19 June Wainuiomata News

By Frank Neill

Mitre 10 is moving into Wainuiomata, after the owners of Mitre 10 Mega Petone, Upper Hutt and Porirua bought the Hammer Hardware store formerly owned by Jocelyn and Brian Pollock, who served the community for 60 years.

Mitre 10 has bought the building formerly housing the Warehouse, and is currently working towards opening it as the new Mitre 10 Wainuiomata. continued on page 2.

Jocelyn and Brian Pollock, who have retired after 60 years of service in Wainuiomata. Photo: Frank Neill.

How to reach us

Phone (04) 587 1660

Frank Neill

wainui@wsn.co.nz 027 490 3916

Sixty years of service to Wainui

Continued from page 1

“Ideally the Mitre 10 will be open by the end of the year,” says Cliff Lockyer, one of the family that owns Mitre 10 Mega Petone and is now running Hammer Hardware in Wainuiomata.

Jocelyn and Brian’s 60 years of service selling hardware store items to the Wainuiomata community began in 1964.

At the time Brian – who is the son of Petone All Black Bunk Pollock – was working at Southern Hardware in Naenae and the opportunity came up to manage Spencers Hardware, which was located in the village. He got the job at Spencers, and he also had shares in the company. In 1971 the owners decided to move out, so Brian bought the business, which began operating as Wainuiomata Hardware.

This is not the first time the hardware store has been a Mitre 10.

once housed The Warehouse. Image: Supplied

“We also did things like hire a bus and do garden tours taking people as far as Orongorongo.”

Les Whiteside

les@wsn.co.nz 021 360 008

Sam Barnes

sam@wsn.co.nz 021 109 4406 SALES

Wainuiomata Hardware became Mitre 10 in 1983, and the store moved to The Strand in 1988. It became Hammer Hardware about 12 years ago.

In 1990 Brian decided to move to part-time farming, and Jocelyn has been running the hardware store since then, although Brian continued to work there part time.”

“I loved it,” Jocelyn says of her time running the hardware store.

“I am so happy that Mitre 10 is going to continue it and provide a better service than we could.

“It is so exciting.”

Jocelyn has had significant community involvement in the valley. She was an elected representative on the Wainuiomata Community Board, serving on the board in 1995, 1996, 1997 and 1998. She also established Wainuiomata Tourism, which was a highlight of her career. This group was all about showing people what Wainuiomata had to offer.

“One of the main events was Over The Hill Day and the highlight of that day was having the Top Twins entertain,” Jocelyn says.

She joined the Rotary Club and every year she helps Te Omanga Hospice with its Festival of the Flowers.

“That was my heart,” she says. “My heart was Wainuiomata.” Brian has also been involved in the community. That has included working with the Wainuiomata Golf Club, although he did not play golf. Brian built the golf club’s fence. A big portion of the team at Mitre 10 Mega Petone live in Wainuiomata “and we are really excited about what we see as a positive future of the town,” Cliff says. “With the work that has been done with the redevelopment of the area, with Woolworths, the new KFC and the [Hutt City] Council development of the city centre the future is looking really good.”

Mitre 10 Mega Petone has now taken over the running of Hammer Hardware with the support of the team that worked with Brian and Jocelyn and have looked to increase the range and stock holding to support local customers.

“We have been working with each other over

the past 12 months.”

During that time he scheduled a visit to Hammer Hardware.

“As soon as I got to the store Brian was straight in the car to drop artificial grass off to a customer.

“That’s old fashioned service, which was a big feature of what Jocelyn and Brian provided to the Wainuiomata community.”

As well as the high quality customer service, the Pollocks also had a “really strong connection with their team who were working for the Wainuiomata community.” The loyalty of the staff “is immense and I think that’s a reflection of how [Jocelyn and Brian] treated them over the years. Mitre 10 has resource consent from Hutt City Council for the new store that will open in the former Warehouse building. Building consent has also been approved and work on strengthening the building has started. The big new store will include a really nice large garden centre, hardware, tools, kitchen design, bathroom, paint, home wares, internal and external timber and building materials and will include a Columbus Cafe.

An artist’s impression of the new Mitre 10 Wainuiomata, which is being prepared in the building that

Wonderful open day at the Marae

By Cr Keri Brown

It was a wonderful day at the Wainuiomata Marae open day, where the local community gathered to hear about the exciting new projects planned for the marae.

Attendees were thrilled to learn about the ambitious initiatives, which include the development of new papakainga housing, a mara (garden), a takaro (playground), wetlands, and significant upgrades to the kitchen and dining areas.

The marae has always been a cornerstone of the community, providing a space for various events and gatherings. This was especially evident during the Covid-19 pandemic, where the marae played a crucial role in supporting the community by hosting tangi, workshops, health events, and more.

“The marae is a place for everyone in our community,” emphasised Star Olsen, Chair of Wainuiuomata Marae.

“It’s more than just a venue; it’s a vital part of our community’s fabric.

“We saw this during the pandemic, and this continues to be true as we progress with these new projects.”

The new developments aim to enhance the marae’s capacity to serve the community better. The papakainga housing will provide much-needed accommodation, while the mara and takaro playground will create spaces for families to grow food and for children to play.

The planned wetlands will contribute to environmental sustainability and the kitchen and dining area upgrades will improve the facilities for all events hosted at the marae. However, the marae cannot undertake these projects alone. Community involvement is crucial, and everyone is encouraged to participate in any way they can. Whether through volunteering time, offering skills or providing resources, there are many ways to get involved and support these exciting developments. “We encourage the community to get involved with the exciting progress,” said a representative.

“We welcome everyone to participate in these developments, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact they will have on our community.”

Those who missed the open day will have

more opportunities to get involved. The marae plans to hold additional open days in the near future to share updates and invite more community members to participate in

these projects. Stay tuned for announcements about future open days, and join in making Wainuiomata Marae a place that continues to thrive and support its people.

Community board meets tonight

By Frank Neill

The Wainuiomata Community Board will meet tonight, 19 June, at the Wainuiomata Library.

The meeting will start at 6:30pm.

The meeting will include an address by the Acting Mayor Tui Lewis.

Presentations will be made by Love Wainuiomata’s Co-ordinator Chastity Card, Greater Wellington Regional Councillor Quentin Duthie and Hutt City Council’s

Conditions ideal for planting

After heavy overnight rain conditions were ideal for the A Rocha group’s planting day at Waiu Wetland on 15 June.

About 300 native plants went into the ground on uneven terrain beside the path up to the BMX track. Until recently, this area was an old tip covered by blackberry and gorse.

Working in partnership with Hutt City Council, the A Rocha restoration team meets on the third Saturday of each month.

Morning tea is provided and new volunteers are very welcome.

A Rocha is a Christian organisation working in more than 20 countries in environmental research and practical conservation.

For more information contact Richard Rhoades at randjrhoades@gmail.com.

Project Manager, Transport on the Wainuiomata hill road slip repair.

The community board will also consider applications for grants from the Community Engagement Fund.

The board has received five eligible applications and the total amount requested is $13,736.10. The board has $4,661.83 available for disbursements.

Hutt City Council’s Democracy Advisor Judy Randall will present a report to the board.

At the Wainuiomata Marae open day (from left) Star Olsen, Cr Keri Brown, Linda Olsen, Cheryl Davies, Georgina Tuari and Guy Penney. Photo: Supplied.

Some of the A Rocha group at work planting natives. Photo: Supplied.

A great start for WHS mara kai

By Frank Neill

The hui on the proposed development of a m ra kai – community food garden – at Wainuiomata High School was “a really good start” to the project, says Whaea Becky Le Lievere, who began the initiative. Held on 14 June, the hui was very successful, Becky says.

Around 18 people attended and there was “a lot of passion” among the group, which included parents, teachers and a Hutt City Council staff member.

Following the success of the meeting Becky will hold a stall at the upcoming Matariki wh nau day at the Queen Street Community Hub on Saturday 22 June.

The aim of the stall is to spread the word about the m ra kai project throughout the Wainuiomata community and to get as many people as possible involved.

“We want it to be sustainable and longterm, which is why we are looking to go big,” Becky says.

The m ra kai is also looking for someone in the community to take up the role of garden facilitator.

That will be a paid role following a 30week training course.

The m ra kai will be both for the school’s students, particularly those who are disconnected from learning as an activity that can draw them in, and also for the wider Wainuiomata community.

People will, for example, be able to have their own family plot in the m ra kai, and they will be able to take kai they have grown home to eat.

Another benefit of people coming to the school to garden is that it it means that they can become more engaged in their children’s learning.

The new m ra kai will meet three needs: nau presence in the kura; nurturing soils of papatŪ nuku; and in the community.

Currently the school has two small garden areas.

The new plan is to develop a large garden area and the school’s greenkeeper Clarry Collier is very keen on the project, Becky says.

Big ‘thank you’ to fire fighters

By Frank Neill

Wainuiomata’s volunteer fire fighters, along with volunteers from around the country, have received a “big thank you” from Fire and Emergency Chief Executive Kerry Gregory.

Kerry’s message of thanks was delivered just before National Volunteer Week, which began on 16 June and runs to 22 June.

"Volunteers are the backbone of New Zealand’s fire response, and every day we are grateful for their commitment, skill and professionalism," Kerry says.

"Nearly 12,000 people volunteer for Fire and Emergency, protecting the communities they live in, 24/7, 365 days a year," he says.

There are around 50 volunteers, including fire fighters and operational support people, in the Wainuiomata Volunteer Fire Brigade.

"Volunteers make up 80% of our workforce across the motu and we couldn’t run this organisation without them,” Kerry says.

"They serve as fire fighters, operational support personnel, medical first responders

and brigade support and respond to a range of emergencies, not just fires.

“They also help to spread the word about fire safety in their communities.

"They are ordinary New Zealanders from all walks of life who are totally committed to serving their communities and who frequently go above and beyond to keep their communities safe and supported.

"We see this again and again, including during the severe weather events last year, and the spate of long duration wildfires this year.”

During National Volunteer Week “we’re putting a spotlight on our volunteers,” Kerry says.

“We’re asking everyone to join us in thanking our volunteers for generously donating their time, effort and family life to serve and protect their communities.

"There's another group of people whose support is critical to our volunteers’ emergency response – their wh nau and employers, and we thank them too.

"Reach out and say thank you to Fire and Emergency volunteers and their support people. It’s so simple but it will mean a lot," Kerry says.

Trades&SERVICES DIRECTORY

Lance the Locksmith

“Lance the Locksmith” is a family-owned business serving the Wellington regions of Wainuiomata, Eastbourne, Petone as well as Lower Hutt and Upper Hutt. Lance is a licensed, bonded, insured locksmith with over 40 years of experience. He provides experienced and dependable locksmith and security services for residential or business customers.

We offer a comprehensive range of mobile locksmith services at Lance the Locksmith. Our competitive pricing and outstanding service separate us from the pack.

Local musician releases new single

Cary Stackhouse, known by his stage name Caz, released his new single “Ignite” on 16 June.

“We are incredibly excited to share 'Ignite' with the world,” says Cary, who grew up in Wainuiomata.

“This song reflects the passion and intensity that drives our music. I believe it will strike a chord with listeners everywhere.”

"Ignite" showcases Caz's remarkable talent and dedication to his craft.

Featuring dynamic guitar, powerful lyrics, and raw vocal energy, this track is a testament to Caz's ability to create music that resonates deeply with listeners.

Caz’s previous release, "Halfway Sober," is a heartfelt ballad that explores the themes of supporting friends through hard times.

Cary's musical journey began with performances at the Wainuiomata Little Theatre, where he took part in local productions

such as "Grease" and "Jesus Christ Superstar."

These early experiences on stage helped shape his love for music and performance, laying the foundation for his future endeavours in the industry.

Cary is the founder of Stackhouse Studios, a music studio based in Wellington which he established during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Our goal at Stackhouse Studios is to continue growing, helping other artists achieve their dreams, and contributing to the vibrant music community in Wellington and beyond,” Cary says.

Stackhouse Studios provides a space where local talent can thrive.

It has collaborated “with numerous clients, helping them bring their unique musical visions to life,” Cary says.

“Looking ahead, Stackhouse Studios is excited to announce plans to establish a larger studio space

in Waiwhetu, set to open in 2025.

“This new facility will be designed to accommodate bands and larger musical projects, offering state-of-the-art equipment and a creative environment to support the growing music community.”

Cary’s approach to music production is deeply personal.

By immersing himself in the process of pitching and distributing his own music, he gains invaluable insights that he can pass on to the artists he represents.

This hands-on experience ensures that Stackhouse Studios can offer comprehensive support to emerging talents, from production to promotion, in an industry that is as demanding as it is rewarding.

For more information about Caz, the release of "Ignite," and Stackhouse Studios' future plans to represent and promote other artists, visit the Stackhouse Studios website and follow them on social media.

Newspaper Deliverers

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ACROSS

1. Nurture (7)

5. Is suitable for (4,3,4)

11. Pale (5)

12. Giver (7)

13. Sprite (5)

14. Uncomfortable (3,2,4)

15. Amazed (9)

16. Tree bark (4)

17. Be resolute (7)

19. Inhabitant (6)

23. Trench (6)

26. Type of race-horse

29.Small amount of something (4)

30. Rocky hill (3)

32. Tweak (3)

34. Soothe (4)

35. Exterior (7)

36. Clergyman (6)

39. Spruce (6)

40. Absconds (7)

42. Decline (4)

46. Lifeless (9)

48. Most stable (9)

50. Banishment (5)

51. Ardent (7)

52. Tests (5) 53. Stingy (5-6)

Is indecisive (7) DOWN

1. Raccoon-like animal (5)

2. Rank (7)

3. Natural (6)

4. Combine chemically with water (8)

5. Ships’ chimneys (7)

6. Ballet costumes (5)

7. Muslim headdress (6)

8. Becoming gradually visible (8)

9. Hospitals (11)

10. Covered inner surface with material (5)

16. Dishevelled (7)

18. Placed (5)

20. Cost (7)

21. Small cottage (3)

22. Write (3)

24. Acting the part of another character(4-7) 25. Court (3) 27. Pauses (5) 28. Tear (3) 31. Chafe (3) 33. Rocket-launching place (3)

Mean (7)

Japanese battle cry (6)

Arrival (6)

Clumsy (5)

Precise (5)

Chores (5)

Photo: Supplied.

Photo: Supplied.

Ulalei Moso’oi buoyed by loyal support

By Kathleen Godinet-Samuelu

Ulalei Moso’oi triumped over Stokes Valley RFC with a convincing 37-23 win in Netball Hutt Valley’s 15 June round of matches.

In a captivating display of experience versus youth, the seasoned veterans triumphed over the energetic newcomers in a much-anticipated game that showcased the timeless power of basic skills and teamwork.

Despite facing a younger, fitter team the “Old School” squad dominated the court, proving that experience and strategic play can outshine raw athleticism.

Eschewing flashy moves and fancy passes, Ulalei Moso’oi team relied on fundamental techniques resets, lines and triangles. This disciplined approach allowed them to control the ball and dictate the pace of the game.

The defensive unit of Summer Murray, Ramari Tuari and Lagi

Moananu were relentless in the circle, securing crucial turnovers that paved the way for the win. Their hard work and resilience were instrumental in achieving a remarkable 14-point victory.

However, the real heroes were the wh nau, friends, club members and the wider community who lined the sidelines, cheering on the team with unwavering support.

Their enthusiasm and encouragement created a vibrant, uplifting atmosphere that inspired them to push beyond their limits. The sense of community and shared passion for the game were evident throughout, making them the true MVPs of the day.

“In the end, this game was more than just a contest between old and new,” team spokesperson

Mailena Rawiri says

“It was a celebration of community spirit, the enduring value of fundamental skills, and the joy of playing the game we love.

“For the old school team, this

victory was a testament to the power of experience and teamwork. And for everyone involved, it was a reminder of why we play netball – for the camaraderie, the competition, and the unwavering support of our incredible Wainuiomata community.”

Meanwhile in the Premier 1 grade Ulalei Aute sits at the top of the table after a dominant and complete performance against Maidstone 1 beating them by 56 -40.

In Premier 2 Puataunofo won against the men’s team 64-53.

Ulalei Fuesina had a close 27-23 win over Avalon and have now won three games in a row.

Ulalei M lili remain at the top of the table after winning 37-30 over Naenae Collegians.

Ulalei Suni young guns suffered their first loss of the season against Naenae Intermediate. It was a tough day in the office for Ulalei Pu lulu and Ulalei Laga’ali who lost to Naenae Collegians and Te Rito respectively. Unwavering support for

Wainui to contest Hardham Cup

By Frank Neill

Wainuiomata’s premier Rugby team will contest the Hardham Cup this season.

The teams that will contest the top tier Jubilee Cup and the second tier Hardham Cup were confirmed following the 15 June round of matches. The competition between the three top teams in the Hardham Cup looks likely to be closely fought, with just two points between them currently.

Poneke is on 26 points, just one point ahead of Wainuiomata while Johnsonville is on 24 points.

The other three teams in the Hardham Cup are well below these three. Northern United are on 9 points, Wellington 5 points and Avalon 3 points. Wainuiomata did not have one of their best days at Maidstone Park on 15 June, losing 39-17 to the Upper Hutt Rams.

The opening minutes of the first half were closely contested, with the Rams leading 7-5 after 17 minutes. However the Rams upped their game and scored 12 more points in the first spell to lead 19-5 at half time. The two teams began the second half closely contesting play and there was no addition to the score after 15 minutes.

However the Rams then scored two more tries before Wainuiomata replied with a try. Two more Rams tries put the outcome beyond doubt, although Wainuiomata finished the match with a consolation try. Mikade Fono, Zane Humphrey and Dion Lealofi scored tries for Wainuiomata and Tyler Tane kicked two conversions. Wainuiomata was pipped

at the post by Tawa in their match at William Jones Park on 8 June.

The visitors won the enounter by the narrowest of margins, taking out the game 39-38.

The outcome saw Tawa take home both the Chris Sterling Cup and Bill Brien Challenge Trophy.

Tawa had the better of the first 40 minutes and led 22-16 at half time.

The lead would change hands several times in the second spell, before Tawa took out an eight point lead late in the match.

Matt Jacobs scored a try which Tyler

Wainui

Lions outclass Toa

By Frank Neill

A dominant second half saw the Wainuiomata Lions outclass Toa 48-14 at Frederick Wise Park on 15 June.

Toa opened the scoring with an early try in what proved a very closely contested first half.

The scores were level at 14-14 at the half time break.

The second half belonged to the Lions however, as they added another

Tane converted in what proved to be the last play of the game.

Campbell Cowie and Teru Time also scored tries for Wainuiomata while Tyler Tane scored one try, four penalites and three conversions. As well as winning their premier match against Wainuiomata, the Upper Hutt Rams also won their premier 2 match against Wainuiomata 43-15 on 15 June. Three legends of Wahine-OWainuiomata (WOW) played their blazer games for the premier women’s team on 15 June. Acacia Claridge-Te Iwimate (Kaysh), Sunema Tupuola

(Nema), and Suzanne Yee (KK) lined up for Wainuiomata in the semi-final of the Tia Paasi Memorial Trophy.

The green and blacks met Petone, who won the match 67-0.

Kaysh debuted for Wainuiomata in 2007 while still in high school, Nema followed in 2008, and KK (which is short for Karate Kid) joined in 2010.

Kaysh and KK played in two Tia Paasi Memorial Trophy championships games (2012 and 2016) with Nema there for the second one.

All three lifted the Izzy Ford Trophy in 2015, with Nema and KK a part of

34 points, while Toa was unable to add to their half time tally. Bree Henderson notched up his hat trick when he scored three tries. Bree also kicked four goals.

Rhemus Rutene was in scoring mode too, with two tries and one goal, while Isiah Tuari dotted down twice.

John-Tahana Wharepapa-Rawiri and EJ Albright each scored a try in the nine tries to three victory, and Xavier Seal kicked one goal.

last year’s Izzy Ford Trophy win. Kaysh and Nema have played for Wellington Pride including the premiership final in 2015 against Auckland. KK is a New Zealand Black Belt Karate champion and a regular representative in the Parliamentary Rugby team and is often the only woman player.

Their contributions extend far beyond the pitch, with Kaysh coaching Wainuiomata sevens teams and high school squads, while Nema recently lent her expertise to Sacred Heart College.

Ulalei. Photo: Supplied.

Try time for the Wainuiomata Lions. Photo: Supplied.

The three players who played their blazer games on 15 June (from left) Sunema Tupuola, Acacia Claridge-Te Iwimate and Suzanne Yee. Photo: Supplied.

Hutt Valley Women’s Refuge

Want to make a difference in the lives of local wh nau?

Hutt Valley Women’s Refuge is looking for street collector volunteers on Friday 26 July and Saturday 27 July at locations around the Hutt Valley between 10am4pm.

For as little as two hours you can make BIG difference by shaking the bucket for a wonderful cause – supporting our local community who are affected by family violence.

To sign up please visit www.huttwomen. org.nz/annual-appeal or call 04 569 1040.

Arakura School meeting on zoning

By Frank Neill

Arakura School will have a new enrolment scheme the Ministry of Education will soon publish. The scheme will include proposed zoning for the school.

The Ministry is carrying out a consultation process on the scheme which is open for people to make submissions.

Arakura School will be holding a community meeting at the school hall at 4:30pm on 2 July to learn about and discuss the ministry’s proposals.

Everybody in the community will be welcome at the meeting.

One aspect of the proposed new zone is of concern, Arakura School’s Tumuaki (Principal) Tute Mila says.

The zone the Ministry is proposing “is surprisingly small,” she says.

“Areas that will be out of zone are within easy walking distance of the school.

“Some families that could have walked or biked or scootered to Arakura School will have to travel further.

“The main thing is recognising this is a low socio-economic area, and anything that encourages positive attendance is good.” That includes access to your local school that you can walk to.

The enrolment scheme has been proposed by the Ministry because of the school’s increasing roll, Ms Mila says.

An enrolment scheme is intended to help manage numbers.

“We have been told we cannot make a bid for new roll-growth classrooms unless we have an

enrolment scheme in place.

Some time ago three prefabs at the school were demolished “and we have been trying to get them replaced.”

Until now “the answer has always been no.”

“I just want the best for my community,” Ms Mila says.

The Ministry of Education has advertised the fact that it has developed an enrolment scheme for Arakura School, which is now open for people to make comments. The consultation closes on Friday 26 July and people can email submissions to network. lowerhutt@education.govt.nz.

A copy of the proposed scheme can also be obtained by using that email.

The Ministry has also advertised the fact that it has developed an enrolment scheme for Konini School.

The same dates and email adress apply.

With activities for the whole whānau, connect with nature, reflect on the year gone and celebrate the year to come at Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne throughout June and July!

The entrance to Arakura School. Photo: Frank Neill.