31 August Independent Herald

Help save lives

By Frank Neill

How to reach us

Phone (04) 587 1660

Address 23 Broderick Rd, Johnsonville Wellington6037 www.independentherald.co.nz

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Frank Neill herald@wsn.co.nz

027 490 3916

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Sam Barnes sam@wsn.co.nz 587 1660

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Samaritans helps thousands

Continued from page 1.

A telephone helpline, Samaritans was launched in Wellington in 1965 and in its 58 years has helped tens of thousands of people.

“Our volunteers take thousands of calls annually from all over New Zealand,” says Crofton Downs resident Gillian Ransom, Wellington Samaritans Fundraising and Marketing Officer.

“We are totally funded by donations.

“”We don’t receive any Government funding, even though we contribute to the mental health system in Aotearoa.”

The 80 Wellington Samaritans volunteers respond to people calling for help for any reason.

They listening without judgement 24 hours a day.

They take referrals from specialists when they cannot help themselves.

“We help people cope,” their 2022-23 Impact Report states.

“We take action to prevent crises.

“We connect with people to save lives.”

During the year 10,047 calls were answered by Wellington Samaritans, covering 5,561 hours.

“They are a wonderful organisation who for many years have been supporting people in Wellington,” Johnsonville resident and former Wellington

Mayor Justin Lester says.

Justin shares his story on the importance of talking when people have an issue.

“Most people I know are silently battling with demons that affect their mental health,” he says.

“It’s time to break the silence.

“I want to share my story, in the hope that it encourages others to open up too.

“I was 11 years old when my dad committed suicide.

“It’s affected me ever since.

“For seven years, I lacked the courage to talk to anyone about what happened to my dad.

“I was embarrassed. I was ashamed. I was even afraid I’d do the same thing one day.

“Finally, after moving to a new country, I realised that keeping it all inside wasn’t helping me. So I started to talk.

“It took 10 years before I opened up to my friends about what had happened.

“And do you know what happened? They listened, they supported me, and they didn’t judge me.

“It was a turning point, and I felt a sense of relief I hadn’t experienced in years.

“I’ve come to understand that it’s okay to talk about our struggles. In fact, it’s more than okay – it’s essential.

“We might like to believe we’re strong and can handle everything on our own - that we

should toughen up and just get on with it.

“But there’s no shame in seeking help or sharing our feelings with someone we trust.

“My dad’s story taught me a vital lesson: it’s crucial to reach out for support when things become too much.

“He might still be with us if he had sought help or talked to someone about his pain.

“Today, I’m committed to supporting the Samaritans to spread awareness about mental health.

“Let’s create an environment where talking openly about our emotions is encouraged, not stigmatised.

“It’s time to break the silence. It’s okay to talk,” Justin says.

The Northern and Western suburbs feature strongly in leading the Wellington Samaritans

initiative.

As well as Lester, who has been the orgnaisation’s Champion (Ambassador) for more than three years Karori resident Allan Frost chairs the Wellington Samaritans Board Churton Park New World sponsors the Samaritans appeal, and has done for the last few years.

And Gillian, the Fundraising and Marketing Officer, lives in Crofton Downs.

Samaritans still needs collectors in a series of areas, including Johnsonville Mall, New World Khandallah, Karori Mall, New World Thorndon and Tawa New World, Gillian says.

If anyone is interested, they should contact Gillian at marketing-wellington@samaritans. org.nz or 021 1978 002.

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

As a Wellington-based MP, I get to host a lot of local schools at Parliament. Seeing the world through the eyes of students of all ages certainly gives a different perspective. Their knowledge of politics is often governed by what they see overseas, especially of Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin; hardly surprising as they are the most high-profile world politicians who dominate their screens and social media. That’s why these trips to their own Parliament are so important. It makes me reflect on the value of teaching civics in schools so that knowledge of politics is not dominated by people like the headline-grabbers from overseas. I’m always impressed by just how much the kids take in here, and I do have considerable faith in our future from the quality of the insightful and informed questions I am asked. Speaking of schools, I

was recently invited to Rewa Rewa School in Newlands to see some great work being done to create a biking and athletic area on their top field. The school caretaker is working with the Principal and outside organisations to build this facility which will benefit the whole area when complete. There really is a lot happening at every level in every area.

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.

Saturday was the last day for North Wellington Netball at Newlands Intermediate and College schools this weekend. Other than for some particularly bad weather days, primary and intermediate school teams from Karori to Tawa come and go from 8 am until early afternoon in a seamless operation, to play some quality netball. It comes about from the magnificent leadership of the organising committee, and volunteers. It’s what makes the area work so well.

Former Wellington Mayor Justin Lester.

Photo: Supplied.

Please reach out to Lizzie Scott to explore the opportunity further

Could you open your door to someone in needand turn your spare room into extra cash?

Fashion show packs town hall

By Frank Neill

The Khandallah Town Hall was packed to capacity as Save the Children presented a fashion show on 20 August.

The show was held to raise funds for both Save the Children and Khandallah’s Cornerstone Community Centre.

The very popular event raised more than $4,000.

During the show 12 models strutted the catwalk, modelling everything from evening wear to jeans.

Retailers Tea Pea, Vincent De Paul and Hamilton & Murray Boutique showcased Spring 2023 collections to a room full of happy customers who enjoyed refreshments made by the Cornerstone Community Centre volunteers.

Wellington Ballet provided amazing performances by the ballerinas trained by Khandallah’s Monique Koorey.

Wellington Ballet’s studio is at the Khandallah Bowling Club, and provides ballet classes for children aged two years through to adults.

Music for the evening was co-ordinated by Andy Binns of Hype Entertainment Ltd.

Local businesses also donated vouchers for raffles that helped raise funds during the evening.

Tea and tales

Tea and tales is a friendly Newlands group that meets from 10am to noon on the first Wednesday of the month at the Newlands Community Centre.

The group’s next meeting is on 6 September.

The group includes people with an interest in books, travel and friendship and they sit down for a cuppa and a chat.

There is no need to book and entry is free, For more information phone 04 477 3724.

Support group

The Suicide Loss Support Group – a peer support group for adults bereaved by suicide – meets at the Newlands Community Centre from 7pm to 9pm on the second Wednesday of each month. The next session is on 13 September. For more information phone Nerys on 027 340 8579.

Send

Ngaio’s sustainability expo planned for November

An expo at Ngaio Town Hall will showcase what people are doing in response to climate change and will also promote sustainable lifestyles on 11 November

The expo is the result of a partnership between the Ngaio Crofton Downs Residents’ Association and Wellington City

Council (WCC).

Community groups and WCC will be: celebrating the range of awesome projects active in the community; making council resources available to the community; having a space for commu-

nity climate conversations, supported by the council; and increasing the profile of the local Going Carbon Neutral project.

“We are in our early days of planning, but do keep an eye out as this date comes closer, the Ngaio Crofton Downs Residents’

Association President Ian Turk says.

This Saturday being the first of the month, will be the residents’ associaiton’s next recycling collection day at the Ngaio Union Church.

“This month we will also be collecting e-waste, so it will be a

good opportunity to get rid of the old bits and pieces lying around your home,” Ian says.

“More information on what we collect can be found at our website ngaio.org.nz.”

For any more information on anything above email Ian at info@ngaio.org.nz.

Toni Shanks on the catwalk during Save the Children’s Khandallah fashion show.

Photo: Supplied.

Kerryn Dunshea shows off an outfit during the Khandallah fashion show. Photo: Supplied.

Former Herald journo in comedy debut

Former “Independent Herald” journalist and Johnsonville resident Megan Connolly is about to perform her debut sketch comedy duo in Wellington.

Megan has teamed up with Nina Hogg to form Ginge & Minge (www.gingeandminge. com) and they will perform their debut show “Fame or Die” at Te Auaha, 65 Dixon Street from 19 to 23 September.

In “Fame or Die”, Ginge & Minge promise laughs, and in return, the devil will spare their souls and make them insanely famous.

The show has wild premises, big characters, musical numbers, gay stuff, and tries to answer the age old question: “do you ever want to take your brain out and drag it through grass?”

“It’s a combination of our very stupid sense of humour and our genuine love for sketch comedy,” Megan says.

“If you’re familiar with ‘Saturday Night Live’ you’ll know that sketch comedy shows are a variety of sketches (or skits) that are based on a singular premise that stand alone from one another and often heighten to absurd lengths.

“We wanted to do sketch comedy instead of an improv show because you have more opportunities to portray a wider and weird range of characters but with the ability for bigger set pieces and reveals,” Megan says.

“And wigs. We really like wigs,” Nina adds.

“Fame or Die” promises to be a wild ride that showcases the pair’s electric chemistry and brings an alternate form of

comedy to the capital besides just stand up and improv.

Megan and Nina are sketch and improv comedians that have been honing their comedic voice together for the last three years.

Recently, they performed in their first New Zealand International Comedy Festival with Jez & Jace, an improv show about two rural lads who go on a road trip that unearths their romantic feelings for each other.

They also featured in the Loud & Queer line-up at the St James Theatre with hosts Judy Virago and Tom Sainsbury.

“We love working together. Being on stage together always feels like magic and it’s very easy,” Megan says.

Tickets to “Fame or Die” are available now via Te Auaha Events.

Meet the candidates

By Frank Neill

A series of “meet the candidates” meetings will be held in Wellington’s northern and western suburbs in September.

The Karori Residents Association and the Rotary Club of Karori are jointly hosting a meeting at the Karori Baptist Church at 7:30pm on 26 September.

Karori is in the Wellington Central electorate and seven candidates are standing for Wellington Central.

They are Scott Sheeran (National), Ibrahim Omer (Labour), Tamantha Paul (Green), Natalia Albert (Op-

portunies), Michael Appleby (Legalise Cannabis), Taylor Arneil (NZ First and Meg Lim (Vision NZ).

When this issue of the “Independent Herald” went to print five candidates had confirmed they would attend – Scott Sheeran, Tamantha Paul, Ibrahim Omer, Natalia Albert and Taylor Arneil.

The Johnsonville Community Association is hosting a “meet the iu electoral candidates” meeting on 20 September.

The meeting will be held at the Johnsonville Community Centre, Moorefield Road from 7:30pm to 9:30pm.

The doors will be open from 7pm. All the iu candidates have confirmed their intention to attend.

Six candidates are standing in the electorate. They are curren iu MP Greg O’Connor (Labour), list MP Nicola Willis (National), Jessica Hammond (Opportunities), Martin Jenkins (Protect & Prosper New Zealand), Patrick Lim (Vision NZ) and Stephanie Rodgers (Green).

The event will also be live streamed on YouTube.

The Wadestown Residents’ Association is hosting a “meet the candidates” meeting on 18 September.

It will be held at St Luke’s Church

Hall, 34 Pitt Street, starting at 7pm. The doors to the hall will open at 6:30pm.

Wadestown is in the electorate.

The Ngaio Crofton Downs Residents’ Association is hosting its “meet the candidates” event at the Ngaio Town Hall at 7:30pm on 29 September.

“This will be an opportunity for our residents to meet the candidates who have put themselves forward for the general election to represent the iu electorate,” the association’s Chair Ian Turk says.

“Past meetings have been well

represented by candidates and residents with plenty of good questions being answered, so we are looking for the same again, in what is appearing to be a close and important election.

We have had a good response from our local candidates this year.” Two meetings will be held in Khandallah, both at the Khandallah Town Hall.

The first will be held on 19 September from 7 to 9pm and the second on 20 September from 1:30 to 3:30pm.

Khandallah is also in the iu electorate.

Khandallah Presbyterian Church Hall, Ganges Road, opposite New World

Megan Connolly (left) and Nina Hogg in a scene from “Fame or Die”.

Photo: Tom Noble.

Crystallising with the community

A unique and popular Wellington health and well-being shop the Capricorn Spirit will celebrate its first anniversary tomorrow.

Located on Willis Street, the Capricorn Shop specialises in stocking natural crystals that help with spirituality and emotional and physical healing.

Owner Susan Cameron opened the shop as a second outlet to her existing Levin shop to provide not only a retail point for Wellingtonians but also as a sacred space for people to share the energy within the shop away from the hustle and bustle and stresses.

The Capricorn Spirit supports the community by allowing the upstairs areas to be used to give readings, healings and run workshops.

Some workshops offered are crystalogy, sacred geometry and gridding, Reiki, shamanism and drum making.

Anyone interested is welcome to register but places are limited so you do need to book.

With an interest in energy healing and crystal for years Susan decided to make a change from corporate work in 2017 to selling and teaching about crystals.

The Capricorn Spirit has crystals, rocks, stones, and fossils from around the world, Items range from between $2 and $8 for tumble stones, right up to several thousand or more for larger geodes and rare crystals.

All stock is authentic, natural and non-dyed.

There are tarot cards, books, incense, sprays, white sage and ceremonial cacao for sale as well.

Susan believes the healing properties of the crystals and energy healing is about providing holistic health and is complementary to and not necessarily an alternative to western medicine.

The Capricorn Spirit wants to support the wider community as well so sponsors families for the “Special Children’s Christmas Party” each year.

Wonderful choral entertainment

Reviewed by Cate Williams

The Wellington Male Voice Choir hosted a concert at Tawa College on 20 August with guest choirs Pacific Connection, Voces Luce and Blue Notes.

The concert was opened with a cultural themed set performed by Pacific Connection directed by Chad Va and Henrietta Tagaloa-Hunkin.

The group, recently returned from performing and competing in the United States, had the audience beaming with delight at their pitch perfect and beautifully varied range of songs.

Their second competition set at the end of the concert demonstrated why they can boast 8th place in the world in harmony chorus.

Queen Margaret College Voces Luce followed on, directed by Mark Stamper and accompanied by Louise Logan, once again showcased their talent for switching between languages and genre.

They sang in four different languages or five if you include Sign Language. Their set was both thought provoking and fun with two particular highlights in “Hoj! Hura Hoj!” and “Ain’t No Grave can Hold My Body Down”.

Tawa College Blue Notes performed next, directed by Issac Stone, and the selection of songs had the audience transported on a wave of glorious harmonies and then back to foot tapping contemporary storytelling.

Both Voces Luce and Blue notes are off to compete in National Competition in Auckland and we wish them all the best of luck.

The Wellington Male Voice Choir, as always, introduced some new numbers to their repertoire as well as giving us another powerful and polished rendition of ‘The Awakening’.

They too sang in several languages and much credit is given to Bob Bevan Smith for his solo in ‘God of Grace and God of Glory’ as the only choir member who speaks Welsh.

A highlight in the new songs was the men’s performance of ‘Danny Boy’ accompanied by Tim Jenkin on the Flute which added a haunting component to the beautiful rendition.

This wonderful concert was rounded off with all four choirs on stage joining together to sing ‘Hutia te Rito’ a fitting end to a truly wonder evening of entertainment.

The Capricorn Spirit on Willis Street.

Photo: Steve Maggs.

The Capricorn Spirit’s owner Susan Cameron. Photo: Steve Maggs.

Labour wants financial literacy to be taught at school. What other “life” subjects should be taught?

Celebrating Filipino language

By Frank Neill

Filipino language month was celebrated at Johnsonville’s Collective Community Hub on 26 August.

There was an excellent turnout to the celebration, hosted by the Dames of Rizal Wellington Chapter in partnership with the Hiyas Wellington Cultural Group. The evening featured entertainment, with Filipino dancers and singing, a

Art to remember Hiroshima

Artistic expressions of hope for an inclusive world by children all over Wellington marked the anniversary of Hiroshima Day this year.

The children’s art featured in the exhibition T manako! Children’s Art. Works for a Peaceful World at Johnsonville Community Centre next to theWaitohi Community Hub. manako! (meaning “Hope!”) is an annual children’s exhibition which commemorates Hiroshima Day in August.

future,” the event’s organiser Anahera Gildea says.

“More than anything else, we need this.

“We need the rangatira of the future to feel that they have agency- that they can make a genuine and impactful difference in the promotion of peace.”

The theme for anako this year is “Kotahi te no whakaaro, he nui n hua o t au houhou rongo” (one seed of thought grows the forest of peace).

Filipino quiz and guest speaker Greg O’Connor.

Dames of Rizal is a member of the Multicultural Society, and the celebration was multicultural, with other ethnicities as well as Filipino attending.

That included Chinese and Malaysian people, while children from as young as six years also were at the event.

Filipino language months runs through August.

Trek Laser Tour

Launched in Wellington eight years ago, manako exhibitions are now held across New Zealand every year in August.

“In a rapidly changing world of global crises and challenges, an exhibition like anako! encourages young people to voice their hopes and dreams for a better

More than 400 children from various communities and schools across the Wellington region submitted over 450 artworks for this event.

Mayor Tory Whanau lent her support by being a co-emcee together with two students from Wadestown School at the opening event on 11 August. The exhibition ran from 11 to 31 August.

Stacy Cooper Mindfulness and meditation. Regulating the nervous system.

Joanne Gibbs

How to feed a family. What to do with leftovers. How to store produce before using it.

Gemma Amsler

I’d like cooking to be taught in (primary) schools.

Clinton Chiffers

How to look at packaging and price per kilo or litre at the supermarket or gas station. Cooking basics to achieve affordable meals and healthy eating.

Aimee Moore

How to be a parent – we’re all just winging it.

Karen Swartz Cooking.

Some of the many who attended the celebration of Filipino Language week in Johnsonville. Photo: Supplied.

Some of the artwork on display at Tūmanako! Children’s

Works

Peaceful World. Photo: Supplied.

Learn the art of mosaics

An introduction to the Art of Mosaics with Rachel Silver will be held at the Karori Arts and Crafts Centre, 7 Beauchamp Street from 10am to 4pm on 23 and 24 September. The two-day workshop for beginners will have an emphasis on mosaic processes and materials.

This basic instructional workshop offers the beginner a solid foundation in the materials and methods necessary for doing traditional mosaic artwork.

People attending will learn the different ways to cut glass and ceramic tesserae and experiment with styles and methods such as ‘’trencadis’ (Gaudi Style) and

’adamento’ (the visual flow and direction produced by placement).

People will be able to design and create their own unique small mosaic artwork to take home.

The workshop is suitable for complete beginners, though some experience is also welcome.

All people need is a passion for colour, texture, and creativity.

“We focus on cutting tiles, placing the ‘tesserae’ into a compositional design translating ancient Roman type mosaics with a contemporary twist,” the centre says.

Double Glazing with German uPVC Joinery

A finished mosaic. Photo: Supplied.

Fighting Winter Blues? YIP!

Hey Everyone! Winter has made its late appearance and everyone we are all wearing the Winter Blues reluctantly. With a sick wife and new born at home, it is important to do our best to get through this patch of cold weather. Here are some quick tips to keep warm at home.

1. Seal Air Leaks

One of the biggest culprits of heat loss is air leaks. These leaks can occur around windows, doors, and even electrical outlets. To prevent heat from escaping your home, it’s important to seal any air leaks you find. You can use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps around windows and doors. Old, uninsulated ceiling downlight housings also leak air, so it may be a good time to switch to LED.

2. Check Insulation

Insulation is essential for keeping your home warm in the winter. If your home is poorly insulated. Insulating ceiling space and under the house makes a massive difference. Check that nothing is moved and there are no gaps. If you have gaps, it would be like putting on a blanket with holes. Get yourself a roll of insulation and top up it up.

3. Efficient Heat-pump Use

Rather than just turning on your heat pump on high when you are cold and turning it off. A better way to use your heat pump would be to keep it on a low setting over time. I personally leave it on low heat at 20 degrees, and it takes the chill out of the whole area, this has made a difference to the power bill.

4. Trim Plants

Apart from the obvious need to paint and clean your exterior cladding, one area that most people forget about is clearing soil/paving/plants away from the cladding. Anything that is covering your wall cladding or soaking up against it will be creating moisture issues on your property. This is caused by the dampness left on the cladding and condensation inside the walls. Cut back plants away from

the house, and let your house breathe a little.

5. Air out the house!

Sometimes it may feel counter-productive, but making sure your house has fresh air is also important when dealing with damp, humid rooms. If you have that teenager that never opens a window, the recycled dampness will be making the room colder than it needs to be. A quick air-out and avoiding drying laundry inside will make a big difference.

Wellington Winters can be harsh, especially when a southerly wind hits, but hopefully if you prepare nice and early this year, you’ll stay cosy right though. If you ever want to discuss the maintenance of your property or the Real Estate market in general, get in touch – love to hear from you!

Have a great week!

Top award for Capital Kiwi

The release of 63 kiwi around M kara last November has seen The Capital Kiwi Trust Board take out the top prize at the 2023 Wellington Airport Regional Community Awards.

The awards were presented at a ceremony auranga o Aotearoa on 29 August.

Since 2004, Wellington Airport and the five local councils have come together for the awards every year to recognise outstanding mahi and to celebrate volunteers for their valuable contribution to the community.

Mayor Tory Whanau is grateful for this opportunity to say cheers to all the volunteers.

“P eke is so lucky to have so many amazing volunteer community groups and individuals selflessly contributing positively to our arts, culture, environment, recreation, education and well-being, and this is our chance to acknowledge that incredible mahi.

“All our winners are legends, but Capital Kiwi are so deserving of this Supreme Award, having really captured the heart of the nation and provided Wellingtonians with a sense of ownership and pride in the unprecedented success of this world-leading project.

“Protecting our natural environment and native wildlife, especially the iconic kiwi, is a win for our city, our future, and our connections with Toit Te Taiao.”

Nominations are submitted to a panel of judges (Deputy Mayor Laurie Foon, Wellington Airport’s Manager Brand and Sponsorship Jo Maxwell, and Council’s Empowering Communities Manager Vondy Thornton,) with the Supreme winner and the five category award winners going on to represent Wellington in the nationwide Regional Awards in November.

Co-judge Jo Maxwell says the airport was

proud to celebrate the outstanding work of community groups in Wellington City over the previous twelve months.

“These groups do amazing mahi to help others in the community and thoroughly deserve recognition for this,” she says.

Capital Kiwi released a further 25 kiwi in M ara on 9 May this year.

“Police urge caution with scam email circulating”

Police are aware that an email scam has re-emerged, that references Police and other justice sector partners.

The email claims authorities have done a search of the email recipient’s computer and located explicit illegal material.

The recipient is directed to reply within 48 hours or a warrant will be issued for their arrest.

This email is a scam and anyone who receives it should not reply under any circumstances.

Although some versions of the email do not specifically reference money, other similar scams involve the recipient being issued a ‘fine’ when they respond.

While the nature and specific details of scams often varies, it’s important to note that Police and other government

agencies will never contact you out of the blue and ask for your password, credit card or bank details.

Police have received several reports of this scam and enquiries are underway.

Anyone who received this email scam is asked to send it as an attachment in an email to the Police Cybercrime Team: cybercrime@police.govt.nz

Police recommend taking a cautious approach to unsolicited emails.

Trust your gut instinct - if it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

Information on other scams currently operating can be found on the Consumer Protection NZ website: www.consumerprotection.govt.nz/general-help/ scamwatch(link is external)

Consumer Protection NZ, along with Netsafe, also provides helpful advice about keeping safe online

Kiwi handler Peter Kirkman with one of the birds just after they were welcomed to the capital at Pipitea Marae.

Photo: Jonathan Hill.

When you think of blood pressure, think of water in a hosepipe. A certain amount of pressure is required to get water from a hosepipe so in the same way it’s important for us to have blood pressure so that blood can be circulated around our body.

The first published measurement of blood pressure was made in the 18th century, although it wasn’t until about a hundred years later that it was suggested that high blood pressure could be the cause of disease.

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension may eventually cause health problems such as heart disease, stroke, heart failure and kidney failure.

During the course of the day our blood pressure goes up and down depending on a number of things, including what we are doing, how busy or how stressed we are, our physical activity and also the amount of caffeine, alcohol and tobacco being taken. Therefore when measuring blood pressure it means that several readings may need to be taken.

People are considered to have high blood pressure when repeated measurements show a raised reading above a certain level and stays at a higher level even when they are relaxed and sitting quietly.

The problem with high blood pressure is that often people do not experience any symptoms at all and feel quite well, until the blood pressure is very high and causing other health issues. This is why it is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly.

This can be done by your pharmacist,

(HYPERTENSION)

doctor or nurse. Blood pressure should be measured at least once a year if you are over 40 years of age, or more often if you already have high blood pressure.

There is no such thing as one “normal” blood pressure measurement, but there is a range which is considered desirable. When your blood pressure is measured two readings will be obtained. If the lower of these two readings (the diastolic pressure) is greater than 90, then treatment may be recommended.

The upper reading (systolic pressure) is

Return to public ownership proposed

Bus infrastructure in greater Wellington may return to being publicly owned.

This follows a decision by Greater Wellington Regional Council to consult with the public on this as part of its upcoming 2024 Long Term Plan process.

The council made this decision at its meeting on 24 August.

Currently, key public transport assets such as depots, buses and charging infrastructure are privately owned and operated as part of existing service contracts.

However, Greater Wellington has plans to increase control over these assets to enable faster and more integrated investment in bus services across the region.

Greater Wellington’s Chair Daran Ponter highlighted the importance of communities having their say on the future of the region’s bus network.

“As communities will know, public transport plays an incredibly important role in connecting people and places, as well as a pivotal role in mitigating the impacts of climate

change.

“The more people we can move with the fewest vehicles, the better, and to be able to do that we need the right infrastructure in the right place.

“To enable rapid growth to both the size and frequency of our network we need certainty over critical transport infrastructure and their timely investment,” Cr Ponter says.

When it comes to scaling up public transport and cutting transport emissions, communities need to be thinking 10, 15 and 20 years into

usually over 100, but varies and usually increases with age. A few people with early-stage hypertension may experience dull headaches, dizzy spells or nosebleeds. However these symptoms generally don’t occur until hypertension has reached an advanced stage. The only way a person can find out if their blood pressure is high is by having it tested regularly.

For 90-95% of adults with high blood pressure, the cause is not known and high blood pressure tends to gradually develop over many years.

Some people are at higher risk of high blood pressure because of their age, their race and their family history, all risk factors which cannot be changed. However there are other risk factors which can be changed and these include being overweight, doing very little exercise, smoking, alcohol consumption, salt intake and stress. High blood pressure can’t be cured, but it can be controlled. For all of us this means a healthy lifestyle and for some it also means taking medicines as well.

There are a number of different medicines currently available and these medicines generally have to be taken every day on a regular basis and it is important not to miss taking any of them.

If you are unsure about your blood pressure or any of your blood pressure medications then talk to your Self Care pharmacist and get your Self Care card on High Blood Pressure. It may be a good idea to get your blood pressure checked at the same time.

the future and making investment decisions now to enable sustained growth into the future, Thomas, Nash, Chair of Greater Wellington’s Transport Committee says.

“When key bus assets, in particular bus depots, are owned across multiple private companies with fixed term contracts, developing an integrated and longer-term investment strategy for critical infrastructure can be challenging.

“We need to ensure that key assets remain available for public transport use, and we need to work with

various partners so critical electricity infrastructure is in place as we continue to electrify our bus fleet and prepare the ground for mass transit in the future,” Cr Nash says. Communities will be able to have their say on bus infrastructure ownership, and a range of other topics key to the work of Greater Wellington across the region, as part of the public consultation on its Long Term Plan.

This consultation is currently scheduled for the first quarter of 2024.

Big changes coming to Jville Club

Why not think about something for Father’s Day from Ngaio’s new gift shop?

By Ryl & Roy Gift Shop owner Cathryn Usher

Why name a gift shop Ryl & Roy?

Ryl & Roy were my grandparents. My Nanny Ryl was a wonderful dressmaker. She worked from home and looked after me when I was little when my mother, a solo parent, needed to work.

I loved nothing more than hanging out with Nanny, playing with her buttons, and

making things from the scraps of fabrics she had left over. I named the shop in a homage to her and my grandfather, Roy. If you love local come and see us!

GIFTS Galore!

Something a little different, made with love

By Johnsonville Club Manager Barry Morrison

Johnsonville Club is going through a renaissance. Where is the Johnsonville Club you ask? We’re that big building up on the rise behind the Collective Hub and beside the giant Norfolk Pine. Plans are developing for a major refurbishment – we are committed to being an active member of our community.

Our members pay an annual subscription, with access to over 300 much more than other hospitality venues such as members’ cash draws, darts, snooker, and poker clubs. If dancing is

your thing, we have weekly line and sequence dance groups. We are the home base for Johnsonville Softball during the summer months.

We have the usual treats of your suburban local. A fully stocked bar, bistro, gaming machines and a TAB. The best part is you won’t pay commercial prices. Our major objective is to provide a comfortable, safe, and friendly environment for our members and guests that is easy on the wallet. We are a family-friendly club with free soft drinks and colouring packs for the kids.

So come see us up Norman Lane. We’re open every day, bistro from Thursday to Saturday evenings. Check our website www.jclub.co.nz.

Cozy and friendly at the Innkeeper

With winter still lingering now is the time to experience the open fire and hearty meals of the Innkeeper!

Locals regard it as an ambient and friendly pub setting, where the staff are eager to learn your name, and prepare your favourite drink from their extensive range! The restaurant features hand-cut steaks, roast beef, pork belly, mouth-watering burgers, the best fried chicken,

Repairing clothes to as good as new

At Sewing Alterations (part of the Attire for Hire premises in Johnsonville) Judy Liddell can see to your rips, adjustments, darning, lining or whatever might be holding you back from wearing that special item. Judy is Wellington’s answer to TV’s “Repair Shop” programme!

Judy also runs Attire for Hire and is an expert in having you look great for your next big event – whether it’s dresses for the women or suits for the men. She has a vast array of glamorous dresses and evening-wear from sizes 6-26 including brand new dresses from the United States.

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and plenty of kids’ meal options. They specialize in catering for large groups, fundraisers, and birthday parties. Contact them today to organise your next outing!

Enjoy a Guinness, craft beer, or top shelf spirits at a bar leaner or on the

They are Johnsonville’s favourite local, now in their 25th year of trade!

Why

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Scottish Country Dancing

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

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Newlands Primary School

Notice regarding out of zone enrolments for Term 1 2024

Enrolment at Newlands Primary School is governed by an enrolment scheme, details of which are available on our website https://newlandsprimary.school.nz/enrolments/. The Board has determined that up to 10 places are likely to be available for out of zone new entrant students wishing to commence during Term 1 2024 (30 January to 12 April 2024). The exact number of places will depend on the number of applications received from students who live within the school’s home zone. The Board has determined we also have a number of spaces still available for new entrants from Term 4 2023 (09 October to 15 December 2023).

For students seeking enrolment to commence school during Term 4 or Term 1 2024 deadline for receipt of applications for out of zone places is 9:00am Friday 15 September 2023. If the number of out of zone applications exceeds the number of places available, students will be selected by ballot. If a ballot for out of zone students is required, this will be held on Friday 15 September 2023. Parents will be informed of the outcome of the ballot within three school days of the ballot being held.

Parents of students who live within the home zone and intend enrolling their child should notify Newlands Primary School as soon as possible to assist with planning. Students who live in the home zone are entitled to enrol at the school at any time.

Speed limit increase proposed

Faster journeys to the iti Coast and beyond are in the pipeline.

Waka Kotahi is working to see if speed limits can be increased to 110 km/h on the Mackays to Peka Peka and Peka Peka to aki expressways next year.

Increasing the speed limits on the Transmission Gully may also be considered.

A speed management technical review of the Mackays to aki expressways is being done and the intention is to make a decision on speed limits for the expressways in early 2024, Emma Speight, Waka Kotahi’s Director of Regional Relationships, says.

“The review, along with public consultation, will see if it is appropriate to increase the speed limit on these expressways without compromising driver safety.

“We can consider increasing the posted speed limit when a road is designed and constructed to modern safety standards.”

Ms Speight says.

New higher speed limits can only be considered for roads designed and constructed to the necessary standards and only after comprehensive review and consultation.

Raising the speed limit to 110 km/h is subject to the review finding the increase is safe and appropriate. It also requires technical and safety reviews and public consultation to be carried out through a Speed Management Plan.

The Director of Land Transport at Waka Kotahi must also be satisfied the road can be safely maintained and operated at a higher speed.

The aim is to wrap this work into the State Highway Speed Management Plan 2024-27,” Ms Speight says.

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

Your Local News

Please contact the school office for enrolment packs - email admin@newlandsprimary.school.nz, phone 461 6900, visit 200 Newlands Road, or via the website.

Death Notices

LEITCH, Valerie Ann (Val): Aug 20, 2023 SMITH, Merle: Aug 28, 2023

E: grahamspaintersnz @gmail.com

W: www.grahamspainters.nz Ph: (04) 564 9202 021 183 9492

Funeral Directors

Puzzle

Before the new sections of State Highway 1 were built, there were over a thousand crashes on the old highway route between 2008 and 2022, Ms Speight says.

Of these, 10 were fatal and 55 were serious.

“The number of crashes on the new expressway between Mackays Crossing and Peka Peka has fallen dramatically following its opening in 2017. 166 crashes have been recorded, with no fatal crashes and only seven serious crashes.

“Since the opening of Peka Peka to i Expressway last year, there have only been four minor crashes on the route,”

THURSDAY

“This means we should be able to release a decision later in 2024. If approved by the Director of Land Transport, we can then begin implementing any changes,” Ms Speight says.

While Te Aranui o Te Rangihaeata –Transmission Gully is also built to the same high safety and operational standards and early indications are that the crash numbers reflect the same improvement in safety. Its speed management review will not start until its remaining project works are finished.

Technical and safety reviews and public consultation would also need to be completed before any increase to its posted speed limit could be considered.

How do you get finger prints?

A person’s fingerprints are formed when they are a tiny developing baby in their mother’s womb. Pressure on the fingers from the baby touching, and their surroundings create what are called “friction ridges”, the faint lines you see on your fingers and toes.

7. Alien (7)

11. Lowest point (5)

12. Italian wine (7)

13. Latin American dance (5)

14. FIll with delight (9)

15. Abode (9)

16. World’s largest river (6)

18. Mobile home (7)

21. Sinistral (4)

23. For every (3)

25. Jack (in cribbage) (3)

27. Neat (4)

28. Castrated horse (7)

30. Became bitter (6)

32. High mountain (3)

33. Evil spell (3)

34. Puzzle (6)

35. Large grey goose (7)

36. Cross between a grapefruit & a tangerine (4)

37. Deed (3)

39. Petrol(inf) (3)

41. College official (4)

43. Diplomatic (7)

45. Young people (6)

48. Advancement (9)

49. Crouching down (9)

51. Take in & feed(livestock)

for payment (5)

52. Mythical creature (7)

53. Bony plated marine fish(Europe) (5)

54. Skilled workman (7)

55. Hell (6,5)

DOWN

1. Stupid (5)

2. Deceitful (11)

3. Tip of graduates hood (8)

4. Desert plant (6)

5. Yellow-green colour (5)

6. Drink of red wine & fruit juice (7)

7. Cattle breed (8)

8. Cure (6)

9. Vast (7)

10. Loop (5)

16. Changed (7)

17. Overlook (7)

19. Snake (5)

20. Posy (7)

22. Hot spirit drinks (7)

24. Corded cloth (3)

26. Spar (3)

29. Brandy liqueur with almonds (5)

31. Conservative party member (5,6)

32. Wing (3)

33. Witch (3)

38. Habitually silent (8)

40. Left-handed person(inf) (8)

42. Writer of love (7)

44. Stress (7)

46. Adages (6)

47. Pear-shaped fruit (6)

48. Italian syndicate (Americas’ Cup) (5)

49. Sprout (5)

50. Gluttony (5) Solution

Last Week 24 August 2023

Wharfies the women’s champions

By Grant Stephen

Women’s Central League football is all wrapped up for another season and Waterside Karori stand alone at the top of the table after slugging out a 1-1 draw against their nearest rivals, Wellington United.

With United uncharacteristically losing a mid-week catch up game on 16 August, it was all to play for on 26 August.

Kaley Ward got Wharfies on the board 27 minutes into the game at Newtown Park and it was almost an hour on the clock before United squared things up.

The deadlock could not be broken and United’s hopes of winning the league by one point were dashed.

Karori took out the title with a final tally of 35 points, leaving United on 33 points.

In other matches in the final round, Petone powered past Seatoun 3-1, Palmerston North

Marist travelled up the road to Taradale for a 4-2 win and Mana Coach Services North Wellington enjoyed a 2-1 win against Victoria University.

United still have the Kate Sheppard national knock out cup to contend for in September.

Just as importantly, Waterside and United will go through to the women’s national summer league along with the Wellington Phoenix. It’s not over yet for the best teams in the region.

In the men’s Central League, it is going down to the wire in terms of top four spots for the national summer league and relegation to the Premier League.

In the penultimate round of the season, league leader, Wellington Olympic showed no ill effects of their road trip when they travelled in Park Island and had a comfortable 4-1 win over Napier City Rovers.

With the Wellington Phoenix Reserves winning 2-1 over Western Suburbs, the only certainly at this late stage in the season is that Olympic on 43 points and the Nix on 34 points have their places locked in for the summer competition.

Napier (30 points), Petone (29) and Western Suburbs (28) still are chasing the remaining two spots. Waterside Karori stopped Petone in their run for the top four with a 4-3 victory.

Leo Villa, Tomas Alvarado and Seth Ward were at their best once again and each scored a goal.

Conor Butler got the winner for Waterside right on the 90-minute mark.

Stop Out had a comfortable 3-1 win over TFS North Wellington at Hutt Park.

Henry Sinclair got Norths only goal when he converted a 70th minute penalty. The situation

bizarrely came about when a Stop

Our defender picked up the match ball while it was still in play in the penalty area.

The Assistant Referee had no trouble in reminding the player concerned that the ball has to go completely over the line to be adjudged out.

Miramar was at home on the range and enjoyed a comfortable 5-1 win over Whanganui

Olympic Harriers win medals in Aust

Five junior members of Olympic Harrier Club recently represented New Zealand Secondary Schools Athletic Association (NZSSAA) at the Australian National Cross-Country Championships, winning two golds, one silver and one bronze medal.

The championships were held in Canberra on a fast but undulating purpose-built course at Stromlo Forest Park on 26 August.

The local representatives in the NZSSAA team, all from Wadestown, Ngaio and Khandallah were Max Doherty (17 years men), Lucy Jurke (under 20 years women), Amy and Kate McHardy and Ava Sutherland (all 17 years women). All Wellington based representatives compete for the Olympic Harrier Club based in Johnsonville and are all coached by John Cope.

First off were the 17-years women with a 4km race over two loops of 1.5 and 2.5km laps.

The Australians started fast and pushed hard up the first hill with Ava holding her position in the top 10 of the field and Kate and Amy following not far behind. Over the following lap Kate moved up through the field with Amy keeping a steady pace over the race. The girls ended up with Kate placing sixth. Ava 10th and Amy 19th.

Max was off next in the 17-years boys 5km race with the pace on from the start and a few Kangaroos to contend with on the course.

The hilly course suited Max and he moved up the field throughout the race steadily picking off the competition. Max ran his best race of the year and managed to finish in 12th place in a very competitive field.

Max’s team also won silver in the team competition, only beaten by the

Queensland team.

Finally Lucy, competing in the under 20-year women, 6km race set off late in the day. Lucy ran strongly through-out the race and picked up 17th place in a very strong field. Lucy’s team won gold in the 5-person team event with all members of the team placing high in the finishing order.

The competition also included relays and a time trial on Monday 28 August with all the athletes competing again.

Amy, Lucy and Ava’s team, along with two other team-mates won bronze in the under 18-year women relay with Ava bringing it home over the last lap and passing the third placed Australian team in the last few metres of the race, having bought back a deficit of around 100 metres over the 2km leg.

Max’s relay team (running in the under 20-year men) fought hard over the race with frequent changes to the leading order over the 5 legs. Max’s effort saw the team retaining the hardfought position towards the front and the team managed to finish strongly to take the silver medal.

The result of the weekend was still to come though, with Lucy competing in the Under 20-year women time trial event.

The race was over a lung busting fast and flat 2km course with athletes

running to post the best individual time over the course.

Lucy managed to run the race of her life to win the under 18 women individual gold medal at the Australian Nationals.

A special mention needs to be made of John Cope, the coach of these local athletes for the past five years.

John’s coaching and time dedicated to training the athletes as part of his squad at Nairnville park several times a week has been a significant part of these young athletes making the NZSSAA team this year. John’s athletes made up 5 of the 24-member New Zealand team.

John and fellow coach Craig Holden train a group of over 60 young athletes who are part of the Olympic Harrier Club several times a week. In addition to the five current year New Zealand representatives, John and Craig have several younger athletes who are looking very likely follow these five in making the New Zealand team in the coming years.

The Olympic Harrier Club is welcomes new members coming along and joining the club. The club competes all year in cross country and road running and track and field. Information and contact details are listed on the club web site.

Athletic.

It is anything but comfortable for Whanganui and North Wellington as they both remain in danger of relegation.

Norths are still in ninth spot on seven points and a better goal differential by five. Whanganui are on five points and must win at Wembley Park against Karori this weekend to enjoy a consecutive season in the league.

Love Tennis an event for everyone

By Frank Neill

Love Tennis is the theme of a day of entertainment at the Newlands-Paparangi Tennis Club, 26 Black Rock Road, on 10 September.

Open to anyone, Love Tennis runs from 10am to 4pm.

With a range of fun games, including a “beat the club coach” competition, the emphasis is on fun, not just tennis.

A large number of prizes will be handed out, including vouchers from Rebel Sport and Hell Pizza, while New World has donated a large gift basket.

As well as the spot prizes, everyone who registers at the event will go into a draw to win tickets to the 2024 Australian Open.

The activities are not all that will be on offer. There will also be a sausage sizzle throughout the day.

People who sign up as new members during Love Tennis will also receive a 20% discount on their memberships fees. Junior membership will drop from $140 to $112, adult social membership from $170 to $136, adult senior club membership from $230 to $184 and family membership from $430 to $344.

More information on Love

Tennis is available at https:// lovetennis.tennis.kiwi/index. html.

The Newlands-Paparangi Tennis Club will feature their new turf surfaces at the Love Tennis day.

The new surface has cost the club $90,000 and has been funded by both club fund-raising and grants from both the New Zealand Community Trust and Pub Charity, who provided $55,000.

Fund-raising for the new turf “has been a huge focus for us over the last few years,” the club’s President Cameron Shirley says.

The fund-raising has included quiz nights, family events and sausage sizzles. “It’s been a real effort,” Cameron says.

The club is now in good heart, in contrast to a few years ago when decreasing membership threatened it with closing.

However it has significantly increased its membership over the last few years.

The club’s focus is also different to many other tennis clubs.

“Our focus is less about performance on the court. It is more about inclusivity and developing beginners to the game.

“We are about the experience rather than the capability,” Cameron says.

Action from North Wellington’s match against Stop Out, who are in the red shirts. Photo: Terry Douglas.

The successful Olympic Harriers team (from left): Lucy Jurke, Kate McHardy, coach John Cope, Amy McHardy and Ava Sutherland. Photo: Supplied.

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