17 August Independent Herald

By Frank Neill

Raroa Park a great location

Continued from page 1.

“Providing adequate recreational facilities has a major influence in promoting physical activity and meaningful community engagement.”

The JBG reviewed available sites it suggested that the “most appropriate location” would be Raroa Park.

“Sited a minutes’ drive or a short walk from Johnsonville’s Metropolitan Centre, and halfway between our northernmost suburbs and our western suburbs, Raroa Park is ideally located,” the submission says.

“There has recently been an increase in indoor sports uptake by our older age group.

“Having a large retirement home close to this proposed site will increase the meaningful engagement of elderly people in the community.”

There was also a realistic potential for Onslow College and Raroa Intermediate School to contribute via the Ministry of Education to the cost of either funding the new facility or the annual operating expenses or both.

“A reduction in the use of private vehicles is only possible if other modes of transport are available and convenient to the users.

“The suggested location at Raroa park sits adjacent to the existing train line as well as on

key bus routes.

“Prioritised cycling networks in the area could easily be extended from Johnsonville to a new facility at Raroa and the grade is easy.

“It is only a short walk for those in the neighbouring schools and retirement home.

“Many of our school students and the large cohort of the community who work or study in central Wellington travel past this location daily, making it widely convenient to the community.

“For visitors that can’t use public transport, the site provides ample space to meet car parking needs.

“The advantage of this location is its proximity to all modes of transport,” the JBG submission says.

“WCC’s current analysis identifies a geographic gap in Johnsonville’s current ability to service the recreational needs of our catchment and further investment by WCC is encouraged.”

Wellington’s northern and western suburbs have no indoor facilities of scale, whereas other regions of Wellington do.

“The lack of available indoor space within proximity to the western and northern suburbs has prevented the uptake of indoor sports in our region.

“Wellington’s challenging

weather places a larger need than other centres on the provision of indoor sports facilities. Be it rain or wind, often outdoor sports – especially children’s outdoor sports activities – are cancelled.

“With appropriate indoor facilities these sports would have less cancellations.

“The NZ National Indoor Facilities Strategy indicates that by shifting traditionally outdoor sports indoors there is a notable gain in participation rates.”

The JBD submission also said it was concerned that the Johnsonville community centre was in poor shape “and would benefit from a re-think and a re-build”.

“Locally one of our businesses have stepped in to provide a temporary community facility named the Collective Hub.

“This is a facility which is temporarily leased by a business, is privately funded, and does not have any certainty of remaining.

“The fact the community has had to step in to provide such facility highlights the need for such a premises of adequate quality to support the community needs.

“We have concerns with our lack of local park space,” the submission says.

“There is great need for a

central park space in Johnsonville. Other less populated suburbs are better provided for.

“With the plan for higher intensification for Johnsonville, we believe such provision is paramount to the health and well-being of current and future visitors and residents.”

The submission suggested the development in Johnsonville of a central park space similar to Wellington’s Midland Park.

“This will provide a space where someone might walk to eat their lunch, get some fresh air for 5-10 minutes from the office, and/or to take a short break from their busy schedule, or to engage socially/collaborate within the community.”

Lack of green space in Johnsonville “is a poor image, is affecting our well-being, and is impeding our ability to service this catchment.

“For our community to function properly we urgently require a central park space that meets the needs of our businesses, visitors, residents, and our environment.”

The submission also noted that the current provision of public toilets in central Johnsonville did not meet the needs of residents and the business community.

I attended the tangi for a local woman up at the Ngā Hau e Whā o Paparārangi Marae in Newlands last week. It’s located in a great spot overlooking the harbour, and unusually for a Wellington facility, has ample parking, and the folk who run the marae are welcoming to the community. Seeing my friend laid out on the marae, surrounded by whānau and visitors, was a special way for her to be farewelled.

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.

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.

It occurred to me that our burial rituals are probably our closest link to where our ancestors came from, and even non-religious services follow a ritual which originated when most people identified with religion. Society evolves over time, but it’s often our links to the past which are preserved through funerals and weddings. Such links are important in understanding our history and who we are today.

Organisations like the Onslow Historical Society, the Glenside Historic Halfway House group

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

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

Developers of course need to make a profit, 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.

and the Tawa Historical Society do an excellent job of identifying important parts of our history here in Ōhāriu, before it’s too late. As I get around the electorate, I come across plaques and other memorials which commemorate significant events and people. There are a surprising number of books on our history as well, which capture this material. To me, an awareness of this history is an important part of building pride in our communities, a pride which sees us being determined to keep Ōhāriu as the great place to live in and bring up families that it is.

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.

And each time I drive out to the Hutt, I note the remarkable progress on the seawall which will become a walkway and cycleway that gives us access to the western side of the harbour, denied to previous generations of Northern suburb residents.

That progress will form a history future generations will be proud of.

There’s plenty to be getting on with.

An important community milestone

By Frank Neill

Cornerstone Community Centre’s 40th anniversary celebration was a “really important milestone event for the Khandallah community,” said the chair of the trust that runs Cornerstone, Alastair Hutchens.

“Anniversaries are important events, whether they are personal or an organisation such as we are.”

Cornerstone celebrated its anniversary at the Khandallah Town Hall on 11 August.

The event was well attended and among those present were the four people who came up with the idea of establishing a community centre in Khandallah – Dermot and Keri Byrne. and Peter and Isobel Delaney.

Former Wellington City Councillor John Morrison, ariu MP Greg O’Connor and Wellington City Councillor Diane Calvert also joined the celebration.

Cornerstone came about as a result of a conversation over dinner – a dinner attended by himself, Keri, Peter and Isobel, Dermot said in his speech.

They then became involved with a group of people from a number of churches in Khandallah, including the Catholic, Anglican, Presbyterian and Brethren.

The group wanted to help people in the community, and they set aside an area in the building on 2 Ganges Road, which they had acquired, for a community centre.

“Essentially it was people helping people,” Dermot said.

When they were setting up the centre “out of the blue the Johnsonville Lions appeared on

the scene.”

The Lions helped in a variety of ways, including painting and organising furniture and fittings.

“They did an amazing job,” Dermot said. “It was a wonderful thing they had done.”

Dermot also paid a tribute to Cornerstone’s first co-ordinator Ley Quenelle.

“She laid the foundations of the centre,” he said.

“She was the sole co-ordinator for three years and didn’t take any pay.

“It was an amazing contribution.”

“When we started we thought if we could do it for three years that would be great.

“Now here we are 37 years later, which is amazing.

“I would like to acknowledge Jesus as our inspiration and our cornerstone,” Dermot said.

Morris Robertson provided insights into the move to Khandallah Town Hall in his speech.

Before the move, the town hall was “rather run down”.

However it was clear that the town hall could be renovated and restored and put to use in the community.

“We were fortunate in having Cr John Morrison to support us.

“Eventually John managed to engineer the majority of councillors to support it.”

A management committee for the town hall restoration project was formed and architects were appointed.

“We have this wonderful build-

ing now, which is the centre point of the village.”

“I would like to honour tonight Dermot and Keri and Peter and Isobel for the great vision they had for this Cornerstone centre,” Ewen Robinson said in his speech.

“Their vision was that the churches of Khandallah would interact with the community through this centre.”

Their aim was to help people in the community.

“It is wonderful over the 40 years the commitment of those involved – the trustees, the staff and the volunteers.

“Well done, and God bless you for all you are doing for the community here in Khandallah,” Ewen said.

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Composting session

A responsible composting workshop will be held at the Newlands Community Centre from 10:30 to 11:30am on Saturday 9 September. At this free workshop people will learn how to take climate action with food scraps, make great compost for their gardens and keep rodents away. People attending need to RSVP to new landscommunitycentre @wcc. govt.nz or 04 477 3724

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LEFT: Cutting Cornerstone Community Centre’s 40 th birthday cake (from left) Keri Byrne, Judith Ridley-Smith and Isobel Delaney.

Photo: Frank Neill.

ABOVE: Two of the founders of the Cornerstone Community Centre Peter Delaney (left) and Dermot Byrne at the celebration.

Photo: Frank Neill.

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Family history at J’ville Library

August is NZ Family History month, so with that in mind, staff at Johnsonville Library thought it an ideal time to spotlight the many databases and resources available at the library when researching your roots and the events that shaped your family’s history.

“From earthquakes and immigration to shipwrecks and strikes, Wellington families have done a lot of living,” says Catherine Ruth, Community Librarian at Johnsonville Library, and keen family history researcher.

“But many people are unaware of the huge treasure trove of resources – both physical and online – that are freely available to help with your research, all available with your library card.”

aspects of our shared history: Second Friday of the month at 2pm: History Club is an ongoing monthly programme that explores local history.

Friday 18 August at 2pm: Family History @ The Library is a one-off programme that will get people started on their genealogy journey.

Friday 25 August from 1.30pm: Oral History @ The Library is also a oneoff recording project using the library’s recording studio.

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To help get started, Johnsonville Library will be running a series of programmes with a focus on delving into different

The Oral History project will be a new venture for the library. “We’re hoping to get members of our community from all walks of life to record a significant event in their lives to hand down to future generations,” Catherine says.

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An historic photo of Broderick Rd, Johnsonville.

Photo: Charles J Fearnley.

dio for this, you will need to ring us and book a slot.”

For more information about any of the above programmes,

check out the Wellington City Libraries website events page, or ring Johnsonville Library on 04 477 6151.

Census focus for REBUS Club

Statistician, Len Cook CBE, spoke on the New Zealand Census and how this informs government planning decisions at the July meeting of The REBUS Club of Khandallah.

Len was New Zealand’s Government Statistician from 1992 to 2000, and National Statistician and Director of the United Kingdom Office for National Statistics, and Registrar General for England and Wales from 2000 to 2005.

He served as Families Commissioner in New Zealand from 2015 to 2018.

He began his talk with a question: “What is a Population Census for?”

Using a series of charts his answers included, a healthy democracy, so we all know who we are and how we are changing, trustworthy public services and knowledgeable foresight.

Len went on to explain the key needs met by a Census, prominent among them being constitutional integrity of the state and public confidence, the integrity of the electoral boundaries, and the quality of decision making and trust in

government institutions.

He explained the key issues for Census takers, such as how those which characterised population structure and how dynamics some 20 years ago could have significance in the present day and, likewise, this year’s census could predict needs 20 years into the future.

The presentation covered many aspects of future planning with an example being the current shortage of nurses which could be traced back to trends in birth rates, increase in the older population and access to alternative

occupations for women.

REBUS is a club for seniors and meets on the last Friday of the month. The next meeting is on Friday 25 August at 10 am at the Khandallah Bowling Club, Woodmancote Road.

The guest speaker will be Sue Barker, director of Sue Barker Charities Law, speaking on “Charities - the Tide of Change.” Visitors welcome. For more information about the club, see https://khandallahrebus.wixsite. com/khandallahrebusclub or internet search “Khandallah REBUS.”

Puppet show features endangered bat

By Frank Neill

Grenada Village puppeteer Anna Bailey is currently working on a new show with a strong conservation focus.

Called “Flutter” it is a puppet show for family audiences about a short tailed bat who is afraid of the dark and is befriended by a glow worm.

“In the show I would like to raise awareness about the endangered and very unique short tailed bat, the relationship with the Dactylanthus/Te Pua o te Reinga, also endangered and unique, and the threats that the bat faces from predators like the stoat,

“I started my development process for this show with a couple of workshops with school children at Zealandia in March this year.

“While there are no short tailed bats living in Zealandia they have translocated Dactylanthus/Te Pua o te Reinga there with hope one day the bats will return.

“My director is Jen McArthur who lives in Karori and we are rehearsing in Grenada Village Hall and Vogelmorn Bowling Club.

“Steph Cairns, who lives in Kilbirine, is composing original music for the show.”

“Flutter” tells the story of a bat who is afraid of the dark.

She encounters a glow worm who thinks she is a star.

Themes of courage, friendship, and conservation are interwoven with a heart-warming story that introduces audiences to the unique and endangered short-tailed bat.

“Flutter” will premiere at the TAHI festival at BATS theatre, 1 Kent Terrace, in September.

There will be a performance at 10am on Friday 15 September and performances at 10am and 1pm on Saturday 16 September. Tickets are $10 each.

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Barbie, what movie should be made next based on your childhood toy?

Fun with Scottish Country Dancing

By Cheryl Brownrigg and Kristin Downey

Newlands Brownies meet on a Tuesday evening at Newlands Community Centre. This term we are working on Healthy You – a clause in our Keeping Safe badge. We had to try an energetic activity like dancing, aerobics, or Zumba to keep us fit and healthy.

Newlands Brownies decided they would like to learn about Scottish Country Dancing and the Johnsonville Scottish Country Dance

Club agreed to come and teach them about the fun, fitness and friendship that is part of Scottish country dancing.

Scottish country dance tutor Rod Downey gave us a quick introduction to the steps ,and then we were up and into our first dance - The Flying Scotsman.

Everyone loved the dancing, and we had lots of help from the Scottish country dancers, all decked out for the occasion in their tartan sashes, kilts and trews.

We were also lucky enough to have Scottish

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country dance musician Aileen Logie play her accordion for the dancing, and let us have a go afterwards.

It was fun to try playing the piano accordion, which many girls had never seen in action before.

Our sincere thanks to the team from the club who came to share their expertise and knowledge about Scottish Country Dancing

and Scotland.

Girls aged from 7 to 10 are welcome to come and join Newlands Brownies. Contact Cheryl 027 465 7974 or register onlinehttps://girlguidingnz.org.nz/join-us/ Teens or adults interested in Scottish country dancing can find out more at https:// www.johnsonvillescd.org.nz/about-us/ or call Robert on 021 163 9649.

Racheal Kenyon Cabbage Patch kids.

Michael Hagan

Alf from the TV series.

Georgy Walton

A movie about bouncy toys with pogo sticks and space hopper characters.

Cindy Thom My Little Pony.

Brad Taylor Thomas the Tank Engine.

Jonathan Rosene Thundercats for sure.

Newlands Brownies enjoying Scottish Country Dancing. Photo: Loralee Hyde.

Newlands Brownies having a turn at playing the piano accordion, held by Aileen Lodge.

Photo: Loralee Hyde.

Bird numbers are soaring

No native birds are seriously at risk in the capital anymore, and regionally bird numbers are soaring sky high, a recent survey shows.

The titipounamu/rifleman has moved out of the high concern category defined as tiny or declining populations, and joined their feathered friends in the moderate and low concern sections.

The survey, which has occurred annually since 2011, involves five-minute bird counts carried out at 100 bird count stations in forest habitat throughout Wellington City’s parks and reserves network.

They monitor trends in the diversity, abundance and distribution of native forest birds in the capital to assess how local conservation management activities are impacting the city’s native bird fauna.

Nikki McArthur, Ian Flux and Annette Harvey conducted the survey for Greater Wellington Regional Council.

These results are reward for decades of teamwork, predator control and of course Zealandia Te M a a T ne sanctuary, Wellington City Council’s Biosecurity Specialist Henk Louw says.

“This is the first time we’ve measured titipounamu in our annual monitoring outside of citizen spottings, so it’s very exciting to be adding a new species to the mix.

“The large-scale acquisition and protection provided by Zealandia Te M a T ne sanctuary has had the most significant impact on the preservation and restoration of wildlife in

Wellington – with a measurable ‘halo’ effect on native forest bird communities throughout the city.

“But we couldn’t have done it without the tens of thousands of volunteers who have been protecting Wellington’s native manu by trapping pests and doing community planting and weeding for years,” Henk says.

Jo Ledington, General Manager Conservation and Restoration, Zealandia Te ra a ne says they’re proud to have been a world-leading catalyst for change

in Wellington.

“It’s one of the only cities in the world where native biodiversity is increasing,” Jo says.

“With the support and hard work of communities across Wellington, it’s so exciting to see species such as titipounamu establishing outside the fence.”

Since 2011, the average number of native bird species being counted each year has risen by 41%.

Average annual counts of have increased by 260%, kerer by 200%, by 85% and wak-

Wadestown submissions close soon

By Frank Neill

Wadestown residents are being encouraged to make submissions on two of Wellington City Council’s Wadestown Connections plans.

The Wadestown Residents Association will not be providing the council with a fixed view on its proposals because there are so many different views about it, the association’s acting chair, Greg Hyland told the “Independent Herald”.

It is, therefore, important that people in the community make submissions on the plans.

One plan covers Churchill Drive, Wilton and Crofton Downs. It provides for a cycleway and no stopping at all times areas.

The second plan covers Park Street, Grant Road and Wadestown Road. It provides for a proposed cycle lane and parking changes.

Submissions on these plans close at 5pm on Sunday 27 August.

People can make submissions by filling out an online submission form at letstalk. wellington.govt.nz, emailing the council at trfeedback@wcc.govt.nz, or download a printable submission form to fill out. There are quite a few changes that the proposals would implement, including the removal or reclassification of a number of car parks.

The full detail on the proposals can be

found at the council proposal web page, but in summary they include: installing a cycle lane along Park Street and Grant Road leading to Wadestown Road; installing a cycle lane on the western (uphill) side of Wadestown Road between Grant Road and Moorehouse Street; removing car parks on the western (uphill) side of Wadestown Road between Grant Road and Orchard Street; creating no stopping at all times (yellow lines) to improve sight lines around intersections at the intersections between Wadestown Road and Orchard, Moorhouse and Sefton Streets; installing a footpath across the grassy verge between Orchard and Sefton Streets; and installing two raised pedestrian crossings in Wadestown village shops to make the crossing safer. Ultimately the Wadestown Residents’ Association is looking for a good solution for the safety of everyone, Greg says. Submissions are due to close soon, however the association planned to seek an extension of time.

“One of the things that we noted and passed onto the city council is that most people aren’t aware that [the Wadestown Connections plan] is going ahead,” Greg says.

awaka by 49%.

The only dip in that time is the tauhou/silvereye which has declined by 9%, likely due to their new living arrangements, Henk says.

“One factor is that they are being displaced by t which are generally more territorial.

“Secondly, they have a wider range of habitats they use like gardens, and all our stations are focussed in and around our forests.”

Ruru/morepork numbers are still a bit of a mystery as they

are harder to monitor given their nocturnal activities, so plans for volunteers to carry out night-time surveys are on the agenda for the coming year.

“Events like the Great Kere Count, Bird of the Year and iNaturalist Citizen Scientists contribute to the city’s interest and pride in native bird preservation, so we’re looking at options to leverage off those and organise a citizen science project to map the distribution of ruru in Wellington City,” Henk says.

Market Update? YIP!

Hey Everyone! This week we saw the Reserve Bank take a mature approach and not put up the OCR. They hope the banks will readjust their long-term profit margins and bring the market back on a better path. Westpac surprisingly leads the charge with a reduction in the 2-year rate ahead of this announcement - But on the other side, some minor banks are offering higher term deposit rates, and some are even higher than the mortgage rates of major banks. As people sell up and more cash is circulating, people will be moving their cash to where the better term deposit/investment options are. This could cause major banks to increase rates (both term deposit & home loan) to compete. It appears that the property market could be in for further disruptions in the near future and the current recovery in a very small portion of the market, may be just temporary Buyers are continuing to return to the market and investors (particularly developers are eyeing up opportunities to solidify their long-term plans. Here are the five key market variables we are keeping an eye on:

1. Supply of houses – The media will progressively report on the positive activity in the last 2 months and we are already starting to see a significant jump in enquiries to sell.

2. Immigration – Across the ditch, we have seen high immigration numbers positively influence the market. Although in NZ we have seen new leniency towards immigration, and yes people are moving to NZ, but we have not seen the numbers necessary to make a significant difference to the market. We should see how many come to NZ later this year.

3. Interest Rates – For the market to properly recover, we need a downward trend in interest rates. Higher term deposit rates is sadly not what we need right now.

4. Elections – Property does not appear to be a ‘hot topic’ for this year’s election, and whilst the hotly debated topics do have an onflow effect, the proposed changes, at

the moment, are going to have little effect to the current market conditions. But watch this space… this is the time when all those ‘promises’ start coming out!

The current market is ever changing and reacting rapidly to emotional differences. Remember, the market is simply the perception of the public mass and their reaction to variables changing. If you are thinking of buying/ selling/renting/moving in today’s market, it is very important to have a pulse on the market and make good decisions.

A wrong decision is very costly, and you need to make sure you weigh up different ideas and strategies before making a move. If you would like to discuss your plans and the ideal strategy for your family, get in touch – Love to hear from you! Have a wonderful week everyone!

A titipounamu baby. Photo: Melissa Boardman. A tui attracted to a kowhai bush. Photo: Holly Neill.

Cross Hills Gardens

7 hectare park-like garden which includes and Angela Wilson extend a warm welcome

browse their large selection of rhododendrons onsite in Kimbolton to ensure a healthy, nonroot bound plant. If you can’t make it to their plant centre you can view the plants online at www.crosshills.co.nz . They ship nationwide.

There’s one that’s right for everyone, whether you’re keen for an adventure or just down for a stroll in the sun.

Ask Palmy locals why they live where they do - in a place that doesn’t have a big neon go-to light shining on itand they might just speak in a whisper. They will probably keep their enthusiasm dialled down low but, look into their eyes and you’ll see a sparkle of about-to-tip-over enthusiasm.

To really get a sense of where you are,

the bush-clad hills that you are walking in shape the gorge like a giant waka. This walk delivers with the views, is doable with kids onboard or in tow, and you will appreciate the lush bounty of this area. With that bounty in mind, take the descent in your stride knowing and boutique shops is waiting for you.

The Esplanade is an extensive 26-hectare park offering up formal gardens, bush walks, activities for the kids and Wildbase, a native wildlife rehabilitation centre. Basically, you can smell the roses, say “hi” to a native bird, chuck the kids on a mini train and wave at them while drinking your latte from the park’s café. Traversing the awa (river), the newly built bridge is unique and at night it illuminates as an art installation.

Mountain Biking

Over 30kms of trails through mixed terrain, with some jaw-dropping scenery. The trail names say it, here’s a few: Mr. Twister, Billy

The New Zealand Rugby Museum and Te Manawa

Heritage is the cultural heart of a city that thrives on discovery – entertaining and inspiring people from all walks of life for more than 40 years. It’s a place where concepts and communities come together.

country’s most comprehensive collection of rugby memorabilia and records. It’s not every day you can see the nation’s rugby oldest All Blacks jersey and the oldest rugby ball, to All Black star Dan Carter’s boots! And test out your rugby skills – kick, tackle, Street Art tour

Visit our epic trail of street art and murals in

and discover life-like oversized cats, beautiful native birds, celebrations of our cultures, and whimsical art works clambering up buildings.

Nature Walks

untouched native bush echoing with birdsong, the choice is yours. If you would like a quick and central walk, why not head along to He Ara Kotahi where you a military camp, streams and a river in less than nine kilometres.

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Palmy is full of epic pathways.

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J’ville BID seeking manager

By Frank Neill

The new Johnsonville Business Improvement District (BID) is currently looking for a manager.

It is currently advertising for the role, and an advertisement appeared in last week’s “Independent Herald”.

It is also advertised in this week’s paper.

It would be great if the BID could

get somebody who is local, says Mark Kirk-Burnnand, who chairs the Johnsonville Business Group.

This group formally became a BID last month.

The BID is a mutual partnership between the Wellington City Council and the Johnsonville business community. Its main aim is to engage on and carry out projects that benefit the business community.

Cable car annual maintenance

The new BID manager role is a permanent part-time position for three days a week. The appointee will play a pivotal role in driving positive change, promoting local businesses and developing a strong sense of community pride. As well as advertising for a manager, the BID is also currently working towards providing a base for the appointee to work from.

The Wellington Cable Car is currently closed for its annual maintenance.

The service stopped on 14 August and will remain out of service until Sunday 20 August.

To keep everything safe and in working order, the cable cars are shut down once a year to inspect and replace the essentials to keep the cars running.

Basically, it’s the cable car getting its warrant of fitness. The service is scheduled to re-open on Monday 21 August from 7:30 am

Any updates will be posted on the Wellington Cable Car Facebook page, and people who have any questions can make contact by leaving a message on the Facebook page.

Scottish Country Dancing

Grants to local organisations

Northern and western suburbs organisations have received funding of $42,000 in the latest round of New Zealand Community Trust grants.

$7,000 to help pay for travel and accommodation.

Tawa College also received a grant of $7,000 to help pay for travel and accommodation.

Don’t Chuck It. Fix It

Ngaio Repair Cafe is free, open Saturday 19 August,10am - 1pm, Ngaio Union Church, corner Crofton Road and Kenya Street.

NEWS TIPS

Graham’s Painters

Open Fun Evening Thursday 7 September 7.30pm. Try Scottish Country Dancing at Khandallah Presbyterian Church Hall, Ganges Road, opposite New World. Easy dances, free entry. Funeral

Enrolment at Bellevue School is governed by an enrolment scheme, details of which are available from our website: www.bellevue-newlands.school.nz.

The board has determined that up to five (5) New Entrant places are likely to be available for out of zone students for the first enrolment period in 2024 (Saturday 16 December 2023 to Friday 12 April 2024). The exact number of places will depend on the number of applications received from students who live within the school’s home zone. For students seeking enrolment within the first enrolment period of 2024, the deadline for receipt of applications for out of zone places is 9am, Friday 22 September 2023

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, this will be held on Friday 22 September 2023. Parents will be informed of the outcome of the ballot within three school days of the ballot being held. Details of how applications from out of zone students are processed are available on the school website.

Send your tips to herald@wsn.co.nz Death

Parents of students who live within the home zone and intend enrolling their child at any time during the next year should notify the school by as soon as possible to assist the school to plan appropriately for next year. Students who live in the home zone are entitled to enrol at the school.

Enrolment packs are available online at www.bellevue-newlands.school.nz.

Love Local. Shop Local.

THOMAS, Helen Kathleen: Aug 12, 2023 WANO, Kathrine Ann (nee Edwards):

E: grahamspaintersnz @gmail.com W: www.grahamspainters.nz Ph: (04) 564 9202 021 183 9492

Puzzle

Alex Moore Park Sport and Community Incorporated received $18,000. This will go towards the society hiring two facility managers as well as maintenance fees and lease rental payments.

The Karori United Tennis Club received $10,000, which will go towards the cost of drainage.

Newlands College received a grant of

The New Zealand Community Trust made grants totalling $692,186,36 across the Wellington region in its latest round of grants, announced on 10 August.

The grant come from the trust’s gaming venues, and there are two in the “Independent Herald” area – The Pickle Jar in Karori and the Backbencher in Thorndon.

Situation Vacant

Business Improvement District Manager

Are you an ambitious, driven individual with a passion for business development. We are looking for a highly skilled and motivated BID Manager to join our dynamic team.

Job Title:      BID Manager Permanent Part-time 3 days a week, flexible hours.

Job Overview:   As the Business Improvement District Manager, you will play a pivotal role in driving positive chance, promoting local businesses, and developing a strong sense of community pride. Your primary responsibility will be to oversee and coordinate all aspects of the BID’s operations, working collaboratively with stakeholders to achieve our goals.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Develop and implement strategic plans and initiatives to promote economic growth and enhance the overall appearance and appeal of the district.

2. Collaborate with local businesses, residents, and public officials to identify community needs and priority.

3. Coordinate and manage BID projects, such as website, beautification efforts, events, marketing campaigns etc.

4. Foster strong relationships with key stakeholders, business owners, property owners, local authorities, and community organisations.

5. Advocate for the district’s interests and represent the BID at public meetings, community events and networking functions.

6. Monitor and measure the success of BID initiatives, regularly reporting on progress and outcomes to stakeholders.

Qualifications:

1. Proven experience in community development, economic revitalisation, and urban planning

2. Exceptional leadership and communication skills to inspire and engage stakeholders

3. Strong project management abilities

4. Knowledge of local regulations, and government processes related to business improvement districts.

5. Ability to think strategically and creatively to address challenges and seize opportunities

6. A passion for community engagement.

Application Process: if you are ready to make a significant different in our community and possess the right qualifications, we invite you to apply. Please submit your updated resume and a compelling cover letter detailing your relevant experience and dedication to community improvement to cumac@xtra.co.nz or Post to PO Box 13264, Johnsonville.

Application Deadline Thursday 31st August

48. Of plants (9)

49. Sperm whales (9)

51. Not tied (5)

52. Brochure (7)

53. Avoid (5)

54. Soaks up (7)

55. Allure (11)

DOWN

1. Monetary unit of Ecuador (5)

2. Perspective (5,2,4)

3. Bursts (8)

4. Amateur (6)

5. Weight measurement (5)

33. River in Scotland (3)

38. Finger joints (7)

40. Obvious (8)

42. Conserves (7)

44. Free (7)

46. Captivate (6)

47.Canadian province; Nova (6)

48. Light wood (5)

49. Inflammation of the colon (5)

50. Cloying (5)

Solution

Last Week 10 August 2023

27. Formal (4)

28. Charm (7)

30. Lasso (6)

32. Ex NZ wicketkeeper; ... Smith (3)

33. Faint (3)

34. Benefit (6)

35. Aims (7)

36. Quarrel (4)

37. Large deer (3)

39. Estimated time of arrival (intls) (3)

41. Run swiftly (4)

43. Conpetitor (7)

45. Scanty (6)

6. Small orange (7)

7. Short story (8)

8. Disclose (6)

9. Bandits (7)

10. Antelope (5)

16. Slender (7)

17. Foot lever (7)

19. Deadens (5)

20. Enrols (7)

22. Qualify (7)

24. Hotel (3)

26.Female parent(animals) (3) 29. Alliance (5) 31. Ape (11) 32. Wrath (3)

Dramatic round of Football

By Grant Stephen

Another dramatic round of men’s and women’s regional football played out over the weekend (12 and 13 August) and with two games still to play, the men’s championship has already been decided.

Wellington Olympic wrapped up the men’s Central League in convincing fashion with a 6 – 3 win over Stop Out.

Stop Out had a golden patch with three goals before half time but Olympic scored two of their own before going into the sheds and added another four throughout the second spell.

Stop Out losing their keeper to a red card with 15 minutes still to play didn’t help matters and it was after this incident that the final two goals were conceded. It was close but no cigar at Karori Park.

Stefan Cordwell’s goal 10 minutes into the game was the only scoring shot of the match for the home team.

Miramar Rangers responded with two goals of their own in the first half to take the game 2-1. After a lean couple of weeks, Rangers leaped up the table to a more respectable sixth place, leaving Karori in eighth spot.

Eighth place is certainly better than ninth and that’s where TFS North Wellington remain marooned after a 3-0 away loss to Petone.

Norths could not clear their line quickly enough for the first goal, with Petone being first to the

drop and seizing the advantage.

The remaining two goals came from sustained pressure and Norths will need to take their chances when presented if they wish to avoid relegation and keep Whanganui Athletic at bay.

Whanganui are still last but salvaged a 1 all draw at home, hosting Western Suburbs. For the second game in a row, they have picked up a point and are only two points behind Norths with a massive six points still up for grabs.

After conceding a draw to Whanganui the week before and failing to cement a top four spot, Napier City Rovers had a convincing 4-1 win on the road against the Wellington Phoenix Reserves.

Olympic are well in front on the league table with 40 points followed by the Nix Reserves on 31, Napier on 30, Petone on 29 and Wests on 28.

The national summer league is out of reach for any other club and the Nix already have automatic entry to the summer competition.

It’s musical chairs ahead for Napier, Petone and Wests as they chase the two remaining spots in the tightest of battles.

In the women’s Central League, the weekly competition between Wellington United and Waterside Karori for leaderboard honours, was put on hold. Wellington United had a prior booking and travelled to Auckland to play Eastern Suburbs in the Kate Sheppard Cup.

United prevailed with a 1-0 win while Western Springs was too strong for Coastal Spirit of Christchurch, winning 5-1. Waterside Karori did play though and very much enjoyed their 4-0 win over Victoria University. Nikki Furukawa, Renee Bacon, Kennedy Bryant and Kaley Ward had their

Ngaio Agile turns five

By Morris Robertson

Statistics from ACC show a propensity for the elderly to suffer falls with often serious consequences.

Regular and simple exercises can play a part in maintaining strength and balance, which would help to avoid falls.

With gym memberships generally physically and financially out of reach for this age group a more appropriate alternative –Ngaio Agile – celebrated its fifth birthday in style on 7 August with 70 attendees.

In 1918 Ngaio resident Alyson Howell, a former ACC employee, was aware of the problem and its potential solutions.

She was determined to do something about it, but how to get started.

A fortuitous meeting on a Johnsonville train with another local resident, Mary Perkins, set in train the process for a community solution in the form of chairbased exercises with fellowship to follow. The next step was to recruit a leader.

The obvious choice was local retired Ngaio Union Church Min-

ister and half marathon runner, Lionel Nunns.

With the core of the group in place a team of eight, mostly from the local community, were recruited as volunteer leaders.

While some of the eight no longer play a part due to other commitments, they have been replaced by new people, two of whom were originally participants of the programme.

Ngaio Union Church, as part of its community outreach, was happy to provide the facilities.

Ngaio Agile, now affectionately referred to as Nigel, delivers the services of the ACC and Ministry of Health sponsored ‘Live Stronger for Longer’ programme of exercises to help older people with strength and balance to help avoid falls.

It is supported and resourced by Nuku Ora, the regional agency for the programme.

The 60 minutes of exercises, weekly on a Monday morning, are designed to be mostly undertaken while sitting in a chair.

The props used are therrabands and small bean bags for some of the exercises, supplied by Nuka Ora.

Appropriately refreshed by an hour of exercises, the participants are then treated to tea or coffee with biscuits and sometimes cake with conversations lasting a half hour or more. The cost for the morning is a koha.

In August 2018, following local promotion, the team gathered to welcome the first participants while wondering if anyone would

names on the score sheet once more for a very convincing win.

In a sight not often seen in women’s football, Vic Uni lost a player to a red card, 16 minutes into the game.

Mana Coach Services North Wellington did not travel well to Palmerston North and were

Seatoun won a tight affair at home to Taradale, coming out with a 1-0 victory.

Waterside Karori are top of the table on 34 points with one game to play. Wellington United have two matches to go and sit on 32 points.

turn up.

Thirty-two did and Nigel was launched.

In the five years since there has been an average of 40 attendees and, over these years, 175 different people have attended.

Regrettably, the spacing required for the exercises, has dictated a maximum of 48, which has sometimes been reached and

a waiting list has had to be introduced to manage the demand. Ideas for accommodating growth in demand are being investigated.

Those interested to know more should contact Lionel on lionel. nunns@gmail.com

To find other Wellington providers of these programmes go to www.nukuora.org.nz.

Action from the match between North Wellington and Petone (wearing the blue). Photo: Terry Douglas.

dispatched 8-0 by a ruthless Palmerston North Marist.

Ngaio Agile founder, Alyson Howell, walks among the participants. Photo: Supplied.

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