Two White Sox
By Frank Neill
Two Johnsonville Softballers, Lisei Pettett and Emma Francis, have been named to represent New Zealand.
Lisei and Emma have been named in the White Sox team to play in the Canada Cup, an international tournament that will take place in Vancouver from 7 to 13 July.
Continued on page 2.
Johnsonville’s two 2025 White Sox Lisei Pettett (left) and Emma Francis. Photo: Supplied.
Lisei Pettett in action with the bat. Last season she was Wellington’s top batter. Photo: Supplied.
How to reach us
Phone (04) 587 1660
www.independentherald.co.nz
REPORTER
Frank Neill
herald@wsn.co.nz 027 490 3916
NATIONAL
SALES
Les Whiteside les@wsn.co.nz 021 360 008
SALES
Steve Maggs steve@wsn.co.nz 027 765 8303
SALES
Brenda Ingram-Johnson brenda@wsn.co.nz 021 640 152
CLASSIFIED SALES
classifieds@wsn.co.nz
Very excited and super grateful
Continued from page 1.
Lisei, who will playing in her first overseas competition for the White Sox was “really surprised” to be selected, she says.
At the same time “I was very excited and super grateful to, one, still be considered good enough and, two, to be amongst all these great players and have the opportunity to wear the fern, especially as a Mum now.
“I think that is something that I’m most proud of.”
Being able to wear the fern as a mum is “a little more special,” Lisei says. “I can wear the fern for my family as well as myself and my team mates.
“My husband Josh [Pettett] was a Black Sox, so there’s that little part of me that’s woo hoo, it’s my turn now.
“The icing on the cake was being named with my best friend of 18 plus years”. Her best friend is Emma. Lisei began playing Softball when she was a student at Newlands College, aged about 16 or 17. “I only started playing because our college team needed players and Donna – Emma’s mum – found me a glove because I’m left handed.” Donna had located a left handed glove at Alex Moore Park. Lisei plays first base, having been an outfielder in the past. She is also very handy when batting. Last season she was the
top batter in Wellington.
She is looking forward to the trip to Canada.
“It will give me some great exposure to some international teams and seeing some faster pitching.”
It will also give her “a taste of what is to come for the world series qualifiers etcetera,” she says.
Emma has been part of the White Sox squad for many years.
“I have been away to Australia a few times before, just as part of the squad, and was in the Junior White Sox back in 2013.
A catcher, Emma played her White Sox debut when she attended the world qualifying tournament in Italy in 2023.
She also played in the Canada
Sun shines on WadestownFair
The annual Wadestown Community Fair was well attended by Wadestown localsof all ages on Saturday 15 March. The sunshine and talented young entertainers from the Music BoxAcademy music school set the scene for a fun vibe and fabulous day out at Philip Myers Park. Fair organiser Greg Hyland of the Wadestown Residents Association (WRA) says he was thrilled with the success of the event helped by a day of sunshine, and he loved seeing the many Wadestown Community families come together to share a special day out. The fair is a great showcase for the musical talents and amazing crafts madeby locals and a great opportunity for local community groups
to fundraise, Greg says.
“The Wadestown Scout group selling candy floss and BBQ sausages were busy and a popularchoice. Fair stalls had something for everyone with lots of second hand toys and books for sale, yummy home-made food treats, Ella's hair scrunchies, Frankies knitted flowers, Wadestown Toastmasters, Rodent Free Wadestown to name a few and even a mini toy car slide that was clearly a hit with young kids.” It was a great day out for all ages. Greg says after being part of the fair organising group in recent years, he is now happy to pass on the fair organising duties to the Wadestown School Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) for 2026. A
Cup in 2024.
“I am always grateful for any opportunity to put the black jersey on and represent my country,” Emma says.
“But the first thing I did when I found out was message my best friend and team mate Lisei to tell her that she had made the team.
“I was so excited for her and that I get to play alongside her playing the sport we love.”
Representing New Zealand is“always the best time.
“It’s really special because you get to represent your family, supporters and your club at the highest level.
“It makes me feel proud,” Emma says.
CPCA life membership for John Morrison
John Morrison will be awarded life membership of the Churton Park Community Association (CPCA) at its annual general meeting on 28 March. The meeting will be held at 7:30pm at the Churton Park Community Centre, 75 Lakewood Avenue. This will be the first time in CPCA’s 40-year history that a life membership has been awarded. John was an elected member of the CPCA Executive Committee between 2008 and 2020. He was Vice President from 2010 to 2020 and remains an active member of the association, maintaining the website and providing a constant stream of support and advice. During his years as a committee member, he and the late Richard Taylor led CPCA’s advice to the Greater Wellington Regional Council on evolving plans for a redesigned bus service.
Their advice was well respected by the planners and helped to anticipate and remedy unintended consequences.
John’s knowledge, gained from a civil engineering career in the local government sector, has been invaluable in leading the CPCA’s evaluation of town planning, development and infrastructure proposals – advice that he still readily shares with the CPCA. John reflects that the aspect of his years with CPCA that has given him most pleasure is seeing improvements in Churton Park that might not have happened without input from CPCA. These include the planting of trees on berms, tracks and access ways, the installation of seats, drinking fountain and signage, as well as the building of a greater sense of community in the suburb. Throughout his association
with CPCA, John has also been the driving force of the revegetation group, which works with the Wellington City Council to clear pest plants from reserves, then plant and nurture native vegetation.
His role in that work has been acknowledged in the following ways: · in 2011, with an Encore Award (sponsored by the Department of Conservation and the Greater Wellington Regional Council); ·in 2016, with a John Lloyd Morgan Lions Club Lloyd Morgan Award; and ·in 2019, with a North Wellington Voluntary Service Award.
The Life Membership Award is a token of CPCA’s appreciation of John’s support and contributions to the work of CPCA over nearly two decades.
scene from the very busy Wadestown Fair. Photo: Greg Hyland.
John Morrison.
Photo: Brian Sheppard.
Bikes and scooters creating safety issue
The garden opposite the Malvina Major retirement village that people have been working on when two accidents and two near misses happened recently. Photo: Supplied.
By Frank Neill
People on bikes and scooters are creating a safety issue on the footpath outside Malvina Major retirement village.
There has been one accident and two near misses recently.
One of Malvina Major Village’s residents was knocked sideways by an electric scooter.
She was left badly bruised and sore.
“Had it been an older resident who was frail, it could have left lasting injuries or in a bad fall even death,” says Malvina Major resident Natalie Brockie.
“Other near misses have happened, to a varying degree of harm,” Ms Brockie says.
“The side of the road opposite Malvina, where the garden boxes are, is a real target for scooters coming from the kindergarten or college.
“This is because gardening often takes place in the late afternoon
when the sun has gone down and school/college is out.
“It is impossible for gardeners to watch out for scooters as they face the garden and bikes and scooters speed by silently out of sight.
“In days gone by our bikes and scooters had a bell to warn pedestrians of danger.
“Parents, does your child have a bell?
“If no, then what do you teach them if they want to ride on a footpath with frail and elderly pedestrians?
“Do they call out ‘coming’ or even just stop perhaps?
“Both these strategies would be acceptable and hopefully prevent an accident,” Ms Brockie says.
“Please take care of our frail and elderly residents.
“Stop, call out or go slow if you see another person.
“They may not have seen you.
“We are becoming very nervous,” Ms Brockie says.
Free assessment
Writers who have a completed manuscript can apply to have their work assessed free. The New Zealand Society of Authors is offering the service, named the NZSA Te Puni Kaituho o Aotearoa CompleteMS Manuscript Assessment Programme. The work can be either poetry, fiction, short fiction or non-fiction and the asssessment is open for applications until 28 May.
More information and application forms are at https://authors.org.nz/ nzsa-completems-manuscript-assessment-programme/.
Mowing advice
Wellington City Council has posted an article on its website providing advice on lawn mowing. The article is available on the “news” section of the website.
One thing the article particularly notes is that most people tend to cut their lawns much too low. The article quotes Mowing Team Manager Mark Manning saying that people should cut
A Malvina Major resident on the footpath opposite the retirement village. Photo: Supplied.
Future of water consultation
Residents of the Wellington urban area are invited to have their say on the future of water services, with public consultation opening today, 20 March.
Under the Government’s Local Water Done Well reform, five councils – Hutt City, Upper Hutt City, Porirua City, Wellington City and Greater Wellington Regional Council – are working together, in partnership with Ng ti Toa Rangatira and Taranaki Wh nui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika, to propose solutions for the management of Wellington’s water assets and services.
Greater Wellington is presenting two options for feedback:
that would take ownership of public drinking water and wastewater networks; and model, where Wellington Water Limited would continue maintaining infrastructure and managing water services on behalf of councils.
Greater Wellington Chair Daran Ponter describes the proposal as “the most important decision we’ll make for decades.
“While Greater Wellington has consistently invested in our bulk water infrastructure over the years, the existing arrangement is cumbersome and not set up for enduring success,” says Cr Ponter.
“As a council, we have a clear preference: a new multi-council-owned organisation to take ownership of water assets and services.
“This model will allow for better planning, investment, and environmental protection – while keeping costs to households lower.
"We have an opportunity to increase the resilience of our water network; now is the time to shape the future of our water services,” Cr Ponter says.
The Government’s Local Water Done Well reform sets new regulatory standards that all councils must meet, along with mandatory planning and accountability requirements for future water organisations.
Greater Wellington group manager for corporate services, Julie Knauf, emphasises the benefits of a regional approach to water services.
“Across the wider Wellington urban areas our water supply and treatment network is an interconnected system, not confined within any one city boundary.
“A multi-council-owned organisation will ensure long-term investment, better service delivery, and the ability to access funding with greater borrowing power.”
As the only regional council in Aotearoa that owns bulk-water assets, Greater Wellington plays a key role in the management of water.
It owns and operates treatment plants, pipelines, and pumping stations that deliver water to city reservoirs across Wellington, Upper Hutt, Lower Hutt, and Porirua.
The regional council is also responsible for issuing and monitoring resource consents
under the Resource Management Act 1991.
Cr Ponter reassures residents that water infrastructure will remain in public hands.
“This is about improving how we manage our publicly owned water services,” he says.
“Now is the time to have your say on the
Lots happening at local libraries
A session for lovers of Mandarin literature and reading, and those wishing to learn about its cultural history will take place at the Waitohi Johnsonville Library on Friday 21 March from 10am to noon.
The session will provide an opportunity for people to connect with like-minded people in a setting that is open to hearing and sharing stories and knowledge.
Multi award winning author M Darusha Wehm will feature at the Waitohi Johnsonville Library on Wednesday 26 March from 6pm to 7pm.
This is a free event and seating will be on a first come, first served basis.
The author will be in conversation with Dave Agnew about a new book “Transmentation / Transience”, the opening work of a planned multiverse-spanning trilogy by writing team Darkly Lem, of which Darusha is a member.
Darkly Lem self-describe as “five authors in an impeccably tailored trench coat”, namely Josh Eure, Craig Lincoln, Ben Murphy, Cadwell Turnbull, and M. Darusha Wehm.
Darusha is theNebula Awardnominatedgame designer of “The Martian Job” (available on Steam, iOS and Google Play) and Sir Julius Vogel Award-winning author of the novella, “Hamlet, Prince of
Robots”.
They are also the author of more than a dozen novels, including the Terraforming Mars tie-in “Shores of a New Horizon”.
Their short fiction has been published widely and their poetry has been a finalist for the Rhysling Award. Darusha is a member of the Many Worlds writing collective.
Originally from Canada, Darusha now lives in Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington, after several years sailing the Pacific.
“Transmentation / Transience” is a vast mind bending multi world spanning novel.
The book is set in a universe
future of water in our region.”
Public consultation runs from 20 March to 22 April.
For more information, visit www.gw.govt. nz/environment/freshwater/local-waterdone-well/.
that has emerged over thousands of years and covers thousands of worlds; a universe in which interdimensional travellers have arisen.
These are worlds replete with complex characters seeking power, glory or knowledge, stunning world building and cutting-edge science fiction concepts.
The book is an intricately woven work that raises questions about the very nature of the universe, and has already been compared to the works of Tamsyn Muir, Jeff VanderMeer and The Expanse series.
Local poet Sudha Rao will present an evening of conversation at tari Wadestown Library on Thursday
27 March from 6pm to 7:45pm. The topic for the evening will be “Belonging: A state of being”. Sudha is the author of “On Elephant’s Shoulders”, an anthology of poetry.
Bookings for this event are essential. For more information and to book visit https://wellingtoncitylibraries.trumba.com/.
Dogs ‘n’ Togs returning
By Frank Neill
The hugely popular Dogs ‘n’ Togs event returns to the Khandallah Swimming Pool on Saturday 22 March. The event will run from 9:30am to 4pm.
“Join us for an un-fur-gettable day filled with doggy paddles and tail-wagging fun,” Wellington City Council says.
“We have sessions for all shapes and sizes, with each session lasting
up to 30 minutes to ensure no overcrowding.”
The session times for small dogs (up to 10kgs) are9:30am to 10am and 1pm to 1:30pm. The session times for dogs of all sizes are 10am to 1pm and 1:30pm to 3:30pm. Tickets for the event are available at Eventfinda www.eventfinda. co.nz/2025/dogs-togs/wellington. Last year the Khandallah Swimming Pool was packed full for the Dogs ‘n’ Togs event.
Some of the dogs taking a dip in the Khandallah pool during last year’s Dogs ‘n’ Togs day. Photo: Supplied.
A diagram of the water network. Image Supplied.
M Darusha Wehm and the cover of “Transmentation / Transience”.
Photo: Erica Poole.
More kiwi released at Terawhiti
By Frank Neill
Eleven kiwi were released into the Terawhiti hills, M kara, by Capital Kiwi this month.
They are the first of 75 kiwi due in coming weeks.
That will bring the number of kiwi restored to the night of Te Upoko o Te Ika to 215 since 2022.
The first of this year’s homecoming kiwi were welcomed at WaiwhetŪ Marae. Iwi mana whenua, gifting iwi, community, civic leaders, conservation kaimahi and tamariki gathered to greet the birds after their trip down State Highway 1 from Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari. Following the p whiri, two of the kiwi were shown to the manuhiri.
“It is awesome to see jaws drop and eyes widen in the presence of the animal that has gifted us a name, and a heap of our identity as a people,” Capital Kiwi says.
“It was rawe (excellent) to have so many young people get to see the manu before they hit the Terawhiti hills … when they could stretch their dinosaur legs after eight hours on the road.
“It was an honour to welcome the kiwi at WaiwhetŪ
“And it was a special privilege to have three kahu kiwi on show, and to have master weaver Veranoa Hetet share k rero about the
Local Alcohol Policy
By Frank Neill
Wellington City Council isproposing todevelop a Local Alcohol Policy (LAP) tosimplify the alcohol licensing process andhelpminimiseharm caused by excessive or inappropriate consumption of alcohol in the community.
Wellington city does not currently have a LAP.
A LAP may include policies onopening hours, location, proximity, density,oneway doorconditionsand other discretionary conditions.It can also include some policies related to licensed events such as festivals.
These policies can help to manage alcohol availability in the district to reduce alcohol-related harm.
Any rules or policies included in a LAP mustdirectly relatetoalcohollicensing.
Later this year the council will seekfurtherfeedback from the communitybeforecollatingalltheevidencerequiredto determine whether a LAP is recommended. Coucnil officers will thenbriefcouncillorsonour findings.
If a LAP is recommended, council officers will workshop the potential elements of a LAP with councillors following this year’s local government elections.
The next step, if agreed by councillors, will beto gather public feedback on a draft LAP in 2026.
After the feedback is analysed, a final version will be presented to councillors for adoption.
cloak’s feathers and the mouri of the kiwi.”
Master weaver Veranoa Hetet during her kōrero about the cloak’s feathers at the kiwi’s welcome. Photo: Le Tans Photography.
One of the kiwi during the welcome at the Waiwhetū Marae. Photo: Le Tans Photography.
Double Glazing with German uPVC Joinery
Walking Down the Aisle Guide
Carolyn’s Bridal Studio
Choosing a dress is one of the most important decisions of your wedding. Not only does it set the tone for your wedding day, but it plays a huge factor in how you’ll feel too. From walking down the aisle to tearing it up on the dancefloor, first looks to photoshoots, your dress will be with you through it all, ensuring you look and feel beautiful.
Whether you already have an idea in mind or are coming in without a clue, Carolyn’s Bridal Studio can navigate the entire wedding dress selection process with you. At your initial bridal appointment, Carolyn will work closely with you to discover the best dress to fit your style and personality.
During the session, you’ll have the option to try on the exquisite range
of Tania Olsen dresses. They span all sorts of sizes and styles, ensuring there is something for every bride, regardless of what look you have in mind. Carolyn’s Bridal Studio offers a custom dress service encompassing design, fabric sourcing, and creation too. Each handcrafted gown is tailored to your specifications, with impeccable attention to detail to ensure your gown is everything you dreamed of and more.
If you already have a dress - whether it’s from the studio, a different store, or a family member - Carolyn can perform any alterations you may want to the design to ensure the perfect fit. Find exactly what you’re looking for at Carolyn’s Bridal Studio.
Your first impression is your stationery!
Looking for one-of-a-kind wedding invitations and stationery? MBS Digital can create custom, high-quality designs tailored to your style and theme.
Our in-house Graphic Design and print team can create elegant invites and stunning stationery, and bring your vision to life.
MBS Digital is your comprehensive solution for all couples seeking a onestop shop to service their printing, graphic
design and digital needs.
Established in 1997, MBS Digital provides full service printing solutions and we’re easily accessible in the heart of Johnsonville with wheelchair access to the ground floor of the big white building on Broderick Road.
Our team have over 27 years’ experience in the digital print and design space. Make it easy and give the team a call on 04 477 5705.
James Gilberd Photography
I’ve been a full-time professional photographer since graduating Victoria University with a degree in design (photography major) in 1995. I’ve photographed weddings every year since, both digitally and on film (still an option!). Fewer recently, sure, but I still enjoy wedding photography. It’s a special
skill that requires experience, people skills and a trained eye. I like natural photographs that capture the emotions and special moments of the wedding day. Each wedding is unique and the photography is never merely a job. I’ve lived in Khandallah all my life and am a loyal Wellingtonian.
Wellington
The Perfect Pair
A wedding band that complements your engagement ring creates a perfect pair. At Jens Hansen Jewellers, both rings are often designed together, ensuring they reflect the same design details. While the engagement ring is the sparkly star, the wedding band is the piece you’ll wear every day. It’s important you love it!
Picture - Perfect at Tatum
If you are after a fairytale wedding, then look no further, because Tatum is straight out of a storybook. Picture tying the knot on the ample lawn stretching out before the thoughtfully restored homestead or nestled under a towering tree somewhere in the
sprawling acres of bush-clad landscape. Whatever you have in mind, it’ll be picture-perfect at Tatum.
Tatum is located just an hour from Wellington in Manakau.
Built in 1912, it was once the residence of the eccentric Major and Lady Tatum, who loved the property and their community. It was turned into a wedding venue in 2012, but the restoration process didn’t begin until 10 years later when it was bought by the Wayne Bishop Group in 2022.
TRUSTED TRADIES TRUSTED TRADIES
IN OUR REGION
SUPERIOR TREE MANAGEMENT
A green heart
Elite Arboriculture is a local, family-owned and operated tree management business on the K piti Coast, offering professional arborist services across the Wellington and Horowhenua regions. Elite Arboriculture believes the mana of trees must be respected.
They love giving back to the Earth by planting trees and to the community through volunteer service. Elite Arboriculture has carried out free tree work at their local preschools and kindergartens, as well as for their Free Tree Initiative, where they offer one lucky recipient arborist services of their choice at no cost.
“We had a team from Elite Arboriculture working at our son’s and daughterin-law’s place in Paek k riki today”, a happy client comments “This work was being done as a prize that Elite Arboriculture had donated to a local
TR Plastering Ltd
TR Plastering Ltd are your one stop shop for all your interior plastering needs. We do everything from a hole in the wall, to Bathrooms, Kitchens, Skim Coating, Fibrous Cornices and Moulds, Gib Cove, New Builds, Light Commercial, Multiple Townhouse Complexes, to Award-winning Architectural
Hometech
Transform your home with Drew and a Solatube Daylighting System. Hometech is dedicated to enhancing Kiwi lives by improving the spaces where families live, learn, and work. With Drew’s expertise, you’ll discover how to create a healthier, more energy-efficient home. Benefit from natural
competition. A great example of a local business supporting the local community…
You folks are absolute stars, and we can’t recommend you highly enough”.
Tree pruning and hedge trimming are important to maintain health and structure.
From thinning to reductions, Elite Arboriculture can keep your trees healthy and looking their best.
The team can also help with planting and mulching, assisting you in finding the right trees for the right spaces and with the right aesthetics.
Trees are essential to our beautiful country’s ecosystem, but an unhealthy tree can be dangerous.
If the time has come for removal, they are qualified to perform the job safely and professionally. Elite Arboriculture has a green thumb and green heart for the community and ecosystem.
Masterpieces. We also do Decorative Finishes, such as Venetian Plaster, and Micro Cement which can completely transform your interior. We are competitively priced, reliable and partner with some of Wellington's top painting companies. We are your one stop shop for interiors.
light and lower energy costs. Don’t miss out—contact Drew today to take advantage of our current promotion, running until the end of March. Light up your home and your life with a Solatube Daylighting System! drew@solatubewellington.co.nz 0800 466383
Keeping itLOCAL
Join Johnsonville Club now!
Beat the cost-of-living crisis with Johnsonville Club’s affordable member-only prices
If you haven’t been to the Johnsonville Club before it’s in the heart of Johnsonville at 1 Norman Lane, across the road from Subway and up the driveway which gives us beautiful views over Johnsonville. We have parking but are also close enough to taxis, buses, and the train for a worry-free way home.
The Club has live bands every month! Saturday 29th March we have Cover Story live on stage from 7:30pm, then Saturday 12th April is the Johnsonville Club’s 75th Birthday and we have a big night planned with Rewind Band on stage from 7:30pm.
Vista Café & Bistro aims for affordable, family friendly, delicious meals with brunch or lunch Tuesday to Saturday 11am till 2pm and dinner Thursday to Saturday 5pm – 8pm, Sunday is Roast Dinner from 5pm – 7pm. Barista made
coffee is available while the Club is open.
Membership benefits also include a Clubs New Zealand Membership which
300 clubs across New Zealand. If you’re looking to make new friends or join a big family, then this is the spot for you. Applying for membership is simple – come in and see us!
Warmth and security from Eco Wellington now in Alicetown, Lower Hutt
Eco Wellington is the new name for trusted and well-known Wellington company Eco Doors & Windows. They have also relocated to large new premises in Alicetown, Lower Hutt.
Eco Wellington specialise in uPVC glazing and as winter approaches you’ll at their new location at 405 Hutt Road, Alicetown, Lower Hutt. Their windows are ideal for helping keep your house warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Combining uPVC’s natural insulating properties with double-glazing means their windows achieve thermal insulation levels that far exceed even thermally broken aluminium – and at a very competitive price. Their uPVC doors also
Eco Wellington have over 17 years’
experience in fabricating uPVC doors and Aluplast in Germany.
uPVC windows and doors, our company has grown. They have a number of teams of installers with plenty of experience backed by LBP’s (Licensed Building Practitioners).
uPVC windows are perfect for heat and coolness insulation. uPVC is not a thermal conductor and by combining it with double glazing, windows can achieve
As the uPVC joinery uses a double rubber gasket engaged by a multi-point locking system, windows and doors seal tightly and evenly against their frames, unlike legacy products like timber and aluminium joinery. Enjoy lower heating costs this winter with uPVC joinery.
supporting your community
Wellington Kebab Grill Presents : The History of Turkish Cuisine
Wellington Kebab Grill is your go-to spot for delicious and authentic Turkish Meals. Operating daily by passionate and dedicated Chefs to serve the best and most affordable price.
Döner Kebab is a popular cooking method
Warm up at the Innkeeper
Locals regard the Innkeeper as an ambient and friendly pub setting, where the staff are eager to learn your name, and prepare your favourite drink from their extensive range!
With winter starting to bring its chill, n and hearty meals of the Innkeeper!
The restaurant features hand-cut steaks, roast beef, pork belly, mouth-watering burgers, the best fried chicken, and plenty of kids’ meal options.
They specialize in catering for large groups, fundraisers, and birthday parties. Contact them today to organise your next outing!
Enjoy a Guinness, craft beer, or top shelf spirits at a bar leaner or on the couch by
They are Johnsonville’s favourite local, now in their 25th year of trade!
for rotating roasted meat originated in Turkey. Our top selling Döner Kebab with toasted flatbread wrap or served on a bed of rice called Iskender are the top selling choices of devouring these thinly sliced seasoned and juicy meats (Lamb, Chicken or Mixed of both!).
ON... O WHAT’S
The Community Noticeboard is for non-profit organisations. For $15.00 you can publish up to 25 words. No AGMS, sporting notices or special meetings. Community Notices must be pre-paid. Call into our office: phone (04) 587 1660 or email classifieds@wsn.co.nz
Another pleasing result
Mowbray Collectables, a business which began in Karori in 1965, once again achieved a sale of over $1 million dollar of coins, medals and stamps on 14 and 15 March in Wellington auctions.
THURSDAY FACT
How deep is the deepest part of the Indian Ocean?
The Indian Ocean’s average depth is 12,990 feet (3,960 metres), and its deepest point, in the Sunda Deep of the Java Trench off the southern coast of Java, is 24,442 feet (7,450 metres).
The top stamp lot sold was a set of 15 unique mint overprints of stamps showing New Zealand’s coat of arms issued in 1931 up to 1000 Pounds value.
It sold for $28,700.
“This was a pleasing result which shows continued world-wide interest in New Zealand stamps,” Founder Director of Mowbray Collectables, John Mowbray says.
John began the business at his family home in Karori when he was still a student at Scots College.
John’s journey began when he started collecting stamps as an eight-year-old. He then began buying and selling them, so establishing a business in Karori was the next logical move.
Mowbray Collectables is now the largest dealer and auctioneer of stamps and coins in the southern hemisphere. The
Traffic lights now working
By
The new traffic lights on the Burma Road, Station Road, Box Hill and Baroda Street intersection in Khandallah are now working as intended, Wellington City Council’s Manager Transport and Infrastructure Brad Singh says.
When the traffic lights were being installed at the intersection one of the contractors cut an important cable connected to the lights towards the very end of the project.
As a result, the lights were being run on a timer mode, rather than an activation mode.
That had led to long queues of traffic.
“The damaged cable was repaired in the week of 24 February, and the signals are now fully adaptive to traffic flow,” Mr Singh says.
“Since commissioning, we have been actively monitoring queuing and signal performance during peak hours.
“To optimise flow, we have extended the green time for Burma Road approach while balancing the pedestrians' high demand during peak hours.
“Our observations indicate that queueing has improved since the repair.
“Currently, the expected worst delay on Burma Rd is less than two minutes between Haumia Street to this intersection, which was anticipated and considered acceptable during peak times.
“We will continue monitoring
the intersection and make further refinements as it is required,” Mr Singh says.
“Additionally, we recently engaged with local businesses, residents and pedestrians on-site to gather feedback on their experience with the new intersection.
“We received a lot of positive feedback and appreciation, particularly regarding improved pedestrian safety and enhanced traffic movements.”
Mr Singh provided this information to the “Independent Herald” following a request by TakapŪ/Northern Ward Councillor Tony Randle.
Cr Randle contacted Mr Singh asking about the cable repair, as the problem had resulted in long queues of vehicles, especially during peak travel times.
The cable repair has led to a “significant improvement” in traffic flow, Cr Randle says.
51. Most rare. (8)
55. Latin American dance. (5)
56. Add to. (7)
57. Burn slightly. (5)
58. Adjourned. (9)
59. Expedient. (9)
DOWN
1. Jury spokesman. (7)
2. Helicopter blade. (5)
3. Dull. (6)
4. Fervour. (5)
5. Not slack. (4)
6. Universal arithmetic. (7)
7. To bundle wheat. (6)
8. Inflexibility. (12)
9. River mouth(pl) (5)
10. Narrowness. (11)
15. Fish eggs. (3)
16. Wither up. (4)
44. Dispense. (4)
47. U.S Spy Agency(abbr) (3) 49. Referee. (10)
Theatre seats, dress (6)
Reasonable. (7)
Territory. (6)
Fresh foliage. (7)
Ongoing varsity academic. (12)
Llama wool. (6)
Outward impressions (11)
40. Killer whale. (4) 43. Gossiped. (7) 44. Son of(Scot) (3) 45. Beseech. (7) 46. Long tirade. (6)
Rainbows. (6)
Real name Thomas Woodward, singer, Tom (5)
Hinder the inspection(cryp) (5
Lassitude. (5)
Sullen. (4)
People’s view on transport wanted
New regional bus corridors, paying for parking at train station Park and Rides, and pets on public transport are among public consultation topics in the draft Wellington Regional Public Transport Plan 20252035.
Feedback is also being sought on cash free buses and the redevelopment of Waterloo Station into a transport hub with commercial and community spaces.
Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC)chair Daran Ponter says the plan proposes affordable investments that improve the passenger experience and encourage people away from using private vehicles.
“With 190,000 new residents expected in the Wellington region
over the next 30 years, upgrading our public transport network is critical for sustainable growth,” Cr Ponter says.
“But given the high cost-of-living and reduced government funding, the plan strikes a balance by deferring the development of Porirua’s bus interchange and slowing down the purchase of new buses.”
GWRC Transport Committee chair Thomas Nash says to meet the needs of a growing population, the council is seeking submissions on the creation of a regional network of high frequency bus corridors.
“At a time when government funding is focused on multi-billion-dollar road tunnels, bus corridors can reduce traffic congestion and emissions while enabling
faster, more frequent services – all for a fraction of the cost,” Cr Nash says.
“We currently depend on a single corridor through Wellington’s Golden Mile, which already has too many buses at peak times, causing bunching and delays.
“Combined with other bus priority improvements, a new corridor along the Wellington Harbour quays is projected to reduce peak time bus journeys by up to 10 minutes.”
Metlink group manager Samantha Gain says the public can have their say on parking charges at Park and Rides.
“To encourage use of our rail network, Metlink has invested millions over many years to provide over 6,100 free car parks in
Park and Rides at train stations across the region,” Ms Gain says.
“They frequently reach capacity, causing spillover into local streets, and in some places dangerous parking.
“Many Park and Ride users don’t catch public transport, so we are considering a demand management system that includes paid parking on weekdays at popular Park and Rides in urban areas.
“Such a system would prioritise motorists who are connecting with the public transport network, including those on the school run or who need to travel later in the morning and cannot currently secure a Park and Ride space.”
Other consultation topics include phasing out cash fares on board
Metlink buses and permitting passengers to travel with pets, including small and large dogs.
“Submissions are also welcome on the redevelopment of Waterloo Station, a once in a generation opportunity to reshape the second busiest train station on our network,” Cr Ponter says.
“To contribute to urban growth in the Hutt Valley, we envisage a station precinct with commercial and community spaces that integrates rail and bus connections for travellers from key suburbs like Wainuiomata.”
Consultation is open at ‘ Have your say’ section of the GWRC website between 3 and 28 March, before submissions are considered by a hearings committee on 6 and 7 May.
Contact Brenda 021 640 152
Squash giant killer a local
Oli Dunbar in action
By Frank Neill
Local Squash player Oliver Dunbar proved a giant killer and also became a champion this month.
The former Churton Park resident, who plays for the Tawa Squash Club, created national headlines when he won his round one match at the New Zealand Squash Open.
Playing as a Kiwi wildcard, the 18-year-old defeated world number 54 Rui Soares, ranked 201 places higher than Oli.
He won in four sets, 11-6, 7-11, 11-3, 11-4.
“A giant killing performance of this magnitude is virtually unheard of in Squash and continues to show the promise Oli has,” says the Tawa Squash Club Manager Peter Bowers.
“Unfortunately Oli succumbed in the second round to the third seed and world ranked number 12 Malaysian Eain Yow Ng but Oli has certainly had a taste of the big time and it seems he likes it.
“In the meantime, running in parallel with the NZ Open was the NZ Junior Open which Oli won for the second successive year.”
Oli’s rise in the sport has been meteoric.
In 2024 he won the NZ Junior Open, Oceania Junior Open and finished the year with victory in the Scottish Junior Open without dropping a game, the first Kiwi to win this for 20 years.
Oli holds the Tawa Squash Club under 19 title, Wellington district under 19 title, New Zealand under 19 open title, New Zealand under 19 age group title, New Zealand under 19 most improved title and Oceania under 19 title.
Among his many other achievements, Oli was No 1 and captain of the under 19 Junior Boys Team to the World Junior Championships in Houston in July 2024.
He was No 2 in the championship winning Wellington Senior Men's Team at the inter district teams eventin Dunedin in September 2024 and he was No 1 in the New Zealand junior team to play a test series against Australia in December 2023 and April 2024, where he was unbeaten.
A superb exhibition of Squash was held at the Tawa club on 7 March.
Marwan El Shorbagy, world number 10, played a one set match against three lucky locals and a best of five match against Evan Williams, a former Tawa junior and former New Zealand Squash Champion, on Tawa’s premier glassback court.
Marwan was in the country for the New Zealand Open and made the final, going down to New Zealand’s Paul Coll.
“Marwan was a fantastic ambassador for Squash and showed the 100 guests some silky
skills that the very top level players are blessed with,” Peter says.
“This was coupled with a wonderful personality and relaxed and very pleasant demeanour.
“It was a pleasure and an honour to have him here at Tawa Squash and by all accounts he loved his time in Wellington and especially at Tawa.
“For the record, three players won a raffle prize providing the right to play one game with Marwan – Sam Atkins, Bayley Leggett and Liberty Jones.
“Sam lost on game ball, Bayley couldn't win despite his mum refereeing, and Liberty brought the house down every time she won a point.
“In the main event, the best of five, Evan Williams, 2020 NZ Squash Champion, played out of his skin and also entertained the crowd with plenty of his own banter with the audience, the ref(s) and with Marwan.
“Evan's partner Louise refereed two of these games, providing a bigger challenge for Marwan to overcome, and while Evan covered plenty of ground, often scampering just to return the ball, he also hit some fine winners of his own.
“For the record Evan won in five sets but the result was secondary to the entertainment. And the blowing of a kiss to Louise for every favourable call he received certainly helped his cause.”
“I’d never even realised we could have something like this at Tawa,” one of the Tawa Squash members said following the event.
“It was a great night, very well organised, and with world class squash on display from Evan and Marwan.
“A great thing for the club and Wellington squash."
“A huge thanks to Matt Green for forging ahead with the concept and leading it exceptionally well,” Peter says.
“Also massive credit to Evan for his involvement which was considerable and critical.
“On top of arranging the event, Matt also accommodated Marwan at his home and entertained him outside of the squash activity.
“And further to this he co-ordinated a coaching programme for several groups of female squash players on Saturday with Egyptian Salma Hany, current world number 13 woman and also in NZ for the NZ Open.
“This additional task was compounded by an airport delay for Salma meaning all Saturday morning and Saturday afternoon sessions had to be postponed by half a day.
“The weekend was so successful it would be unwise not to consider this type of event be put on the calendar as a regular item,” Peter says.
Johnsonville Cricketers score huge win
By Frank Neill
The Johnsonville premier men Cricketers recorded an overwhelming outright victory over Naenae Old Boys on 15 March.
They won by eight wickets, after having also taken the first innings points, in their Cricket Wellington division two match.
After winning the toss, they bowled Naenae out for 148 at Alex Moore Park on 8 March.
Johnsonville then scored 278 in its first innings, and bowled Naenae out for 221.
Victory came when Johnsonville overtook the Naenae total for the loss of just two wickets, and they reached 92.
Ben Stephen was outstanding with the bat for Johnsonville, scoring two half centuries. He followed up his first innings score of 73 with 55 in the second innings.
Will Martin also featured with the bat in both innings, scoring 33 and 27 not out.
A half century to Dominic McAlister, who finished on 52 not out in the first innings, was yet another outstanding batting performance. Dominic then went on to take two Naenae second innings wickets for 45.
Reece Edgecombe was another Johnsonville player to shine with both the bat and the ball.
After scoring 30 in the first innings he went on to take two Naenae second innings wickets at a cost of 37 runs.
Matthew Nel took two wickets for 27 and Avinash Shastri took two wickets for 38.
Johnsonville’s next match sees them meet Petone Riverside at Alex Moore Park on 22 and 29 March.
Day one, 22 March, will feature a community open day at the park.
The free event will feature a sausage sizzle, balloon twisting and a bouncy castle and will run from noon to 4pm.
The Johnsonville women did not fare so well in their match against Petone Riverside at Karori Park on 15 March.
Batting first, they were all out for 201. Petone Riverside took out the win when they reached 202 for six.
Anvi Verma was outstanding with both the bat and the ball.
After notching up her century she went on to score 141. Johnsonville’s next highest score was 13.
Anvi then took three wickets for 17. Annissa Greenlees took two wickets for 35 and the other wicket came via a run out. Johnsonville’s next match sees them meet City Suburbs in round one of the finals on 22 March.
Photo: Squash New Zealand.