“I think it is disappointing that h riu as an electorate will disappear,” h riu Member of Parliament, Greg O’Connor says.
“It is something of an iconic seat ... and also it is part of a community of interest,” he says. Continued on page 2.
Ōhāriu MP Greg O’Connor in the Speaker’s chair. Photo: Frank Neill.
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Community of interest broken up
Continued from page 1.
The h riu seat in Parliament has been removed under proposals released by the Electoral Commission on 25 March.
Under the proposals three Wellington electorates – h riu, Mana and taki – will be replaced by two new seats – Kenepuru and K piti. Wadestown, Ngaio, Khandallah and Broadmeadows will become part of Wellington Central. Newlands and Horowiki will become part of Hutt South. Johnsonville, Churton Park and Glenside will be in the new Kenepuru electorate.
h riu “is part of a community of interest, stretching as it does from Wilton to Tawa.
“While diverse, the communities have relatively the same needs and interests, and are quite different from the electorates either side of them by way of demographics particularly,” Mr O’Connor says.
“Also what I do fear with h riu being cut in half and with the centres being in the new seats of Wellington Central and Kenepuru, they won’t get quite the attention.
“I’ve worked very hard and [people] have got used to seeing my little red Austin around at functions and over the electorate and enjoying having a personal relationship with their MP.
“That is something that will be very difficult to achieve under the new electorate model,” Mr
O’Connor says.
“I feel like I was just hitting my straps in h riu, because it takes a long time to get to understand the needs of the various communities.
“Understanding these is important to being an effective MP and that just takes time and work.”
When asked his political future following the loss of the h riu seat, Mr O’Connor says “I’m not going yet.
“There’s plenty of political life in this old dog yet and I’m relatively young politically only having been in Parliament for just over six years.”
When asked what electorate he will be standing in, Mr O’Connor said “everything is up in the air now.
“It’s not necessarily my choice.
“It will be the party’s choice to a large extent. There’s a democratic process for selection.”
People can make objections to the proposals presented by the Representation Commission.
More information on the electorate boundary review, and information having a say on the proposed electorate boundaries and names is available at https:// vote.nz/boundary-review/submit/ have-your-say/how.
Submissions close on 27 April.
Following that, the public can made counter objections between 8 and 21 May. The Representation Commission will hold public hearings of objections and counter objections between 9 and 18 June.
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us to if is
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.
Both have their advantages and disadvantages; the Regional Council in particular see their role to prevent more
The electoral boundaries review is complete, and essentially the Ōhāriu Electorate is no more. The proposal is that everything south of Malvina Major will be in Wellington Central, while everything north of there, including Johnsonville and Porirua, will be in the new Kenepuru seat. A portion of Newlands and Woodridge goes into Hutt South. It’s all about making sure each electorate has roughly the same number of voters. It is a largely fair and logical process, but it is a loss for Ōhāriu voters in a couple of ways. Khandallah, Newlands and Johnsonville were the heart of the Ōhāriu Electorate, and they now bookend their new electorates, away from the population centres and attention as a result. Secondly, Ōhāriu has been iconic and strategic since MMP, and always a focus of election night, not least of all last election where we resisted the Blue Wave which had expected
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.
The feedback was good, but the success will be when there are sufficient affordable houses to meetdemand. That is certainly my goal as your MP.
That, and of course having a vibrant and functioning Johnsonville Shopping Centre we can all be proud of.
There’s plenty to be getting on with.
Nicola Willis to win the seat. For me personally, like many of our public servants in the electorate, I will have to evaluate my options, as the decisions of others impact my future. My wee red Austin will be around the electorate until the next election in 2026, and I will be committed to working for constituents until then. My office in Johnsonville will remain open. I started my policing career here in the 1970s and have enjoyed being back as the Ōhāriu MP, post my police career. That is why I did not stand on the Party list. No-one knows what the future holds, but expect to continue to see me at events, sports grounds, and anywhere locals gather. The electorate owes me nothing, I owe much to the good folk of the electorate they currently call Ōhāriu for the opportunity to represent you! And to the wonderful staff who have looked after me and the electorate when I am busy in Parliament.
Ōhāriu MP Greg O’Connor. Photo: Supplied.
Khandallah’s top pianist
By Frank Neill
Khandallah pianist Otis Prescott-Mason proved one of the top performers at the 2024-25 National Concerto Competition.
After qualifying for the final, held in the Douglas Auditorium, Christchurch Town Hall on 22 March, Otis placed third in the competition.
He played Sergei Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No 3 in C major, opus 26, with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, conducted by James Judd.
“I was excited to be there and play with the orchestra and collaborating with James Judd,” Otis says.
“I enjoyed playing alongside Shan [Liu] and Henry [Meng].
“It was very gratifying.”
Shan finished first in the competition and Henry was second.
Otis has just finished studying a Bachelor of Music at Victoria University’s New Zealand School of Music.
Playing music, he says “is what I do.
“It’s my life, my love.
“I frequently play solo recitals around New Zealand and abroad as well.”
Otis has played recitals in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy and Switzerland.
“I’m also in a piano duet with fellow Wellington pianist Sunny Cheng, and we play a lot of chamber music.”
The duet’s name is Zweisamkeit, a German name which translates into English as “togetherness”.
The 2024-25 National Concerto Competition is open to all pianists aged 25 years and under as at 31 December 2024.
The adjudicators for the 2024/2025 competition were Rachel Fuller and Timothy Young.
Rachel is a professional Teaching Fellow at Auckland University and Timothy is Head of Piano at the Australian Academy of Music in Melbourne.
This competition has helped launch the
careers of some highly acclaimed New Zealand musicians, including Michael Houston, Amalia Hall, Ashley Brown and Hamish McKeich.
The competition is run by the National Concerto Competition Trust, with the support of the executive and administration team at the Christchurch Civic Music Council.
It has survived for 57 years thanks to the support of sponsors, funding organisations and some private donors.
In recent years, costs forrunning thecompetition have sky-rocketed, with the annual budget now inthevicinity of $140,000 a year.
The National Concerto Competition Trust has established a GiveaLittlePage (https:// givealittle.co.nz/org/national-concerto-competition-trust)to enable music supporters throughout New Zealand to donate and help ensure this event continues to nurture this country’s emerging musical talent into the future.
Repair cafe
The next Karori Repair Cafe will run from 10am to 1pm at the Karori Community Centre on Sunday 6 April.
The repair cafe is a pop-up koha workshop where people can bring that broken/torn/failing appliance or favourite item and find out if it can be saved from a premature trip to the rubbish tip.
People with a variety of skills will be on hand to help people repair items, or to fix them if helping people to build their repair skills is not possible with particular items.
Open day
Futuna Chapel will hold its next open day on Sunday 6 April between 11am and 3pm.
This historic chapel is located at 67 Futuna Close, Karori.
Entry is free, although a koha is appreciated.
The chapel holds open days on the first Sunday of each month.
Otis Prescott-Mason at the piano. Photo: Supplied.
Alexander Hillary on his family legacy
By Morris Robertson
Members and friends of Wellington North Rotary Club enjoyed a pizza meal followed by a most impressive presentation by Alex Hillary, grandson of Sir Edmund, son of Peter and General Manager of the Himalayan Trust, on 20 March.
In the first part of his well-illustrated presentation, Alex referred to his growing up in a family devoted to mountaineering and service to the people of the Solukhumbu region in Nepal. Their focus was on schools and hospitals. Since Sir Edmund first built Khumjung School in 1961, the Himalayan Trust's education programme has evolved. Over 30 schools have been built. Today the trust primarily focuses on three main areas with the people and the communities of the Everest region as the centre of all of its work.
Sir Edmund established the trust to operate in an inclusive way by listening to the community, providing assistance where it can, and supporting their vision for a better future.
The trust is committed to supporting the people of Solukhumbu and the Everest region for many years to come. Its projects and actions all work towards a long-term goal of breaking the cycle of poverty.
One of Sir Edmund’s projects was the creation of Luka airstrip in
an “impossible” location, primarily to get building materials nearer to construction sites. The sloping site contained a number of large boulders, too heavy to relocate. The solution was to dig holes alongside them and bury them. The holes were filled and manually tamped to gain a firm surface. The sloping airstrip finished with the upper end being a vertical mountain face and the lower end a large drop into a chasm with another mountain straight ahead. Today, it is Luka Airport, now sealed and is the second busiest airport in Nepal, but no less dangerous. In thanking Alex, Morris Robertson recalled that, as a 13-year old in 1953, he happened to be listening to the radio when the endless classical music was interrupted by a very formal voice announcing that “it has been reported in the Times of London that a New Zealander, Mr E P Hillary, accompanied by a Sherpa Tensing, had reached the summit of Mt. Everest.” The music resumed as there was no radio news service back then. Later, we were duly reminded that it was a British Expedition. Four days later Queen Elizabeth II was crowned, with another milestone in the form of a live broadcast of the proceedings to New Zealand.
From Britain to New Zealand the airwaves of the globe had also been conquered. While the Himalayan
Trust is low on the radar of charities, what it has continued to achieve with the full support of the recipients well
warrants public support from New Zealand. Readers who would like to contribute the trust can share a link to its donate page and their support would be greatly appreciated. It is at https://himalayantrust.org/donate.
Participating in future leaders assembly
By Frank Neill
Young Karori leader Jayathi Jaiganesh has been selected to participate in the Future Leaders Assembly Indonesia 2025 in Bali.
Young people from around the world will attend the assembly.
This event aims to bring together a diverse and vibrant group of participants, including young leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, activists, educators and students.
“The conference will serve as a
powerful platform for dialogue, collaboration and action, focusing on empowering the next generation of leaders to shape a sustainable and inclusive future,” the organisers say.
The overarching theme of the Future Leaders Assembly is“Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future”.
This theme emphasises the critical role that young leaders play in driving sustainable development and innovation.
The conference will allow Jayathi
to develop leadership skills, learn about sustainable practices, and connect with passionate young leaders worldwide.
Once she returns, Jayathisays, she would love to share her experiences and insights with the community.
She plans to present her findings, the skills she’s gained and how she intends to apply them locally.
While all her conference costs have been sorted, Jayathi’s family is working to cover the travel expenses.
They have set up a Givealittle page to help with this. It is at https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/ invest-in-youth-leadershiphelp-merepresent-nz.
Jayathi was shortlisted in the prestigious John Locke Essay Competition for the second year in succession late last year.
This accomplishment has placed her among the top young intellectuals, with her thought-provoking essays showcasing her analytical depth, originality and exceptional critical thinking skills.
Help keep wasps out of Zealandia
Zealandia Te Mara T ne Ecosanctuary is asking people to take action if they see a wasp nest.
“While our fence keeps mammalian predators out, it can't stop introduced wasp species from getting inside and impacting our native birds and invertebrates as well as people in the sanctuary,” Zealandia says.
“Introduced wasps are the only 'social' wasps in NZ, which means they have a queen and a nest that they protect and provide for.
“If you have spotted or think you have spied a wasp nest in Zealandia, your property, or
a Wellington reserve, please report it.
“In Zealandia: let a staff member know, with as specific a location as possible.
“In your backyard: contact a professional pest expert to control the nest.
“In a council reserve: report it to your local council.
“In Wellington log it though the Wellington City Council fixit app, online form, or call 04 499 4444.
The more information you can give about the location of the nest the better for staff to be able to find it. You can even pin the location in the app/ form.”
Alex Hillary (left) with Wellington North Rotary Club President, Graeme Waters (who was Deputy to Sir Edmund during his High Commissioner appointment to New Delhi and later High Commissioner himself). Photo: Supplied.
Jayathi Jaiganesh. Photo: Supplied.
Ask WCC to keep Begonia House
By Frank Neill
The Friends of the Wellington Botanic Garden are encouraging everyone to make a submission to support the Begonia House staying where it is.
Wellington City Council (WCC) is currently consulting on its 2024-34 draft long term plan, and one of the projects its is consulting on is the Begonia House.
The council has listed the following three options in the draft plan:
system and garden store. Existing structures are demolished, and there are upgrades to the structure, greenhouse assets, HVAC system, and events area. Additionally, a new changing facility, driveway, café, kitchen and
of the Wellington Botanic Garden. have the building meet scope, as realistic gardeners we recognise that in the current council.
name, where you live, your own personal memories and thoughts about the Begonia House and perhaps some of the points listed below.
The Begonia House:
serves all Wellingtonians, regardless of age,
tropical plants thatties Wellington firmly
nation that has strong local and international
al green spacefor people to passively recreate in a nurturing and calm environment.
signatures is countered as one submission. Twenty individual submissions are counted
form on the council’s website.
Begonia House is the best building it can
donations, numerous pledges (only drawn on when work starts) and contributions to the Givealittle page. this campaign.
considerable donation over and above the A petition to save the Begonia House had Change.org website, the Wellington City as a hard copy.
the Fighting Fund we have spent a portion of these donations on advertising, expert advice
House hoardings on numerous fences, over 8,000 letterboxes welcomed flyers and our distinctive advertising has featured in national and regional newspapers.
donation to top up the Council’s contribution
entities are also working on ways to deliver a successful and fit for purpose conservatory. the coming months.
Just some of the big crowd with their “Save the Begonia House” placards at the February sit-in. Photo: Frank Neill.
Classic comedy with contemporary relevance
By Margaret Austin
Blithe Spirit is one of Noel Coward’s bestknown comedies.
Written in the space of a week in the early forties of last century, it was intended to cheer up English audiences worried and depressed by the ongoing war.
We at Circa on the opening night are not in the same situation, although it might be argued that something of the same concerns could be hovering in our minds.
At any rate, a comedy always appeals.
The customary instruction about our electronic devices provides a witty clue to the play’s premise: Charles Condomine, (Phil Peleton) is a novelist and is seeking information about the occult for his next book.
Together with his partner Rudi (Simon Leary), he’s hosting a dinner and inviting a local eccentric Madame Arcati (Ginette McDonald) in the hope that her professed skills will help.
Charles’ reminiscences about his deceased wife Elvira serve to irritate Rudi but also point to the ensuing action.
Enter two guests: Doctor Bradman (Peter Hambleton) and his wife (Hera Dunleavey).
All are anticipating the arrival of the redoubtable Madame Arcati.
Her self-assurance dominates the story from now on: a discussion of the after life
leads to probably the most engrossing scene of the play: a séance.
There’s table tapping, references to poltergeists, emanations and ectoplasm. Above all Madame Arcati wants music, and “It had to be you” takes on particular significance.
Whether you hold occult beliefs or not, you’d have to be immune to intrigue and amusement for what follows.
The séance has produced an unlikely response and recalled Elvira, Charles’ long dead wife.
She manifests as a voice – but it’s a voice only Charles can hear! The subsequent confusion forms much of the play’s content from then on.
All characters are very much at home in their personas and wonderfully portrayed.
Rudi’s misquiet at Elvira’s unwelcome intrusion contrasts with Charles’ conviction that he really is talking to his dead wife; Doctor Bradman’s bustling confidence and need to control counterparts Madame Arcati’s dry and semi-detached interest in proceedings.
How will things turn out? Comedy shades to black as those from the dead prove as mischievous as those still living.
The maid Edith (Hera Dunleavey), appearing first as a nervous servant as she sets up for the dinner party, demonstrates her true role towards the play’s end, resulting in a denouement that’s hard to beat.
Coward described his own work as “an
improbable farce in three acts”.
That may be an apt description, but I would add Blithe Spirit also reveals human flaws and vulnerabilities that raise it above the
merely comedic.
We are fortunate that director Colin McColl has made such an historic and productive return to Wellington.
Historic Newlands house for sale
An historic house in Newlands is currently for sale.
Once used both as a school and a gather-
ing place for a church, the house is at 190 Newlands Road.
The very old historical building was used as a side school, administered by Johnsonville School, called the Newlands Side School. It opened in November 1906.
The building was also where St Michaels and All Angels Anglican Church held its first Church service in October 2011.
That first service was led by Rev F H Petrie from St John’s Anglican Church in Johnsonville.
Mr C W Pritchard, who wrote the history of St Michaels and All Angels between 1932 and 1945, wrote in his memoirs that “it was decided to start services once a month in the Newlands School, a small building measuring sixteen feet by ten feet.
“The first service was held in October 2011, and from a point of view of numbers, it was a great success.”
Mr Pritchard wrote that the building was used for a year by the Anglicans for church services until the Church building was completed in Sept 1912.
The building is behind the house in the photo.
A scene from the Circa production of Blithe Spirit. Photo: Emily K Brown.
Ginette McDonald as the eccentric Madame Arcati in the Circa production of Blithe Spirit.
Photo: Emily K Brown.
The historic Newlands house that is currently for sale. Photo: Supplied.
Fun, Friendship, Learning
Warm Feet this Winter!
As the temperature drops, we should take a few steps to look after our feet to keep them comfy. In Wellington’s climate, which can be chilly, a thin wool sock will keep your feet warm. Wool or wool blend socks are the best to allow the feet to breathe and keep the skin warm, which benefits circulation. Choosing the right materials in a shoe can have benefits as well. Leather shoes have several advantages: they
can stretch, are breathable and are water repellant. Some shoes that promise to be waterproof are lined with Gortex. Bear in mind this lining may take up some room in the shoe so you may need a larger size than usual. Keeping your toes warm will help you to avoid chilblains. Chilblains are small spots of tissue damage from poor circulation to the skin usually due to cold feet. Chilblains are common
in folks who don’t keep toes warm, by having the house too cool, or who don’t wear warm socks and slippers inside. Personally, I wear shoes and socks indoors and do not suffer cold feet. At Active Feet Podiatry we are here to help you whatever foot issues arise. We can be reached at our Terrace Clinic on (04) 473 8696 or ActiveFeetPodiatry. com or email:
info@activefeetpodiatry.com
Traditional Shotokan Karate-do Federation
The TSKF Wellington dojo has been in operation since 1992. We offer classes for beginner grades and senior grades. These classes have adults and children in the same class, making it easy for a family to join together. It’s an encouraging
environment, where everyone is constantly learning.
Classes include line work, pad work, kata, kumite (sparring) and practical application of techniques.
Regular events include weekend training seminars, Southern Region and National
Chief Instructor
(8th Dan Black Belt). For more information visit our website www.tskfwellington.org.nz
Davy Heating Wellington
Summer has gone we are well into Autumn. Now is the time to call Davy Heating to get your fireplace swept and checked. After nearly 50 years Peter Davy has passed the business to Karan based locally in Hutt Valley and covering All Wellington, Kapiti and Horowhenua.
Karan is regularly finding flues that are burnt out and releasing poisonous gases, into the home, putting at risk both family and home.
Let Karan inspect, service and carry out any repairs to your fireplace including bricks, baffles. and other parts. Is your fire over 20 years old? Karan can install a new generation ultra low emission woodburner. When they are turned down they burn hottest and super clean and burn for extended period.
Young people from schools, homeschoolers, and community youth drama groups throughout the Wellington region are about to perform 5-minute student-directed and 15-minute adult- or student-directed scenes from any of Shakespeare’s plays, any which way. The SGCNZ Victoria University of Wellington K piti and Wellington Regional Shakespeare Festivals are imminent.
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
“It is exciting to see the enigmatic, poignant, hilarious, dramatic and thought-provoking re-imaginings of the Bard’s works,” remarked Dawn Sanders, SGCNZ CEO. Some 80% of the scenes are studentdirected, developing the confidence of these rangatahi, their self-presentation and ability to manage their peers, invaluable in whatever career path they choose. See for yourself!
Fashionable warm footwear
Handcrafted in Otaki from the highest quality sheepskins, stitching, and soles, we know you’ll be enjoying our cosy footwear for many years to come.
Snuggz will keep your foot and ankle cozy while you relax around the house. The opening of Snuggz is narrow to help provide as much support around the heel as possible.
Please check the sizing-guide to ensure the best chance of getting to enjoy your
purchase straight away. If you do get the wrong size just send them back and let us know what size you need, and we will get the replacements to you as soon as possible.
For larger sizes, or other custom needs, please contact us and we will do our best to make it happen.
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.
Queen Margaret College – Macbeth Witches: Photo: Memory of Light Photography, Brian Scurfield
Wellington College – Julius Caesar: Photo: Memory of Light Photography, Brian Scurfield
Johnsonville’s new school, Wellington Hills Christian College. Photo: Supplied.
Flying start for new school
By Frank Neill
Johnsonville’s new school, Wellington Hills Christian College, has got off to a great start, so much so the school held a celebration evening on 24 March.
The evening of thanks and celebration was attended by around 50 people.
These people “have been praying for and working toward the establishment of the school,” the Tumuaki/Principal Tim Kuipers says. As well as sharing stories of thanks and provision, the celebration included time where it captured “everybody’s thoughts and passions for the future of the school.”
Located at 19-21 Broderick Road, Wellington Hills Christian College is currently catering for years 1 to 9 students. The school plans to expand by one level per year until it caters for years 1 to 13. It opened its doors at the beginning of term one with 109 students. The roll has since risen to 112 students.
“We’ve had a really positive start,” Mr Kuipers says.
“I am really pleased with how it is coming along.
“We have a very experienced teaching team, a very positive culture amongst the students and very supportive and enthusiastic parents.”
The school’s future is looking very promising also.
“We have got significant interest in peole starting next year,” Mr Kuipers says.
Wellington Hills Christian College is a non-denominational Christian school and is state integrated.
It is not associated with any church, but it is associated with a group of schools under one proprietor.
The Johnsonville school is one of a group
Local History –Karori Cemetery
By Felicity Wong
Recently a friend said she’ll be joining her husband in a pre-paid ash plot in Karori Cemetery’s rose garden.
Karori Cemetery is New Zealand's largest burial ground, covering nearly 100 acres and includes 83,000 people.
It was established in 1893 to replace the overcrowded Bolton Street Cemetery and by 1950 was nearly full.
From 1965 Makara became Wellington’s cemetery, and only the ash plots and family graves are now available at Karori.
There are various zones including Anglican, Catholic, Jewish and “public” sections.
Makara is a veritable United Nations of ethnic and religious zones and reflects Wellington’s more recent diversity (it is worth driving into it).
of nine schools, and the group is also part of the New Zealand Association for Christian Schools, which has 65 schools across the country.
Wellington Hills Christian College’s journey began in 1979 as ‘Miramar Christian School’ based in Camperdown Road, Miramar.
It has been providing a Christian education to the Eastern Suburbs ever since. Initially the school catered for years 1 to 8.
The Minister of Education last year approved a relocation of the school and its expansion to year 13, adding one year level annually.
The Peniel Trust purchased the Johnsonville site and remodelled the first of the site’s two large double storey buildings to provide a state-of-the-art teaching facility.
The school “has been established with a desire to serve God by assisting Christian parents in the task of training and developing their children,” Mr Kuipers says.
“Our vision, beliefs and practices reflect those of the Christian home and are summed up in our five core values of Faith, Character, Wisdom, Excellence and Community.
“These values will be woven through the school’s culture and curriculum.
“Our teachers see every child as uniquely made in God’s image and with a set of gifts and talents to be encouraged and developed.
“We seek to manage behaviour restoratively, taking deliberate steps to build character in the process.
“We are committed to a curriculum with rich sequential content designed to develop competencies in deep thinking and questioning, self-discipline and relating to others from a Biblical view of the world,” Mr Kuipers says.
Libraries catalogue upgrade
Library users now have a new, fresh look after Wellington City Libraries moved their catalogue to a new platform last week.
Key features of the catalogue on the new platform include: eBooks, audiobooks and more.
new items and check your borrowing history.quest items and track your spot in the queue.
new reads tailored to your interests. To receive help with the new system visit anylibrary branch, visit enquiries@ wcl.govt.nz or phone04 801 4040.
Waitohi Johnsonville Library will run an event where children can create a LEGO masterpiece from 3:30pm to 4:30pm on Friday 28 March.
“Let's Go LEGO : Ramadan and Eid special” will feature a special Eid-themed activity, where participants can build connections and learn about Ramadan with friends and wh nau. It is recommended for children aged five and over with their caregivers.
Let's go LEGO will be held from 3:30pm to 4:30pm on 2 April at Te Takapu o Patukawenga Tawa Library.
This event will allow children to test their creative skills when designing and building their masterpieces.
Karori Cemetery is very interesting from a history perspective and tours are regularly offered to the public by the Friends of Karori Cemetery, a group of volunteers.
Karori Cemetery has Australasia’s oldest crematorium, dating from 1909.
About 450 cremations are made annually.
In front of the crematorium is the Small Chapel, a beautiful little historic building which seats about 25 people.
The gorgeous stained glass windows were made by the An Tur Gloine studio in Dublin and its interior walls feature memorial plaques to noted locals.
They include Premier Robert and Anna Stout; Katherine Mansfield’s parents (the Beauchamps); and nurse Grace Neil (after whom a block at Wellington Hospital was named).
In 1959 a substantial new church was built behind the crematorium (accessed from the north). Caskets are transferred from the church to the crematorium by way of an underground tunnel. The Karori Cemetery has two national monuments which are maintained by the Ministry of Culture and Heritage.
One monument is to Peter Fraser, New Zealand’s war time Labour Prime Minister.
Peter Fraser was born in Scotland in 1884 and came here in 1910.
After being involved in union and labour politics, he became a senior minister in the first Labour Government.
It established universal health care, including free maternity care and pharmaceuticals, subsidised general practice visits.
It also established universal secondary school education.
Peter Fraser was active in establishing the United Nations after the war ended and gained international recognition for his efforts after he had become Prime Minister upon the death in office of the first Labour Prime Minister, Michael Joseph Savage.
Peter Fraser remains one of very few politicians to have taken over from another Prime Minister without election, and then proceeded to be elected by the public as Prime Minister in his own right.
Typically that does not happen in New Zealand politics.
When a sitting Prime Minister is deposed or otherwise succeeded while in office, the new one almost always fails to be elected at the next election in their own right.
Jenny Shipley, Mike Moore, Bill English and Chris Hipkins are recent examples.
The other national monument is the Tangiwai Memorial. The dreadful train crash occurred after the dam holding Mount Ruapehu’s crater lake collapsed and a mud slide (lahar) washed away the train bridge.
The accident happened on Christmas Eve in 1953 and the first six carriages derailed into
the river killing 155 people.
The disaster remains New Zealand’s worst rail accident.
Six other Premiers and Prime Ministers were either buried or cremated at Karori Cemetery. There is a large Servicemen’s Cemetery, the oldest and largest in New Zealand.
Other local bodies set up similar areas and it is a distinctly Kiwi approach where each serviceman or woman is recognised individually and without distinction as to rank, race or religion.
All the plaques are the same size and style, reflecting an egalitarianism that was something Kiwis prided themselves on. Interment is open to all service people, including those who did not die during active military service, unlike in overseas military cemeteries.
There is also a guided trail of the graves of those who died in the 1909 SS Penguin ship wreck on Karori’s south coast.
The cemetery contains the graves of McNish and Mrs Chippy, his cat, and Major Ord Lees from the epic 1914 Antarctic journey by incredible adventurer Earnest Shackleton.
Seven hundred graves of Wellingtonians who died in the ‘flu pandemic of 1918 are in the Cemetery. There are extensive burial sites of well known Wellingtonians.
Unfortunately, as for much of Wellington’s infrastructure, Wellington City Council has failed to maintain the grounds.
Much of the upkeep now falls to volunteers who weed and plant and attempt to create a semblance of heritage order. In 2018 a group of interested people led by local resident Barbara Mulligan researched and presented a programme of commemoration of those who died in the 1918 pandemic and who were buried in the cemetery.
The group has since been active in researching Cantonese graves.
In 2021 the group formed The Friends of Karori Cemetery. Cemeteries can be polarising. Some folks love to wander among the graves while for others it may have sad memories.
The grounds are open and used by many for recreation, dog walking and relaxation.
The Kaori Cemetery is a very important city green space.
It’s a free to visit resource of beauty and tranquility in an otherwise anxious time. It’s a rich memorial to Wellington’s past and its history. While old buildings connect with a built heritage history, cemeteries connect with actual people of the past.
As the Whakatoki says “Kia whakat muri te haere whakamua” (I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed on my past). Go there. It is certainly not scary. Visit the Friends of Karori website for information about tours and events.
The small chapel at Karori Cemetery. Photo: Supplied.
& HOME Gardening LIVING
Discover the benefits of having a rainwater tank in the New Zealand climate
Water Conservation:
Kiwi summers are becoming hotter and drier, often leading to water restrictions. A rainwater tank allows you to collect and store rainwater for later use, reducing reliance on mains water and helping conserve this valuable resource.
Environmentally Friendly:
Rainwater harvesting reduces demand on local water supplies, crucial in drought-prone regions. It also lessens the energy needed to treat and pump mains water to your property. Plants also prefer rainwater.
Cost Saving:
Using rainwater for tasks like garden lower your water bills, particularly during
drought periods when mains water costs may rise.
Emergency Water Supply:
With natural disasters, burst pipes, droughts, and other water outages having access to rainwater stored in a tank enables you to
installed with a First Flush unit you can even drink it if needed.
They also have an easy to set tank for bulk storage of drinking water, that is it’s not connected to your downpipe.
For a full range of tank options and setup advice for your situation give the Tank Guy a call – 0508 326 8888 – or visit their website – https://thetankguy.co.nz/ product-category/garden-tanks/
Reduce heating costs with Eco Doors & Windows
Combining uPVC’s natural insulating properties with double-glazing means Eco Doors & Windows achieve thermal insulation levels that far exceed even thermally broken aluminium – and at a very competitive price. Their uPVC doors also
Eco Doors & Windows specialise in uPVC glazing. And as the cooler months arrive you’ll find just the advice and look you’re after at their premises at 29 405 Hutt Road, Lower Hutt. Their windows are ideal for helping keep your house cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
uPVC windows and doors, the company has grown. They have a number of teams
of installers with plenty of experience backed by LBPs (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 first-rate insulation values.
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.
Eco Doors and Windows are centrally located at 405 Hutt Road, Lower Hutt.
Landscape solutions to make your garden special
Whether you are stuck for ideas or have your own and need guidance, we can help - with garden layout, structural features and plant selection. We can provide solutions for problem areas, transforming unusable areas into fully functional ones, and addressing needs for shelter and privacy. We specialise in tree and plant knowledge and can advise which trees to keep and which plants grow best in your location.
Our construction team is renowned for the top
quality timberwork they do – anything from pergolas, screens and outdoor seating, to decks, steps, and the more precision-required BBQ cabinetry.
Groundplanz is a professional landscape design and construction business. Our focus is on providing the right solutions for your needs and the environment you live in - solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. www.groundplanz.co.nz
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For professional service and attention to detail www.groundplanz.co.nz
Twiglands closing soon
The iconic Wellington garden centre, Twiglands Gardeners World, is closing.
Located at 240 Middleton Road in Glenside, Twiglands has been located at its current site since the early 1990s, when it moved in along with what is now Café Thyme.
Before the change of name to
Twiglands, Don Little opened the Plantwood Garden Centre in the Porirua shopping centre.
He established a second store in Tawa and another in central Johnsonville, before the name change and shift to Glenside.
“It is with heavy hearts that the team here at our little garden centre wish to advise all our won-
derful customers that Twigland Gardeners World will be closing down very soon,” Don’s family says.
“Our journey has been one of immense learning and growth, but with Don’s passing, his family has decided it’s time move on.
“Don’s family and the Twig-
lands’ management team want to take this moment to thank every team member, partner, and customer who has been part of our story.
“Your support and engagement have meant the world to us.
“We want to express our sincere gratitude to all our customers for their loyalty and support over the years.
“Twiglands’ objective has been to serve the community with a sound knowledge base in gardening and an commitment to service which would enable gardeners to have the success and the enjoyment they strive for.
“We certainly hope this has been the case.”
What is cholesterol and why is high cholesterol bad for you? Find out how high cholesterol can affect your heart and how to lower it.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol (mat ngako) is a fat-like substance in your blood. It comes from two places: some is made naturally by your liver, and some comes from the food you eat.
Cholesterol isn’t always ‘bad’. Your body needs some cholesterol to work properly. It uses it todevelop cells and hormones, and to process and digest fats. But, if the amount of cholesterol in the blood gets too high, it can cause aheart attackor stroke.
Types of cholesterol
There are two types of cholesterol: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL cholesterol) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL cholesterol).
LDL cholesterol is sometimes called ‘bad cholesterol’. When you have too much LDL cholesterol it builds up in the arteries (the blood vessels that carry blood and oxygen around the body).
The build-up of cholesterol causes lumps of hard fat called plaque to form on the artery walls. These can break off, block the artery, and cause heart attacks and strokes.
HDL cholesterol is the ‘good’cholesterol. It works like a cleaner, carrying LDL cholesterol out of the arteries to your liver, where it is broken down and used by the body.
Triglycerides are another type of fat in your blood. When we eat or drink our body turns any energy (calories) that it doesn’t need into triglycerides, which are then stored in fat cells.
energy than our body needs they stay at a high level, rather than returning to normal.
This is particularly true if our diet includes lots of refined sugar. This includes foods high in added sugar, like sweets, baked goods and chocolate, low fibre carbohydrates, like white bread, and alcohol and fizzy drinks, which include lots of extra sugar.
Like cholesterol, high triglycerides can increase the amount of plaque (hard fat) in the artery walls.
‘lipid test’. Lipid is another word for fat, so this test includes your cholesterol and your triglyceride levels.
When should I get my cholesterol levels checked?
If you haven’t had a cholesterol test before, talk to your doctor or nurse about when you should have one.
If you’re at higher risk of heart attack or stroke because of your or family’s health history, then you may need one at a younger age.
Triglyceride levels normally rise after we’ve eaten, but when we consume more
The only way to measure cholesterol is to get a blood test. Sometimes your doctor will call this blood test a ‘lipid profile’or
Cholesterol tests are given routinely as part of a heart health check.
MANAGING HIGH CHOLESTEROL
WCC consulting on water and its plans
Formal consultation on key issues impacting P neke is now open with Wellington City Council asking for feedback on water reform, an amendment to the 2024-34 Longterm Plan and the 2025/26 Annual Plan. The Council needs to make decisions about its water services delivery model, how insurance and investment risk is managed, and any changes to rates, fees and charges.
“This year, our Council faces key decisions that will shape our city’s future,” says Mayor Tory Whanau.
“We’re committed to ensuring these decisions reflect the voices of Wellingtonians, and we’re inviting you to participate in the consultation process. “Your voice matters and will help us deliver the best outcomes for Wellington.”
Feedback on the Council’s approach to the Government’s Local Water Done Well reform, which
covers the future of drinking, waste, and stormwater services, is being sought. Government reform requires every council in the country to meet stricter regulations for water services quality, financial sustainability, and environmental impact.
Community feedback is sought on three options:
isation co-owned by Wellington City, Upper Hutt City, Hutt City, Porirua City and Greater Wellington Regional councils (preferred option);
ownership water organisation; andrangements where Wellington City Council owns water assets and contracts services out to Wellington Water Limited.
All three options cover drinking water, wastewater and stormwater.
Under the preferred option, the new
organisation would own and operate public drinking water, wastewater and stormwater assets and would have access to increased borrowing capacity to meet the investment needed across the network.
“The need to address the challenges of water infrastructure means it is inevitable the cost of water services will increase,” the Council says.
“The multi-council water organisation approach will help to keep increases lower due to its scale and the ability to borrow more money.”
Following consultation, elected members will be asked to make their final decision on a delivery model ahead of submitting a water services delivery plan to the Department of Internal Affairs by 3 September 2025.
The Council is also consulting on options to address the insurance and investment risks the city faces.
There is an under-insurance gap of between $1.8 billion and $2.6 billion and a lack of investment diversification. Some 89% of the Council’s investments are tied up in Wellington-based ground leases and airport shares which means they are all vulnerable to the same risks, threatening the ability to access funds in the event of a natural disaster. The Council is considering three potential options.
Its preferred proposal is to increase borrowing capacity by reducing capital spending (by $385 million) and creating a small investment fund (of $68 million) with the proceeds from the sale of nine ground leases. Other options include reducing capital spending (by $200 million) and selling either 50% of airport shares or the majority of ground leases to create a medium-sized investment fund (of $202 mil-
lion–$314 million).
There is also an option to create a large ($560 million) investment fund by selling all council airport shares and nine ground leases, while maintaining current capital spending. The 2025/26 Annual Plan contains the proposed budget and outlines the impact on rates and the Council’s debt. The proposed average rates increase in the budget is 12.2% (including the 1.4% sludge levy). The Council is seeking feedback on this and several other smaller changes as part of the Annual Plan update. Information about the proposals, including the consultation document and submission forms, is available on the website www.wcc. nz/haveyoursay.
Residents can also pick up a copy of the consultation document and submission forms from city libraries. Consultation is open until 21 April.
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. phone (04) 587 1660 or email classifieds@wsn.co.nz
Autumn Mini Market
St Anne’s Northland Corner Randwick/ Northland Roads SATURDAY 5 APRIL 9.30 - 1.00 Books, Deli, Jams, Pickles, Craft, Baking, Jewellery, Plants, Refreshments EFTPOS available
Looking after a baby giraffe
Molly Staples-Clark, a Mammals Keeper at Te Nukuaro Wellington Zoo, is the guest speaker at tomorrow’s Khandallah REBUS Club meeting.
The 28 March meeting begins at 10am at the Khandallah Bowling Club, 24 Woodmancote Road.
Molly will be talking about how to look after a baby that’s taller than everybody – a two metre tall baby giraffe.
Kate Roud, guest speaker at last month’s
Churton Park School Enrolment
Out of Zone Enrolment for Terms 3 & 4 2025
The Board of Trustees invites applications from parents who wish to enrol “out of zone” students at Churton Park School. Churton Park School is governed by an enrolment scheme, details of which are available on the school website.
The Board of Trustees have approved 20 Out of Zone vacancies in Terms 3 and 4 2025 across Years 0, 1, 2, & 3. Applications are made on the official enrolment form, which is available at the school office or online enrolment on the school website. The deadline for receipt of applications for out of zone places is Friday 2nd May 2025 at 3pm. If a ballot for out of zone places is required, it will be held on Monday 5th May 2025. Parents will be informed of the outcome of the ballot within three working days of the ballot being held.
If you live in the home zone and have not yet signalled your intention to enrol your child, please contact the school immediately to assist us to plan appropriately.
Please contact the school office, phone 04 4784282 for details regarding the application process or email: office@churtonpark.school.nz
Khandallah Rebus club meeting, gave a very interesting talk about places she’s worked, some of the amazing people and plants she met along the way, and responses to climate changes, in a career that has covered two hemispheres, three countries and seven gardens. Kate is now Team Leader at the Main Gardens, Wellington Botanic Garden. If you’re a keen gardener visiting the United Kingdom, you may have a list of special gardens you’d like to see – probably some
historic National Trust properties.
The beautiful and world-famous heritage garden at Sissinghurst might be high on that list. Amazing as it may seem, that’s the garden in which Kate started her horticultural career, as a trainee on the National Trust’s Careership scheme. For more information about the club, internet search “Khandallah REBUS” or go directly to the website https:// khandallahrebus.wixsite.com/khandallahrebusclub.
Enhancing Churton Park
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Political satirist, ... Scott.(3)
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Agriculture minister, ... Falloon (4)
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female red deer. (4)
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TakapŪ/Northern Ward Councillors John Apanowicz, Ben McNulty and Tony Randle will be the guest speakers at the Churton Park Community Association (CPCA) annual meeting tomorrow, 28 March. The meeting will be held at the Churton Park Community Centre at 7:30pm. The doors will open at 7pm. The CPCA committee needs more members, the association says.
“So do you have an area of interest you think needs improving? Better dog parks? No suburban carparking? Lower rates? More accessible parks? Toilets at parks? Wanting to stop waterways pollution in CP? Just want to help at events? “Then please come along to the AGM and join the committee.” The CPCA is a group of Churton Park residents that work towards enhacing the suburb’s community.
Public Notice
PRAYER TO ST JUDE O HOLY
Saint Jude, apostle and martyr, great in virtues and rich in miracles, near kinsmen of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of needs.
To you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present urgent petition (make your request). In return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. (Say) three Our Fathers, three Hail Marys and three The Glorias. Saint Jude pray for me and all who invoke your aid. Amen.
49. Left-handers(inf) (9)
51. Raise the spirits of. (5)
52. Observation post. (4-3)
53. The sea. (5)
54. Appease. (7)
55. Tall buildings. (11)
DOWN
1. Loose thread. (5)
2. Adorned. (11)
3. Rough-haired Scotch terrier. (8)
4. U.S. inventor, Thomas (6)
5. Attempts. (5)
6. Deep red. (7)
7. Pertaining to farms. (8)
8. More tidy. (6)
9. Brisk(music) (7)
10. Go into.(5)
16. Secrecy. (7)
17. Durable upholstery fabric. (7)
19. Agricultural. (5)
20. Accomplices(inf) (7)
22. Loyal. (7)
24. Hiatus. (3)
26. British person(sl) (3)
29. Small enclosed field. (5)
Tending to incite. (11)
Agent(abbr) (3)
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Last Week: 20 March 2025
33. Golf peg. (3)
Aromatic lozenge. (8)
Animals with lungs & gills. (8)
Bliss. (7)
Tapers. (7)
Swiss city. (6)
47. Artless. (6)
48. Pup. (5)
Ostentatious. (5)
Oozes. (5)
Kate Roud speaking at the February meeting of the Khandallah REBUS Club. Photo: Supplied.
Onslow in precarious position
By Frank Neill
Onslow’s premier Cricketers found themselves in a precarious position after day one of their two day match on 22 March.
Upper Hutt United batted first in the match, being played at Nairnville Park, and scored 297 in their first innings.
In reply, the Onslow innings was teetering when they were 21 for the loss of five wickets at stumps.
The team will be relying on Vice Captain Micah Conroy, who is playing his 100th premier match, when play resumes on 29 March.
Micah was on four not out when stumps were drawn.
Onslow will also be looking for
Matthew Scoble, who was nought not out at stumps, to bat well.
Daniel Rose bowled outstandingly for Onslow, taking four wickets for 60.
Henry McIntyre also bowled well, taking three wickets for 55.
Ryan Tsourgas took two wickets for 50 and Elliot Seddon one wicket for 58.
Onslow currently leads division one and is playing for a spot in the three-day final.
Karori, also playing for a place in
Johnsonville Softball champions
Three Johnsonville Softball teams are 2025 champions.
The Bombers won the Wellington Premier Reserve grade, following the final on 8 March.
This followed the Bombers victory in the K piti tournament in February.
The Swingers won the Premier 2
Men’s Intercity competition when they won the final on 15 March.
The Cripples won the 2A men’s section with their final victory coming on 15 March.
The Johnsonville Softball Club junior section is going from strength to strength, with around 20 teams playing this season.
the three-day final, did not fare well on 22 March.
Batting first on Karori Park, Karori was all out for 146 in their match against Hutt District.
Hutt then reached 175 for six wickets at stumps.
Kevin Weerasundara was the only Karori batsman to feature with the bat, scoring 66. The next highest score was 19.
Yashraj Kalsi bowled well, taking three wickets for 33 while Matt Rowe took two wickets for 46.
The other wicket was a run out.
Johnsonville did not fare well in the top of the second division Hazlett
Trophy match with Petone Riverside, played at Alex Moore Park. The home team batted first and was all out for 99.
The Hazlett Trophy leaders, Petone Riverside, reached 147 for the loss of five wickets at stumps.
Samrat Sengupta was the only batsman to feature on 22 March, and was 42 not out when the Johnsonville innings ended. The team’s next highest score was just 15.
Dominic McAlister took two wickets for 33 runs for Johnsonville, Ben Stephen one for 14, Ashan Wanasinghe one for 18 and Reece Edgecombe one for 30.
ANZAC service in Makara
The ANZAC Day service which has been held at M kara over the past 15 years will return again this year.
The service will take place at 10am on 25 April at the intersection of M kara Road and South M kara Road in front of the M kara War Memorial.
Invitations have been extended to the armed forces and to local Wellington City Councillors.
An invitation is also extended to anyone who wishes to attend, and anyone who wishes will have the opportunity of laying a wreath during the service.
The Reverend Alison Camplin will say the prayer.
Rex Billings, a young M kara resident, will be playing the bag pipes, and the M kara Model School will have students lowering and raising the flag and will also be reading a poem.
Local couple Jack and Jill Fenaughty will lay a wreath on behalf of the M kara community in memory of those men and woman who fought and who gave their lives during conflict. David Rose from M kara will recite the Ode.
The service will be followed by morning tea provided by the M kara community at the M kara Community Hall. Everyone attending the service will be welcome at the morning tea.
Gallipoli exhibition extended
Te Papa is extending its exhibition Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War until April 2032.
Created by Te Papa working closely with W t Workshop, the exhibition set a global benchmark for immersive museum experiences when it opened on 18 April 2015.
There have been more than 4.8 million visits to the exhibition since opening. Entry is free.
Originally intended to be in place for only four years, it has been extended twice before.
With this latest extension Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War will have been on show for 17 years by the time it closes in 2032.
in the exhibition, and it resonates deeply wherever they are from,” Dr Hakiwai says.
W t Workshop co-founder Sir Richard Taylor was intimately involved in every aspect of the exhibition’s inception and creation, describing it as one of the most seminal moments in his career.
“We wanted to share a deep respect to the memories of the men and women who served and sacrificed so much – on a scale that they deserved," Sir Richard says.
“The success of Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War has been more than we could ever have imagined and we want to offer that experience for as long as we possibly can,” says Te Papa Tumu Whakarae | Chief Executive Courtney Johnston.
“The exhibition was always intended to show the harsh realities and highlight the human cost of war.”
“Itfosters empathy and we can see how our visitors connect the human experience of Gallipoli to the conflicts being fought today,” Ms Johnston says.
Te Papa KaihautŪ | M ori Co-Leader Dr Arapata Hakiwai says the visitor response is profound.
"Many of our visitors come in family groups, and some come back time and time again to remember and honour their tĪpuna,” says Te Papa KaihautŪ | M ori Co-Leader Dr Arapata Hakiwai.
“We host people from all over the world
“We are incredibly thankful knowing that the exhibition is being extended, so that future visitors to Te Papa will continue to gain a deeper understanding of this critical moment in New Zealand’s history, and so that young kiwis who served in this campaign are never forgotten.”
Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War features the stories of eight New Zealanders on a monumental scale. The ultra-realistic figures of seven servicemen and a nurse are frozen in a moment in time, at 2.4 times life size.
The exhibition includes treasured items returned from the battlefield along with 3-D maps and projections, miniatures, models, dioramas, and interactive experiences.
The words of the nurse soldiers themselves, from letters and diaries, provide a very personal insight into the experience of war.
Gallipoli: The Scale of Our War will be closed from Monday 21 July to Friday 12 Sept 2025 for essential maintenance and upgrades necessary to extend the life of the exhibition.
Micah Conroy, who is playing his 100th premier match for Onslow. Photo: Supplied.
The champion Johnsonville Bombers team. Photo: Supplied.
