Absolutely outrageous
By Frank Neill
“To add insult to injury, the council want to take community raised money and use it on another project. Continued on page 2.
Last week’s Wellington City Council decision to stop the Karori Event Centre fitout is “absolutely outrageous,” says the Chair of the Karori Event Centre Trust Heather Baldwin.
Standing outside the unfinished Karori Event Centre Isabella George (left) and Aun Hasnain (right) whose families have contributed to the centre, donor Gary Parsons and Heather Baldwin, the Chair of the Event Centre Trust. Photo: Supplied.
Repairs | Resize | Remodelling | Freecall 0800 233 299 Wellington Waterfront, 42 Lady Elizabeth Lane.
How to reach us
Phone (04) 587 1660
www.independentherald.co.nz
REPORTER
Frank Neill
herald@wsn.co.nz 027 490 3916
NATIONAL
SALES
Sam Barnes
sam@wsn.co.nz 021 109 4406
SALES
Steve Maggs
steve@wsn.co.nz 027 765 8303
SALES
Brenda Ingram-Johnson brenda@wsn.co.nz 021 640 152
CLASSIFIED SALES
classifieds@wsn.co.nz
Effectively theft of community asset
Continued from page 1.
“It’s a complete betrayal, and effectively theft of a community funded asset by the council,”
Heather says.
The Karori Event Centre was developed with over $2.2 million in funds raised by the Karori community.
It was then gifted to WCC based on the fiscal commitments it has previously made to support the project.
The Event Centre was developed with the council’s agreement and as a way of honouring their commitment to use the St John’s site for community benefit.
That site, on the corner of Karori Road and Campbell Street, was partially gifted to the council for community use in 1999 by the Methodist Church.
The three community halls that stood there have since been demolished.
In 2013 council agreed to sell the land and put the money into a new community hall, if the community raised $1 million. The community did that, and went on to raise a further $ 1.2 million.
“Here we are, nearly 12 years later, and I understand that site has only recently been sold,” Heather says.
“The slow progress by the council to sell the St John’s site was why we eventually went to them in 2019 with a proposal that, instead of waiting to sell the land, council simply provide $800,000 in fund-
ing to get the building finished.
“We had expert advice that it could be done for that price and in six months,” Heather says.
“Continued lack of progress was why, in 2022, we agreed to a different arrangement and gifted the building to the council.
“This was based on their commitment to include $1.9m (a figure council provided) in their budget and to finish the building themselves.
“Two years later, the Event Centre is still unfinished.
“Now, they’ve decided to pull the funding.
“I am in no doubt council will eventually sell it – probably to a developer.
“Because of their slow progress, we don’t have a finished Event Centre and now they have decided to betray their promises to Karori,” Heather says.
“Instead council will take the proceeds of the multi-million dollar asset they were given by the Karori community explicitly for community use.”
People and philanthropic organisations gave over $2.2 million to build the Event Centre, based on the promises by the council.
Now Councillors have asked council officers to give advice on options to allocate $1 million to other Karori projects to compensate the donors for killing the project.
One of those donors is long time Karori resident Gary Parsons, who gave more than $100,000.
“I gave my donation for the Event Centre, not for some other hair brained idea that council might now have,” Gary says.
“I gave that money knowing that the council had promised funding for the building.
“I am devastated by the decision to pull the funding and to not deliver on their promises.
“I can’t believe Councillors could even contemplate such a blatant betrayal, not just to people that gave funding, but to the community of Karori and the organisations that gifted them assets for the community’s use,”
Gary says.
The Trust that fundraised and built the Event Centre met on Monday night, 2 December, and the members said they were
appalled at the disrespect council was showing for Karori and this project.
“We hope the council will come to its senses and not only reinstate the funding, but get the building finished and open,” Heather says.
She acknowledges this is going to be a challenge with only Councillor Ray Chung voting against the removal of the funding.
“I think we suffered greatly from not having a Karori based councillor.
“When it came to the horse trading Councillors did last week to keep their pet projects in the budget, our community lost something council had promised and been committed to for years,” Heather says.
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
It was good to see that the Khandallah Pool and the Grenada North sports-field upgrade survived the latest cuts from the Wellington City Council’s Longterm Plan rewrite. In a debate featuring ‘nice to haves’ versus essential services, it can be argued that given the lack of any natural swimming holes accessible to our locals, and the massive benefits of people being able to play sport, these are keys parts of the respective communities. I was in Christchurch recently, and whereas before I was warning about downtown Auckland finally becoming vibrant and thriving, Christchurch is the same. Both threaten to bypass us as entertainment destinations. The council needs to balance the requirement to invest in our infrastructure with ensuring we
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.
continue to be an attractive city to visit and live in. We won’t need pipes if no one is living or visiting here. Our magnificent harbour and vibrant arts, IT, and entertainment scene, which keep the downtown bustling, have always been our advantage and can be again. We can’t keep raising rates to pay for everything, and will always have to prioritise, but keeping our city centre especially, as a place locals and visitors flock to, has got to be up there along with fixing the infrastructure. We must be Wellington’s best advocates, because we are competing with other cities for all the things we need to keep our kids and grandkids here. The updated Long-term Plan will be out for consultation early next year, and we all need to have our say.
St John’s Methodist Church, which was gifted to Wellington City Council for community use. Photo: Supplied.
Khandallah pool about to open
By Frank Neill
The Khandallah swimming pool will open for its 100th season on Saturday 7 December.
This follows a decision by Wellington City Council’s Long-term Plan, Finance and Performance Committee on 26 November, which did not include the pool in the projects it plans to cut.
This is the second time this year that councillors have voted to keep the pool, despite council officers recommending the opposite.
Wellington City Councillors voted overwhelmingly on 30 May not to include closing the Khandallah Swimming Pool in its Long Term Plan (LTP).
The council’s Long-term Plan, Finance and Performance Committee saw 17 members vote against including the pool closure in
the LTP while just one member voted for the closure on 30 May.
Khandallah Pool can now look forward to a big celebration of its centennial this season, and a series of special events are being planned.
In preparation for the season opening, members of the Save Khandallah Pool team and Rotary held a working bee at the pool on 29 November.
At its meeting on 26 November, the council’s Long-term Plan, Finance and Performance Committee decided to retain the $7.9 million budget to upgrade the pool.
Following the council’s decision in May to proceed with a technical review of the options for seismic remediation and upgrade of Khandallah Pool, council officers are procuring an independent infrastructure engineering
consultant from the All of Government (AoG) panel to assist.
To help with this, the council has set up an Advisory Group with three members from the council and three members from the community.
The work will be in two parts.
Stage 1is an independent cost estimate of the current scheme to renew Khandallah Pool.
Stage 2is an analysis of any possible alternate schemes that will meet the regulatory requirements and geotechnical assessment of the conditions of the site (options analysis); specifically, attempt to find an alternative and less expensive option that achieves the objective of extending the life of the pool while meeting regulatory and safety requirements.
A report will be provided to the council in early 2025 to determine the next steps.
The Khandallah Swimming Pool. Photo: Sharon Major.
Better consultation by council needed
Issues surrounding Civic Square and other contentious projects like the Begonia House and the Golden Mile highlight a broader concern, and that is that Wellington City Council (WCC) is not “adequately collaborating with a significant portion of Wellington’s community,” says Wellington City Councillor Diane Calvert.
“Public concerns about Civic Square are widespread and multifaceted, encompassing both technical and community considerations.
“These concerns are exacerbated by a consultation process that many believe lacks transparency, viable alternative options and genuine engagement.
“Folding such decisions into the Cr Diane Calvert. Photo: Supplied.
Long Term Plan process might be organisationally efficient, but it does little to address public discontent or rebuild trust.
“Our aspirations for Civic Square and similar projects must be tem-
pered with financial reality.
“Wellingtonians are facing tough times, and as representatives, we need to prioritise investments that have the greatest impact,” Cr Calvert says.
“This is especially true given the large budgets associated with projects like the Golden Mile, Civic Square, waste management, and social housing.
“It’s clear that difficult cuts are inevitable, and we must focus resources where they will provide the most value, not on initiatives that lack community support or require further careful consideration.
“The Civic Square consultation process also underscores an ongoing issue with how we engage the public
as it appears to have discouraged meaningful input by presenting limited options and failing to provide timely, comprehensive information.
“This reinforces the perception that decisions are predetermined, further eroding public confidence in the council.
“Transparency and inclusivity must be at the forefront of our decisionmaking.
“We must address the weakened link between community feedback and council decision-making if we are to rebuild trust,” Cr Calvert says.
Last week one elected member remarked on the council having ‘too many mayors.’ “In the case of Civic Square, it seems we may have too many engineers.
“This is what happens when clarity is missing. It leaves a void that everyone tries to fill.
“Given this council no longer has a ‘city engineer’, it is difficult to land on one view in the current situation.
“In conclusion, WCC needs to reflect on how we can approach contentious issues like Civic Square and the Begonia House with greater collaboration and consensus-building.
“I appreciate there is no simple solution on how we do this but we need to find a better way sooner rather than later.
“This is critical not only for addressing current challenges but also for ensuring the long-term credibility and success of the council’s work,” Cr Calvert says.
Kelburn has the top restaurant
By Frank Neill
Kelburn’s Graze Wine Bar was named the top restaurant at the Welly Hospo Awards on 2 December.
Not only that but Graze’s co-owner Max Gordy won the Outstanding Chef Award at the awards evening, held at Foxtail.
Located at 95 Upland Road, Graze Wine Bar is a funky neighbourhood eatery that offers delicious wines with thoughtful and ethically focused bites in a relaxed local setting.
It is also a very environmentally conscious business, passionate about reducing waste and recycling as much as it can.
Everything takes place in a cozy 25 seat wine bar and restaurant.
The Welly Hospo Awards were organised by people within the industry after the organisers of the annual Felix Wellington Hospitality Awards announced it was postponing the 2024 awards until 2025.
Following the announcement, a small group of Wellington hospitality owners got together and organisedThe Welly Hospo Awards.
They set up a PledgeMe campaign and raised more than $10,000 in less than a
day, ensuring the alternative awards event would take place.
The award winners were chosen
Correction
In last week’s issue of the “Independent Herald” there was a spelling mistake in the article on the 20 November Johnsonville meeting, which ran on pages 1 and 2.
The name of Wellington City
by a vote of people who either work in hospitality or who supply to hospitality.
Council’s Chief Planning Officer was incorrectly spelled. His name is Liam Hodgetts, not Liam Hodges as it was spelt in the paper.
The “Independent Herald” apologises for this error.
When you have lost someone dear to you, anniversaries and the times you were happiest are often the times you are at your saddest.
Come and join us at our service of remembrance and gather strength from others. This Christmas let us support one another.
Graze Wine Bar co-owner Max Gordy (on the left) at work in the top restaurant. Photo Supplied.
Transforming lives
cbm New Zealand (Christian Blind Mission) is transforming the lives of adults and children with disabilities living in remote communities in the world’s poorest places.
When you were a child, what did you dream of doing when you grew up?
7-year-old Kyle from the Philippines said, “I want to play basketball.”
But for Kyle, this dream was slipping away… because he was going needlessly blind from cataracts.
Early intervention is crucial for restoring Kyle’s sight, as children can permanently lose their ability to see perfectly if cataracts
aren’t treated quickly.
Together, we can help ensure people with disabilities are not left behind. Please will you consider sending a gift of $35 today, transforming the lives of people with disabilities in the world’s poorest places.
But your generosity today can make a difference, turning blindness into sight.
Please consider helping to bring the miracle of sight-saving cataract surgery to adults and children like Kyle living in the world’s poorest places.
To learn more about cbm, go to www. cbmnz.org.nz/kyle.
Update from your local city councillor
Long Term Plan
The council is currently progressing its long term plan amendment which will come out for public consultation in March/April 2025
I’m pleased to have got money put back in for footpath upgrades and the native plant nurse and laboratory at Otari-Wilton’s Bush
I was not successful in amendments to reduce the Golden Mile project, in cycleways or in pushing out introduction of organics collection and processing
to upgrade Khandallah Pool within the previous budget of $8 million. In the meantime the pool is open for the summer season
New Toilets at Ian Galloway Park (south end by dog park)
These are being built and should be operational by Xmas
Begonia House and Civic Square
Many of you have contacted me about these icons of Wellington. WCC needs Begonia House with greater collaboration and consensus-building.
better way sooner rather than later. This is critical not only for addressing current challenges but also for ensuring the long-term credibility and success of the Council’s work.
Happy Holidays
I wish you and your families a very happy Xmas and a relaxing break over summer.
Please get in touch if you have a question or concern 029 971 8944 | diane.calvert@wcc.govt.nz www.dianecalvert.nz | /dianecalvertnz
Please get in touch if you have a question or concern 029 971 8944 | diane.calvert@wcc.govt.nz www.dianecalvert.nz | /dianecalvertnz
Authorised by J Owens, 22 Agra Cres, Wellington 6035.
Authorised by Diane Calvert, dianecalvert.nz (Wharangi/Onslow-Western Ward)
Mum and Kyle. Photo: Supplied.
inbrief news
Christmas carols
Khandallah Presbyterian Church is holding Carols in the Carpark at 6pm on Friday 6 December.
The evening will feature festive carols led by the Wellington Brass Band, with sweet treats and a free sausage sizzle.
For more information visit www.thevillagechurch.co.nz.
The Churton Park Christmas Carols will take place on Saturday 7 December.
The event will be held at Churton Park School Hall from 6pm to 7pm. Entry is by gold coin donation, with the proceeds being given to Life Flight Trust.
People interested in helping with the carol evening can email secretary@churtonpark. org.nz. This community event is sponsored by real estate company Team Churton.
The Ngaio Community Christmas Carols will be held at 7pm on Sunday 8 December at the Onslow Community Church, 4 Ngatoto Street. This community event has been organised by the local Ngaio churches.
NEWS TIPS
Send your tips to herald@wsn.co.nz
LETTERS to the editor
Local student excels in essay competition
Karori student Jayathi Jaiganesh has been shortlisted in the prestigious John Locke Essay Competition for the second year in succession.
Her outstanding submissions resulted in her being awarded a commendation certificate in both 2023 and 2024.
This accomplishment has placed her among the top young intellectuals, with her thought-provoking essays showcasing her analytical depth, originality and exceptional critical thinking skills. In 2024, Jayathi’s achievements are more significant considering that out of approximately 35,000 submissions received globally, just 5,800 essays were selected. In 2023 Jayathi tackled the junior category’s thought-provoking question: "If you had $10 billion to spend on making the world better, how would you spend it?"
Her response was a socially conscious and ambitious blueprint aimed at addressing global
Letters on issues of community interest are welcomed. Guidelines are that they should be no longer than 150 words. Email them to news@wsn.co.nz. Please note that your name must also be provided in e mails.
Jayathi
plied.
challenges, demonstrating her deep sense of responsibility and her ability to approach complex issues with a creative, yet practical mindset.
In 2024, Jayathi advanced to a more complex topic in political philosophy, exploring the question: "How did it happen that governments came to own and run most high schools, while leaving food production to private enterprise?"
This essay demonstrated her capacity to engage with historical and societal factors, presenting a
Karori Event Centre
Dear Editor,
nuanced analysis of governance, education and private industry.
By examining the roles of government and private enterprise, Jayathi showcased her impressive ability to break down complex systems and offer thoughtful perspectives on their development.
In addition to receiving the commendation certificates for her essays Jayathi has also earned a partially funded competitive scholarship to attend a summer programme sponsored by the John Locke Institute.
The John Locke Essay Competition, named after the renowned 17th-century philosopher, is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious competitions for young thinkers. The competition encourages students to think beyond the confines of their traditional school curriculum and engage with some of the most pressing issues of our time. By challenging young people to formulate well-reasoned arguments on topics related to politics,
I refer to the article in last week’s edition giving background to the Karori Event Centre and Wellington City Council undertaking to use best endeavours to complete its fitout. It seems to me that councillors must not have had this information before voting last week to remove funding to complete the centre from the Long Term Plan.
philosophy, and global affairs, it fosters intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and communication skills – qualities that will serve participants well in their future academic and professional pursuits. For Jayathi, the recognition she has received in the John Locke Essay Competition is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting academic journey. Her success serves as an inspiration to young people everywhere, urging them to explore opportunities that promote personal growth, intellectual development and global awareness.
By pushing the boundaries of their knowledge and engaging with important global issues, young thinkers like Jayathi are helping to shape a more thoughtful and informed future.
As she continues her academic journey, Jayathi is already proving to be a future leader in the realm of critical thought and philosophical inquiry.
As one of those who donated toward the over $2.2 million raised by Karori residents, I am saddened that this much needed facility has been cut at this stage. I certainly don’t want to see my donation used for some other Karori project. I am hopeful our Karori Community will work hard over the next few months to convince council of the good value the Event Centre will deliver through what is a pretty unique arrangement – a community facility opened with community raised funds in partnership with funds from council. Allan Frazer
Christmas Lunch
Expressions of Interest for attendance
65+ non working residents of the Johnsonville, Newlands, Grenada Village, Broadmeadows, Paparangi, Churton Park, and Glenside area 13th or 14th December from 11.45am Numbers are limited to 110 people per day
Johnsonville Community Seniors
Jaiganesh. Photo: Sup-
Onslow history –Tyers Stream
By Felicity Wong
Alfred Tyer opened a tannery and fellmongery (processing hides) in Ngauranga in 1865 on the banks of a stream, later to bear his name.
The small tributary flows into the Waitohi Stream in Ngauranga Gorge.
Tyer altered the stream’s channel to get a direct flow for his business.
The water was used in tanning and afterwards it was “fouled” by dirt, decomposing flesh and noxious chemicals.
The area was a centre for slaughtering animals (as it still is), and associated industries, including a manure works.
Another early industry, the Wellington Meat Preserving and Refrigeration Company, next door to Tyers tannery, also used the water.
Some time in the 1880s Tyer built a dam to provide a more steady flow.
Tyer sold his successful business with its “water rights” in 1906 to W Dimmock and Co, ham and bacon curers.
They built a new freezing and refrigeration plant on the site, and in 1909 commissioned W O Beere, civil engineer, to arrange for a new concrete dam and reservoir.
The mass concrete dam was among the first in the Wellington region to depart from the nineteenth century timber, earth and masonry dam design.
The reinforced concrete arch dam remains today.
It is an unusual example of a commercially built and operated dam within a public recreation reserve.
The reserve is a large fairly steep landlocked area between the rear of several Ngauranga business premises and Delhi Crescent Khandallah.
One of the businesses helps the Tyers Stream Restoration Group with access.
Otherwise it’s a scramble over some concrete blocks to an overgrown paved road leading up to the dam.
The Tyers Stream Restoration Group
has been planting the stream banks with natives from the Wellington City Council’s Berhampore nursery.
They would welcome more volunteers.
The group is dedicated to improving the stream’s health by planting and weeding.
When the group conducted a scientific survey of fish, they found longfin eel, shortfin eel, Koara (type of whitebait), and Koura (fresh water crayfish).
The group wants further habitat assessments to be done and for a decrease in the impact of urban land use and stormwater runoff on the stream’s ecosystem.
The group wants Wellington City Council (WCC) to prevent increases in impervious surfaces (concrete, roofs, roads), which are proven to lead to degraded catchment and stream ecosystem health.
Already there seems to be an absence of fish from parts of the catchment where just a few years ago they lived.
The Tyers Stream Restoration Group would like to see more funding at a local and regional level for practical stream habitat improvement directed and managed at a catchment level, and incentives for property owners to protect riparian vegetation and better manage stormwater quality and quantity.
There’s also a sewage pipe that travels down with the stream which in some places smells like it leaks.
In the 1970s WCC talked about creating better public access to the reserve from Khandallah, but hasn’t made any progress on public accessibility.
The headwaters of the stream are high on Mount Tarikaka (Kau Kau).
It flows through Khandallah Park, the bowling green, under the railway near Khandallah Station, to Delhi Cres where it disappears behind some houses before flowing down the steep hill, through the public reserve, to Ngauranga far below.
A big shout out to the Tyers Stream Restoration Group. The group’s Facebook page is at https://www.facebook.com/share/hKJDu2UinqXVKcsD/?mibextid=LQQJ4d.
NEWLANDS INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL
Time to Celebrate
It is timely to share some of the successes and achievements our school has had this year. We have seen some outstanding academic achievements this year along with talented and spirited contributions on the sports field and in the community.
10 awards in NIWA Science
top 10 finish in Mathswell
8 students to the national final of Otago Problem Solving Elsie Saunders won Young Reporter for the Environment 2024 95% of our current year 8 students are reading at age or above
a group of our students participated in a Hackathon, a day spent trying to solve an environmental issue...with the help of AI. Our students came 2nd in New Zealand, despite being the only school students.
our kapa haka group opened a national conference, performed at the local library, took part in 3 kapa haka festivals
our rock bands performed in BandQuest, and Intermediate Rocks with great success and applause
a large group of dancers competed at a national competition - DanceNZMade Runners competed and earned places at every running event they participated inincluding AIMS Games
a group of students participated in a televised programme called Extreme Cake Makers with great success
our students have supported and contributed to community initiatives - Predator Free Newlands, Rebuild Jay Street Gardens, the local foodbank, 0800 What’s Up our attendance is consistent at 90% each day
Deadline Sale Closing 4pm 11th December 2024
This is a must see property to appreciate how much effort has gone into reaching this standard. Completely renovated 2 bedroom home that will wrap you in warmth, light and security when you step inside the front door. The views will test your vision and all year round sun will help provide the vitamin D so needed for good health. This ‘apartment like’ home has been renewed to a standard that you may not even find in a new build.
At ground level to the Street, 2 steps to the deck then inside. Double Glazed windows, internal outside walls insulated and new gib. New coloursteel Roof, Rondo flooring/ ceiling for downstairs with soundproofing in between and so much more. 2 Beds | 1 Bath | 70m2 Floor | 372m2 Land
Very easy to view or visit our open homes on Sundays 12 noon till 1pm.
or
A view of Tyers Stream. Photo: Supplied.
5 Tips to be ‘House Safe’? YIP!
Hey Everyone! Hope you are all well and gearing up for the holiday season! As most are packing up for a holiday, we are about to launch a great selection of properties for the market. This is a wonderful market, where a lot of people out-of-town/international buyers are looking. So, if you are still thinking about property get in touch – we are working right through the holiday period (including Christmas / New Years Day).
This week I want to share with you a few quick tips to keep your property safe over the holiday period if you are planning to go away:
Cameras – With modern, wireless technology, it is now cheaper and easier than ever to have your house monitored 24/7. They are super easy to use and install – Plus! it even sends you a notification to your phone whenever there are any movements. So, you can have full peace of mind when you are relaxing on holiday. Also particularly handy with deliveries and keeping an eye on pets during the day!
Mailbox – Stick up a no newspaper/ junk mail sign or have someone clear your mailbox for you. A bulging/full mailbox, with an old newspaper sticking out, is a quick giveaway that no one is home.
Social Media - We know it’s tempting to share your holiday adventures on social media, but posting about your trip can alert burglars that your home is empty. Avoid tagging your location or sharing real-time updates on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Wait until you’re back home to share your pictures and memories. For those who can’t resist sharing on social media, consider setting your profiles to private, so only trusted friends can see your posts.
Lights – Outdoor sensor lights are very affordable now and are simple to install,
these can add to the effectiveness of your security cameras, plus a light turning on will deter anyone snooping around. You can even get timer switches, so strategic lights inside/outside automatically turn on/off at important times. If you are unsure, always seek help from a qualified electrician.
Neighbour – Let your trusted neighbour know you are leaving, so if they see anything suspicious – they will know to notify you. Drop them a bottle of wine, they may even clear your mailbox for you too. Also, double-check doors/windows before leaving (it is very common to leave a sliding door unlocked)! We are very fortunate to be living in a relatively safe neighbourhood, but sadly there are a lot of opportunists who make the most of the holiday period to commit crimes. If you are ever unsure about the security of your property, you can enlist some professional help, they can also assess how secure your windows and doors are as well. We are working right through the holiday period, so if you did have some downtime over the holiday break and wanted to talk real estate, get in touch – love to hear from you!
Written by William YIP
to Broome 11 days, departs 18 August 2025
Graceland, Nashville, Tupelo
9 days, departs 20 September 2025
Package includes:
5 days, departs 5 October 2025
Council to consult on series of cuts
By Frank Neill
Wellington City Council will consult the public next year on a series of proposed cuts, including stopping the Karori Events Centre fitout and repairing the Begonia House. At the Long-term Plan, Finance and Performance Committee, Councillors and Pouiwi voted on 26 November that the following proposals be put forward for public consultation: stopping the Karori Events Centre fitout, and providing further advice on next steps for the building; removing the budget for repairs to Begonia House, with a business case on future options to be prepared; delaying the strengthening of the earthquake-prone Bond Store, which houses Wellington Museum, for seven years, and investigating an alternative site for the museum; extending the delivery timeframe for the remainder of the Bike Network from 10 years to 20 years, with a focus for the next three years on delivering what is already in train and a separated bike connection east-west and north-south across the central city; removing the City Streets budget, for bus, bike and pedestrian improvements in the central city and on key arterial routes, from 2027/28 onwards;
reducing funding for strengthening earthquake-prone buildings in Te Ng kau Civic Square; continuing with resource consent for the redevelopment of Frank Kitts Park, and capping the council’s contribution to the proposed Fale Malae at $5 million;
reducing funding for community facilities building upgrades (part of the Te Awe Mapara Community Facilities Plan); and delaying the suburban centres upgrades programme to begin in three years, but retaining some budget for minor beautification works and planning.
Initial estimates suggest the proposed changes would provide up to approximately $400 million in savings, with detailed financial implications to be outlined in December.
The draft budget for the amendment is set to be approved on 17 December and consultation material will be finalised in March 2025.
Wellingtonians will get to have their say via a public consultation period between 20 March and 20 April.
The council will make its final decisions once community feedback has been considered, with the amendment to the Long-term Plan scheduled to be adopted on 26 June 2025.
Future of kindergartens at risk
A group of people from Johnsonville kindergartens visited Nicola Willis in her Johnsonville office on 28 November to outline their concern about proposed changes to the early childhood sector.
They asked Ms Willis to represent them as their local list MP andto take their concerns to Associate Education Minister David Seymour.
The group delivered statements from their kindergarten families and teachers about their concerns with proposed regulation changes, funding reviews and removal of kindergarten from the state sector.
“The future of kindergarten as a movement is at risk,” the group says.
“We are asking the government to put children first and at the centre of early childhood education.
“Children are not commodities or profits for private business from public money at the expense of families.
“The government is reviewing regulations, has plans to review funding, and the Associate Education Minister David Seymour has made statements opposing pay parity and union-negotiated provisions.
“David Seymour has also suggested Early Childhood Education (ECE) operators should be able to choose how many staff to employ, whether they are qualified, and what to pay them rather than having that set down in regulation as it is currently.
“We believe that quality is 100% trained teachers with low ratios to ensure quality care and education, unrushed time with children and parents.
“We are very concerned that he has also questioned the purpose of some of the regulations that are about safety, for example medicine and nappy charts.
“We believe that it is important to document medicine given, food, sleeps and nappy changes for the well-being of children and
communication with parents.
“This will undermine children’s safety and well-being.
“The Early Childhood Council has called for kindergartens to be taken out of the state sector, despite that being outside of the regulatory review parameters.
“Expectations are that kindergartens will be removed from the state sector as an easy way to save money at the expense of kaiako.
“This is under the guise of fairness across the whole ECE system.
“We believe the whole of the early childhood sector should be part of the state sector and part of a nationalised collective agreement like our colleagues in the primary sector.
“We are concerned that our collective agreement KTCA may not apply, including KTCA provisions such as professional development, cultural allowance for M ori speakers, non-contact time, head teacher release, extra sick leave.
“This will impact children and families. A teacher’s working conditions are a child’s learning conditions.
“Pay parity across the ECE sector will not be achieved.
“The private sector want to drive down teacher wages/salary so owners, shareholders and overseas investors can make more money.
“Most of our sector is privately owned, much of it by big companies and including overseas investors. We do not believe our children are commodities to make profit off from public money.
“By removing kindergarten from the state sector the impact for our wh nau and communities is that quality of care and education for their children will be undermined, parent fees will need to rise, [and] those children most at risk will have reduced access to ECE,” the group says.
Toys for children at Xmas
Tawa Menshed members Keith Gibson and Pete Manson have been making toys from scrap wood and would like help to make more toys.
The Salvation Army has agreed to accept and distribute the toys to needy families at Christmas time.
This home is one of the most spacious three bedrooms you'll find. Located in the sought after suburb of Newlands, and within easy reach of shopping, schools and the motorway, families do not want to miss this one.
From the moment you arrive, the street appeal of 10 Edgecombe will draw you in. As you step inside, to your right you'll discover an open plan lounge and dining area which adjoins the kitchen - the perfect space for family gatherings. The kitchen offers abundant storage, with the convenience of quick gas cooking
Deadline Sale Thursday 19th December, 2 00PM
For people who can help, plans will be provided and there is plenty of material in the shed or the container.
People who can spare a little time to help can contact Jack Fry, email jackfry@ nowmail.co.nz.
A group of artists from the Tawa Community Arts Group have agreed to paint the toys and they hope that Mitre 10 will supply the necessary paint free of charge.
Next Generation Real Estate.
Set in a quiet and convenient cul-de-sac, this home is move in ready. Situated on a grand section, with all levels of schooling within walking distance, families will want to check this one out.
You'll find the home in a peaceful location tucked away back off the road. Stepping inside you find a spacious light filled interior with high stud ceilings. Enjoy the feeling of openness and space here. Original floorboards give the home character, while two efficient heat pumps ensure year round comfort no matter the season. Deadline Sale Thursday 12th December, 2
Duncan Traill 022 0756 759
William YIP
This beautifully presented three bedroom, two bathroom property is the perfect blend of modern style and convenience. Offering quality finishes throughout, this home is move in ready and designed for comfortable living. The spacious open plan kitchen and dining area flows seamlessly into the lounge, creating a light filled space ideal for relaxing or entertaining. The lounge opens directly onto a private courtyard, providing a relaxing and sunny outdoor area.
The biggest advantage here, is this unit is located very close to the complex entrance and the guest parking.
Price By Negotiation
Duncan Traill
Fraser Avenue, Johnsonville
Tawa Menshed members making Christmas toys for needy children. Photo: Supplied.
Great Christmas Market
Johnsonville Rotary’s Christmas Market, held on 30 November, was an enjoyable community event in a time when many people are struggling.
As well as Santa, visitors to the market enjoyed free entertainment from the Wellington Carnival Street Band, carol singers from St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Sri Lankan Dancers, and a VIP visit from Nixie the official mascot of the Wellington Phoenix, who all provided their services voluntarily.
The market raised about $2,000, which will be used to support food banks and youth mental health.
Part of the money will go to Kiwi Community Assistance (KCA) which helps communities throughout Wellington by rescuing surplus food and household goods and redistributing it to frontline agencies working directly with people in need. These include the foodbanks in Newlands and
Johnsonville.
The rest of the money will go to a Rotary project, Lifting the Lid, which helps Wellington schools source additional or complementary interventions for students who have, or are at risk of developing, mental health issues.
Newlands College, Onslow College and Newlands Intermediate School are all grateful to have accessed these funds to support their students.
The club is very grateful to the Johnsonville Shopping Centre for providing Santa’s visit and the space for the market as well as promoting the market.
The club is also very grateful to the many people who helped on the day, and of course, a market is not a market without the wonderful stall holders, who sold or promoted a wide range of products and services.
The club is grateful for Woolworths and Mitre 10 for their support for the sausage
is a small, diverse
and friendly club which welcomes visitors and new friends and members. For more information visit https://johnsonvillerotary. org.nz/.
Otari retains Landscape Development Plan
The tari Landscape Development Plan is currently retained in Wellington City Council’s Long Term Plan, following the Long-term Plan, Finance and Performance Committee meeting on 26 November.
The tari-Wilton’s Bush Trust made a submission to the committee, saying that they strongly endorsed the recommendation by council officers that the tari plan remain in the council’s Long Term Plan.
“ tari-Wilton’s Bush is a six-star garden of international significance, encompassing 100 hectares of mature native forest and five hectares of botanic gardens dedicated to New Zealand’s native plants, including many of our rarest,” the Trust submission said.
“The tari Landscape Development Plan aims to redevelop the area encompassing tari’s nursery, propagation sheds, conservation science laboratory, and library.
“This is currently a jumble of makeshift and crammed spaces.
“Delaying the plan will mean further deterioration to the already aged buildings, possibly to beyond repair,” the Trust said.
“The plan, enabling better native plant
care, aligns the LTP with Wellington City Council’s (WCC) Vision: ‘P neke: a creative capital where people and nature thrive’.
“The Plan also aligns with WCC’s Social Wellbeing Framework Environmental Outcome: ‘A city where the natural environment is being preserved, biodiversity improved, natural resources are used sustainably, and the city ismitigating andadapting to climate change’.”
It also aligned with the “Framework’s Strategic Objective: ‘A quality natural environment is attractive and accessible to all Wellingtonians and visitors’.
“ tari-Wilton’s Bush is open and free to the public.
“Around 180,000 people annually enjoy the forest and garden trails and picnic lawns.
“Each year tari hosts some 1,700 paying cruise ship passengers, hundreds of school students on education visits, and ongoing tertiary level environmental science students.
“The tari-Wilton’s Bush Trust (owbt. nz) supports tari in many ways. The plan is beyond the reach of our non-profit, organisation,” the Trust submitted.
Sri Lankan dancers entertaining the crowd at the Johnsonville Rotary Christmas Market. Photo: Chris Holloman.
Santa and two of his helpers at the Johnsonville Rotary Christmas Market. Photo: Chris Holloman.
A scene at the very busy Johnsonville Rotary Christmas Market. Photo: Chris Holloman.
sizzle. Thanks go to the many visitors who contributed to the lively atmosphere and the koha collection.
Johnsonville Rotary
Challenge 2000 is excited to announce ‘The Good Foot 2’
This Wellington-based community event is designed to encourage and inspire our local young people into the creative arts, and will be a great day out for all ages.
After the success of the very first Good Foot event last year, we had to do it again. Help us make this year bigger and better by coming along and supporting your community, get involved, be inspired and learn some new skills.
There will be breakdancing, live graffiti, food and berages, plus free barberscuts! It’s a family friendly event so bring everyone and see, watch and learn! Keep this Saturday free because this is an event to remember! The Good Foot 2 runs 12.305.30pm at the Newlands Community Centre, 9 Batchelor St, Newlands.
Photo: Craig Harris Photography
It’s hard to beat The Innkeeper for ambience
At The Innkeeper Johnsonville you’ll find both a popular modern bistro and a sociable, friendly neighbourhood bar.
Featuring hand-cut steaks, grilled lamb chops, fresh pulled pork, mouth-watering burgers and a kids’ menu full of choice, there is something for everyone!
Enjoy a Guinness, craft beer, or one of 100+ top shelf spirits at a bar leaner. Their
Guiness is reptuedly one of the best to be tasted in Wellington.
Or grab a table out on the verandah and soak up the sun with a glass of wine or a pint with a few mates.
The Innkeeper has a spacious but cosy feel about it, and the large plate glass windows let plenty of daylight into the bar.
Three steps in the Davis Method for ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) is used to describe individuals who
2 main types – inattentive and hyperactiveand there is also the combined version.
There are two main causes– boredom and confusion. People with ADHD are very intelligent and like dyslexics, are used to going into their own world to be entertained world boring.
A person with ADHD can experience time either faster or slower than reality and their understanding of concepts like change and
Without a solid understanding of change, our understanding of consequence cannot be concrete. Without this, concepts of cause, effect, before and after cannot be sure. Without an understanding of before and after, understanding of time cannot be attained, nor can concepts of sequence and how to create order be fully understood. This is why ADHD people repeat the same mistakes.
People with ADHD are picture thinkers. They convert language (both oral and written) into a picture or movie, process it and then act. If a negative instruction is given, they will often do the opposite to
HELD BACK BY A LEARNING DIFFICULTY?
97% SUCCESS RATE ONLINE COURSES AVAILABLE
Discover your learning style and unlock your potential. Learn ONLINE!
what is intended. That is because there are no automatic pictures for words like “no”, “not”, “don’t”, “never”. If a picture thinker to mind is running, in their impulsivity or eagerness to please, they will implement that picture and do the opposite to what was instructed.
What can be done about it?
The person can be taught using the Davis methods, the concepts that are missing or incomplete in their identity. They can also learn how to manage their energy levels –physical, thoughts and emotions. We teach them how to create order and we turned out the way the person intended and help them to brainstorm different tactics and predict various outcomes.
There are 3 steps to this programme: 1.Individuation and Self-Regulation: developing more presence, perception, self awareness; ability to regulate focus, stress and energy levels.
2.Identity Developent: learning life concepts.
3.Social Integration: facilitating social awareness and exploring different categories of relationships and associated behaviours.
Taranaki Street Car Park
Wonderful accommodation to see the albatross
Portobello Settlers Cottage is a great place to base yourselves to see the famous Otago Peninsula albatross nesting and in flight. The cottage, built in the 1860s is only 11km from Taiaroa Head, home of the world-famous albatross colony.
There are three bedrooms with the Master bedroom (King size bed downstairs) and up the attic ladder are two attic rooms. One has a double and the other has two single beds and a view out the Rapunzel window.
The cottage is warm, fully insulated with a new heat pump. Built well to the sun there are hot water bottles and an electric blanket on the Master bed for colder Dunedin nights. Be aware that this is an original and therefore is quite compact but has a large bathroom addition. The living dining room is combined, with seating for four at the table and a two seater couch in this room.
Linen, shampoo, conditioner, cleaning supplies, iron are all provided.
Warm Weather Footcare
As the temperatures climb, our feet have to adapt to summer shoes and activities. Sandals offer a chance for the feet to breathe and stay cool. The best sandals are ones that have a strap or closed heel to help provide support to the foot. It is important to clean sandals occasionally to prevent problems such as tinea or athlete’s foot. Self- care in summer should also include using heel balm to keep the heels from drying out and cracking. Podiatrists help in maintaining summer feet by trimming off the build up and helping to prevent these heel cracks forming, known as fissures. At Active Feet Podiatry we are here to assist and advise you to have pain free and attractive feet. Call for an appointment and start the new year with a spring in your step. Active Feet Podiatry can be reached on (04) 473 8696. ActiveFeetPodiatry.com
Local man finds long lost family
By Glenise Dreaver
Brian Sheppard, the president of the Churton Park Community Association, has spent most of his retirement liaising between the many cultural groups in his diverse community. But it was a surprise, on his recent “and last” visit to the United Kingdom, to find himself unexpectedly becoming a liaison point for the members of his own lost birth family. He was overwhelmed to find himself part of a large and loving family, “beyond my wildest dreams.” As a Cambridge University graduate in archaeology and anthropology, Brian had a strong background in genealogical research. But information about his own birth family had eluded him. When he and wife Lee came up to their fiftieth wedding anniversary, they agreed it was a good time for another landmark occasion – his search for his origins in the UK, and the answer to a real mystery.
Brian, now 78, says he’s always known he was adopted, and fortunate to be brought up by loving parents who always treated him as their own.
“So my main focus was on the parents who brought me up,” Brian says. Early research had, however, raised an interesting question.
Why had his parents, married and with two children, adopted him out at birth?
“I’d have liked to reassure them I have no resentment though. They must have had good reasons and the adoption worked out very well for me.”
Brian knew they wouldn’t still be alive, but he still wondered about his birth brother and sister and their families.
Some of the answers to his mystery
unfolded from basic information from his adoptive parents.
This led him to his birth parents’ wedding certificate and census records that identified his maternal grandfather, James Hewitt, as a Police Inspector in Warrington, Lancashire.
A contact suggested that the Chester Museum of Policing might be able to help – and they did, “almost within hours”.
They sent his grandfather’s photograph, complete with magnificent waxed moustache, along with his Police service record, including his citation for “Plucky Service ... earned at Chester racecourse for stopping a runaway horse.”
The museum also noted another query about Police Inspector Hewitt from a family member a couple of years before. (It proved to be a Covid research project by the daughterin-law of Brian’s birth cousin Mal Hewitt). Then came the phone call to Mal in the United Kingdom.
He was stunned to hear of Brian’s existence.
“Forgive me, but we don’t know anything about you.
“What can you give me to prove you are who you say you are?”
Proof provided, Mal sent photos of Brian’s birth parents. He agreed to Brian visiting him and his family in Norfolk and then to drive to Warrington where his mother and their wider family had grown up.
A delighted Mal also spread the news on the extensive Hewitt cousin network.
Brian found himself at the centre of a loving family group who had always wondered about the auntie and uncle who disappeared from their lives in 1946, shifting to a farm
in Cambridgeshire and never again being heard from.
“ I kept hearing my mother being referred to as ‘the black sheep’,” says Brian. It does now seem that his birth and adoption may have been the trigger for her disappearance.
Their farm was sold the following year, pointing to financial hardship. He also recognises that their heartbreaking decision may have been the reason for breaking off contact with their previously close family.
Information about Brian’s brother and sister and their descendants proved elusive, and Brian is now considering a Facebook request.
His new, warm and hugely hospitable family, cousins and their families, however, just opened their hearts to him.
“I had to really fight to pay my way,” he says, adding that when they found out about him they gathered from all over the United Kingdom, also reuniting with each other and bringing special photographs.
“They were just as excited as me! I was the catalyst for bringing them all back together and they were so grateful.”
They finally had a wonderful cousins’ celebration in a local pub in Warrington.
“The road trip had finished with a visit to the church there where my grandfather had been christened, and to pay respects at my great grandparents’ graves.”
Brian is very grateful to the Chester Museum of Policing.
“They started our journey, followed us through, featured us in their newsletter and pointed out it demonstrates their vital role in building and maintaining family links in the community.”
Police Inspector James Hewitt, Brian Sheppard’s birth grandfather whose police career proved the key to Brian’s search for his birth family.
Photo: Supplied.
Brian Sheppard, centre, with new-found family members (from left) Suzi and Scott Hewitt, Brian and their sons Barney and Max at rear. Suzi’s Covid research project proved a vital link in the family research. Photo: Supplied.
New development at St John’s Karori
A new development partner has been selected to transform Karori’s old St John's Church site with a mixed-use development of housing, apartments, and commercial spaces.
Following a rigorous tender process, Wellington City Council has appointed Stratum Management as development partner for the Central Karori site at the corner of Karori Road and Campbell Street. Stratum’s proposal will see 20 new homes and three commercial units built.
This will help to revitalise this entry point to the Karori town centre
and add to the city’s housing supply, the council says.
Local ward Councillor Diane Calvert has welcomed the news.
“This is a pivotal empty site in the Karori township that has been waiting for such a development,” Cr Calvert says.
“The commercial opportunities will support economic growth in Karori, as well as enhancing the town centre overall. An additional bonus is that new housing is included.”
Stratum has extensive experience and a strong track record of build-
ing quality residential homes and apartments in Wellington says the Council’s Chief Planning Officer, Liam Hodgetts.
“This development is timely with a growing demand for affordable housing, but the other benefits are significant as the site is also within walking distance of the town centre, the local library, public transport and schools.
“The proposed building also demonstrates best practice environmentally sustainable design and integrates te ao M ori design – making it very appealing from an
architectural point of view.”
The homes will be eight two-level apartments above the commercial units, and 12 two and three-level townhouses at the rear of the site, with private access, gardens and parking.
Stratum will offer grants of $10,000 to qualifying first home buyers wanting to purchase one of the apartments or townhouses in this development.
Stratum has committed to high quality finishes and materials.
Their practical proposal means a relatively quick build-time that
meets market need and will benefit the community.
Construction is expected to start mid-2025 following the issue of resource and building consents.
Construction is estimated to be completed by mid-2026.
The site is currently used to host community pop-up activities, including a weekly farmers’ market and food trucks. As the new development progresses, an update will be provided on these activities.
Visit wellington.govt.nz/stjohnskarori for more information and updates on the project.
join
Sunday 8 December, 7pm, Onslow Community Church, Ngatoto Street, Ngaio. All welcome. Koha for Christian World Service.
Christmas Fair
St Anne’s Northland, Corner Randwick / Northland Roads, SATURDAY 7 DECEMBER 9.30 - 1.00. Books, Craft, Plants, Household, Christmas Gifts / Raffle, Preserves, Baking, Refreshments, EFTPOS available
Join Wellington Quilters
Monday 9 December, from 7pm Uniting Church , Dr Taylor Tce, Jville Great speaker and batik Fabrics for sale. Visitors welcome.
Award for Lunar New Year Festival
The Asian Events Trust has won the Arts and Culture Award at the Wellington Airport Regional Community Awards for the Lunar New Year Festival, which drew in more than 30,000 attendees to Wellington’s waterfront, with an extra 16,000 online.
For the past 23 years, Asian Events Trust has organised the free event, bringing the community together, offering a rich mix of activities to showcase Asian art, culture, and performances, alongside an ever-popular Asian food market. It has become an iconic celebration of the Lunar New Year in the capital.
Stephannie Tims, Trustee of Asian Events Trust, was overwhelmed and honoured to accept the award.
“So much work goes into the twoweek celebration, created by the community for the community,” Stephannie says.
“This award is dedicated to every volunteer,
supporter and participant who makes it all possible.
“We are truly humbled to receive this recognition. It’s a privilege to create something that brings the community together year after year.”
The festival faced potential cancellation last year due to a lack of sponsorship, until global sauce giant Lee Kum Kee stepped in as the principal sponsor.
“We can’t accept this award without thanking Lee Kum Kee for its generosity and support, without it this event would not have been possible,” Stephannie says.
Wellington’s diverse community is showcased in the Lunar New Year Festival, where more than 500 volunteers showcase the many cultures of Asia and bring together both Asian and non-Asian communities.
The Lunar New Year Festival is back again in February 2025.
The 2025 festival programme to welcome in the Year of the Snake will be launched on 5 December 2024. For more information visit ww.lunarnewyearfestival.co.nz.
Major upgrades to rail network
Graham’s Painters
BUILDING
Approval and house plans. Free estimates provided. Call Doug on 934-1398.
THURSDAY FACT
Which is the smallest country in the world? Based on landmass, Vatican City is the smallest country in the world, measuring just 0.2 square miles, almost 120 times smaller than the island of Manhattan. Situated on the western bank of the Tiber River, Vatican City’s two-mile border is landlocked by Italy.
51. Climbing plant (8)
Buses will replace trains and special holiday timetables will apply this summer as Wellington’s rail network undergoes major infrastructure upgrades across the region. From 26 December 2024 to 12 January 2025, buses will replace trains between Wellington Railway Station and Petone, Melling, Johnsonville, Paekakariki, and Masterton as KiwiRail carry out key projects and critical track maintenance, including the installation of a new signalling system at Wellington Railway Station. Metlink group manager Samantha Gain says this summer’s upgrades will improve the day-to-day running and long-term resilience of the rail network. “With schools and most offices closed, the holiday period is the best time to carry out infrastructure upgrades with the least disruption – although we understand it can still make travelling less convenient during this time,” Samantha says. All buses, trains, and harbour ferries will run on special timetables over the holiday period, with buses returning to regular schedules from 5 January. Metlink passengers can enjoy free travel across the region on bus and rail service on Christmas Day. For more information, visit www.metlink.org. nz/summer.
55. Wrath (5) 56. Living in water (7) 57. Additional (5) 58. Trial run(vehicle) (4,5) 59. Principle church of diocese (9)
DOWN
1. Bewitch (7) 2. Ornamental feather (5) 3. Serviette (6)
Baghdad native (5)
Greek god of love (4)
Most favourable (7)
Australian tree (3-3)
Revives (12)
Prize (5)
Rash (11)
(3)
Wine-producing
(4) 47. Pear-shaped fruit (3)
Destroy (10)
Untreated (3)
Domesticated (4)
Flotilla (6)
Declare (7)
Respect (6)
Female divinity (7)
Singing voice (5)
Donkey (3)
Tree-lined street (6)
Quandry (7)
Italian town
Karori national Football runners-up
By Hamish Wareham
Sunday afternoon saw the culmination of the New Zealand Club Football season for 2024.
What started for most clubs around mid February goes now with the new National League format all the way to the end of November.
It was the third meeting between top qualifier Auckland United and second place finishers Waterside Karori in the past two years.
Auckland United comprehensively won the first match 3-1 in October last year. The second meeting came in round one this year with the points shared in a 1-1 draw, both games being played at Martin Luckie Park.
In this year’s national final, played on 1 December, Waterside Karori were always playing catchup.
Two goals inside the first quarter of an hour had Auckland United with one hand on the trophy. 16 year old Pia Vlok opened the scoring in just the second minute, and Golden Boot leaver Charlotte Roche scored Auckland’s second in the 12th minute.
Karori had a couple of chances towards the end of the first half, however Charlotte’s second goal in the 53rd minute put the result beyond doubt. With the goal Chatlotte scored her tenth of the National League campaign to go with 14 in the NRFL Women's
Wharfies didn’t go down without a fight and a minute later Nikki Furukawa scored a cracking goal into the roof of the net from the top of the box to give Karori some hope.
Auckland United goalkeeper
Hannah Mitchell produced a stunning save in the 93rd minute from a
Onslow Cricketers fall
just short
By Frank Neill
An excellent half century by Oscar Jackson was not quite enough to help Onslow’s first Cricket XI to victory over Taita on 30 November.
In reply to Taita’s 134 for the loss of seven wickets, Onslow fell three runs short when they were all out for 131 in the division one Ewen Chatfield Trophy match, played at Fraser Park.
Oscar ended up on 59 and the next best of the Onslow batsmen were Ethan Jefferson and Devan Vishvaka, who both scored 12.
Elliott Seddon bowled outstandingly for Onslow, taking four wickets for 28 runs, while Daniel Rose took two wickets for 22 and Matthew Scoble one wicket for 31.
Onslow’s next match is against Eastern Suburbs at Nairnville Park on 7 December.
Despite losing to Victoria University on 30 November, Karori retained its second placing on the Ewen Chatifled ladder.
Batting first, Victoria University scored 233 for the loss of nine wickets. They then bowled Karori out for 175.
Oscar Wilson was in great form with the bat for Karori, scoring 60 runs from just 34 deliveries.
Kevin Weerasundara featured with both the bat and the ball, scoring 46 runs and taking two wickets for 41 runs.
Tim Bryant shone with the ball, taking four wickets and conceding just 18 runs. Louis Ayres and Liam Roche took one wicket each.
Kendall Pollock header which, had ut gone in, and would've reduced the gap to one with two minutes to play.
Minutes later the final whistle blew on the 2024 Women’s National League competition, with Auckland winning their second consecutive National title and their fourth trophy of the Calendar year having also lifted the Kate Sheppard Cup earlier in the year.
Petone Riverside snuck past Johnsonville on the second to last ball of their division two Hazlett Trophy match on 30 November.
Batting first on their home ground of Alex Moore Park, Johnsonville reached 265 for the loss of nine wickets.
Petone Riverside lost seven wickets in reaching 267.
Two Johnsonville players passed the half century mark, with Matthew Nel scoring 82 and Sean Wakelin scoring 52 from only 30 balls.
Three Johnsonville players took two wickets each. Connor Lusty took two for 30, Reece Edgecombe two for 51 and Maximum Petrie two for 60.
Johnsonville’s next match is against Upper Hutt United at Alex Moore Park on 7 December.
The Johnsonville women’s team ended up with a win and a loss in their two 30 November matches. They beat North City by forfeit after losing to Petone Riverside at the Petone Recreation Ground.
Batting first, Johnsonville scored 77 for the loss of nine wickets. Petone Riverside ended the day on 79 for the loss of four wickets.
Gabriella Esterbuizen was the best of the Johnsonville batters and scored 19, with Dhriti Girish scoring 15.
Cara McCully took two wickets for 12 and both Aesha Sukhu and Dhriti finished with figures of one wicket for 15 runs.
Johnsonville’s next match is against City Suburbs at Kilbirnie Park on 7 December.
In the men’s final, Auckland City and Birkenhead United faced off for the fifth time this year with Birko aiming to beat City for the first time in 2024 and lift their maiden National League title. Birkenhead took a deserved lead
in the 23rd minute through former All White Monty Patterson, unfortunately an own goal saw the game go into halftime locked at 1-1. Angus Kilkolly scored the decisive goal in the 11th minute as City regained the coveted National League trophy at the end of another successful season for the Navy Blues.
Open 7 days a week Mon - Sat 6am - 6pm; Sunday 7am - 5pm
The Waterside Karori women’s team wearing their runners-up medals. Photo: Supplied. comp.
