13 April Independent Herald

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Phone (04) 587 1660

Address 23 Broderick Rd, Johnsonville Wellington 6037 www.independentherald.co.nz

NZ Post actively seeking a partner

Continued from page 1.

However NZ Post is “actively looking” for another business partner within Khandallah, the head of retail operations

Andrew McKenzie says.

“We have been in contact with a number of businesses within the local community but as yet we can’t confirm a location for another postal agency,” he says.

For impacted customers, NZ Post has two postal agencies within 3.5km of the existing store – the Johnsonville Post Shop and the Ngaio Post Centre.

For Khandallah PO Box holders, mail will be moved to the Johnsonville Post Shop from 1 May.

The Johnsonville Post Shop is located at 28 Johnsonville Road (3.5km from the existing Khandallah agency) and is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, offering postal, courier and bill payment services.

The Ngaio Post Centre is located at 2 Crofton Road (2.1km from the Khandallah agency) and is open Monday to Sunday from 8am to 7pm, offering postal and courier services.

Mr Boyle and his assistant Jennie Smith “have been around for a long, long time,” he says.

“But now it’s time for me

to retire.”

He has really enjoyed his 22 years in the Khandallah village, and has many fond memories of his customers – especially “the customers’ smiley faces and their care.

“The people who come into the shops, the customers, are everything to a shop.”

He has also valued being part of the Khandallah retail community.

“This is a very special suburb. I have been very lucky to have my shop here,” he says.

Mr Boyle plans to undertake “lots of international travel” during his retirement.

“I’ve never been to Africa, so that will be up near the top.”

Another destination near the top of his list will be the eastern seaboard of the United States.

“I’ve always loved international travel. I’ve done a lot of it.

“I have a house that needs painting and that will be done too,” he says.

Ever since the “closing down” signs went up at Khandallah Books and Post Shop

“I have witnessed the most extraordinary grief, I guess it is,” local resident John Stokes says.

“People are bringing in gifts and farewell cards for Allen and Jenny, his assistant.”

The road toll of only one over the weekend was hopefully a sign that the ‘devil may care’ attitude towards driving that some have adopted since COVID may be diminishing.

changes.

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.

The disruption to all our lives caused by the incursion of the COVID-19 pandemic has left the whole world struggling to get back to some sort of normal, whether it be supply disruption, labour shortages, or travel. That those frustrations seem to have manifested themselves in driving behaviour, is the feedback I get from constituents, and I might say is borne out by my own observations.

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.

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.

The promotion of my colleague Willow-Jean Prime this week to Cabinet signals the first time cabinet has been half women. Over my working career I have seen all sorts of similar milestones reached, and not long afterwards, when such things become the norm, we invariably look back and wonder what the fuss was all about.

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.

Change is constant, and things will never go back to the way they were, however nostalgic people become for the ‘good old days’, which weren’t always as good as we remember; it’s often said pain has no memory.

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.

I’m a great believer in good manners for the basis of keeping a society functioning efficiently, and much of the behaviour on the roads has been downright bad manners. Here’s hoping those results over the weekend indicate

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

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.

We are pretty adaptable as New Zealanders, not constrained by centuries of tradition like much of the world, and that will always be to our advantage. Let’s enjoy the difference, and the rest of autumn.

Khandallah Books and Post Shop owner Allen Boyle. Photo: Frank Neill.

The PO boxes at the Khandallah Books and Post Shop. These will move to Johnsonville on 1 May. Photo: Frank Neill.

Repair Café is coming to Karori

By Frank Neill

A repair café, where people can take items they would like to see fixed, is coming to Karori.

The first repair café will be held at the Karori Community Centre from 11am to 2pm on Sunday 21 May.

The Karori Repair Café has a great mission. It seeks to repair broken items to avoid them ending up in the landfill, says Julia Rowling, who initated the project.

Julia is currently working with two volunteers on a variety of tasks to help ensure the upcoming first café is a success.

“I was inspired by the Sustainability Trust Repair Café and also the Ngaio Repair Café,” she says. Another inspiration came from her beginning her masters study in sustainability.

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

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.

One person the café organisers have organised already is an electrician from the Sustainability Trust, and they have already also lined up some repair volunteers.

The organisers are also keen to find more people with skills that can repair items.

Electrical, sewing, and computer skills are the core expertise needed, but tool sharpening, jewellery repair, or any other skill that can assess and, where

possible, save treasured or useful items from an unnecessary trip to the dump are most welcome.

The café is also very appreciative that the Sustainability Trust will provide an electrician, as the organisers do not have another one, and are very keen to hear from anyone with electrician skills to volunteer.

The organisers are also keen to hear from people who do not have “fix-it” skills but are keen to be involved. There are plenty of other roles involved in running the repair café.

To find out more or to volunteer, people can email karorirepaircafe@gmail.com or message the café on the Karori Repair Café Facebook page.

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

Local artists celebrate coronation

Northern suburbs artists have made significant contributions to the upcoming “Coronation Celebration” arts exhibition.

The exhibition is running at the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts on Queen’s Wharf from 21 April to 21 May.

It is being held to mark the coronation of King Charles III on 6 May.

Local artists Helen Wilson, Vivian Manthel-French, Lynn Blann, Joanne Murphy, Penny Johnson and Jo Mells have produced exciting works in all media.

King Charles served in the Royal Navy and is Admiral of the Fleet of the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN).

For the exhibition, the RNZN has loaned paintings of His Majesty’s Ships including one of HMNZS Monowai’s dramatic rescue of a stricken yacht during the 1994 Auckland to Tonga race by the Navy artist Colin Wynn.

The exhibition will be formally opened by the former Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy on Thursday 20 April.

Guests in evening dress and medals will join Dame Patsy in toasting the King.

Tickets for the opening are $40 per person, available from the Academy Galleries, phone 04 499 8807, email Info@ nzafa.com

A new evening table tennis group has started at the Newlands Community Centre.

The group is open to everyone and will meet every second Friday evening. The first session is this Friday 14 April from 7 to 9pm.

The time will change for the second and subsequent sessions and will be held from 8 to 10pm on 21 April and following.

No booking is needed and a $2 contribution needs to be made. More information is available from the community centre on 04 477 3724 or email newlandscc@wcc.govt.nz.

Walking group

The Newlands Walking Group goes on either a local or an “away” walk every Tuesday.

The group meets at the Newlands Community Centre at 9:45am. More information is available from the community centre on 04 477 3724 or email newlandscc@wcc.govt.nz.

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Julia Rowling. Photo: Supplied.

One of the works that will be on display at the upcoming “Coronation Celebration”. Image: Supplied.

Burma Road garden opened

By Frank Neill

A new roadside garden on Burma Road, opposite the Malvina Major Village, was opened on 29 March.

The new garden is named “Bonnie’s Berm”, honouring Bonnie Mouat who first planted an informal garden beside Burma Road in the earlier days of the Malvina Major Village.

Village resident Natalie Brockie came up with the idea of developing a project to recapture Bonnie’s garden, and has led the initiative.

The opening was planned to be celebrated with a garden party, but with inclement weather, the occasion was held inside.

Many guests who had supported the establishment of the garden in a variety of ways attended.

They included Wellington City Councillors Diane Calvert and Ray Chung, who spoke warmly of the garden constructed for the benefit of the village and community as a joint effort by Wellington

City Council (WCC) and Ryman Healthcare with future upkeep by residents and the community.

“I think [Natalie] has done a fantastic job,” Cr Calvert says. The council officers also made a great contribution as did many people and organisations in the community, she says.

“In earlier days, before the new Figaro Building was erected, a resident of Malvina Major Village established an informal garden on the bank along Burma Road,” Natalie said at the opening.

“It provided plants to admire instead of the weeds that marred the view from her apartment window.

“Her name was Bonnie Mouat and while Bonnie has now passed away, her daisy bushes have remained.

Natalie put a proposal to WCC and after a negotiation process of three years, an engineer offered the suggestion of using planter boxes.

This was accepted and a contract to build 20 boxes of solid

macrocarpa was arranged with Bespoke of Tawa.

Ryman Healthcare and the WCC have shared the cost of the garden.

“It was a delight to observe members of the community and residents working together to establish the planting.

“Residents and passers-bys are enjoying the presence of a colourful garden in their midst,”

Natalie said.

At the opening a series of organisations and people were thanked for their contributions to the garden project:

Albie Calope and David King from Ryman Healthcare for encouragement and financial support;

Martin Jenkins from Onslow Residents’ Community Association, who helped present several proposals to WCC;

Brad Singh, WCC Engineer, who proposed the idea of planter boxes;

Jeannette O’Callaghan, for her expertise in drawing up detailed plans for the garden free of charge from her firm

O’Callaghan Design.NZ; Craig Robertson, from Bespoke Wooden Solutions, who constructed the boxes out of Macrocarpa with sturdy workmanship and oversaw their arrival;

the many residents and community members, especially the Johnsonville and Onslow Garden Clubs, who have donated plants and positive comments in support of the project; and Challenge 2000, who laboured to clear some of the difficult areas from weeds.

The garden was then blessed by Sue Brown from Ngaio Uniting Church and Judith Dunlop of the Johnsonville Uniting Church.

Speeches were interspersed with joyful garden theme songs, presented by Linden Loader and the Malvina Choir.

In parting, a challenge was extended to the WCC and community groups that in time the gardens could be extended. A delicious afternoon tea was enjoyed by the large gathering who attended.

Natalie Brockie next to the Bonnie’s Garden sign. Photo: Frank Neill. INSET: The opening ceremony for Bonnie’s Garden. Photo: Supplied.

Historic item on display

The historic horse swingletree that washed up in a flood in Glenside has been hung on display inside the Heritage Gardeners shed at Halfway House, Glenside Reserve.

Brent Longstaff, a friend of one of the Halfway House Heritage Gardeners, led the project.

The metal chains and clips of the swingletree were linseed oiled and then lightly heated to clear the rust and make the parts movable.

Brent then mounted it on metal brackets, screwed to a wooden board, which in turn is screwed to the dwangs.

“It was a summer project to get it up on the wall and we’re very grateful for Brent’s voluntary time and effort,” says Claire Bibby of the Glenside Progressive Association and Heritage Gardeners.

“He put a lot of effort in to fit everything together so that it was displayed securely.”

The swingletree washed up on the property of a Glenside resident during a flood and was passed onto the Glenside Progressive Association to display at the Halfway House.

“In the horse and cart days there were two farms upstream it was likely to have come from, the Halfway House, or the Bannisters farm, Woodlawn, where Monterey Apartment are,” Claire says.

“It may have also washed out of the bank of a nearby property which was believed to have once been a smithy.”

An old hand forged horseshoe, recently found by drainlayers working on the old Porirua Road in Glenside, will be displayed with the swingletree.

A swingletree is a solid piece of wood, suspended between the rear of the pulling horse and the vehicle or implement it is coupled up with.

Swingletrees are designed to allow the trace chains to pull in a straight line evenly from the horse collar, to the conveyance or farm implement the horse is pulling.

The swingletree on display at Halfway House is a double swingletree, which enables two horses to pull on the conveyance or farm implement.

The swingletree on display at Halfway House. Photo: Supplied.

Q: What is your favourite car and why do you like it?

Open day at Wrights Hill Fortress

Wellington’s historic Wrights Hill Fortress in Karori will be open for public inspection again from 10am to 4pm on ANZAC Day, Tuesday 25 April.

People are invited to self-guide themselves through the tunnels and gun emplacements.

The walk usually takes about one hour and there may also be a number of guided tours during the day.

People need to bring a torch and wear strong footwear.

Visitors will be able to explore the 620 metres of underground tunnels with a free map and history pamphlet.

They will see the engine room, shell stores, plotting rooms and the huge gun pit where Gun Number 1 used to stand, as well as a replica of the 10 metre-long gun barrel. Also on show will be historic photos, and an assortment of military weapons. A DVD of how a 9.2-inch gun operates will be showing as well.

Access is via Karori Road, Campbell Street, and Wrights Hill Road.

Wrights Hill Fortress was built from 1942 to protect Wellington from Japanese bombardment.

In the early 1960s the guns were cut up for scrap and sold, ironically, to the Japanese.

The World War Two coastal battery first opened to the public in 1989.

Admission is $20 for a family of two adults and three children under 15, or $10 per adult and $5 per child (cash only).

All proceeds go to the continuing restoration of the Fortress. There is limited car parking at the summit of the Hill.

Visitors to the fortress can also enjoy bush walks, picnic sites and panoramic views from the top of the hill.

There will also be a BBQ sausage sizzle and soft drinks on sale.

For more information contact Mike Lee: (04) 476 8593 www.wrightshillfortress. org.nz.

NEVER PAINT YOUR WINDOWS AGAIN!

ANZAC event at Karori Cemetery

By Frank Neill

Friends of the Karori Cemetery are hosting an ANZAC Day event where people can learn more about the men who fought at Gallipoli.

This free event will take place in the circular area of the Services Cemetery and will start at 1:30pm. It will finish with the playing of The Last Post at 2:15pm.

Barbara Mulligan will make a presentation on a variety of topics of historical interest.

As well as presenting on the men who fought at Gallipoli and later died in Wellington, she will also talk about the dedi-

cated area of the Services cemetery which was started in the middle of 1918 after two years lobbying by the National Women’s Reserve for a cemetery where men dying at home could be buried alongside their comrades.

She will also present on the deaths from influenza in the training camps and their burials at Karori and about the memorials and monuments around the area. The Services Cemetery is 200 metres from the main Karori Cemetery gate. Plenty of parking is available within the cemetery and also on Rosehaugh Avenue. There is no seating for this event and those attending stand on grass throughout.

Zac Wallis Nissan Navara. It’s a good ute, especially when you get the 4x4 version.

Margaret Torrens Suzuki Ignis. I’ve had it for five years. My daughter bought it as a present.

Dehan Singh Gary Pouzaid Chevrolet. They are great. I bought a Chevrolet in 1977 and I still have it.

Chloe Norling

Tupari Cowan

There’s only one choice –Tesla. I like them because they are electric.

Toyota Corolla. It’s doing well for me.

Nissan. It’s a very nice car.

The replica of a gun barrel at Wrights Hill fortress. Photo: Supplied.

The gun emplacement at Wrights Hill Fortress. Photo: Suplied.

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

Skylight Specialists have been specialising in skylights for 25+ years. We have yet to come across a brand/make/type or configuration of skylight that we do not know everything about.

Skylight Specialists is LBP (Government approved licensed building and roofing practitioners) , with 30+ years in the building industry and employ a highly skilled team which consists of trade qualified glaziers, roofers and builders.

When we come and assess your skylight/s we will provide you with a free, no

obligation quotation. We will also provide you with a detailed report including photos that will include our findings and recommendations whether it be for general maintenance, repairs or replacement.

At this time of year everyone is concerned about insulation of their homes, trying to keep warm and retain heat. Unfortunately, skylights are often overlooked, even when they can be sometimes the main factor of heat loss. Older skylights are sometimes full-time venting without the homeowner even being aware of this, which is no

different from leaving a window open 24/7. Others are only single glazed or just plastic. By upgrading to double glazing you can retain up to 70% more of your heat. A lot of skylights we come across is simply a piece of glass glued to the roof structure of your home – This is by far inadequate for many reasons including thermal properties and condensation issues, as the moisture has no where to go but get absorbed by the structure of your home. We will assess the entire skylight including the flashings (roof flashings

are what connects the skylight to your roof and keeps all watertight). This will cover if you have adequate condensation channels, drainage, seals, condition of flashings, thermal properties and of course longevity of the skylight/s and the surrounding areas.

So if you’d like to add A LOT more light into your home and want the job done well, contact them on 0800 85 86 87, 04 938 0721 or 027 595 4448.

“We are tradespeople not sales people”

Next Generation Real Estate.

Located and built for convenience, this spacious home has been built with easy living in mind. Clever design sees a huge garage and concrete driveway on the ground floor, spacious and comfortable living areas on the next level - with private and roomy raised patios for al-fresco dining and veggie beds. Finally, on the top floor are 3 very generous bedrooms and family bathroom - the master suite with both walk-in wardrobe and ensuite. There is access to a private deck accessible from two bedrooms.

Built in 2010 in the very heart of Newlands, there are so many options - it is a great family home (more for teenagers than young children), it would be perfect as a 'lock up and leave' if you plan extended holidays and it would make an ideal investment opportunity - take your pick.

Deadline Sale 2 00pm Wednesday 26th April 2023

Jane Mather 021 339 623

Jo Eastlake 021 040 9864

16

4 1 1

Located in the heart of Newlands on desirable Salford Street, this fourbedroom family home is just 100 meters from the Salford Play Area and a short drive to local schools and shops.

Set back from the road, it is light and airy with open-plan living, dining and kitchen and a sunny, private deck that gets bathed in morning sun and benefits from excellent views over the suburb and Wellington Harbour. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere it is of 1960s vintagetime-tested as a solid, well proportioned family home. Furthermore, it has a single garage and off-street park - so there is plenty of space for vehicles.

Price by Negotiation

Linda Huynh 027 586 6046

Anita Corlett & William YIP 02102256795

Here's a chance to own a terrific townhouse, within walking distance of central Johnsonville (650 meters), it is the perfect low-maintenance, starter home for busy working couples.

With off-street parking and single garage at ground level, the first floor is open-plan, with the kitchen to the rear and the spacious living area opening to a sunny deck with views over Johnsonville towards the hills beyond. There is also a study on this level and a further, private deck to the rear of the property.

The top floor has the bedrooms, main bathroom and en-suite for the master.

Price by Negotiation

Shannon Crawford 027 665 2501

Anita Corlett & William YIP 02102256795

13A Colchester Crescent, Newlands

4 2

A charming 1970's family home overlooking Pinkerton Park and nestled down a private cul-de-sac, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience! With 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms it is perfect for busy families or those seeking ample space for guests or a work-from-home solution.

The main living area is open-plan with a warm and inviting ambiance, there is also a private deck which is perfect for entertaining or relaxing while enjoying the serene surroundings.

With off-street parking and easily accessible bus stops nearby, it is a great location for commuters.

Price by Negotiation

Linda Huynh 027 586 6046

Anita Corlett & William YIP 02102256795

Salford Street, Newlands

Next Generation Real Estate.

Licensed REAA 2008

40 Farnworth Terrace, Churton Park

1,116 sqm Section

Price By Negotiation for more information contact

Gillian Cross 021 457 782

Lot 1, 65 Ken Douglas Drive, Aotea

372 sqm Section

Price By Negotiation for more information contact

62 Saddleback Grove, Karori 2 2 1

Ready to make 62 Saddleback Grove in Karori your home? This beautiful property is perfect for a first home buyer to looking for a peaceful and tranquil environment. With views of the Karori hills, this 2 bedroom & 2 bathroom home offers plenty of space to relax and entertain. Situated close to shops, schools and public transport, you'll have everything you need right at your fingertips. Make 62 Saddleback Grove in Karori your home today!

Close to the Wellington CBD this is the perfect opportunity to get on the property ladder or buy a great investment.

Deadline Sale 1pm Thursday 4 May 2023.

Josh Tararo 021 025 46270

SOLD

94 Woodland Road, Johnsonville

3 2 1 Sold for $825K+ for more information contact

Shannon Crawford 027 665 2501

Anita Corlett & William YIP 02102256795

213 Mark Avenue, Grenada Village

SOLD

4 2 2 Sold for $1.2M+ for more information contact

Kevin Bai 0210475369

Marie Joubert 021 0247 0636

5/32 Dr Taylor Terrace, Johnsonville

SOLD

2 1Sold for $725K+ for more information contact

Gillian Cross 021 457 782

Kevin Bai 0210475369

17 Bickerton Rise, Churton Park

4 2 2

SOLD

Sold for $1.375M+ for more information contact

Gillian Cross 021 457 782

Aleisha Price 027 389 3311

Jane Mather 021 339 623

Jo Eastlake 021 040 9864

14 Prestbury Grove, Churton Park

1,200 sqm Section

Price By Negotiation for more information contact

Kevin Bai 0210475369

Marie Joubert 021 0247 0636

92 Melksham Drive, Churton Park

591 sqm Section

Price By Negotiation for more information contact

Gillian Cross 021 457 782

Event Supported by:

My Dream Job

Did we mention this is a free event?

JOIN US AT OUR REAL ESTATE CAREERS EVENING 6:00pm, Tuesday 2nd May BE QUICK, SEATS ARE LIMITED!

For more info and to register go to

localagent.co.nz

This event will feature top Porirua agent, Josh Tararo, from our very own Collective Team Tararo. Your host for the evening will be one of our talented Directors William Yip, They will share their experience and tips of working in their ‘Dream Job’.

What’s cool in the

Wairarapa

Stonehenge Aoteroa and the Winter Solstice

Stonehenge Aoteroa is New Zealand’s unique open air astronomical observatory, built following ancient knowledge of the stone circles and adapted to the conditions of New Zealand.

You can visit the henge anytime they are open, without having to make any appointment. A map of the Stonehenge Aotearoa structure and a short audio-visual explaining how the stones work are included in the visit.

LOLLIES!

Lollies from all over the world

WINTER SOLSTICE 19 JUNE

Come and celebrate the Winter Solstice with Stonehenge Aotearoa! Have you ever wondered about what other people traditionally do around the shortest day of the year? Come and hear about it. The programme will begin when the sun sets over the winter heel stone (weather permitting), followed by tales of the winter solstice....

The whole family will love the Wool Shed Museum

If you want to know what’s made New Zealand a great agricultural country you can learn so much about it by visiting the National Museum of Sheep and Shearing in Masterton.

The complex is housed in two authentic old wool sheds trucked in from local farms, plus a newly constructed gallery building –full of sheep farm gear, including shearing and wool handling equipment.

of sheep farming and its importance to our nation. For many years New Zealand

Demonstrations are held about spinning and weaving on Wednesday mornings and by arrangement. See the history of spinning from ancient times and our collection of spinning wheels. See our shop with its wide range of wool garments, footwear, sheepskin rugs, and souvenirs. We are a visitor attraction of international quality.

The Wool Shed hours: 10am-4pm weekdays and 10am-3pm weekends.

Consistently winning awards at Greytown Butchery

Established in 1873, Greytown Butchery is still operating in the same historic building and keeping old butchering traditions alive.

It’s no wonder they consistently win awards with their multi-award winning sausages, having so far clocked up 25 awards in the last 17 years.

Greytown Butchery has recently won their 25th award at the annual Great New Zealand Sausage Competition. Ironically it was the Sausage Competition’s 25th year running.

thelollyjargreytown@gmail.com facebook.com/thelollyjarnz

Stonehenge Aotearoa

Greytown Butchery was awarded popular classic that just on its own has now clocked up 12 awards at this annual event.

Artisan butcher Gavin Green and partner Julie Fairbrother, have transformed this iconic butchery into a gourmet, European-styled butchery that prides itself on top quality cuts with exceptional service to match.

Remember to bring your chilly bin with you next time for your butchery goods!

South Wairarapa–Carterton Dark Sky Reserve

The Districts of South Wairarapa and Carterton of New Zealand’s North Island named Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve, the newest International Dark Sky Reserve Association (IDA).

After five years of hard work by a small group of volunteers, the South Wairarapa and Carterton Districts have been formally certified as an International Dark Sky Reserve to preserve the region’s pristine night skies for future generations.

With broad community support, the Wairarapa Dark Sky Association (WDSA) set out to ensure the region’s dark skies would not degrade, a problem that besets some 80 percent of people worldwide.

“We are thrilled to be granted kaitiaki (guardianship) status for our sparkling dark skies by the International body, the Wairarapa Dark Sky Association chair Viv Napier said. “We know there are from reducing the scatter of light at night,

and we want to thank the communities of Martinborough, Featherston, Greytown, added.

IDA has granted the Dark Sky Reserve status to just 20 other places worldwide by the IDA. Aoraki-McKenzie in the South Reserve in New Zealand.

Support from community groups, including local iwi and astronomical societies in Wairarapa and Wellington, as well as the region’s four local councils – South Wairarapa, Carterton, Masterton, and Greater Wellington Regional Council – was integral to the success of this

The combined South Wairarapa and Carterton districts of the new Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve cover an area of 3,665 square kilometers. WDSA already has plans to expand the reserve area to include northern Wairarapa’s Masterton district, which will encompass some 5,895 square kilometers.

Source: International Dark Sky Association

Greytown

CAB uses people’s own languages

Free information and advice in people’s own language is available at the Karori and Johnsonville Citizens Advice Bureaux (CAB).

CABs are committed to making sure the service is inclusive of everyone and that language is not a barrier to people accessing the service and information about their rights and obligations.

CABs know that life can be difficult in Aotearoa when English isn’t one’s first language.

Navigating information, addressing issues and getting things done can be hard and stressful.

The CAB provides a safe space for everyone where it can help people access the information, advice, support and services they need – regardless of what language they speak.

CAB is very fortunate to have many bilingual and multilingual volunteers. “At Wellington CAB we have volunteers

who can speak Mandarin, Cantonese, Punjabi, Hindi, Sinhalese, German, Portuguese and Spanish”, says the Johnsonville CAB Manager, Dulce Piacentini.

CABs can also access other multilingual CAB volunteers around the country or use telephone and video interpreting services, so that clients can get help in their own language.

“We recognise the value of having a diverse workforce of volunteers and are keen to welcome new volunteers from all backgrounds to our CAB w nau”, Dulce adds.

“You can ask us anything, including questions about housing and tenancy, neighbours, consumer law, employment, education, legal rights, income support, immigration, family issues and relationships and many more.”

To access the CAB service, people can visit bureaux in Karori, Johnsonville, the city centre, Newtown or Kilbirnie,

Stitches among the Flowers

call, email or chat with online at www. cab.org.nz.

“We will find you a volunteer to help you in your language of choice or connect you with an interpreter to help us speak to you.

“Language should not be a barrier to getting the information and advice you need,” Dulce says.

CAB is a nationwide, but locally based, community organisation that provides free, confidential, independent information and advice.

The CAB helps people to know and understand their rights and responsibilities and to find the community services they need.

The CAB service is for everyone and is there to help with any questions people bring. For more information on how CAB can help support in multiple languages, visit: https://www.cab.org.nz/news/supportingyou-in-your-preferred-language/.

A joint exhibition of handwork and floral arrangements will be held at Johnsonville Uniting Church in Dr Taylor Terrace this month.

Called “Stitches among the Flowers”, the exhibition will be officially opened tomorrow, Friday 14 April, starting at 7pm. Entertainment will also be provided at the opening, and tickets are $15 per person.

The exhibition will then be open from 9:30am to 4pm on Saturday 15 April.

As well as the display, there will be refreshments and sales of crafts, plants, baking, cards and jams, as well as raffles.

Tickets are $5 per

person and are available from office@juc.org.nz, 478 3396, Tuesday to Friday 10 am to 2pm, Renier renierack@gmail.com or 021 783 821, or Karen kj_parminter@xtra.co.nz or 027 286 0916.

The Johnsonville Uniting Church and the Floral Art Club have organised “Stitches among the Flowers” where the two organisations can showcase their crafts.

The Floral Art Club meets at the Johnsonville Uniting Churchon the third Wednesday of the month.

Over the years the club has provided beautiful floral arrangements when the church has had a special occasion.

Situation Vacant

ON... O WHAT’S

Don’t Chuck It, Fix It

No high rise for Khandallah

By Frank Neill

Wanted!

Volunteer repairers! Can you sew, repair electric and electronic gadgets or fix various household items?

Come and see Ngaio Repair Cafe this Saturday morning.

Trades and Services

Graham’s Painters

Get your House Exterior and Interior painted!

Experienced tradesmen and large team

E: grahamspaintersnz @gmail.com

W: www.grahamspainters.nz

Ph: (04) 564 9202 021 183 9492

The Onslow Residents Community Association (ORCA) said it opposed high rise development in Khandallah when it presented its submissions on the second round of hearings on the proposed Wellington City District Plan.

ORCA presented its submission on stream two of the district plan, which related to residential development.

real benefits,” he says.

In its submission on the first round of hearings on the proposed district plan earlier this year, ORCA submitted that the Johnsonville train line was not a rapid transport service.

If the train line is designated a rapid transport service that means housing of up to six storeys high can be developed within walking distance of train stations on the Johnsonville line.

BUILDING Consent Approval and house plans. Free estimates provided. Call Doug on 934-1398. C

G

Altrusa Ohariū club serving local community

Meeting second Thursday of every month. 7:30pm @ Collective Community Hub, 33 Johnsonville Rd - guests welcome.

Email: altrusaohariu@gmail.com

Love Local. Shop Local.

Death Notices

FRANCE, Simon Peter (the Hon): Apr 8, 2023

O’DONNELL, Mary Jean (“Sis”) (nee Lynch): Apr 1, 2023

p,

142 Karori Road, Karori 476 5292 375 Adelaide Road, Newtown 389 6069 Comprehensive professional funeral services from a

locally owned business.

FACT

When did the peace sign originate?

Ettiene Kirsty

15. Amazed (9)

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“We are arguing that Khandallah should be a neighbourhood centre,” Orca’s President, Lawrence Collingbourne says.

Neighbourhood Centre Zone applies to single corner stores or small shopping strips located in residential neighbourhoods.

They provide residents and passersby with frequent retail and commercial service needs.

Provisions typically enable buildings of up to three storeys high and residential use at upper floors is permitted. Development is expected to be in keeping with the surrounding residential environment.

“The [Wellington City] Council’s argument is that any centre with a supermarket is a local centre,” Mr Collingbourne says.

As Khandallah has a supermarket, this would mean it would be classified as a local centre and the proposed district plan provides for four-storey high density development around the Khandallah shopping area.

The district plan currently proposes that Ngaio and Crofton Downs would be neighbourhood centres.

However Orca considers that “there is little difference between Ngaio and Crofton Down, and Khandallah,” Mr Collingbourne says.

“We are not against progress and densification in our area, but we want it to be appropriate to our topography and the character of the area,” he says. However ORCA does not see that there is any demand for high rise building in Khandallah “and we think it is too difficult to manage.”

High rise development “will create a lot of angst for residents without any

The Onslow Community Residents Association was among those who submitted that the train is not rapid transport.

On the other hand, other submissions said that it was rapid transport and that more housing was needed in the areas served by the Johnsonville train.

Greater Wellington Regional Council, which operates the Johnsonville train, classifies it as rapid transport. Wellington City Council officials agreed. However the council’s Planning and Environment Committee voted that the line was not a rapid transit service on 23 June last year.

The Johnsonville train line was not, in his view, a rapid transport service, the President of the Onslow Residents’ Community Association, Lawrence Collingbourne told the “Independent Herald”.

“We have had six public meetings and they have all been overwhelmingly against six-story development and calling the rail line a rapid transport system,” he said.

“The railway line does not have the capacity to meet the transport needs of the community if council allows six-storey development.

“It will force people into using their cars.”

Allowing six-storey developments within walking distance of the Johnsonville line, especially in the Khandallah town centre, was “counterproductive to the national policy on over-development.

“We just want the proper government standard to apply.”

Hearings of submissions on the Wellington City Council District Plan will continue for some months yet.

DOWN

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Solution

SOLUTION

Last Week 6 April 2023

For January 26, 2005

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Northern United defeats Avalon

By Frank Neill

Northern United opened their Wellington Premier Rugby account with a 28-24 victory over Avalon on 6 April.

They had to withstand a fast finish from their opponents, however, who came back from being down 12-28 and also came close to scoring twice late in the match, only to knock on twice – once over the line and the other time close to the line.

Two tries to Norths number

8 Luca Rees proved telling, and Norths were also too strong for their opponents in the scrums and lineouts.

The holders of the Jubilee Shield, Northern United lost their first match of the season on 1 April, losing to Petone – the team they beat in last year’s final.

Norths scored first to take a 3-0 lead, but that was to be their only score with Petone taking out a very comfortable 41-3 victory.

The Northern United women’s team had a convincing

47-27 win over Oriental-Rongotai in the first round of the Rebecca Liua’ana Trophy on 8 April.

After beating Northern United in their first Swindale Shield men’s competition, Petone found much sterner opposition against Johnsonville on 6 April.

Johnsonville scored a try to level the game at 7-7 and then kicked a penalty to go up 10-7.

Petone, however, then monopolised the scoring to win 21-10.

Big win for Norths footballers

North Wellington notched their first win of the Central League football season when they defeated Whanganui Athletic 5-0 on 8 April.

The newly promoted Whanganui team was playing on its home ground, Wembley Park, which shares a name with England’s famous stadium.

It took just over half an hour for Norths to score through Japanese import, Anto Okamura. He made

a fast run into the 18-yard box and delivered a powerful right footer just under the cross bar.

Twenty minutes later Anto was in the action again when he was brought down inside the penalty area. Norths Captain, Tim Fenton, pulled rank and scored from the spot to make it 2-0.

With an hour on the clock the man from Japan added a third goal after latching on to a brilliant through

ball by Josh Zatorski.

15-year-old debutant Miles Woodhall was given half an hour to prove his potential and did not waste the opportunity.

He made a great run down the left flank and nudged a powerful through ball into the Whanganui defensive zone. It was too hot to handle for the locals and was turned into the net by a defender to make it 4-0.

5 Mortgage Saving Tips? YIP

Hey Everyone! With cost of living cranking up and interest rates staying high, paying off debt is one of the best investments you can make now. Your mortgage is typically the biggest debt an individual can ever incur. Even while mortgage interest rates are often lower than those of other loans, the total amount of interest you pay over the course of the loan is quite high. Here are 5 tips that may help you pay off your mortgage (and other debt) faster.

1. Make fortnight payments: Instead of paying your mortgage once a month, consider making fortnightly payments. This will result in an extra payment each year, which can help you pay off your mortgage faster. Plus, you’ll save a lot of interest over the entire loan.

2. Increase your payment amount: If you have extra cash each month, consider increasing your mortgage payment amount. Any payments over the interest cost are taken off your balance and into your equity. This is your money, that you could access again if needed.

3. Make a lump payments: At the end of each mortgage fixed term you have the opportunity to pay off a chunk of mortgage. So, if you receive a bonus, tax refund or have come into some bulk cash, consider putting that money aside for a lump payment.

4. Look for savings on same products! This isn’t about buying cheap products, but more looking for ways to save. We recently became parents and we’re making a 20-30% saving on the exact same diapers by buying bulk. You could also look at reviewing your internet/phone/power plan, most people are actually on the wrong plan for their needs.

5. Consider a side hustle: If you have extra time, consider taking on a side hustle to earn extra cash. With the world of tech-

nology and internet, it is super easy to start a side-hustle, there are oodles of ideas online!

Paying off your mortgage faster requires dedication and discipline, but the rewards can be significant. Not only will you save a lot of money on interest, but you’ll also have the peace of mind that comes with being debt-free. If you would like a health check on your property situation, get in touch and we’ll go through a strategy plan together. Have a great week everyone!

Ten minutes later Miles found Mikey McCutcheon who finished the job in the 90th minute.

At Karori Park, home ground advantage was not enough for Waterside Karori who established a two-goal buffer through Jorge Akers and Tomas Alvarado.

Newly promoted visitors, Stop Out, got things back on an even keel with 20 minutes to play and the scores were locked at 2-2.

A 90th minute penalty was taken by Stop Out Captain James Sutcliffe, who converted it to give his team a 3-2 win.

Wellington Olympic defeated the Wellington Phoenix Reserves 2-1 at Fraser Park.

After the match was locked up at 1-1 for almost all the second half, Kalian Gould helped Olympic to victory with a goal right on full time.

Are you a fun-loving nurse?

Written by William

We’d love to hear from you.

The elders of Enliven’s Huntleigh and Cashmere Homes are looking for fun-loving, caring, talented nurses to join their dedicated team. With Enliven positive ageing services, you’ll enjoy a wide range of clinical work, a supportive work environment, plenty of professional development and career progression opportunities, a focus on wellbeing and lots of fun!

“I love it here. The environment is friendly, and there are recreational activities all week

Luca Rees in action during Northern United’s victory over Avalon. Photo: Chainsawphotos.