Thorndon’s City Kids Childhood centre began celebrating its 40th anniversary with a gathering of current tamariki, staff and wh nau on Friday 27 March. It was “a wonderful opportunity for families to connect, share stories, and enjoy meaningful conversation,” City Kids manager Tanti Agustin says. Continued on page 2.
Some of the tamariki who attended City Kids first celebration of its 40 years. Photo: Supplied.
How to reach us
Phone (04) 587 1660
www.independentherald.co.nz
REPORTER
Frank Neill
herald@wsn.co.nz 027 490 3916
NATIONAL
SALES
Les Whiteside
les@wsn.co.nz 021 360 008
SALES
Steve Maggs steve@wsn.co.nz 027 765 8303
SALES
Brenda Ingram-Johnson brenda@wsn.co.nz 021 640 152
CLASSIFIED SALES
classifieds@wsn.co.nz
The memories are truly special
Continued from page 1.
Over the past four decades, the centre has become a cornerstone of the community, nurturing generations of tamariki and supporting countless wh nau.
Many dedicated kaiako have been part of this journey, contributing their care, knowledge and passion in shaping the centre’s identity.
“It has been such a journey,” Tanti says.
“We have seen so many children, families and teachers come through City Kids.
“The memories are truly special. It’s such a privilege to be part of the tamariki’s early learning journey.”
City Kids’ story began in 1985, following the closure of the Citizens Day Nursery in December 1984.
Rather than accept the loss of a vital service, a group of passionate parents and staff came together with a shared vision: to create a dedicated childcare centre to support working wh nau and their families.
With strong community spirit and support from the wider Wellington community and government, the group established a new nursery in a house on Pipitea Street in February 1985, funded by the Co-operative Enterprise Loan Trust.
Named City Kids Childcare Incorporated, the centre unfor-
at the end of that same year when the government reclaimed the space for other use.
The City Kids community persisted and successfully purchased a property at 21 Tinakori Road.
The building, previously a hostel, was transformed into a warm and welcoming space for young
HAS REOPENED! Renovations are complete
Come and experience our revamped lighter brighter cafe – cushioned seating is one of our features! The same favourites with a few exciting new tastes, and the same friendly service
children.
In March 1986, City Kids Childcare Inc officially opened its doors at its new home.
As City Kids marks 40 years, it stands not only as a childcare centre, but as a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared purpose. Further celebrations are also
being planned this year, with the intention of bringing together past and present wh nau, tamariki, and staff to honour the centre’s rich history and the strong sense of community that continues to define it today.
City Kids is what it is today because of the ongoing support and aroha of its wh nau and dedicated team.
Churton Park School are champions
By Frank Neill
Churton Park School are the Wellington Primary School’s B-league Water Polo champions.
The team of Arielle, Benjamin, Bruno, Max, Mony, Nathan and Seren won the title when they defeated St Mark’s School 4-3 in a closely contested match.
This was an outstanding result given that the Churton Park School team was playing in its first season.
Churton Park began the game strongly, scoring twice early in the match to lead 2-0. St Mark’s, however, got themselves back into the game and the scores were tied 2-2 at half time.
They followed this up with the first goal of the second half to lead Churton Park 3-2.
Just as they had begun the match
strongly, Churton Park School finished strongly, scoring the final two goals.
Victory came just two minutes before full time, when Churton Park scored its fourth goal.
“The team has improved greatly over the term, building from solid defence to good interplay to move the ball up the pool and create scoring opportunities,” Churton Park School says in its newsletter.
“It has been great to see the team’s confidence in the sport grow throughout the term.
“We would also like to thank all the parents, family and friends who came to support the team, especially those that made it to the final.
“It was special for the team to have their own cheer squad on the side of the pool.”
City Kids decorated for its 40th anniversary celebration. Photo: Supplied. tunately had to close again
The champion Churton Park School Water Polo team. Photo: Supplied.
Trelissick Park history launched
By Frank Neill
A new history of the Trelissick Park Group was launched at Tane Whakapiripiri tari-Wilton’s Bush visitor centre on 25 March.
An Onslow Historian publication, “The history of Trelissick Park Group part three, 2014-2025” was written by Peter Reimann and edited by John Martin.
Peter chaired the Trelissick Park Group from 2006 to 2025.
The Onslow Historian Series is published by the Onslow Historical Society.
The book’s author attended the celebration, along with the current President of the Trelissick Park Group, Anne Tuffin.
Francis Lee, who initiated the group in 1991, also took part in the celebration.
She talked about her early life enjoying the English countryside and her professional working life in New Zealand.
Her membership of the Tararua tramping Club when she came to New Zealand was what motivated her to become involved in restoring the Ngaio Gorge area, she said.
A former resident of Ngaio, Frances now lives in the Malvina Major Retirement Village.
As well as founding the Trelissick Park Group she has worked tirelessly to enhance the park, along with the group’s volunteers who have been restoring the park with a focus on its natural values.
The group works with both Wellington City Council and Greater Wellington Regional Council to significantly improve Trelissick Park.
Tracks have been re-opened or built, bridges have been constructed, weeds removed, thousands of native trees planted and streams given increased protection since the group was established.
Wellington City Council extended the park in 2024 after Francis gifted the council a block of land.
Frances gifted the 2,474 metres square area, and it has now been classified as Scenic Reserve under the Reserves Act 1977. The block of land Frances bought is right at
the top of the Ngaio Gorge. It was previously owned by a developer who had planned to build 17 town houses on it.
There were two titles for the land and the new owner was prepared to sell the bush section to Frances, who was determined that the bush stayed intact and Trelissick Park was extended and protected.
The gifted land is part of an important indigenous forest remnant and includes a mature matai tree which has been used as a seed source for propagating eco-sourced plants for the council’s indigenous restoration
planting programme.
A small stream, which crosses the site, is a tributary of Kaiwharawhara Stream, which flows through Trelissick Park in the valley below.
Trelissick Park protects the natural features of the Ngaio Gorge for their scenic and ecological qualities. It provides a wilderness area for Wellingtonians and visitors to walk through and enjoy.
People interested in becoming involved with the Trelissick Park Group can email trelissickgroup@gmail.com.
Zampelles J’ville reopens
Zampelles, the very popular café in the Johnsonville Mall, reopened on Monday 30 March after having been closed since mid March for renovations to take place.
Zampelles was given a light renovation to bring the cafe into the current decade.
The café’s floor was repaired, the roof
24 Moorefield Road, Johnsonville Your local medical centre
Great people, great hours
04 920 8850
www.johnsonvillemedical.co.nz
fixed, the lighting repaired and a fresh coat of paint was applied. Two new cabinets were also installed.
“It’s been really great,” the café’s owner Noah Pronk says.
Since reopening on Monday “it’s been really nice and busy with a lot of fresh faces,” he adds.
The Trelissick Park Group founder Frances Lee at last week’s launch of part three of the group’s history. Photo: Supplied.
Peter Reimann with his book “The history of Trelissick Park Group part three, 2014-2025”. Photo: Supplied.
Community garden at Khandallah Bowling Club
By Frank Neill
The Khandallah Bowling Club is currently considering the possibility of creating a community garden on the Pétanque court.
Churton Park treasure hunt
By Frank Neill
A treasure hunt will come to Churton Park from 3 to 5 April.
Organised by NorthBase Church, the three day treasure hunt will take place in the Churton Park Reserve, 57 Halswater Crescent. Day one of the treasure hunt will also include a “fun in the park” day from 10am to 1pm on Friday 3 April.
This will include face painting, a sausage sizzle (thanks to New World Churton Park), crafts and community connection through social games.
The treasure hunt will take place during daylight hours throughout the three days and the event is free to enter.
The court will become vacant this month with the closure of the Khandallah Pétanque Club.
Options for the future use of the Pétanque court were presented to a working group of the Khandallah Bowling club.
Of the options presented “the installation of a raised beds community garden was the most preferred,” bowling club member Dennis Gibb told the ‘Independent Herald’. He is keen to hear from the community what people think of this idea. People can let Dennis know their reaction to the community garden idea by emailing gibbwhanau@gmail. com. There are similar examples of bowling clubs having gardens, and Dennis provided two examples.
“The Wainuiomata Bowling Club has a large vegetable garden, possibly equal in area to our Pétanque green.
“It has been very successful with easily grown produce such as potatoes and rhubarb, pumpkins, tomatoes, zucchini. They also have a glasshouse.
“The Point Chevalier Bowling Club handed over a redundant bowling green of about 1,000 square metres to a community garden organisation, including a glasshouse in 2015. It is
known as Growing Point.”
A garden at the Khandallah Bowling Club “could operate as a community garden with some of the produce sold within the community or to club members or donated to charities such as food banks and soup kitchens as well as taken by volunteers,” Dennis says.
“This would be great kudos and PR for the club.
“As the raised beds sit on top of the surface, they would be easily removable if extension of the bowling green was required.”
Three other benefits Dennis listed are: it could be a source of revenue from the sale of produce; it could provide added security for the bowling club with people regularly on site; and the possibility of new members from those involved in the garden being attracted by seeing the bowling activity.
“It is estimated that the Pétanque area could, at the most, accommodate about 24 raised beds, Dennis said.
“This allows about 1.5 metres between beds.
“Twenty four however is probably a bit excessive and some of the space could be utilised for a greenhouse and potting facilities at a later date.”
Dennis Gibb’s vision of the Khandallah Community Garden at the Bowling Club.
Collectables.
New record set by Mowbrays
A new auction record has been set by Mowbrays, a business that began in Karori.
The exceptionally rare New Zealand Cross awarded to Dr Isaac Featherston in 1875 sold on 20 March in Mowbray Collectables auction in Wellington for a record breaking $180,000 hammer price.
Dr Featherston was awarded the rare New Zealand Cross leading M ori under fire. He was Superintendent of the Wellington Province from 1853 to 1871 and is recognised in the town of Featherston and streets with his name in Wellington and Palmerston North.
The New Zealand Cross is one of just 23 presented to volunteers in those turbulent years and is far scarcer than the Victoria Cross.
Managing Director of Mowbray Collectables, Karori resident David Galt, says that
the record sale is a “fitting recognition for Dr Featherston as an important Wellington and New Zealand leader from the 1840s to the 1870’s.
“It shows a healthy interest in our history and a strong market for New Zealand medals.”
Other notable sales included $5,250 for each of two cheques from the Maori Maungatautari Bank of the 1880’s, and a Conspicuous Gallantry Medal Group to Southland Flight Lieutenant Leslie Wallace for $22,000.
The Mowbray coin and medal auction has been a record New Zealand sale with total sales of $857,000.
John Mowbray established Mowbrays Collectables at his family home in Karori in 1965 when he was still a student at Scotts College.
WOW returns to capital
By Frank Neill
The iconic World of Wearable Art Show (WOW) returns to the capital this year.
Bookings for the show, which will run from 17 September to 4 October at the TSB Arena are now open.
WOW is a bold, high-energy spectacle of fashion, performance and technology.
Featuring leading wearable art, dancers and music this is a must-see Wellington experience.
Seen by 60,000 people annually in Wellington the WOW Show transforms the TSB Arena into a living gallery.
The heart of WOW is the wearable art competition.
WOW showcases works of wearable art created by designers from across the globe.
Each garment seen on stage is a finalist in WOW’s internationally renowned wearable art competition.
WOW offers an opportunity to express innovation, originality and to push the boundaries of creativity on a world stage.
This year’s show is entitled GLO! People can find out more at worldofwearableart.com.
Supplied. Mon - Fri: 7am to 4pm Sat - Sun: 8am to 4pm
Dr Isaac Featherston and the New Zealand Cross he was awarded. Photo: Mowbrays
Four plays in KAT Theatre’s exciting short plays
By Tanya Piejus
In KAT Theatre’s upcoming season of short plays, collectively called ‘Discoveries’, you’ll find yourself pondering the importance of hope, the limitations of justice and what might be in store for us in the future.
Then, the final offering will send you home with a smile on your face.
Hayley Cherryblossom from Crofton Downs plays a woman simply called A in Handmaid’s Tale-style drama ‘queen b’ by New Zealand playwright Pip Hall.
With a 13-year background in improvisation with Wellington Improv Troupe, Hayley joined KAT Theatre just over a year ago for its summer Play in the Park, a joyful adaptation of Margaret Mahy’s childhood classic, ‘The Man Whose Mother Was a Pirate’.
“‘queen b’ is an incredibly well-written piece of theatre on so many levels,” Hayley says.
“The characters have very clear personalities and motivations, and I was instantly drawn into the dystopian future it takes place in.
“My character is definitely someone I can relate to, though I think I'm a little more self-censored than she is.”
She’s enjoying the experience of rehearsing this thought-provoking play, saying: "Working with a brilliant cast and director, we’re often diving into the motivations of the characters and things that have influenced their decisions.
“Watching it come together with such passionate people behind it has been a really satisfying experience to be part of.”
Equally thrilled to be on stage is drama teacher Gino Moretto, who lives in Ngaio.
“I’ve had a fair amount of experience with high-school theatre, particularly in our school productions,” Gino says.
“This has mostly been behind the scenes in the area or directing or assistant directing.
“Outside of some comedy sketches in variety shows, I’ve not been acting for a long time.
“I’ve been enjoying being on the other side of the theatre equation than I usually am. It’s been great getting to act and interact with
the other performers and let the director call the shots.”
He plays the title character in ‘Alan Grimaldi and the 183’ by Bob Hammond, a comedy about an ordinary man who sets off for work as usual but finds himself in a very unordinary place.
“It’s a fun one-act play,” Gino says.
“It’s light-hearted and funny but has a sprinkling of the profound in there as well.
“I’m enjoying the role of Alan, and he’s been fairly easy to step into as a character.
I’ve described him to a co-worker as ‘pretty much me, just more confused.’”
Broadmeadows resident and current KAT Theatre committee member Gabrielle Wheddon is also enjoying returning to the stage after a long break.
“Apart from a very random French play over 20 years ago at university in Scotland and primary school productions even longer ago, my theatre experience has consisted of mainly being an audience member, as well as backstage support when my daughter has been in shows,” she says.
Billed as a thriller, ‘The Martha Syndrome’ by Stephen Walker is a tightly scripted play that doesn’t reveal the truth until very near the end, but is it only about ‘who did what’?
Gabrielle plays an unnamed woman found wandering in the park in the early hours of the morning with blood-stained hands.
Gabrielle says of the play: “It packs a lot into a short performance. It has a few quite intense moments, which I hope we deliver well.
“I'm enjoying learning from other people who are more experienced actors.
“It's also been a great opportunity to get to know the director and other cast members better.
“We only have a relatively short timeframe to rehearse the play before performances start, so it's been pretty full on, but we've been having a lot of fun.”
Completing the ‘Discoveries’ collection is ‘Battle Hymn’ by another Kiwi playwright, Stephen Walker.
It’s set in 1980s New Zealand, and 17-yearold Susan is anxious about the threat of nuclear war, but she encounters someone who shows her another way of looking at things.
You can catch Hayley, Gino, Gabrielle and 10 other local actors on stage in four equally intriguing short plays at Cochran Hall, 106 Cashmere Avenue, Khandallah.
‘Discoveries’ runs for for four performances from 16 to 18 April. Find out more and book your tickets at https://kat-theatre. org.nz/bookings.
Makara needs ANZAC
Day bugler
The organiser of Makara’s ANZAC Day service is looking for a bugler.
Over the past 15 years the service has not been able to obtain the services of a bugle player and has therefore resorted to a recording of the Last Post and Reveille.
There is no one in Makara who plays the bugle, and despite efforts to locate a bugle player to play at the service we have never been able to attract such a player.
If there is someone who could attend and play the Last Post and Reveille on the 25 April at 10am at the Makara War memorial that would be welcomed by the community.
“If you can assist, please contact the organiser on 027 355 6533,” the Makara ANZAC Day service organiser says.
The Makara community has been celebrating ANZAC Day for many years.
The community seeks to honor the seven community members who gave their lives in the First World War and the sole resident
who gave his life in the Second World War. It also honours the men and woman who have fought for their country in those wars and in subsequent conflicts.
The ANZC Day service is well attended by local members of the Makara community, and by past residents and descendants of past residents.
The service seeks to involve the Makara community by having a local resident lay a wreath, a resident recites the Ode and a local resident play the bagpipes.
The Makara Model School also contributes by having pupils read a poem and lower and raise the flag, and the Makara Pony Club also take part in the service.
A member of the Armed Services also lays a wreath in honor of the fallen.
The Reverand Alison Camplin from St Mathias Church in Makara reads the prayer at the service. The service is a
local event,
Broadmeadows actor Gabrielle Wheddon, flanked by Floyd Norman (left) and Caryl Loria Illana in a scene from KAT Theatre’s production of ‘The Martha Syndrome’. Photo: Brian Scurfield.
The story behind much watched political moment
The story behind one of the most watched political moments of the 21st century comes to the stage in “Julia”.
In 2012 a speech delivered in the Australian Parliament quickly became a global talking point. Within hours, it was being replayed around the world. Within days, it had entered political history.
Now, the woman behind that moment comes to the stage in Julia – a one-woman play by acclaimed playwright Joanna Murray-Smith, at Wellington’s Circa Theatre from 30 May to 27 June.
From idealistic young advocate to leader under relentless scrutiny, Julia takes audiences behind the microphone of Julia Gillard’s landmark “misogyny speech.”
Blending verbatim excerpts with scenes inspired by real events, the play explores the life and career that led to her defining parliamentary address.
The Wellington season stars renowned New Zealand actor Lara Macgregor in a commanding solo performance, directed by award-winning theatre maker Mel Dodge.
“Women in leadership around the world continue to navigate scrutiny that extends beyond policy into personality and presentation,” Mel says.
“This is not a political debate. It’s a portrait of power under a microscope.”
Against a backdrop of conversations about gender and leadership, Julia takes on fresh resonance in Aotearoa.
Julia examines the line between conviction and compromise, private life and public duty, and asks what it costs to say “not now, not ever” in a world that still questions women who lead.
Tickets are available now at Circa.co.nz.
Artist: Joe Zhou
JULIA
Artist in Residence is open Tues–Fri 9.00am3.30, Sat 9.00am-2.00pm Local artists: Paintings, glass, sculpture, jewellery, ceramics , gifts. 55A Ottawa Rd, Ngaio, Wellington Ph: 027 355 2259 www.feethompson.com
CLUB WELLINGTON
The Portrait Club meets on Monday nights (aside from public holidays) from 7:30 - 9:30pm at the Karori Arts Crafts Centre.
MURIEL
HOPPER EXHIBITION
The Hutt Valley’s premier art exhibition, the Muriel Hopper, is at Hutt Art Galleries, 9-11 Myrtle Street, from 23 May – 7 June. Featuring standout works, with prizes awarded by renowned judges.
Renowned guitarist coming to Wellington
World-renowned guitarist and master entertainer Tommy Emmanuel, CGP is thrilled to announce what is sure to be an unforgettable tour of New Zealand in May 2026.
The five-date tour takes in Auckland, Hamilton, Palmerston North, Wellington and Christchurch.
He will perform at Wellington’s Opera House on Friday 22 May.
Tommy is a living legend in the world of acoustic guitar, celebrated for his jaw-dropping technique, innovation and boundless musicality.
He has enthralled audiences around the globe with his dazzling fingerstyle performances, and now, New Zealand will have the privilege of witnessing his mastery up close and personal.
“I feel like the Indiana Jones of the guitar world,” says the globe-trotting fingerpicker.
“I’m on this wild journey, just making it up as I go, and I’m thrilled that so many people are having fun joining along with me.”
Inspired in part by his hero, Chet Atkins (who would later become a friend, mentor, and collaborator), Tommy stepped out on his own as a solo artist in 1979.
with
Celebrated rocker coming to Wellington
Celebrated US alt-rocker Suzanne Vega is returning to New Zealand for a three-date tour in September.
One of the foremost songwriters of her generation, she will perform at St James Theatre on Sunday, September 6.
Suzanne will perform a career-spanning show including favourites such as ‘Tom’s Diner’, ‘Luka’, ‘Marlena On The Wall’ and many more, including songs from her latest album FLYING WITH ANGELS, which was released in May 2025 to critical acclaim. She will be joined on stage by her long-time guitarist Gerry Leonard (of David Bowie fame) and cellist Stephanie Winters.
The media has heaped praise upon FLYING WITH ANGELS, with Rolling Stone proclaiming, “Four decades after her new-
waif debut, Suzanne Vega retains her knack for lucid reflections and crisp music to match ... Her voice remains both knowing and observant,” and naming it one of 2025’s best albums.
Stereogum observes, “Veteran Alt-rocker Suzanne Vega is still making great music ... It’s not an exaggeration to call her a straightup legend.”
Finding Connecticut called a recent performance “nothing short of mesmerizing, weaving tales through her soulful songs in a cozy setting that allowed for a deep connection with the audience”, while Patch declared, “Suzanne Vega wove a spell of light and shadow, blending classics and new material with intimate stories for a memorable night”.
luminaries like Eric Clapton and John Denver; win a Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Arrangement; perform for a televised audi-
Council consulting on Annual Plan
Wellington’s Mayor and City Councillors have agreed the draft 2026/27 Annual Plan proposals that will go out for public consultation from 10 April to 10 May 2026.
Rates affordability is a major issue for Wellingtonians, and these draft proposals are an important step towards getting the Council’s finances under control, with more work to do, Wellington City Council says.
“The direction from this Council is to prioritise the core services our community expects, reduce expenditure and invest in the activities that demonstrably deliver value for Wellingtonians,” Cr Diane Calvert, Chair of Te Taurapa Council Planning and Finance Committee, says.
“Not everyone is going to agree with every proposal, and we welcome feedback from the community and businesses when the consultation opens in April to help shape the Council’s final decisions.”
At last week’s Te Taurapa Council Planning and Finance Committee meeting, the Council supported asking Wellingtonians for feedback on these proposals:
accommodation providers (like Airbnb) at a rate of 2.6 times the general rates for properties available for short-term accommodation for more than 60 days per year; neke Bike network plan by either reducing the programme for the year to $3.4 million or maintaining the existing programme of $10.5 million; tos) disposal fees;
Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui (Central library) and Toi P neke arts facility; and marinas, swimming pools, recreation centres and dog ownership transfers, as well as standard inflation-related increases for other Council facilities; and
reduce rates for the year.
The consultation document proposes a draft budget that would result in an average 7.4% rates increase (including 2% for the sludge levy) for the 2026/27 financial year, down from the originally planned 12.7% increase.
Wellington City Mayor Andrew Little says during the local body election campaign last year Wellingtonians gave a clear message that rates affordability was a major issue for communities.
“We are determined to respond to that message, operate responsibly and within our means, and make good on our promise to grow trust and confidence in council by our residents and ratepayers.”
Wellingtonians can learn more and have their say with a dedicated web hub, oral submissions, and printed materials in Council venues.
Elected members will make final decisions at the end of May once community feedback has been considered.
After the deliberations, the Annual Plan will be audited prior to final adoption in June 2026 and will be in place from 1 July 2026.
Tommy Emmanuel. Photo: Supplied.
In the decades that followed, he would go on to headline everywhere from the Sydney Opera House to Carnegie Hall; tour
ence of more than two billion at the Sydney Olympics; and collaborate with a who’s who of fellow guitar greats.
Suzanne Vega. Photo: Ebry Yildiz.
UNWANTED OR BROKEN GOLD & SILVER JEWELLERY, COINS, WAR MEDALS, OLD BANKNOTES AND VINTAGE WATCHES
DO YOU HAVE ANY OF THE ABOVE?
GETTING OLDER? NEED TO START GETTING RID OF THINGS? THEN ASK YOURSELF THESE QUESTIONS…
Shouldn’t I be selling now at these extremely high gold and silver prices?
Isn’t money better off in my pocket rather than having things sitting around?
Will the kids or grandchildren really want or appreciate them?
Shall I give them the items or give them the money instead?
Will a museum really want them considering how much they already have in storage?
Will they be secure in an earthquake or other disaster?
Do I have the expertise or inclination to try and sell them myself on the internet?
Local history – Trelissick Park
By Felicity Wong
The Johnsonville train winds through native bush with bird song filling the Ngaio Gorge below.
In 1841 Captain Edward Daniell established his farm “Trelissick” on 100 acres at the “upper Kaiwarra”.
Without access to his land, in 1843 he built a private road, (the Old Porirua Road), snaking above the modern Ngaio Gorge Road. Daniell’s land extended down to Kaiwharawhara and encompassed most of Ngaio, to (what became) Awarua Street.
He leased much of it to sawyers who cut old growth timber setting up a sawmill near the corner of Crofton Road and Kenya Street.
The only roads in those days were Old Porirua Road and Sawmill Road (now called Crofton Road).
The loggers hauled timber up Crofton Road and down Old Porirua Road to be sold on the beach at Wellington.
Some of Daniell’s land he sold to Premier William Fox for his country estate of “Crofton”, the historic house on the east side of Kenya Street.
After Daniell’s death the Trelissick Estate was subdivided to create Perth Street, Kenya Street, Trelissick Crescent and more.
In 1900 there was a move to subdivide for sale the bush of the steep Ngaio Gorge.
The Wellington Tree Planting and Scenery Preservation Society lobbied for it to be available for public recreation.
In 1921 the Scenery Preservation Act was
passed and a “strip of bush clad land along the Manawatu Railway following the Ngaio Gorge almost to Ngaio ... was purchased from the Trelissick Estate, to be a public reserve.”
Between 1920 and 1921 11 hectares was acquired by the Council.
The park was used for picnics and swimming, and as an essential shortcut from Ngaio to Thorndon, via Wadestown.
In the 1960s Wellington City Council proposed piping the Kaiwharawhara Stream down Ngaio Gorge, and filling the valley with rubbish to make playing fields which would be level with the nearby railway line.
The spectacular natural rocky features of the landscape would have disappeared, as would the ecological corridor linking the harbour with native bush.
Local Ngaio and Wadestown residents lobbied the Council until the idea was finally abandoned.
Although it’s now hard to imagine what it would be like, Wellington abounds with filled in gullies and piped streams.
In the 1970s and 80s tons of gorse and blackberry were removed by local residents below Hanover Street and elsewhere.
Some of the park is road reserve (by the entrances off Ngaio Gorge) and some is QEII covenanted private land (below Hanover Street).
Some areas are KiwiRail land adjacent to the railway.
Additions to the park were made of land at the end of Oban Street, which now provides an extra entrance from Wadestown, and land
Norths start season in style
By Hamish Wareham
North Wellington kicked off the new 2026 competition in style, while Waterside Karori were put to the sword in the season opener.
Following their relegation from the Central League on the final match day of the 2025 season, Central League two beckoned for TFS North Wellington for 2026.
Under new coach Curtis Jones and with a few new players on the books they hosted Stop Out who themselves were relegated from the Central League at the conclusion of the 2024 season.
Sidney Sharp-Judge opened the scoring right on the half time break when he headed in a corner for North Wellington.
Three second half goals put the game to bed, as new captain Miles Woodhall scored a cracking free kick in the 48th minute before a brace from Benji McMillian got North Wellington’s 2025 campaign off to a winning start 4-0 over Stop Out.
Elsewhere, Tawa and Lower Hutt drew 1-1 and Seatoun beat Douglas Villa 4-2. It was the tale of two different stories for Waterside Karori’s men’s and women's sides on the weekend, both coming off the back of season they’d rather forget.
Two goals in each half resigned Karori
men to an opening round 4-0 defeat to Island Bay United, who were playing with Fijian international Brendan McMullen.
Around the grounds saw Miramar and Wellington Olympic draw 1-1, while Western Suburbs and Napier Rovers drew 0-0.
The Karori women’s side, who were National League finalists in 2024, missed out on the competition all together with their fourth place finished in last year's women’s Central League competition
They travelled to face promoted side Seatoun and four first half goals by the Wharfies all but wrapped up the three points there.
Renee Bacon continued her fine goalscoring form from the 2024 season by scoring twice.
Amelia Abbott, Sophie Burchfield and Jessica Woodside grabbed a goal each as Wharfies women began the 2026 season in style, looking to get back to National League places for this season.
Elsewhere, Petone beat Miramar 2-0 and Phoenix Academy Under 18s beat Palmerston North United 2-0.
This weekend sees Victoria University host Palmerston North United, Petone host Palmerston North Marist, Waterside Karori face Miramar Rangers and two in a row champions Wellington United host Phoenix Academy, all on Saturday 4 April.
in Waikowhai Street.
The Wightwick family donated a large flat area "Wightwick's field” near the historic remains of the powder magazine at the bottom of the park.
Recently a donation of land near the corner of Trelissick Crescent and Ngaio Gorge Road was made by local benefactor Frances Lee.
In 2024 she purchased 0.25 hectares of steep bush and a deep ravine with a mature pukatea and a matai tree which provides seed gathered for use in bush regeneration projects around Wellington.
When gifting it to Wellington City Council, Frances said “having the land added to Trelissick Park is a wonderful outcome for everyone, and for the birds”.
The park is now 24 hectares (compared to 100 hectares at tari).
In 1991 Frances Lee had initiated the “Trelissick Park Group”, an army of volunteer kaitiaki who plant to regenerate the bush, clear away dumped garden waste and battle invading weeds like tradescantia, jasmin and old man’s beard.
New plants are sometimes stolen and pest
control is an ongoing necessity.
The group highlights issues such as the “leaking geriatric”, a 1913 sewage pipe crossing the stream which requires urgent Wellington Water attention.
The park sits in a 20km water catchment “Te Kaiwharawhara whaitua” in which 39,000 people live.
Stormwater quality is a systemic problem. In heavy rain the Kaiwharawhara becomes a raging torrent carrying away banks and vegetation.
Housing developments remove suburban trees, and “stormwater neutrality” is needed to protect stream ecology from muddy runoff.
The Trelissick Park Group’s success was celebrated with the launch on 25 March at Ōtari of the third volume of its history, written by long serving President Peter Reimann and published by the Onslow Historical Society. It’s a surprisingly gripping tale about real community endeavour, assisted by the Wellington City Council and many others, including young people and corporate groups.
Kitty Berry on the Trelissick Track in 1880.
What’s cool in the
International Cocktail Festival in Greytown
This autumn, Greytown invites visitors to travel the world — one cocktail at a time.
From 20 March to 19 April, the Festival will shake and stir the village with a celebration
Over the course of a month, the Wairarapa town will come alive with themed drink menus, intimate tastings, cocktail workshops, special dinners, lively parties and relaxed afternoons on the Green. Festival highlights include The Notorious Wairarapa Bootleggers’ Run, Cricket on the Green, Lawn Bowls & Highballs and High Tea, the Molewood Orchard Apple Harvest
Festival, The Gin Supper, and signature menus across Greytown’s bars, cafés and restaurants.
While gin-based events have become ubiquitous in recent years, the Greytown International Cocktail Festival broadens the focus to celebrate everyone’s favourite classics, from espresso martinis through to thoughtfully crafted non-alcoholic cocktails. Visitors can even sharpen their skills at hands-on workshops, including a session dedicated to mastering the perfect espresso martini at home.
The full programme has been launched, and event info and tickets can be found at https://www.greytownvillage.com/
Tora trail and accommodation beckons for Holidays
2025 sees the opening of a new private trail, The Last Resort Walk to the Wairarapa’s rugged east coast, between Tora and White Rock and back.
Ben and Georgie Lutyens, owners of Riversdale Station (a working cattle station where The Last Resort Walk is based) have a long history in the Wairarapa, with Ben’s family connection stretching back six generations. The walk also has a bike and horse trekking option, an addition to their existing heavenlyhorestreks.co.nz providing opportunities for groups to tailor their visit.
The trail is 11km to The Last Resort accommodation, comprising “The Roost” and “The Old Place”, returning the following day via a loop track. Visitors can add a 7-10km track heading down to the beach and back, and stay for a second night.
Ben and Georgie wanted to create a different kind of experience, “our land is rustic and charming, and we wanted to share that. The Walk is mostly through bush. The 360-degree view from the top, or the sunrise from your bedroom makes this quite special” says Ben.
Perhaps the most unique aspect of The Last Resort is that bookings are exclusive, meaning visitors have the trail and accommodation all to themselves, ideal for family get togethers or groups of friends. The Last Resort is enjoy cooking together in the fully equipped says Ben. “We like to make visitors feel at home, so when we take their luggage and food up in
A coastal retreat at discounted tariffs - perfect for groups of up
to 57 people!
This winter why not get a group together and head to Glenburn Station in the Wairarapa? They have 5 houses that can sleep up to 57 people and 3 of the houses are within walking distance. There is currently a discount on group bookings.
Glenburn Station offers a range of accommodation, making it the perfect retreat for friends, families and couples.
Five holiday houses ranging from the large Station Homestead sleeping up to 16, Shepherd’s Rest sleeping up to 11, and a fisherman’s bach on the beach (Russ’s Bach) both sleeping up to 10 and Cook House sleeping up to 16. Beachcombers Bach sleeps 6 at the north end of the property.
One of the Wairarapa’s main attractions
is Honeycomb Rock, a large, distinctive outcrop known for its unusual pitted appearance can be seen, or climbed, on the coastal walk. This walk makes an iconic Wairarapa day out.
The 11km of pristine Pacific coastline along the boundary of the farm is one of of the walk’s key features. While walking the route, visitors can spot the seal colony and check out the remains of a 1960s shipwreck.
With rolling farmland, pristine coastline and quiet walking tracks, Glenburn Station is the perfect place to relax, recharge and escape the daily grind.
our Can-Am vehicles, we pop beverages and turn on the hot tub under the starseverything is ready for when they arrive” says Georgie. You can see more about The Last Resort at www.lastresortwalk.co.nz
Visitors are welcome to stay in the range of accommodation options available in this rural slice of paradise. Glenburn Station is east of Martinborough but access is from Greytown. IT’S TIME TO
While staying at our range of accommodation enjoy time on our
Explore the trails of the sanctuary as you search for hidden eggs that reveal amazing facts about the creatures that lay them — from
EVERY DAY: APRIL 3 - MAY 10
Prizes for every adventurer!
Dance with your heart and your
feet
will
follow
Established in 2012 Leaping Lizards has grown and developed to become Wellington’s leading recreational dance school.
Our classes are buzzing with excited, energetic students who dance their way in, around, and out of our wonderful locations. Leaping Lizards prides itself on its firstclass dance tuition within a fun and relaxed
environment. We focus on sharing our love of dance through creative, original, up to date choreography which means classes are never boring!
Leaping Lizards is a dance school any child can go to dance for pure fun and enjoyment. We look forward to welcoming you into the Leaping Lizards family.
Wellington Cable Car
Pipi, the koror from Te Nukuao Wellington Zoo, needs your help – her eggs have been blown from her nest. Join the hunt at the
Wellington Cable Car this Easter, count the hidden eggs, and you could be rewarded (while stocks last).
Get 15% off just mention this ad (new students only).
Classes in Jazz, Hip Hop, Ballet,Lyrical, Tap and Pre-School. Classes. Ages 2+ Girls and Boys. Churton Park, Wellington City Wellington’s Leading Recreational Dance School
Churton Park, Johnsonville, Wellington City Phone Lorna 021 177 0685 www.leaping-lizards.co.nzE: leapinglizardsdance@outlook.com www.leaping-lizards.co.nz
Local musician releases new single
Tawa musician Emma Kate released her new single, “Autumn,” on March 27, marking a new chapter in her career after years of quietly building her craft.
The song explores the acceptance of the feeling of falling in love.
With catchy Taylor Swift style melodies and intentional autumnal lyrical puns, references and cliches, the song showcases Emma’s craft for songwriting and provides a glimpse into the world of her upcoming EP “Autumn”, due to be released this month.
The five-track EP will explore seasons of love, loneliness and relationships – all topics Emma is well-versed in writing about.
Emma grew up in Tawa and started writing songs at just eight years old, inspired by
artists like Taylor Swift.
She taught herself guitar on her mum’s instrument, busked in central Wellington and performed in choirs and local venues throughout her youth.
After studying commercial music at Whitireia and completing an Artist Development course at SOLE Music Academy in Christchurch, Emma refined her sound and learned how to build a sustainable independent career.
Now back in Wellington, she’s ready to share her music with wider audiences.
Emma performed at CubaDupa during the weekend and her upcoming shows include opening for Jenni Smith’s New Zealand Tour on 26 April, providing a perfect chance to experience her music live.
New photo exhibition at Waitohi
A new photography exhibition is currently on at the Waitohi Hub, 34 Moorefield Road Johnsonville.
‘Waitohi – a celebration of community’ by André Vroon Photography contains 30 stunning pictures of Waitohi. These will be on display until mid May in the link space at Waitohi.
“The photos chosen for this exhibition are an attempt to highlight some of its many roles and how the different spaces connect and interact with each other, as well as to draw attention to its visual appeal, particularly how it seems to morph and change shape depending on the light conditions and time of day,” André says.
André is a Wellington based professional photographer, specialising in architecture, interior design and real estate imagery.
Easter comes to J’ville Uniting Church
The season of Lent started at Johnsonville Uniting Church on 17 February for Shrove Tuesday.
A few members of the congregation along with Minister Reverend Tony Wood cooked 305 pancakes which were shared with the various community groups who use the buildings, including the Fruit and Vege Co-op, Baby Sensory Group, Age Concern Exercise Group and Spotlight Dance Company.
Easter will be a busy weekend for the Church, joining with Ngaio Union Church on Thursday 2 April at 7pm for a Maundy Thursday Service, a 10am Service on Good Friday followed by the Walk of the Cross around Johnsonville CBD with St Johns
Some of Johnsonville’s Age Concern exercise group participants enjoying pancakes at Johnsonville Uniting Church. Photo: Supplied.
Anglican, St Francis of Assisi Ōhariu Parish and Khandallah Presbyterian Church. On Saturday 4 April at 5pm there will be a Labyrinth walk followed by Fish and Chips and Board Games and then the Easter Sunday Service will be held at 10am on 5 April.
BUILDERS
"Great communication for work completed with replacing our guttering, & drainage for a new soak pit. Very satisfied with the work completed thanks."
-Robert
Our services include home renovations, alterations, kitchens, bathrooms, maintenance and repairs. No job is too small.
PAINTER
Tawa musician Emma Kate. Photo: Supplied.
Part of André Voon’s exhibition ‘Waitohi – a celebration of community’. Photo: Supplied.
BLOCKED DRAINS
WHAT’S
ON...
The Community Noticeboard is for non-profit organisations. For $15.00 you can publish up to 25 words. No AGMS, sporting notices or special meetings. Community Notices must be pre-paid.
phone (04) 587 1660 or email classifieds@wsn.co.nz
Onslow Historical Society
Bigger, better more sparkly than ever
Back for its third year, REVEL is bigger, better, and more sparkly than ever.
Designed as Wellington’s answer to international cabarets such as the Moulin Rouge or Draculas, REVEL is on its way to becoming a staple on the Wellington arts calendar.
THURSDAY FACT
How many miles per hour does the earth
The circumference of the Earth at the equator is 25,000 miles. The Earth rotates in about 24 hours. Therefore, if you were to hang above the surface of the Earth at the equator without moving, you would see 25,000 miles pass by in 24 hours, at a speed of 25000/24 or just over 1000 miles per hour.
Having generated a buzz among critics and audiences alike at the Hannah Playhouse in 2024 and 2025, the show will deliver all the glitz, glam and top-tier cabaret acts that audiences have come to expect, this time with an all-new cast.
REVEL will play from 4 to 6 June at the Hannah Playhouse, 12 Cambridge Terrace.
The doors will open at 6:30pm for a 7:30pm start.
Combining circus acts, cocktails, live music, drag and theatre, the Hannah Playhouse will be transformed into a completely new format in the round.
Audiences will be welcomed to a shimmering disco club complete with a cocktail bar built into the stage and the now iconic light-up REVEL marquee.
The 2026 show puts music and dance at the forefront, with a banging 70s soundtrack presented through a contemporary lens.
This year the live band will not only be playing during the preshow, but during the
6. Urged , on. (5) 7. Unbroken. (6) 8. Burst in. (8) 9. Be immoderate. (11) 10. Onslaught (5) 16. Small wire arches (croquet) (7)
18. Bring upon oneself. (5) 20. Derive(from). (7)
21. To understand. (3)
Garment border. (3)
Out-moded. (11)
Heavy wrap. (3)
Complete. (5)
Fabled bird. (3)
Charlatan. (8)
Grant respite to. (8)
Extensive Grass-land. (7)
Beat severly. (7)
Venemous spider
(N.Z.) (6) 45. Large prawns. (6)
Variety of beet. (5)
Shin-bone. (5)
Scarcely sufficient. (5)
A scene from REVEL. Photo: Supplied.
move around the sun?
Onslow to play Pearce Cup final
By Frank Neill
Onslow’s premier Cricketers will head into the Easter weekend Pearce Cup final after comfortably taking out first innings points against Taita on 21 and 28 March.
This result saw them win the title of 2026 two day champions.
Taita batted first on Fraser Park’s Barry Clarke Oval and were bowled out for 229.
Onslow replied with 344 before taking six Taita wickets for 73 runs.
Onslow’s vice captain Micah Conroy starred with both the ball and the bat. He claimed a five wicket bag when he took five wickets for 20 runs.
Micah then followed that up with a century, scoring 117 runs from the 129 balls he faced.
Matthew Scoble also batted outstandingly and was close to scoring a century before he was out for 92.
Onslow will host the Pearce Cup final, to decide the Wellington premier division one champions, at Nairnville Park.
They will play Hutt District on 3, 4 and 5 April, with each day starting at 10:30am.
This will see Onslow and Hutt District meet in the Pearce Cup for the second successive year.
Onslow will be looking to reverse the result, however, as Hutt District won last year’s match.
Karori did not have such a good time, playing Pearce Cup finalist Hutt District on 21 and 28 March.
Hutt District comfortably took out first innings points from the game, played at Karori Park.
Karori batted first and was all out for 285. Hutt District replied with 304 for the loss of three wickets.
Three players passed the half century mark for Karori.
Louis Ayres batted outstandingly, scoring 72 runs from only 33 deliveries, giving him a strike rate of 218.18.
Dimithri Gallage scored 70 and Yashraj Kalsi socred 56.
Karori’s vice captain Oscar Wilson took two wickets for 30 runs and Ralph Kirkland took one wicket for 51 runs.
The Johnsonville premiers finished their season with an overwhelming outright victory over the Sri Lankan Sports Club on 21 and 28 March.
Batting first on Alex Moore Park, Johnsonville scord 348 all out.
They then bowled the Sri Lankans out for 155.
After declaring their second innings at 13 without loss, Johnsonville bowled out the Sri Lankans for 203 for the victory.
Lewis Jeffreys came close to scoring a century for Johnsonville when he was out for 96.
Two other players – Samuel Hunter with 61 runs and Andrew Moir with 57 runs –passed the half century mark.
Two Johnsonville bowlers took three wickets each in the Sri Lankans first innings, Blake Taylor took three wickets for 16 runs and Connor Lusty three wickets for 18 runs.
Connor followed up by taking six wickets for 59 runs in Sri Lanka’s second innings.
Ashan Wanasinghe took two wickets for 42 runs and Blake took another two wickets for 51 runs.
Two silver medals for local rowers
By Frank Neill
Onslow College and Samuel Marsden Collegiate School rowers came away with a silver medal each at this year’s Maadi Cup competition, held at Lake Ruataniwha from 23 to 28 March.
Onslow College’s Reuben Andrews and Costin Eley finished second in the Boys Under 16 double sculls event.
Costin then teamed up with L Kelly to finish eighth in the Boys Under 15 double sculls.
Reuben’s silver medal came in the wake of the gold medal he won along with Lias Kern in the under 15 double sculls event at last year’s Maadi Cup.
Samuel Marsden won their silver medal in the Girls Under 17 coxless pair when Charlie Fitzgerald and Imogen Hille came second in the A final.
Charlie and Imogen also featured in the Girls Under 18 coxless pair who finished fifth in the A final.
Emily Greening emulated that fifth place with an outstanding performance in the Girls Under 16 single sculls.
Samuel Marsden had a fourth team qualify for the A finals.
The Girls Under 15 coxed four of Alexis Tzeug, Camille Cooper, Liv von Dadelszen, Greta Keenan and cox Abby Lendrum finished seventh in their final.
The Maadi Cup regatta, which is New Zealand’s Secondary Schools national championship, featured around 2,000 rowers from 113 schools.
Micah Conroy celebrates scoring a century for Onslow on 28 March. Photo: Supplied.
Samuel Marsden rowers Charlie Fitzgerald and Imogen Hille with their silver medals. Photo: Supplied.
Onslow College rowers Reuben Andrews and Costish Eley with their silver medals. Photo: Supplied.
Visit Us
Imperial Park, Unit 81, 41 Bouverie Street, Petone, Lower Hutt.
Hours
Mon - Fri: 9:30am - 2:30pm Thursday: 9:30am - 4pm
Enter Imperial Park, turn right, go to the North end, and you ’ll see us.
Please come and see us instore with your items for an on-the-spot appraisal and offer. Please bring your bank details for payment.
We Specialise in Buying & Selling all kinds of Jewellery, Bullion, Coins and Banknotes, Silver and Gold items, and Watches. Fully licenced with over 50 years industry experience. Visit us instore or online at www.heritagegold.nz
