30 May Independent Herald

Oldest record broken

By Frank Neill

Karori athlete James Preston is the new holder of the New Zealand 800 metres record after breaking the 62-year-old record set by Peter Snell.

Not only did James break the national record, he also set a qualifying time for the Olympic Games at the Eugene Diamond League meeting in Pfungstadt, Germany, held overnight on 25 and 26 May.

Continued on page 2.

James Preston in action on the track. Photo: Supplied.

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Breaking Peter Snell’s record was ‘amazing’

James clocked 1 minute 44.02 seconds to comfortably better the Paris Olympic entry standard of 1 minute 44.70 seconds.

Being able to break Peter Snell’s record of 1 minute 44.3 seconds –the longest standing New Zealand record on the books and a world record when he set it in 1962 – was “amazing,” James says.

Snell “did so much for middledistance running in New Zealand and the best way to honour what he did was to try and better it. “I’m hoping that someone will eventually come along and break my record.”

James’s main aim in the race was to better the Olympic standard “with the record [coming] as a bonus”.

He claimed a dominant victory over his fellow New Zealander Brad Mathias in his recordbreaking run.

In doing so he wiped 0.83 seconds from his previous best time, set at the 2024 Jennian Homes New Zealand Track and Field Championships in Wellington in March.

“I feel an overwhelming sense of satisfaction and relief,” James says.

“I was pretty nervous about trying to run the qualifier because opportunities can be hard to come by, so to be able to to do that has taken a weight off my shoulders.

“It is also really satisfying that my team and I can put together the plan and execute it.

“I had a really strong pacemaker organised and the plan was to go through 400 metres in 50.5 and 600 metres in 1:16 because that would set me up well to get under the qualifying mark.

“In terms of how the race played out, it was almost exactly like that.

“We hit 400m in 50.1 and I

then just had to keep rolling with whatever I had.

“The last 50 metres was tough but I got it done.

“Everything has been geared up in terms of trying to qualify, but to be able to do that makes our plan for the next couple of months a wee bit easier and less stressful around the build up.

“This performance sets me up for the next couple of months.

“We aren’t as focused on running the standard right now, so hopefully I’ll get in some more competitions and run a wee bit faster,” James says.

New indoor recreation centre needed

By Frank Neill

Wellington City Councillor Tony Randle has three major aims he will push for in today’s Wellington City Council’s Long-term Plan, Finance and Performance Committee meeting on the Long Term Plan (LTP) for 2024-34.

One is to include provision to complete planning for a new north Wellington indoor recreation centre.

Another is that the Johnsonville Town Centre plan is updated. And a third is ensuring that the

Grenada North sports ground development remains in the LTP.

Keeping this sports ground in the plan is “top of mind,” the TakapŪ/Northern Ward Councillor says.

“I am keen to get the money to complete the planning for a north Wellington indoor recreation centre,” he says.

“There is no money in the next three years to build it, but we need to complete the planning for it so it can go into the next Long Term Plan.

“That’s a big aim of mine,” Cr Randle says.

In its submission on the LTD, the Johnsonville Business Group promoted the need for an indoor recreation centre at Raroa Park.

The council received 4,077 submissions on its LTP and nearly 300 submitters gave oral presentations on their submissions to councillors.

One of the big things that came through from submitters was the “sheer amount of money being spent,” Cr Randle says.

“People are not happy with how much is being spent and where it is being spent.”

That was particularly true for people living in the suburbs.

“We are being charged more for rates and we are getting less for it.

“There is a lot of discontent in the suburbs.”

Cr Randle also commented on a lack of movement in what council officers were recommending to today’s meeting.

“I don’t think the officers have considered any changes of the plan as a result of the submissions, which is disappointing,” he says.

New high school on Ryman site promoted

By Frank Neill

The former Wellington Teachers’ College site in Donald Street, Karori, should be home to a new public high school, the Karori Residents’ Association (KRA) says.

The KRA’s call come in the wake of Ryman Healthcare announcing on 27 May in an email to retirees on the waiting list for a new Karori Ryman retirement home that they were putting the site on the market.

In a media release dated 28 May, the KRA said it was calling on the Ministry of Education to allocate the site as a public high school for Wellington’s western suburbs.

"This area has been in dire need of a local public high school for over 50 years, and this site presents a unique and timely opportunity to meet this long-standing demand," the media release said.

"For decades the families in Wellington’s western suburbs have faced significant challenges as their children have had to commute to schools located far from their homes.

"This daily journey not only adds undue stress to students but also places additional financial and logistical burdens on families.

"Establishing a public high school within the western suburbs would provide much-needed relief and create a more supportive and efficient educational environment for our community’s youth. "Apart from the obvious benefits to wider transport network congestion, a high school in the west would add the benefits of fewer boys commuting to Wellington College at the Basin Reserve bottleneck, and fewer girls travelling through Thorndon in peak hours.

"The western suburbs have experienced substantial population growth, further amplifying the need for a local high school.

"The current lack of high school level educational infrastructure within our suburbs is not sustainable given the rising number of high school-aged children.

"A local high school would serve to support this growing population and ensure that our children receive the quality education they deserve within their own community.

"The proposal to allocate this site for a high school has garnered widespread support from residents, local businesses, and community

the KRA said.

"In 2019 KRA carried out a local survey which resulted in 49.3% support of a public high school.

"This would significantly benefit the area, fostering community spirit, reducing travel times and congestion, and improving overall educational outcomes for our children.

"We urge the Ministry of Education to recognise the pressing need and seize this opportunity to create a lasting positive impact on the western suburbs.

"The allocation of this site for a public high school is not only a necessary investment in our children’s future but also a commitment to equitable access to education for all Wellingtonians." The KRA "stands ready to collaborate with the Ministry of Education and other stakeholders to ensure the successful establishment of this much-needed educational facility.

"Together, we can build a brighter future for the western suburbs."

This proposal also has the support of other residents’ asssociations in the western suburbs, KRA’s Chair, Andrew Skews told the "Independent Herald".

“Since purchasing [the site], challenging market conditions and construction cost infla-

tion have resulted in this site no longer being suitable for our planned development,” Ryman said in its 27 email to people on the waiting list.

“I realise this news will be disappointing.

“However we continue to offer a range of exceptional retirement communities around Wellington and the K piti Coast with villages in Khandallah, Kilbirnie, Petone, Lower Hutt, and Waikanae.”

The idea of developing a new secondary school on the site is also being promoted by Wellington City Councillor Diane Calvert.

“Back in 2017 when the Teachers’ College came on the market I championed for the [Wellington City] Council to work with the Ministry of Education on not only retaining the existing recreational facilities (such as the netball courts) but establishing a secondary school,” the Wharangi/Onslow Western Ward Councillor says.

“Now it’s back on the market the very least the council should do is first reach out to the Ministry of Education to discuss current and future needs for the community.

“We need to find out whether there is anything worth considering under the Public Works and Urban Development Acts to start with, Cr Calvert says.”

Early completion

Work on clearing trees bordering State Highway 1 between Grenada and Tawa finished seven days earlier than expected, Waka Kotahi announced on 23 May.

The tree clearing was originally scheduled to take place between 20 and 30 May.

Work continued on the installation of safety barriers near the Churton Park offramp and cleaning culverts along the stretch of the highway.

That work was scheduled to be completed by 5:30am today, 30 May.

Staying Safe

Age Concern will run a Staying Safe class for older drivers at the Khandallah Community Centre, 11 Ganges Road, on 12 June.

The class will run from 10am to 2pm with lunch provided. Registration is required. To register phone 04 499 6646 or email events@acwellington.org.nz.

Age Concern runs the Staying Safe workshops in partnership with NZTA/ Waka Kotahi.

The former Wellington Teachers’ College as it is today. Photo: Frank Neill. leaders,"

Ngaio Post Centre closed temporarily

The Ngaio Post Centre, which operates out of Crofton Road Dairy, will be temporarily closed from Friday 24 May to 6 July 2024.

The owner of the host business has decided to temporarily close his business.

Unfortunately, NZ Post says, “we have not been able to make

arrangements for the box lobby to be open during this time.”

Ngaio PO Box holders mail items will be held at Johnsonville Box Lobby and Johnsonville Postshop, located at 28 Johnsonville Road.

This is also where customers in Ngaio can temporarily access postal services.

New highway sign coming

A new, improved electronic sign is going to be installed on State Highway 1 between Churton Park and Johnsonville.

The new Variable Message Sign (VMS) will give drivers a much better idea of highway conditions.

The existing VMS board between Churton Park and Johnsonville is at the end of its operational life and needs to be replaced.

The new messaging board will be more reliable.

Its messages will be more visible and have a better font, making it much easier for drivers to read important highway information.

Replacing the board requires using a crane, which means that State Highway 1 will have to be closed to southbound traffic while the old sign is removed and the new one is

Showroom: 29 Hutt Road, Thorndon

installed.

This work has been scheduled to be done at night when traffic volumes are lower to minimise disruption and travel delays.

The old sign is scheduled to be removed on Tuesday 4 June, with a contingency date of 5 June. State Highway 1 will be closed to southbound traffic between 9pm and 4:30am. Drivers can detour along Middleton Road. The new sign is scheduled to be installed on Tuesday 18 June, with a contingency date of 19 June. State Highway 1 will be closed to southbound traffic between 9pm and 4:30am. Drivers can detour along Middleton Road.

These works are weather dependent and may be delayed by bad weather.

VMS boards play a crucial role in keeping drivers well informed

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about the highway, NZTA/Waka Kotahi says.

They are designed to update travel times and issue warnings about congestion, crashes and other incidents that may disrupt travel. They are a valuable tool for helping drivers make informed decisions about their journeys.

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Saturday 1st June: 9.30am - 5.30 pm

Sunday 2nd June: 9.00 am - 5.00 pm

Sunday Night 2nd June: 7.00 pm - 9.30 pm: SGCNZ YSC Showcase, Competition Prize-giving & Scene Award Ceremony

Tickets $15-$35 at ticketmaster.co.nz

Group & weekend passes & door sales available. Performance order on sgcnz.org.nz. Enquiries to 027 283 6016.

The old VMS board which is about to be replaced. Photo: Supplied.

Family Works Dispute Resolution

Family Works Dispute Resolution Service is a partially or fully funded mediation service supporting parents/ wh nau to reach out of court agreements to the care arrangements of their children.

Family Works can assist you to identify the needs and issues around care and guardianship with tamariki and if you are able to, come up with a plan. Through this process, you make the decisions rather than the judge.

Family Works Resolution Service achieves this by connecting people to Family Works sites and other support in their area with trained professionals. Local child voice practitioners can meet with children to gather their views and experiences about what’s going on.

Our service area is located across the Wellington region, Taranaki, Manawatu, Wairarapa, and all of the South Island.

Kathryn, Mediator and Family Works Resolution Services Manager, has been working for Family Works Resolution Service for 2 years now.

“It’s really great to see and hear where people get to throughout this process. This is a hard road, but by coming along to mediation people are willing to try something new for their children.”

To chat to one of the team about your individual circumstances, call us on 0800 737 6583.

Things To Do This Winter

EXPLORE UNSPOILED

CHATHAM ISLANDS. If you’re seeking a unique, unforgettable adventure in New Zealand, Iook no further than Chatham Island Tours. Nestled in the remote reaches of the South Pacific Ocean, the Chatham Islands offer a pristine and unspoiled natural paradise, and Merv Halliday, owner and operator of Chatham lsland Tours, is your key to unlocking its wonders. Here’s what makes Chatham Island Tours and Merv Halliday stand out: Authenticity: Merv, possesses an intimate knowledge of the island’s history, culture, and ecosystems. His passion for sharing the

island’s treasures with visitors is palpable, ensuring that every tour is an authentic and enriching experience.

Customised adventures : Chatham lsland Tours caters to private groups. Whether you’re a bird-watching enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seek a tranquil escape, Merv can design a tour that suits your group’s desires. Other highlights are visiting the Kaingaroa Tree Carvings and the amazing Basalt Columns at Owenga, Waitangi West. The early Moriori carved designs, known as dendroglyphs, are

estimated to be up to 300 years old but are still visible on the trees. The basalt columns are a series of pentagonal shaped volcanic rock columns on the shoreline, and not found anywhere else on the island. Options of fishing trips and flights to adjacent Pitt Island are also taken advantage of. The Chatham Islands is generally not on the ‘Tourist Trail’ and therefore its unique history is still virtually untold.”

For any inquiries, contact Merv on (03) 249 8294 or email chathamislandtours@gmail. 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 competitions, and our annual Gasshuku event run by TSKF New Zealand Chief Instructor Mark Willis Shihan (8th Dan Black Belt). For more information visit our website www.tskfwellington.org.nz

LOVE LOCAL EXPO IS BACK!

Mark your calendars for Saturday 8 June, as the popular Love Local Expo returns to Porirua. Now in its fifth year, the expo is a not-to-be missed event showcasing Porirua’s best local products, services, crafts and community groups.

It’s a great day out for family or groups of friends with plenty of delicious food and drinks on offer. “Love Local brings the best of our city together under one roof, highlighting the sheer amount of innovation, service and quality we have in Porirua,” says Porirua Mayor Anita Baker. Entry to the expo is free, and once again visitors will have a chance to win a year’s supply (that’s 52 blocks) of Whittaker’s chocolate by voting for their favourite Love Local booth. Love Local Expo, free entry, Saturday 8 June, 10am-4pm at Te Rauparaha Arena. For more information, visit poriruacity.govt. nz/lovelocalexpo

WELLINGTON BALLET

SHOTOKAN

KARATE-DO

Training provided by Sensei Grant Stove, 6th Dan

TWO GREAT LOCATIONS

Newlands Intermediate School and Centennnial Hall, Newlands Road

CONTINUE YOUR DANCE JOURNEY OR EMBARK ON SOMETHING NEW FOR 2024!

JOIN US NOW! FOR MORE INFORMATION: CALL Jude 027 2430840 EMAIL info@tskfwellington.org.nz | www.tskfwellington.org.nz

TRAINING PROVIDED FOR ALL AGE GROUPS — from children (age 7+) to adults COME ALONG AND CHECK US OUT! dren to adults 2 WEEKS FREE TRIAL GIVEITAGO!

Wellington Ballet offers classes from pre-school to adults, including our new class for over 50s called Senior Swans. We have highly skilled, passionate teachers, a welcoming student and parent community and a commitment to help you thrive in your pursuit of dance!

So come try your first class for FREE on us. Pilates, Senior Swans, Ballet, Jazz or Contemporary classes offered. wellingtonballet.co.nz. 0272145593

WELLINGTON OR CHRISTCHURCH, DIRECT TO CHATHAM ISLANDS

CHRISTCHURCH, DIRECT TO CHATHAM ISLANDS WELLINGTON OR

Experience 8 days in one of New Zealand’s most remote and unique places. The Chatham Islands are the closest most New Zealanders can get to international travel without packing their passport.

DISCOVER CHATHAM ISLANDS

Tour #47 is for 8 days & 7 nights on Chatham X Wellington Incorporating Festival of Science (Complimentary)

xperience 8 days in one of New Zealand’s most remote and unique aces. The Chatham Islands are the closest most New Zealanders n get to international travel without packing their passport.

Mon 14th August 2023, departs Wellington 2.00pm - arrive Chatham Islands 4.30 Mon 21st August 2023, departs Chatham Islands 9.45am - arrive Wellington 11.1

our #43 is for 8 days & 7 nights on Chatham X Auckland 4th June 2022, departs Auckland 1.30pm - arrive Chatham Islands 4.30pm

Experience 8 days in one of New Zealand’s most remote and unique places. The Chatham Islands are the closest most New Zealanders can get to international travel without packing their passport.

Tour #48 is for 8 days & 7 nights on Chatham X Christchurch

Tour #53 (Incorporating the 2024 Festival of Science)

Tue 13th Aug 2024, depart Wellington 1:00pm - arrive 3:30pm (CI time)

Tue 20th Aug 2024, depart Chathams 8:30am - arrive Wellington 9:45am

August 2023, departs Christchurch 2.00pm - arrive Chatham Islands 5.0 August 2023, departs Chatham Islands 10.00am - arrive Christchurch 1

Tour #56

December 2023, departs Christchurch 2.00pm - arrive Chatham Islands 5

Thur 19th Sept 2024, depart Wellington 1:00pm - arrive 3:30pm (CI time)

December 2023, departs Chatham Islands 10.00am - arrive Christchurch

Thur 26th Sept 2024, depart Chathams 8:30am - arrive Wellington 9:45am

Tour #57 (Incorporating the 2024 Transit of Venus Celebrations)

January 2024, departs Wellington 2.00pm - arrive Chatham Islands 4.30 January 2024, departs Chatham Islands 10.00am - arrive Wellington 11

Thur 17th Oct 2024, depart Wellington 1:00pm - arrive 3:30pm (CI time)

Thur 24th Oct 2024, depart Chathams 8:30am - arrive Wellington 9:35am

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Successful holiday programme returns

Onslow Community Church will again run their very successful CHARGE kids holiday programme in the July school holidays.

This is the third year in a row CHARGE has been run and it has attracted good numbers of children and families from the local community.

The vision behind the programme is the church helping to meet a need in the local community, with many working parents struggling to find care options for their children during school holidays.

The whole church helps with more than 50 volunteers of all ages volunteering in some capacity, from intermediate-age leaders right

through to grandparents. Many people take time off work to help. This year’s programme takes place on Thursday 11 and Friday 12 July.

Included this year is a family dinner event on Friday night featuring dinner, games, and well-known communicator and puppeteer, Ray Cooper.

Registrations for school-age children years 1 to 6 close on Fri 5 July (the last Friday of term).

There’s a nominal charge of $20 per family. Register for a single day or both days at https://forms.gle/ oWG25dtVkb3H9Ea2A or contact peterr@onslowcc.org.nz for more information.

Future transport needs being reviewed

People’s views on the future of transport in the Wellington region is currently being sought. Greater Wellington Regional Council is conducting its mid-term review of the Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP), the blueprint guiding the region’s transport network over the next 10-30 years.

It released the plan for public input on 24 May. Regional Transport Committee chair Adrienne Staples says feedback on the plan helps shape the future of regional travel, and a system used by thousands of commuters, cyclists, freight, and commercial vehicles every day.

“The Mid-Term Review is a public warrant of fitness for our region’s transport activities, allowing us to keep public sentiment front of mind as we seek funding for projects that help connect our communities,” Cr Staples says. Feedback will be collected on the list of key transport projects prioritised by the Wellington Regional Transport Committee, including: · rail network track and infrastructure upgrades as well as wider capacity and safety improvements;

· ‘Roads of National Significance’ including a second Mt Victoria tunnel, the Petone to Grenada Link Road and the Cross Valley Link; and

· implementation of an integrated national ticketing system for public transport.

Projects under the RLTP are proposed by the region’s nine councils, as well as KiwiRail, and Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA).

The RLTP is then submitted to NZTA for funding consideration from the National Land Transport Fund.

Consultation will also focus on the plan’s changes to the weighting of transport investment priorities, designed to respond to the region’s most significant transport problems.

The Mid-Term Review process was initiated in early 2023 by inviting input from the Wellington Region to better understand their transport priorities. “We received valuable feedback from over 2,000 respondents, helping us shape the review and we’re now encouraging people to share their perspectives on the draft,” Cr Staples says.

Until 24 June, the public can participate in the consultation process. Individuals will also have the opportunity to address their submissions during public hearings.

Feedback received during the consultation will be considered by the Regional Transport Committee before the Mid-Term Review undergoes final review and approval by the regional council. The finalised RLTP will be submitted to NZTA in July and made available to view on the Greater Wellington website.

To participate in the consultation, visit https://haveyoursay.gw.govt.nz/rltp-midterm-review.

A group of children enjoying a previous CHARGE programme. Photo: Supplied.

Paekakariki Railway Station Sat, Sun & Public Holidays 11am to 3pm

So much to do in

Live Music 4–6pm next session Sunday 30 June

TO ADVERTISE ON THESE PAGES CONTACT STEVE@WSN.CO.NZ

ANDREW JOYCE - CELLO AND JIAN LIU - PIANO

JS Bach Vaughan Williams Hindemith Fan Dongqing Brahms: Sonata in F, Opus 99 Wellington’s experts in Textile WE HAVE MOVED! Just down the road to 40 Main Rd, Waikanae

Cello and Piano Recital in Waikanae

Andrew Joyce and Jian Liu are two of New Zealand’s best-known musicians –Andrew as Principal Cellist of the NZSO and Jian as Head of Piano Studies at the New Zealand School of Music. Both frequently appear as members of various chamber ensembles.

Their wide-ranging programme includes a Sonata by Bach, works by NZer Dorothy Buchanan and German/American composer Paul Hindemith. Each of the performers pays homage to their own background with English Folk-Songs by Vaughan Williams and a Chinese composition by Lin Chong.

The highlight of the concert will be

Brahms’s magnificent Sonata in F, Opus 99.

The concert, at 2.30pm on Saturday 22 June, is in the Waikanae Memorial Hall. Information 022 3455316 or www.waikanaemusic.org.nz

Otaki Ceramics Festival in June

the Star Glaze Festival, celebrating Matariki,

A Z E GLAZE

and supported by local business this vibrant festival fuses ceramics with the cultural essence of Matariki.

A highlight of the event is the premiere showcasing of nine two metre high panels representing the Matariki star cluster by

rich in cultural symbolism and grounded in recognizable imagery brings to life the

a daylike no-other where horse racing meets pottery. They can enjoy entertainment, unique Kai food trucks, or create their own ceramic Matariki star and more. Star Glaze is a unique blend of culture and art, celebrating the profound connection between earth and sky.

Take in the ‘Finn’s Experience’ this King’s BW!

This weekend is another great chance to have a good time at Finn’s in Paekakariki!

Finn’s is a contemporary cafe/restaurant and bar where you can enjoy the ambience while indulging in tasty cuisine and craft beer.

It is also a boutique hotel of superior studio units with spa baths, king-size beds, microwave, tea and coffee-making facilities so why not book a room for the this long weekend or Matariki?

Finn’s is only a few minutes’ walk from the

Memorabilia of

Head to Paekakariki and take in the sights and sounds of the Station Museum located in the railway station on the main trunk line. See and

Paekakariki railway station which means it is very easy for visitors to travel by train from Wellington making it the ideal getaway destination for that weekend away from the pressures of city life and work.

If you want great food, craft beer – and live music to set it all off then Finn’s Restaurant and Bar is the place to be!

Why not check out the nearby Paekakariki Station Museum while in the village?

Noel Crombie from Split Enz at Paekakariki Station Museum

Railway and General History, and a collection out the photos and stories about local musicians their links to some iconic bands.

Admission is by donation. And pop into

some real gems.

Museum open hours: Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays 11am to 3pm or by appointment. While in Paekakariki head to Finn’s Restaurant for a meal or beer after you’ve looked around the museum. For more information: www.stationmuseum.org.nz

Jane Santos – distinctive mosaics

inspired by her surroundings and the when she was living in the UK after being inspired by the artists at the Mosaic

in Kapiti. Since then she has worked on projects and commissions – a representative group of which she shares with visitors to and glass tiles which are hand cut and applied on sign plywood. These panels are not suited to the outdoors. Outdoor mosaics are by commission only. They are done by the indirect method and do not use wood. G L

After many years of working on art parttime whilst pursuing a career in education, on her art full-time and opened a galler y

Right next to Paekakariki Station!

ACTIVE winter

Little Penguins up close – guaranteed!

Get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures on this conservation based eco-tour. You are guaranteed to see penguins in their natural habitat during the breeding season from September to midFebruary and from

the second week in April throughout winter.

This is a wonderful option for people who wish

to take part in Pohatu Penguins’ monitoring programme and discover more, in depth, about their conservation efforts.

This gives you some great insight into the life of a penguin and the chance to see the birds up close with a unique opportunity to watch them social ising on the water.

After a breathtak ing scenic drive over Akaroa extinct volcano and photo

opp ortunities you will discover tranquil Pohatu Bay where you will set off for a conservation walk and talk around the col ony to monitor nesting sites and make sure that the Little Penguins are doing well.

Then, you will have the unique opportunity to spot some undisturbed from the hides, socializing on the water with provided binoculars and telescope.

With night fall-

ing they have a high like lihood of seeing penguins returning to shore and relaxing on the rocks before heading to their nests. As they have to walk so far to

feed chicks tours leave before dark to leave them in peace.

Prepare to be blown away on their Sea-Kayak Tour!

Kayak around the wild volcanic outer coast of Pohatu Marine Reserve and observe the amazing wildlife such as Little Penguins, New Zealand Fur Seal colonies, Hectors’ Dolphins and many sea birds species.

on mainland New Zealand BOOK

Pohatu Penguins offers unique nature and sea kayak tours from Akaroa, Banks Peninsula. 03 304 8542

021 246 9556 tours@pohatu.co.nz www.pohatu.co.nz Largest colony of Little Peng

TRANQUILITY!

in Otapawa

The Royal Albatross Centre, nestled at the tip of the Otago Peninsula on Taiaroa Head near Ōtepoti Dunedin, is home to a colony of Northern Royal Albatross and offers guided tours to an observatory in the nature reserve to see a section of the nesting site. During the tour, we see giant fluffy albatross chicks sitting in their nests and the chance of parents flying in to feed them once every two or three days. Chicks are here until September when they fledge

Farmstay and Backpackers www.otapawafarmstay.co.nz 255 Haunui Road, Tiraumea, Eketahuna Tel 06 376 7765 Mob 027 741 0108

Glenburn is recognized as one of New Zealand’s truly iconic sheep and beef stations. It is a 7,000 acre property with Glenburn Station offers a range of accommodation, making it the perfect retreat for friends, families and couples.

as fully grown albatross. Hidden underneath the albatross colony is a military fort established in the 1880’s in response to fear of Russian invasion. Optionally added on to the end of the albatross tour, your guide will walk you through the underground tunnels to see the Armstrong Disappearing Gun and learn about the headland’s human history.

The centre also has galleries, a giftshop, café and viewing platforms for all to enjoy.

crop known for its unusual pitted appearance can be seen, or climbed, on the coastal walk. This walk makes an iconic Wairarapa day out. The 11km along the boundary of the farm is one of of the walk’s key features.

While walking the route, visitors can spot the seal colony and check out the remains of a 1960’s shipwreck.

Book a tour with us today!

Five holiday houses ranging from the large Station Homestead sleeping up to 16, Shepherd’s Rest sleeping up on the beach (Russ’s Bach) both sleeping up to 10 and Cook House sleeping up to 16, and Beachcombers Bach sleeps 6 at the north end of the property.

Its well-known Honeycomb Rock, a large, distinctive out-

With rolling farmland, pristine coastline and quiet walking tracks, Glenburn Station is the perfect place to relax, recharge and escape the daily grind. Visitors are welcome to stay in the range of accommodation options available in this rural slice of paradise.

Off the beaten track and set in a peaceful valley with views of the Puketoi Ranges and hill country farmland. Otapawa gives visitors a taste of the country lifestyle.

With both farmstay (optional B & B)) and backpacker a ccommodation available - Otapawa Farmstay and Backpackers is suitable for families, group bookings or backpackers wanting a rural

experience. Otapawa is also able to cater for groups who would like to gather together for a special occasion. Located at Tiraumea on a hill country sheep and beef station. Onehour drive from Masterton. Otapawa makes an ideal halfway stop between Wellington and Hawkes Bay just off Route 52. Campervans and Caravans are also welcome.

Talk to your LOCAL PHARMACY

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KELBURN PHARMACY

DIARRHOEA AND VOMITING

Diarrhoea and vomiting are not diseases themselves but are symptoms that can have many possible causes.

When either diarrhoea or vomiting occurs then the body can lose a lot of fluid and become dehydrated. It is very important to get fluid replacement and become rehydrated again.

There are a number of different reasons for diarrhoea and vomiting to occur.

One very common cause is a gut infection (‘gastro’) from either viruses (e.g.: noravirus), bacteria (e.g.: salmonella), or parasites (e.g.: giardia) from contaminated food or water.

Leaving food out of the fridge, possibly, is a common cause for food going ‘off’ due to contamination. In many cases, the ‘gastro’ is only a short-term inconvenience and the diarrhoea and vomiting tend to go away within a few days.

However if the symptoms go on for longer, then a visit to the doctor is advisable. Vomiting and diarrhoea causes the loss of body fluids and important electrolytes (salts), and if it goes on for a longer period of time can result in dehydration.

Babies under 12 months of age are particularly prone to diarrhoea and vomiting from contaminated food and drink and they can become dehydrated very quickly- for example the bottle of formula milk left out of the fridge.

“Look out”, caution Self Care pharmacists, “for the danger signs of dehydration - dry mouth, tongue and lips, reduced skin elasticity, sunken eyes and cheeks, weakness, little urination.

Children this young need to see a doctor if the symptoms continue for longer than 3 hours (for vomiting) and 24 hours (for diarrhoea).”

The best treatment for ‘gastro’ symptoms is drinking plenty of fluids such as oral rehydration solutions. These contain the right amounts of electrolytes, glucose and water to replace lost nutrients.

“A range of replacement fluids products are available from our pharmacies” advise Self Care pharmacists “and we can provide you with a copy of the Diarrhoea and Vomiting fact card that has helpful advice.”

diarrhoea worse.

Light foods such as dry biscuits, cooked mashed vegetables (e.g. plain potato) dry white toast, boiled rice and clear soup are suggested if hungry and then slowly get back to eating normal meals.

For a few days avoid raw vegetables and fruit, wholemeal bread, fried or spicy food and milk products such as cheese and yoghurt.

Here are some simple food handling and cooking tips, and general hygiene measures to help prevent getting a ‘gastro’ bug or passing it on to others.

Wash hands in hot soapy water and dry them well after going to the toilet, after changing babies’ nappies, and before touching food and preparing meals; have clean utensils and chopping boards; defrost meats thoroughly in the fridge and not out on the bench; keep raw foods in the fridge separated from cooked and ready-to-eat foods; refrigerate all foods until ready to use; use chilly bins with frozen pads inside to keep food cool, and keep them out of the sun; cook meats, especially chicken and other poultry, until the juices run clear and the flesh is no longer pink; cover hot food while cooling, and leave it to cool no longer than 30 minutes before putting in the refrigerator; reheat leftovers until they are steaming hot and only reheat once.

Begin fluid replacement as soon as diarrhoea starts and give small amounts of fluid often as large amounts may not be kept down.

Babies and children should be given a teaspoon of fluid every minute and adults should take a quarter of a cup every 15 minutes. It is best to avoid undiluted sugary drinks as their high sugar content can make

For more information on preventing and treating ‘gastro’-related diarrhoea and vomiting, come and see your Self Care pharmacist. and ask for a copy of the “Diarrhoea and Vomiting” Self Care fact card,. Also visit www.foodsmart.govt.nz for additional food safety and handling advice.

Porirua Stream polluted again

By Frank Neill

Another incident of leaching into the Porirua Stream is being investigated by Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC).

A number of Willowbank residents contacted the council after they noticed discolouration of the stream water on 21 May.

“The Wellington Regional Council Environmental Office attended and said the contamination was from McMud in Grenada Village,” the latest issue of “Glenside News” says.

GWRC confirmed on 29 May that it is “aware of the issue and [is] investigating potential breaches.

“As it is an active investigation

we cannot provide any further information at this stage,” the council says.

A further incident of stream pollution in the Glenside area was spotted on 24 May.

The stream flowing from Churton Park was contaminated with what looked like white paint.

“It appears that someone is washing out paint in the storm water system,” the latest issue of the “Glenside News” says.

“The Greater Wellington Regional Environmental Officer attended, however the culprit has not yet been located.

“This is a regular incident at this stream outlet, with community complaints dating back to 2022,” the “Glenside News” says.

Darrin: 027 2767 691 browndarrin202@gmail.com

The water in Porirua Stream showing the effect of leaching on 21 May. Photo: Supplied.

ON... O WHAT’S

Get your House Exterior and Interior painted!

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

Johnsonville School Enrolments for Terms 3 and 4 of 2024

Enrolment at the school is governed by an enrolment scheme. Applications for out of zone places are now being invited for students wishing to enrol between 22 July 2024 and 18 December 2024.

Series of transport changes coming

By Frank Neill

Plan (RPTP).

Fare capping will be introduced on Metlink public transport services, Greater Wellington Regional Council decided on 16 May.

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

The Board has determined that 10 Year 0 places are available during this enrolment period. The deadline for receipt of applications is Monday 17 June 2024.

If a ballot for out of zone places is required it will be held on Tuesday 18 June 2024.

Please contact Nicola Hunter in the school office for details regarding the application process.

Ph 478 7155 or email: office@johnsonville.school.nz.

This will be implemented when the National Ticketing Solution (NTS) is introduced, expected in Wellington in late 2025.

“Fare capping makes public transport more attractive by effectively offering free travel after you've taken a set number of daily or weekly journeys,” the council’s Transport Committee chair Thomas Nash says. “It's a great way to encourage public transport use and has proven very successful and popular in lots of other cities and regions.“Metlink Explorer Day passes and 30-Day passes will be replaced by fare capping, giving similar discounts to all passengers not just those who can afford passes,” Cr Nash says.

Introducing fare capping was one of four public transport decisions the council made on 16 May. It also decided that cash fares would be progressively phased out, a unit would be established for Metlink On Demand, and that after midnight bus servies would be systematically replaced. Phasing out cash payments for fares would begin after the introduction of the NTS. The NTS will allow passengers to pay fares with credit and debit cards as well as pre-paid public transport cards.

“Cash related crime is a major safety concern for our frontline workers. To protect our bus drivers and train staff we need to start planning to phase out cash,” Cr Nash says.

Only 4% of Metlink fares are currently paid onboard in cash, and it is estimated just 1% to 2% of passengers consistently pay fares in cash onboard. A strategy to phase out onboard cash fares will be developed to provide for the needs of cash reliant passengers, including through targeted engagement, and on the ground promotion of alternative ticketing solutions.

In a change to the RPTP the council decided on 16 May to establish a unit for the Metlink On Demand bus service currently being trialled in Tawa.

This follows the passing of the Land Transport Management (Regulation of Public Transport) Amendment Act 2023, which expands the definition of public transport to include unscheduled (on-demand) public transport and shuttle services. Cr Nash says establishing the unit now will help with upcoming decisions on the future of the Metlink On Demand trial, which has been extended to December.

“We know Metlink On Demand is popular with the community. “It operates in areas without scheduled buses, where passengers hail rides through our app to access train stations, shops, the hospital and other services. “Council still needs to assess the success of the trial but if we want to make Metlink On Demand permanent in the future, it needs to be a unit in the RPTP to attract government support through the National Land Transport Fund.” Following a deep decline in patronage, After Midnight bus services will eventually be replaced by services added to regular Metlink bus routes with operating hours extended earlier in the morning and later at night. Greater Wellington councillors have enabled the change by agreeing to remove reference to the region’s 10 After Midnight bus routes from the Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP). Council chair Daran Ponter says as patronage fell, After Midnight services were reviewed with safety group the P neke Promise and the community.

“The safety of passengers and drivers is our top priority. But with so few people using night buses it’s clear we need to replace them with services that maintain public safety while better serving passenger needs,” Cr Ponter says.

Cash will still be accepted by retailers to buy and top-up public transport cards.

“We’ll do everything we can to help passengers transition to contactless payment methods, which continue to be 25% cheaper than onboard cash fares, easing the cost burden on our vulnerable communities,” Cr Nash says.

“Metlink has already started removing cash from our express bus services and future changes will be made in a careful, clearly communicated and systematic way.” Cash fares will begin to be phased out on trains when NTS ticket vending machines that accept cash are installed at most major stations. On buses, cash fares will be progressively phased out on a route-by-route basis once an agreed set of criteria is developed through the Regional Public Transport

Patronage on After Midnight services, which run on Saturday and Sunday mornings between 1:00am and 4:30am, has fallen 76% since 2006, from about 57,500 to 13,500 per year.

Despite recent advertising campaigns and fare reductions, After Midnight services currently only average about six passengers per bus. Patronage on many night buses falls below the RPTP threshold for sufficient demand, set at ‘Minimum regular use of 4+ passengers per trip’. Feedback from passengers, community organisations and Metlink’s Public Transport Advisory Group indicates a preference for later and earlier services on regular routes at times better suited for shift workers as well as late night entertainment patrons.

Metlink will widely publicise any changes to night buses before they take effect.

Ettiene Kirsty

Wharfies notch up sixth win

By Grant Stephen

The half way mark in the men’s Central Football league has now officially been reached after round 9 results played out over the weekend.

Waterside Karori kept on keeping on yet again and notched up their sixth win with a 2-1 result over Petone at Martin Luckie Park.

It took until 10 minutes into the second half for a goal to be scored and it was Petone who drew first blood in what turned out to be their only score of the match.

Tomas Alvarado replied for Wharfies from the penalty spot 10 minutes later and Lachlan Candy secured the win just 8 minutes from the full time whistle.

Waterside sit in fifth place on 18 points and will have to keep on winning to breach the top three spots for the national summer league.

TFS North Wellington’s more rudimentary task is to avoid the drop zone as they faced and lost to league leaders Wellington Olympic, 4-2 at

Wakefield Park.

It was a close match without doubt but Olympic were comfortable winners in what could have been a much higher scoring game.

Norths scored goals in both halves to Josh Zatorski and Zach Newman respectively and the scores were locked up for most of the game.

Two late goals to Olympic in the final 15 minutes put the match out of touch for Norths, and Olympic now enjoy a two point buffer going into the Chatham Cup round of matches over the long weekend.

The gap has opened up because nearest rivals, Napier City Rovers and Western Suburbs, cancelled each other out, 2-2 at Park Island in Napier.

Miramar Rangers are still in the hunt for a top three finish after travelling to Hutt Park and nabbing all the points over bottom of the table, Stop Out.

Island Bay could not advance their cause either when they went down 3-1 to the Phoenix Reserves.

The league table currently stands as Wellington Olympic 24 points, Western Suburbs and Napier 22, Miramar 19, Waterside 18, Phoenix Reserves 13, Petone 7, Island Bay 6, TFS North Wellington 4 and Stop Out 2.

In the Women’s Central Football League, Waterside Karori travelled to Palmerston North to play Palmerston North Marist.

The trip proved to be very worthwhile with Wharfies coming out with a 2-0 win.

The goals both came in the first half and were claimed by Nikki Furukawa and Carena Oosterbaan.

Waterside sits in fourth spot but have a game in hand.

Wellington United are top of the pops and had a comfortable 3-0 win over Victoria University.

Seatoun have yet to get off the mark after four matches and lost 1-0 at home to Taradale.

Petone and Moturoa of New Plymouth had to settle for a 1 all draw at Petone.

Locals in World Schools Cross Country Champs

A group of local athletes competed in the International School Sport Federation (ISF) World School Cross Country Championships held in Nairobi, Kenya on 12 May.

The event is held every two years and attracted national school teams from around the world with 481 participants representing 21 countries from five continents competing.

The New Zealand national team was selected from athletes who performed well at the New Zealand secondary school cross country championship in 2023 and are still in school in 2024. Wellington’s northern suburbs were well represented with eight local athletes from Wadestown, Ngaio, Khandallah and Johnsonville who attend Wellington Girls, Queen Margaret and Onslow Colleges, selected to compete for the New Zealand schools’ team.

The athletes were competing at an altitude of 1800 metres in warm and humid conditions against a strong

The

Zealand

J’ville’s man of the match

By Frank Neill

Johnsonville’s open side flanker Tyler Hall chalked up an unusual feat when he was named man of the match in his team’s encounter with the Upper Hutt Rams on 25 May. What was rare was that Tyler was in the losing team in their Swindale Shield match, played at Helston Park.

Tawa 35-40 when their opposition also scored a last minute try to break the 35-35 deadlock.

During a match that was closely contested throughout, Johnsonville came from behind in the 66th minute when Finlay Sharp scored the second of his two tries, which Mark Sutton duly converted – one of three conversons he kicked, to give Johnsonville a 17-13 lead over the Rams.

the

Country Championships

Giselle

Maria

Annabel

John

(coach), Juju Moorhead, Maia Holden, Ava Sutherland and Max Doherty. Poppy Healy was absent when the picture was taken.

Photo: Supplied.

contingent of African nations.

Results from the local athletes competing were: Under 15 girls: Juju Moorhead 22nd. Under 18 girls: Ava Sutherland 26th, Poppy Healy 39th, Maia Holden 43rd, Annabel Tuck 45th, Giselle Kenworthy 58th and Maria Relevant 62nd. The girls also placed sixth in the team competition. Under 18 boys: Max Doherty 64th.

In addition to the ISF event, the New Zealand team spent time accli-

matising at altitude in South Africa and Kenya. The team enjoyed local cultural activities and a real highlight was several trips to safari parks and animal refuges. The team was lucky to have, and wish to express thanks for, the support of local businesses, the Olympic and Wellington Harrier Clubs, and the community who helped with fund raising and organisation to enable them to attend. Coach John Cope also accompa-

Another rare feature of the match was that for the second week in a row Johnsonville lost the match through a last minute try, giving the Rams a narrow 25-24 win.

With less than a minute to play Johnsonville had been leading 24-18.

On 18 May Johnsonville lost to

nied the team in Kenya. Both John and Craig Holden (who stayed home) continue to achieve impressive results for local athletes at national and international level. The Olympic Harrier Club welcomes new members coming along to join the club

Upper Hutt replied with a try to move ahead again, however Jacob Kennedy took his team into the lead when he dotted down and Mark converted.

Mark also kicked a penalty. Johnsonville’s next match will see them play Paremata-Plimmerton at Ngati Toa Domain on 1 June.

and junior training squad.

The club competes year-round in cross country, road running and track and field. Information and Contact details are listed on the club web site. For more information see www. olympicharriers.nz.

Action from the match between TFS North Wellington (wearing maroon tops) and Wellington Olympic. Photo: Jermacsz.

New

team that competed in

World School Cross

(from left)

Kenworthy,

Relevant,

Tuck,

Cope