on standing up for what’s right. We have taken a stand against apartheid, and against nuclear weapons. We understand that silence in the face of injustice is complicity.
Israel’s genocide in Gaza and its broader military aggression are driving instability that reaches far beyond the Middle East.
This is not just a regional issue; it’s a global one. Silence is not neutrality; it’s complicity. And it will backfire on us. We do not need to “fix” anything overseas, we just need to stop funding oppression.
Here’s what we can (and should) do with almost zero inconvenience to ourselves:
• Boycott – download the No Thanks or Boycat app to make ethical shopping choices.
This event will be chaired by Ngaio’s Best Novel winner and Ockhams shortlisted author Brannavan.
“The evening promises to be a totally unmissable treat and is sure to feature wide-ranging conversations on a whole host of topics and subjects,” Wellington Libraries says.
“We expect this event to be very popular and seating will be on a first come first served basis.”
WITH OUR 6 WEEK PROGRAMME!
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.
AT 32 GO
• Divest – check where your Kiwisaver is invested at Mindful Money and move to an ethical fund.
• Support local and second-hand businesses –Avoid companies profiting from apartheid.
• Learn about BDS – The Palestinian-led movement to hold Israel accountable through economic pressure.
• Stay informed – follow, engage and support PSNA, Justice for Palestine, Alternative Jewish Voices and others on social media.
• Take political action – sign petitions, write to MPs, and participate in demonstrations.
• Share this letter with as many people as you can. We cannot continue to ignore the fact that our lifestyle and the choices we make every day – where we shop, where our investments go, our silence –contribute to maintaining a criminal and dangerous status quo. Adham Harash (Abridged)
ABOVE: One of the sixteen new zero-emission electric buses joining the Metlink fleet
