11 May Independent Herald

Future scientist

By Frank Neill

Onslow College alumnus Benjamin (Benjy) Smith has just been awarded the Prime Minister’s Future Scientist prize. Benjy, who lives in Khandallah, won

the prize for his research into mathematically modelling the behaviour of twisted elastic bands—work that can be applied to many types of structural engineering.

Continued on page 2.

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Winning the prize an ‘incredible privilege’

Continued from page 1.

He completed the work as part of the International Young Physicists’ Tournament last year, when he was in year 13 at Onslow College.

Presented with a problem at the tournament, Benjy decided to investigate how elastic bands acted when twisted or stretched and built a device to measure their pull and resistance.

He found that the current mathematical models used to predict measurements either don’t work or are limited.

“This area of research can apply to many structural engineering situations, such as bungee jumping and construction cranes,” Benjy says.

“If we could predict the behaviour of these materials to prevent fatigue or breaking, it would be very advantageous.”

Winning the Prime Minister’s Future Scientist Prize is “an incredible privilege,” Benjy says.

“The calibre of all the other prize winners was so high, so it’s an honour to be counted alongside them.”

The award comes with a prize of $50,000 to support tertiary education, which Benjy is putting towards his Bachelor of Science majoring in Physics and Computer Science at Victoria University, with hopes of continuing down this path of physics research.

“The thing I like most about physics is that you can use the precise nature of mathematics

to describe the real world and be able to predict what will happen using that.

“I’d like to continue exploring that—taking the chance to experience some of the opportunities available at university, and maybe going forward into a research career,” Benjy says.

The Prime Minister’s Future Scientist selection panel said they were very impressed with the details of Benjy’s experimental design and consideration of multiple variables and also his statistical analysis.

“The most significant gains for Benjy have been in the learning of how to carry an in-depth investigation at this particular level,” his nominator Kent Hogan, who is a mentor for the New Zealand Young Physicists, says.

“It was evident to me that Benjy had a gift for science and scientific research but his skills and abilities in these areas have grown over the years.

“Benjy has had to learn how to solve some very challenging and difficult mathematics, physics and engineering problems.

“The problem-solving skills he has developed are skills that he will be able to apply to a wide range of situations for the rest of his life and career,” Mr Hogan says.

Benjy’s work has implications in several fields where elastic material under tension is modelled using Finite String Theory.

It could have significant implica-

tions in applications where steel cables undergo stretching and twisting when loaded.

The coupling between extension and torsion in elastic materials was first observed by Poynting, hence is known as thePoynting Effect. The effect originally observed was the lengthening of wires when twisted under a constant force.

To investigate the coupling, for force and torque produced, Benjy measured a number of elastic bands at a variety of extensions and rotations.

He found two distinct trends separated by the experimental critical value at which the band transitions from a helical geometry to a tubular one. Further critical points occur where the band starts forming further instabilities.

Benjy concluded that the most

likely cause for the force and torque deviating from the current model is the current inability to accurately predict the geometry of the band, accounting for the instabilities that occur.

He suggested several additional requirements for an improved model that can accurately predict the force and torque by observing multiple trends which are separated by critical rotations when the band stops being a helix and further instabilities start to form. Benjy has had to delve deep into some very complex and niche fields. He needed to learn several advanced mathematical techniques such as practical differential calculus, matrix algebra, and other mathematical tools. He has also had to learn physics that is way beyond most year 13 students.

I recently hosted a meeting which included local property developers and representatives from the City and Regional Councils. The background for the meeting was the need to ensure all people involved in providing more housing in our electorate, whether it be those building them or those regulating and permitting that building, understand the issues which govern the ability to build the houses everyone agrees we need.

There are essentially two types of development; greenfields and brownfields. Greenfields means building on currently undeveloped land, typically ex farmland on the edges of current urban areas, where infrastructure like sewers, water supply and other essential services don’t exist are usually built by the developer.

Once again, we in Wellington watch our fellow New Zealanders, particularly those in the north, suffer from flood inundation, while we again escape the worst of the weather. Climate change is upon us here and everywhere and it will take herculean efforts by the whole world to reverse the effects. NZ always does its bit in worldwide efforts, and we will have to now. People who think we can opt out somehow are sadly mistaken, and we as Government are and will make the brave calls. Those calls will be popular with our grandkids even if they’re not today. The same applies to infrastructure investment.

Brownfields development means rebuilding on existing sites, and there has been considerable discussion in recent times around how much intensification should be allowed in existing suburbs, especially changing of height limits to allow for more apartments.

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

Too many local bodies and governments have been elected promising lower rates and taxes, only to leave it up to the next generation of both to carry the burden, when the generation who copped-out have well gone.

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.

Being progressive means being future focused, not nostalgic for the good old days which were often not quite as good as we remember. It is said pain has no memory.

We saw many Americans supporting Donald Trump who offered them a return to a socalled glorious past, which was only glorious for a small section of the population. Now he has been exposed, hopefully people will understand that creating a society where everyone gets a fair go is far preferable to looking after the interests of a few.

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 meetdemand. That is certainly my goal as your MP.

That, and of course having a vibrant and functioning Johnsonville Shopping Centre we can all be proud of.

There’s plenty to be getting on with.

Closer to home, it’s good to see progress on Ngaio Gorge where an unstable hillside has severely disrupted traffic for some time. I take my hat off to the patience of gorge users who have put up with the inconvenience with little complaint. Here’s hoping it’s not for much longer.

Benjy Smith with his rubber bands.

Photo: Supplied.

Local cricketer in NZ under 19 squad

By Frank Neill

Ngaio opening batsman and wicketkeeper Alex Thompson has been selected in the New Zealand squad that will contest cricket’s under 19 World Cup.

Alex is in the 14-man squad that will travel to Darwin next month to play in the World Cup qualifier. This tournament will decide who makes the World Cup competition, which will be played in Sri Lanka in January.

As a wicketkeeper and opening batsman, Alex is following in the footsteps of Tom Latham, one of the players he follows. A Black Caps opening batsman and wicketkeeper, Tom has also captained the New Zealand team.

The two players who have had a big impact on his cricket, however, are Brendon Mc Cullum and B J Watling, Alex says.

“Brendon was a big one for me. I liked the way he batted.”

B J Watling provided him with some invaluable coaching, showing him how to improve his batting performance.

One of the biggest contributors to Alex’s high performances has been Ivan Tissera, who stepped down last year from his role as Cricket Wellington’s youth development coach.

“Ivan did a lot for me,” Alex says.

“He has contributed a great deal to my success and has done a lot for me throughout my years playing cricket.”

Alex’s selection comes in the wake of a long string of representative performances.

The most recent was when he played for Te Whanganui-a –Tara men’s team in the inaugural National ri tournament last month.

Alex helped Te Whanganuia-Tara to second placing in the tournament when he finished as

one of the top run scorers. His tally included two half centuries.

His performances in the tournament saw Alex selected in the New Zealand team.

Alex has represented Wellington for some years, having been selected in the under 15, under 17 and under 19 teams.

He has also represented Wellington in indoor cricket, again in the under 15, under 17 and under 19 teams, as well as the under 22 team.

His selection in the New Zealand under 19 squad is not his first time representing his country, however, as he played for the New Zealand under 17 indoor cricket team.

“I started playing [cricket] when I was seven or eight, but I had a bat in my hand when I was really young.

“I had a bat in my hand in kindy and I’ve got a few photos of it,” he says.

After kindergarten, Alex was a student at Ngaio School, Raroa Intermediate School and Onslow College.

He currently plays cricket for Karori, although he started playing with Onslow and last year won the award as the Onslow Junior Player of the Year.

Alex’s aim is to play cricket at the top level.

“Definitely my end goal would be to play for the Black Caps,” he says.

The New Zealand under 19 team needs to qualify for the World Cup after opting out of the 2022 tournament to protect the well-being of young players, given thestringent MIQ regulations they wouldhave been required to undergo upon their return.

The squad will join Fiji, Indonesia, Japan, Papua New Guinea, Samoa and Vanuatu in the qualifying pool, with the top team qualifying for the World Cup.

Yoga class

A new y og a cl ass, run by Anna Briggs has come to the Newlands Community Centre.

The classes are held on Monday evenings from 7 to 8pm and started on 8 May.

The cost is $84 for the f ull term (seven weeks) or $14 a class.

Yoga can bring about many benefits including peace of mind, enhanced emotional state as well as increased strength and flexibility in the body.

Pink Ribbon

A Pink Ribbon morning tea will be held at the Newlands Community Centre at 10am on 25 May. The morning tea is being held as part of breast cancer awareness. People attending are asked to make a gold coin donation, with all the proceeds going to the Breast Cancer Foundation.

n hitting runs for his team.

Photo: Supplied.

Alex Thompson in action behind the stumps. Photo: Supplied.

Kiwi welcomed to new Makara home

By Frank Neill

Twenty five kiwi were welcomed to their new home in the hills of Makara during a Powhiri at Pipitea Marae at 7am on 9 May.

As well as welcoming the kiwi, the powhiri also celebrated the formal gifting of the kiwi so they can be released into the wild.

The 25 North Island Brown Kiwi welcomed on 9 May were released later in the morning, and they will be joined by 25 more kiwi next week.

The first 25 travelled from Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari in the Waikato, arriving at Pipitea Marae at around 6am.

The release of the 50 kiwi results from a partnership between the Capital Kiwi Project and Save the Kiwi.

The birds are the fruits of anga Kiwi, an extensive kiwi breeding programme managed by Save the Kiwi at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari, Aotearoa-New Zealand’s largest predator-fenced sanctuary at 3,400 hectares.

The K anga Kiwi programme

isdesigned to enable the rapid repopulation of wild kiwi across Aotearoa’s landscape on anongoing basis, Save the Kiwi Executive Director, Michelle Impey, says.

“If you were to leave a couple of breeding pairs of kiwi to their own devices in the wild, itwould take a very long time for them to grow into a thriving population.

“UsingK hanga Kiwi, we now have a ready-made population of kiwi that can be gifted to areas where kiwi are locally extinct.

“In partnership with the team at Maungatautari, Ng ti Korokii Kahukura as the gifting iwi, andthe Capital Kiwi Project team, these 50 birds are an important step in restoring the country’swild kiwi population,” Michelle says.

The partnership between a largescale kiwibreeding programme and landscape-scale predatorcontrolled environments, including onprivate land, represented a significant paradigm shift in the approach to conservation, Capital Kiwi Project Founder, Paul Ward, says.

The 9 May release “demonstrates that the future of conserva-

tion lies in genuine partnerships –between iwi, landowners, and local communities.

“The partnership with Save the Kiwimatches 24,000 hectares of predator-controlled kiwi habitat with the country’s mostambitious kiwi breeding programme.

“We’re looking forward to these kiwi getting settled in, and to continuing our work with Save the Kiwi to rapidly grow kiwi to abundance in the hills of our nation’s capital,” Paul says.

The Capital Kiwi Project is the community initiative to restore a large, wild population of kiwi across 24,000 hectares of mostly private land to the south and west of Wellington.

The largestcommunity trapping network in the country, comprising 4,500 stoat traps, has been operating across the landscape for the last five years to deliver an environment in which kiwi can thrive.

This month’s release of kiwi into the wild is the second to take place in Wellington. The Capital Kiwi Project released 13 kiwi in Makara on 19 November 2022.

Fete fundraiser for Kaibosh

As part of a wider citizenship project, the year 9 and 10 young people at St John’s in the City Presbyterian Church are currently organising a fete fundraiser for Kaibosh to support their ongoing mission of food rescue in Wellington.

Two of the four young people organising the fundraiser are from Karori – Liam Fitch and Arlo Pryor. Another, Angus

Chamberlain, lives in Kelburn.

“The young people want to make a contribution to the life of the city,” St John’s youth worker Grace Webster says.

“They have such a strong drive and passion for helping make the world a better place, and it’s a privilege to work alongside them to help make this project happen.” Sharing so many great ideas, this fete is not one to miss.

The fete is a youth-led event as part of the church’s ongoing efforts to empower and enable young people, to grow their leadership, build community and grow connections.

The group identified food poverty as an issue many face, and want to show their support and compassion.

“Through the fete, we aim to not only raise funds, but also

raise awareness for the amazing work Kaibosh does,” Grace says. “Kaibosh are all about zero food poverty and zero food waste, supporting over 50 charities around the greater Wellington region.”

The fete will be in the St John’s in the City Conference Centre, on the corner of Willis and Dixon streets, from 11am to 2pm, on Saturday 17 June.

The St John’s year 9 and 10 young people are collecting second hand books, planning games, making lolly necklaces and sherbet, practising music and planning decorations. With the help of the wider youth community at St John’s, they’ll be running game stalls, face painting, serving food, playing live music and selling crafts and books.

Kiwi handler Peter Kirkman with one of the birds just after they were welcomed to the capital at Pipitea Marae. Photo: Jonathan Hill.

Initiatives to cut hospital wait times

Te Whatu Ora Capital, Coast and Hutt Valley has opened new facilities to increase available beds and relieve pressure on busy hospital wards and emergency departments as winter approaches.

“Our Hutt Valley, Kenepuru Community, and Wellington Regional Hospitals continue to experience high occupancy, with patients often having to wait in ED for long periods of time until a bed on a ward, or another facility such as aged care, becomes free,” says Andre Cromhout, Acting Chief Medical Officer.

“Winter illnesses, such as the ‘flu and COVID-19, increase hospital pressures and we have a number of initiatives underway to ease this – including opening new facilities within our hospitals and working with partner organisations to support greater community care.

“Last week we opened a new eight-patient Transit Hub at Hutt Hospital, where we can monitor patients ready to leave hospital but

who are waiting for discharge papers, or for wh nau or an ambulance to pick them up.

“Each morning we discharge about 40 to 50 people from Hutt Hospital. However, they are often unable to leave until late afternoon or early evening.

“The hub enables these patients to wait in comfort while freeing up much-needed beds for new patients, particularly those waiting in ED,” Mr Cromhout says.

Second Stage Recovery Unit opened at Hutt Hospital on 9 May.

“We can monitor surgical patients who are expected to stay in hospital less than 24 hours after their operation.

“We expect this will support 2,000 patients a year and free up beds in the hospital’s medical wards,” he says.

“Work on a range of community care initiatives, which will reduce demand on hospitals, is also underway.”

At the blessing of the new Transit Hub at Hutt Hospital.

Photo: Supplied.

Q: What snack would you recommend?

Feedback sought on Karori bus turnaround

By Frank Neill

The Karori Residents Association is asking the community to provide feedback on two new options for the bus turnaround area that will be put in place when the Allington Road culvert is replaced.

Following a community meeting in November, the Wellington City Council has come back with two options, both at the southern end of Karori Park.

One option is to use land owned by the council’s Parks, Sport and Recreation (PSR) to build a temporary bus turnaround

The council says this is the “more favourable option”. It would need PSR approval to go ahead.

Feedback received by the Karori Residents Association when this issue of the “Independent Herald” went to print also favoured that option.

The other option is to use the existing Karori Park entrance and exit, together with the western parking area at the park.

That option is the “less favourable for the project,” the council says.

Part of the process the council will implement will be engaging with local groups on the project.

The project will not go ahead before October this year, and will most likely be after that, the council says.

Once it does start, it will take more than a year to complete.

NEVER PAINT YOUR WINDOWS AGAIN!

The Karori Residents Association is recommending that people look at the options and provide the association with feedback.

The latest plans the council have put forward came in the wake of significant community objections to the original proposal.

In that proposal the council proposed routing the buses along Richmond and Collier

Avenues, Parkland Drive and Woodhouse Avenue while the culvert was being replaced. The community came out strongly opposed to that plan. The option “is no longer viable for the project,” the council says.

Feedback can be provided on the association’s Facebook page or by emailing chair@ karoriassociation.nz.

This system is so good you don’t need to.

Wellington City Council’s preferred option for the Karori bus turnaround area while the Allington Road culvert is repaired. Image: Wellington City Council.

The second option for the Karori bus turnaround. Image: Wellington City Council.

Karori Repair Café starting

By Frank Neill

Karori’s first repair café will take place in just over a week. The repair café, where people can take items they would like to see fixed, will be held at the Karori Community Centre from 11am to 2pm on Sunday 21 May.

Karori resident Julia Rowling initiated the project to set up a repair café in the suburb.

Throwing away things that could be repaired is a “crazy way of doing things,” Julia says.

“We throw things away when there is so much life left in them.

“Waste is just a paradigm. If we looked at things as resourc-

Book fair sales break record

Books and readingare alive and well in the northern suburbs.

Adults, teenagers and children

flockedto the Ngaio Town Hall last weekend – 6 and 7 May –to get their book fix.

This year’s Blue Dragon Book Fair raised a record$24,130 –all of which has been sent to the Blue Dragon Children’s Centre

in Hanoi, Vietnam, to support its work.

The organisation gives children from impoverished families the opportunity to improvetheir lives through education and training.

It has also rescuedmore than 1300 young people who have been trafficked to date.

The Blue Dragon Book Fair

WELLINGTON OR CHRISTCHURCH, DIRECT TO CHATHAM ISLANDS

organisers say a big thanksto everyone who supports this annual community event, now in its 12th year, by donating books, volunteering and buying books.

A mother and her two daughters co mpare n o tes ab o ut the book treasures they have found at the Blue Dragon Book Fair. Photo: Supplied.

es we would have a lot less going to the landfill.”

She was inspired, she says, by the Sustainability Trust Repair Café and also the nearby Ngaio Repair Café.

The repair café is a pop-up koha workshop where people can bring that broken/torn/ failing appliance or favourite item and find out if it can be saved from a premature trip to the rubbish tip.

People with a variety of skills will be on hand to help people repair items, or to fix them if helping people to build their repair skills is not possible with particular items.

Recycling will also be available at the repair café. This includes collecting sports gear

for the Community Sports Bank, baby gear for The Nest, and crushed aluminium trays, lids and cans for Kidney Kids (run by Karori Lions).

Among the other items that can be placed for recycling are opened and cleaned tetra packs, small metal items, toothpaste tubes, makeup waste used plastic stationery, and old batteries (as long as they are not corroded).

The Karori West Scout Group will join the repair café, providing a sausage sizzle as a fundraiser.

The Karori Repair Café is a member of the national organisation Repair Café Aotearoa NZ as well as the international organisation.

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Next Generation Real Estate.

Every now and again we come across a very tidy, honest home that would be perfect for a family looking to start their home ownership journey. 61 Batchelor Street is a fantastic example. Built in the 1970s, when solidity and well-proportioned rooms were a given but sympathetically upgraded to provide modern bathroom and kitchen, it is everything a young family could want.

Located in the heart of Newlands, just 750 meters from the New World shopping centre and with multiple schools all around the 'location' box is well and truly ticked. Furthermore, it is located in a child-friendly cul-desac, with a large garden, off-street parking for two vehicles and a huge under-floor garage/workshop/man-cave.

Deadline Sale 2 00pm Thursday 18th May

Linda Huynh

027 586 6046

Anita Corlett & William YIP

021 0225 6795

87 Fox Street, Ngaio

3 2 2

This fantastic family home boasts high-quality finishes and stunning views over Khandallah, providing a prime location for modern living. Built with low-maintenance in mind, this property is perfect for busy young families. With two bathrooms and four toilets, it's ideal for comfortable day-to-day living.

The upper level is dedicated to the main living space, featuring a fabulous open-plan layout that encompasses the living, dining, and modern kitchen areas. There is also a generous office with a great view. From the living area, you can step out onto a sunny east-facing balcony with stunning views of Khandallah, or relax in a private, fully fenced rear area with lawn and extensive decking.

Price by Negotiation

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Home and income! 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms upstairs - 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom downstairs.

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7A Trinidad Crescent, Grenada Village

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by Negotiation

Making Wellington predator free

Plans to make Wellington the world’s first predator free capital city were outlined by Alastair Henshaw, who was the guest speaker at the April meeting of The REBUS Club of Khandallah.

Alastair Henshaw, the Community Engagement and Field Officer, from Predator Free Wellington, spoke about making the capital a place where our native species can thrive. Making Wellington predator free involves the commitment of thousands of households, community groups and organisations who are all working together to remove every single rat, possum, stoat and weasel from the entire Wellington area.

Phase 1 of the predator eradication project began on the Miramar Peninsula.

Norway rats and weasels have been eradicated and Predator Free Wellington is now chasing down the last remaining ship rats.

The outcome has been amazing, Alastair said.

There has been a 500% increase in Piwakawaka, a 275% increase in riroriro, a 200% increase in tree w and geckos and skinks have also increased.

Previously absent native birds have also returned to the peninsula, including earea, i, and ruru.

People who would like to get

OHS seeking members

By Frank Neill

As its annual meeting approaches, the Onslow Historical Society (OHS) is looking for new members.

The annual meeting will be held at 7:30pm on 24 May at KATE, 86 Khandallah Road.

“The committee welcomes new members as it builds its succession plan and a strategic plan for the future of OHS,” the annual meeting invitation says.

“If you have experience and time to offer and would like to consider joining us please be in touch with the President Judy Siers 027 345

0374 or email siersjudy@ gmail.com.”

OHS is seeking people who are willing and have knowledge and interest in local history and have secretarial, accounting, writing, research, archival, IT, event planning, PR, management and business, and good communication talent.

As well as the annual meeting business, Geraldine Needham-Girven will make a presentation at the meeting on the new OHS website.

OHS member George Walter will also give a talk, with video screenings, on his historic “By George” series.

involved with trapping in their backyard or local reserve, can get in touch with the local trapping group at https://www.pfw.org.nz/ trapping/.

REBUS is a club for seniors and meets on the last Friday of the month.

The next meeting is on Friday 26 May at 10 am at the Khandallah Bowling Club, Woodmancote Road.

The guest speaker will be Nick Lambrechtsen who will speak about “The Longest Floating Bailey Bridge of World War Two.”

Visitors are welcome. More information about the club is on the REBUS website – search the internet for Khandallah REBUS.

Onslow Garden Club’s Coronation high tea

Tiaras glittered and pearls gleamed at the Onslow Garden Club’s coronation high tea on 6 May.

The event, held to mark the coronation of King Charles III, was organised by Clare Gleeson and Sue Skene, who founded the club three years ago.

Margaret Domett, a keen club member, hosted the event at her magnificent home, Crofton, the historic house in Ngaio built by Premier Fox in 1857.

In keeping with its imperial heritage, Crofton and its grounds were awash with red, white and blue as bunting, balloons and flags adorned the house inside and out.

Portraits of the King and Queen Camilla graced the hall where those who had been lucky enough to receive an invitation were welcomed with a celebratory glass of bubbles.

The tea was served at two long tables and included the Coronation quiche, delicate sandwiches of cucumber and cream cheese, scones with cream and jam, cream sponges, cakes and slices. Having sipped, eaten and chatted the guests swapped tea and food for pen and paper to complete the club’s quiz on royalty and plants.

After much discussion, pen chewing

and laughter everyone then returned to the lounge for prizegiving.

As it was a garden club celebration, plants and flowers were to the fore and attendees were asked to wear a corsage they had made themselves.

Despite the challenges of seasonal lack of flowers and the recent rain, some fabulous corsages were created and the judge had a hard time awarding the prize.

However, size and wildlife won out and Sarah Sawrey’s confection of

flowers, fruits, ladybirds and bees stole the winner’s crown.

Janeen Gillies knew the most answers to the very tricky quiz questions and Alison Rusbridge, who had catered for the event, was closest to guessing the correct number of royal acorns in the bowl.

As guests piled into their waiting carriages all agreed the Onslow Garden Club had celebrated the coronation in style and it had been a right regal event.

Alastair Henshaw speaking at the April meeting of the REBUS Club of Khandallah. Photo: Supplied.

tea. Photo: Supplied.

So much to do in KAPITI

Bringing on the big shows

to the pandemic and lockdowns, Operatunity is delighted to be back ‘treading the boards’ again at Southwards Theatre.

Strike up the Band features hits from the big band era from the 1930s through to the 60s, presented by eight professional singers and band. If you enjoyed dancing to songs by Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller, Henry Mancini, Dean Doris Day, to name a few, this show is for you!

Specialising in mainstream daytime concerts and group music travel, both nationally and internationally, Operatunity’s mantra is to give happiness through music.

“We want our customers to enjoy a welcome escape from the stresses of life. We want people to come away from our concerts or trips feeling

All aboard for the Crafty Feilding excursion

Travel with Steam Incorporated north from Wellington to Feilding for a visit to the Feilding Craft Market, a widely recognized and well established iconic Market acknowledged especially for distinctive excellence from it’s 250 artisans from all over New Zealand. The train will be hauled by one of our restored steam locomotives and we will be using our

lighter and joyous.” says Susan Boland, owner of Operatunity.

You can catch Strike up the Band at Southwards Theatre on 23 May 2023 at 11am.

Prices range from $39-$42, with discounts for groups and advance payments and include morning tea with the artists. Book through the website www.operatunity.co.nz or by calling toll free 0508 266 237. Limited door sales are available on the day.

QUALITY AT AN

ORDABLE PR

The Craft Market has been running for over 30 years with plenty of home grown talent Yes you want to be here at this huge Craft Market with its refreshing look and covering the size of a full thousands of interesting pieces. Whether you are in need of your own sign made for you on site or hand forged steel handles, rustic furniture and metal workers, potters, woodworkers, textile

anyone’s standards, with two cafes on site and all indoors it’s a must-do.

Board the train in Wellington, Porirua, Kapiti dependent on boarding station.

Saturday 10 June 2023, departing 7:40am Wellington, arriving back 8:20pm.

Operatunity brings the magic of the Big Band era back to Kapiti!

The heritage carriages of Steam Incorporated are part of the experience to Feilding

Coronation tree with a history

The heritage gardeners at the historic Halfway House in Glenside planted a ginkgo biloba on Coronation Day commemorate the Coronation of King Charles III.

“We chose the ginkgo as it is an environmentally resilient tree with a fossil history dating back more than 200 million years,” said Heritage Gardener Claire Bibby.

“It has bright golden leaves in autumn. Some of the earliest records of the ginkgo in New

Zealand date back to 1852.”

The gardeners were invited to share some thoughts after planting the tree.

“It’s a great tree with historic significance,” Paul Bicknell said.

“The King is into trees and history and I think he would appreciate it.”

“May the tree and the King have a long and healthy life,” Maree Goodall added.

“Three cheers for the King and the Monarchy, long may it last,”

Tony Tomlin said.

“It’s a fantastic reason to celebrate,” said Pat Lakeman, who was in the United Kingdom during Jubilee year, and was impressed with the community led street parties and festivities. In 2022 a rimu was planted in the Halfway House garden by the His Excellency Dr Richard Davies, husband of the Governor General, to commemorate the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.

Coronation luncheon in Newlands

A special luncheon to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III was organised by the Newlands Community House.

Held on 5 May, the luncheon was attended by 34 senior citizens.

The menu included the Coronation Quiche, sausage rolls, high tea sandwiches and a large selection of cakes and slices, served with grape juice and orange juice.

The room was decorated

with the Union Jack and bunting, and the tables were set with a choice of coronets and crowns for the attendees to wear.

Chairperson Ray Good started the luncheon off with a toast to the new King and Queen followed by those attending enjoying the food and comradeship.

The food was prepared by a small group of volunteers under the leadership of Karen Timperley.

Karen and her team prepare lunch for seniors every Friday at the Newlands Community Centre from 11:30am with the meal being served at noon. Anybody over the age of 65 is invited to attend to enjoy the food and friendship. Food is prepared by volunteers and changes weekly.

If anyone wants to help either with food preparation or spending time assisting please feel free to come down on a Friday, Karen says.

Planting a ginkgo bilboa at Halfway House to mark the coronation of King Charles III (from left) Paul Bicknell, Claire Bibby, Maree Goodall and Pat Lakeman. Photo: Tony Tomlin.

Senior citizens enjoying the coronation luncheon at the Newlands Community House.

Photo: Supplied.

Free rides for ticket holders

Metlink buses and trains will be free on FIFA Women’s World Cup game days for people who have “We’ve considered kick-off times as well as the potential for extra time and penalties in knock-out games and will be doing everything we can to match service capacity to projected demand,” Greater Wellington

Transport Committee Chair Thomas Nash says.

“With nine matches at Wellington Regional Stadium, including a round of 16 game and a quarterfinal, we want visiting teams, fans, officials and media to have the best possible experience in Wellington.”

Most games in the capital are played outside of peak commuter

travel times, meaning the bus and train networks can absorb additional demand.

Off-peak rail services will be added based on projected crowd numbers, and with no track maintenance planned on game days, it is unlikely buses will be needed to replace trains unless there’s unexpected disruption. For two of the group matches,

including New Zealand versus the Philippines, kick off falls within peak commute times, and if the quarterfinal goes to penalties, its final whistle will also occur during the peak.

In these cases, based on current driver recruitment projections, operators may not be able to add extra capacity, but contingency plans and

clear passenger communications will be in place.

Tournament accreditation pass holders can also ride Metlink public transport for free from two weeks before the tournament until five days after the Wellington quarterfinal. Pass holders include players, team and tournament officials, tournament volunteers and official media.

CARPENTER

ALL THINGS

MAINTENANCE

Contact

027 2767 691 browndarrin202@gmail.com

Jazz Live at five Wednesdays

We take requests! Wellington‘s coolest new spot The Cable Top Eatery presents Live at Five Wednesdays. You get the chance to request your favorite American jazz standard and the band will play it for you. A different Stella trio each week featuring some of New Zealand‘s finest jazz musicians will perform two sets. So… ‘Come and call one’ and, let’s get the good vibes going! See you there! This event is proudly supported by the Wellington Jazz Co-operative (WJC)

Situation Vacant

Khandallah School

Tatai ki te rangi Teacher Aide (Fixed Term Position)

Khandallah School is seeking a Teacher Aide to join our wonderful Learning Support Team. The hours are 9:15-12:45 pm from Monday to Friday during term time only.

The role involves supporting students with additional or diverse learning needs to help them achieve their full potential. Teacher Aides are well supported in their role by classroom teachers and the Special Education Needs Coordinator (SENCO). An ability to be empathetic, caring, adaptable and solutions-focused are desirable skills for this position.

If this role captures your interest we would love to hear from you. Please email your CV to the Khandallah School Deputy Principal by Thursday 18 May at this address: fiona.white@khandallah.school.nz

NEWS TIPS

Survey on Wellington’s future

By Frank Neill

Wellington people are being asked to have their say on the priorities for the city over the next 10 years.

Wellington City Council has set up a short online survey, which is at bit.ly/3m76FfZ.

It asks people to rank priorities in five categories – Wellington’s natural environment, economy, urban form, culture, and community – and add anything they think is missing.

It takes just a few minutes to complete, with feedback used to inform the strategic direction for the plan.The survey is open until 5pm on Sunday 21 May.

This is the opening part of an extensive public consultation process on the long term plan, which will see consultations, workshops, participatory budgeting and finally a formal consultation in early 2024 where people can provide final submissions

Public Notices

Enrolment at our school is governed by an enrolment scheme, details of which are available on our website. The board has determined that up to 15 places will be available for out-of-zone students in 2023. The exact number of places will depend on the number of in zone student enrolments.

The third enrolment period runs for term 3 2023 from Saturday 01 July to Friday 22 September 2023. For students seeking enrolment within the third enrolment period, the deadline for receipt of applications for out of zone places is 9am, Thursday 01 June 2023. Please submit an enrolment form via www.rewarewa.school.nz/ enrolment for submission to the ballot.

If the number of out of zone applications exceeds the number of places available, students will be selected by ballot.

If a ballot for out of zone places is required, it will be held on Tuesday 06 June 2023. Parents will be informed of the outcome of the ballot within three school days of the ballot being held.

Parents of students who live within the home zone and intend to enrol their child at any time during this year or the next should also notify the school as soon as possible to assist the school to plan appropriately.

Details relating to the fourth enrolment period for 2023 are as follows:

Deadline for 2023 fourth enrolment period applications: 9am, Friday 25 August 2023

Date of ballot if required: Monday 28 August 2023

(of a dog) Attacked sheep (7)

5. Absorbed in memories (11)

11. Fowl perch (5)

12. Short curtain (7)

13. Custom (5)

14. & 42 ACROSS. Guess; (4,2,3,4)

15. Spiteful (9)

16. Instant(Abbr) (4)

17. Parted (7)

19. Consider (6)

23. Paleness (6)

26. Following (7)

29. Oven (4)

30. Sum of money (3)

32. Smear (3)

34. Lover (4)

35. Wed (7)

36. Kind of clay(used as a pigment) (6)

39. Wanders (6)

40. Ardent (7)

42. SEE 14 ACROSS.

46. Most careless (9) 48. Strike back (9) 50. Chances (5)

on the draft long term plan.

The conversation between the council and community about the long-term direction of the city is starting much earlier than usual Mayor Tory Whanau says.

“It’s vital that Wellingtonians from all walks of life have ample opportunities for their views to be heard and taken into consideration. We want to hear from as many people as possible.

“We know we will need to make some hard decisions, balancing investment with affordability, while remaining focused on what is most important.

“I strongly encourage everyone to participate in this process and have their say, so we can keep working to create the city you want,” Mayor Whanau says.

More information about the development of the 2024-34 Long-term Plan is available on the Let’s Talk LTP page wcc.nz/ ltp-2024-34.

51. Appease (7)

52. Pitchers (5)

53. Perversion (11)

54. Taught (7)

DOWN

1. Twists out of shape (5)

2. Rebellious (7)

3. Know by instinct (6)

4. Enthusiasts (8)

5. Alleviate (7)

6. Down-stroke(writing) (5)

7. Irritate (6)

8. Assistant cook (4,4)

9. Drying up (11)

10. Rows (5)

16. Hinders (7)

18. Ooze out (5)

20. Its capital is Copenhagen (7)

21. Cut grass (3)

22. Finish (3)

24. Lavishly (11)

25. Sheep (3)

27. Tend (5)

28. Petrol (3)

31. Water barrier (3)

Public Notices

St Madeleine Sophie's School Reunion

Sunday 11 June 2023

Lunch. Music, Dancing from midday onwards.

Venue: Pines Cabaret, Houghton Bay. Cost to be confirmed.

Email: palomino.horses@gmail.com and Facebook

33. Huge (3)

37. Conference(pl) (8)

38. Most ingenious (8)

41. Lassos (7)

43. Layman (7)

44. Assisted (6)

45. Although (6)

46. Propeller (5)

47. Bait (5)

49. Comforted (5)

Solution

Last Week 4 May 2023

Surprise win by local footballers

Waterside Karori scored one of the two surprise victories in the men’s Central Football League on 6 and 7 May.

The Karori team defeated Miramar Rangers 4-3 to take the O’Brien Shield, which is the football equivalent of the Ranfurly Shield, from Rangers.

Before Karori lifted the O’Brien Shield on 6 May Rangers had successfully defended it in 32 challenges since winning it from Lower Hutt City in June 2019.

In a match that featured three own goals, Rangers would have fancied their chances playing on their home ground of David Farrington Park.

Rangers stumbled for the second week in a row in their bid to remain a national league aspirant in the upcoming summer league.

Jorge Akers scored his fifth goal of the season for Waterside and was well supported by Finn Diamond who scored as well.

The Karori team’s own goal was more than cancelled out by Rangers who scored two of their own. The second one, which came in the 70th minute, handed Karori the victory.

The drama didn’t stop there with Stop Out achieving the seemingly impossible and beating Wellington Olympic 3-2 at Hutt Park. Olympic were issued two red cards in the 90th minute and the match was a boil over in many respects.

Napier City Rovers summer league wish list doesn’t seem as realistic now after they were eclipsed at home 3-2 by the Wellington Phoenix Reserves.

In other matches in the round, TFS North Wellington capitulated to Petone, 5-0 after going into the sheds, 0-0 at half time.

Matthew Brazier scored a hat trick for the visitors with the Petone keeper having the very cleanest of sheets.

Whanganui Athletic also continues to struggle and conceded 7 goals to Western Suburbs while scoring only 1 in return.

Whanganui, North Wellington and Waterside Karori remain at the wrong end of the ladder. Waterside will be sleeping better at night though with 7 points and there is little to distinguish Whanganui on no points against North Wellington on 3.

Wellington Olympic, Western Suburbs and the Nix Reserves are enjoying the rarified air at the other end of the spectrum and all sit on 18 points.

Waterside Karori also had a great weekend n the Women’s Central

League.

The trip to Napier clearly agreed with them and they notched up a crushing 7-1 win over Taradale.

Kaley Ward had a field day in scoring four of Karori’s goals.

Mana Coach Services North

Hawks score upset victory

By Frank Neill

The Johnsonville Hawks created one of the major upsets in the 6 May round of Wellington Rugby’s Swindale Shield Competition when they defeated Old Boys University 27-14.

OBU went into the match unbeaten this year and would have fancied their chances when they visited Helston Park.

The Hawks, however, dominated play for most of the match to chalk up a convincing win.

Outstanding defence saw the

Hawks keep OBU scoreless for the first 40 minutes, while their halfback Mark Sutton kicked three penalties to give Johnsonville a 9-0 lead half an hour into the game.

OBU was hot on attack late in the first half, but the Hawks defence held firm.

Just before the half time break Johnsonville’s centre, Aukuso Tuitama, secured an intercept and ran half the length of the field to score the Hawk’s first try.

When Mark kicked an outstanding conversion from the side line, John-

sonville led 16-0 at the break.

The Hawks extended their lead to 19-0 when Mark kicked his fourth penalty.

They then further extended the margin to 24-0 when right wing Finlay Sharp scored the Hawk’s second try.

OBU then looked to mount a comeback, dominating both possession and territory and were rewarded with a converted try.

The visitors continued to dominate, but the Johnsonville defence held firm and they then went onto the

attack and came close to scoring a try. However OBU had conceded a penalty in thwarting the Hawks attack and Mark was successful with the kick.

A late try by OBU was not enough, however, giving the Hawks the upset victory.

The other unbeaten team in the competition, Upper Hutt Rams were also on the wrong end of an upset lost to Hutt Old Boys Marist Eagles 48-35.

The Hawks’ next match is against second placed Paremata Plimmerton

Wellington were not the happiest of campers, going down to Petone 6-0.

Seatoun and Palmerston North ground out a nil 0-0 draw and Wellington United were 4-0 winners over Victoria University.

at Helston Park on 13 May.

In the premier women’s competition, Northern United also notched up a victory against a previously unbeaten team when they beat Petone 24-12 at Onepoto Park. Norths dominated the first half to lead 19-7 at the break. A much more even second half saw both teams score five points.

Norths lead the women’s premier competition for the Rebecca Liua’ana Trophy with 23 points, while Marist St Pats and Petone sit on 20 points.

in the premier competition. Photo: Supplied.

North Wellington attacker, Miles Woodhall, is swamped by Petone players during the Central league match at Alex Moore Park Photo: k0kophotos.

Heater 2.0kW

Weather proof to rating IPX4. Four power settings: 800, 1200, 1700, 2000 Watt. Motion sensor. Tip-over protection. Wall mountable horizontal. Timer settings.