News

They’re a buzzing annoyance, a painful pest, and a backyard barbecuer’s worst nightmare. And even more than that, wasps are a threat to our environment and the economy, costing the country more than $130 million each year. Martin De Ruyter/Stuff Now it’s time to wipe them out. Stuff, the Department of Conservation (DOC), the Tasman Environmental Trust, and …

Time to strike back: Wasp Wipeout spreads to Wellington for the first time Read More »

The Nest Te Kōhanga, Wellington Zoo’s award-winning animal hospital, is celebrating its 10th anniversary on 9 December 2019. Vet Emily with Korora “The Nest Te Kōhanga is a world leading facility that enables us to provide Zoo animals with amazing veterinary care, and it is a regional hub for treating and rehabilitating injured native wildlife …

Wellington Zoo celebrating 10 years of The Nest Te Kōhanga Read More »

Strong winds in Wellington have forced multiple domestic flights to and from the city to be cancelled. The high winds are hitting the centre of the country, with a warning in place for the capital and strong wind due in Nelson, Marlborough, Wairarapa, Taihape, Whanganui and parts of Taranaki. So far, 18 Air New Zealand …

Wild weather: Strong winds ground flights to and from Wellington Read More »

A ‘major gas leak’ at a Paraparaumu intersection has been contained, after a gas main was shut off. Google Maps Reports of the leak on the corner of Arawhata and Kāpiti roads were received shortly before 10am Monday and prompted a swift response from Fire and Emergency. A Stuff reporter at the scene said Kāpiti Rd had been closed …

Fire and Emergency respond to ‘major gas leak’ in Paraparaumu Read More »

Wellington City Council has been awarded for “showing the most egregious gullibility in the past year”. The New Zealand Skeptics conference has awarded the council its annual “bent spoon” accolade for its contractor’s use of water divining to find underground pipes. “Generally we like getting awards but we can’t accept this one,” council spokesman Richard MacLean …

Wellington City Council wins Skeptics award after contractor divines for water Read More »

“Considerable” delays could see the Transmission Gully motorway only just make a 2020 opening. Mark Coote Construction began on the 27 kilometre-long road in 2015, with April 2020 initially touted as the month traffic would finally flow onto four-lanes connecting Linden in north Wellington to Paekakariki on the Kapiti Coast. Earlier this year, the New …

Transmission Gully motorway construction ‘considerably behind’ schedule Read More »

It is rarer than the kākāpō and most people have never heard of it but a population of Bartlett’s white rātā is thriving in Lower Hutt. Te Papa Hutt City Council staff recently used a drone to survey trees in Percy Scenic Reserve and made an unexpected discovery. One of the seven Bartlett’s rātā was flowering, which means it has the potential …

Rare white rātā in Lower Hutt, rarer than the kākāpō Read More »

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ESTIMATOR UNDERGROUND AND SUBS Read More »

We are launching our new job tab.  Only  $50 a listing. Discounts for bulk listings from agencies.  With over 20,000 downloads 95% based in Wellington you can target Wellingtonians to find the perfect person for the role. Daily latest jobs push out. Jobs listed on our social media Email [email protected]  

A dead man has been found in Porirua Harbour. Ross Giblin/Stuff Police were called after 10.30am with reports of a person floating in the water. A spokeswoman said police had since located a man deceased in the water. “Enquiries are under way to establish the circumstances of the man’s death.” A Transdev spokeswoman confirmed police …

Police discover man’s body in Porirua harbour Read More »

In France, a northerly wind is called mistral and Greymouth has the barber but despite Wellington being known for its wild wind, it has no official name.   Rosa Woods/Stuff With Wellington’s 180th birthday just around the corner, a historian says it is time for Wellingtonians to have a conversation about naming the wind. Kaumātua Kura Moeahu from iwi Te Āti Awa …

Is it time to name Wellington’s wind? Read More »

About 400 litres of diesel has spilled into Wellington Harbour while mega-cruise ship Radiance of the Seas was taking on fuel. Monique Ford/Stuff Harbour master Grant Nalder confirmed that there were reports of penguins in the area of the spill, which happened on Monday afternoon. Initially, there were fears of up to 800 litres being spilled. The official estimate was closer …

Concerns for penguins after diesel spill while cruise ship refuelled in Wellington Read More »

Hospital specialists around the country warn that public hospitals have reached a tipping point in a new report entitled: Hospitals on the Edge. Produced by the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists, the report is released today ahead of the health union’s annual conference. The impetus for the report is the rising concern of members about …

Tipping point reached in public hospitals Read More »

Come along to the meeting to find out more about the proposed extension of the Southern Landfill. The council has been busy testing the assumption that extending the Landfill is the most viable solution, by assessing alternative waste management technologies. The assessment concluded that extending the Landfill remains the most viable solution for now. Come …

Meeting about the Southern Landfill proposed extension Read More »

Wellington is a foodie’s dream and that vibrant restaurant scene has been reinforced with 24 of the city’s eateries making Cuisine magazine’s top 100. Robert Kitchin/Stuff Throughout the year more than 40 food and drink experts assessed restaurants throughout the country, judging food, service, and ambience. One of the capital restaurants named has been open for just three months. Atlas on …

Wellington restaurants old and new celebrated in Cuisine magazine’s top 100 Read More »

A mysterious street artist is transforming a drab retaining wall in Lower Hutt into a giant Lego set. Kevin Stent/Stuff Over the past two weeks the faces of Lego characters have been appearing on concrete slabs that make up the wall on Gracefield Rd at the foot of Wainuiomata Hill. Chatter among locals is rife over who the …

Giant Lego set appears in Lower Hutt Read More »

Electronic music producer Hanno Leichtmann will present a new video made with original photographic material from the archives of the Darmstadt Summer Courses for New Music. Friday, 6 December 2019 from 17:30-18:30 Goethe-Institut New Zealand Hanno Leichtmann and his colleague, Toby Cornish, created an animated video out of scans and photocopies from an archive compiled …

Film Screening with Hanno Leichtmann Read More »

​Efforts to bring back buses and ease public transport pressures on Wellington’s system are being paralysed by a driver shortage. Monique Ford/Stuff ​It’s been three weeks since Greater Wellington Regional Council chairman Daran Ponter promised to fix Wellington’s public transport system but the number of bus services cancelled every day has been stagnant since August. The city was 35 drivers short, Ponter said, and while that …

Driver shortages continue to sting Wellington bus services Read More »

Wellington city councillors can pop the champagne – today they will vote on giving themselves a hefty pay rise after the Remuneration Authority allocated more dosh to spend on salaries. Voting in the pay packet will be one of the first things the newly formed council get done after new members say their maiden speeches on Wednesday. …

First things first: Wellington City Councillors vote on giving themselves a pay rise Read More »

The race to be the new All Blacks coach appears to be down to just two men. Former Wellington, Highlanders and New Zealand Maori coach Jamie Joseph has extended his tenure in charge of the Japanese national side. The ex-All Blacks flanker was considered one of the three remaining leading contenders to replace Steve Hansen. …

Jamie Joseph drops out of All Blacks contention Read More »

Long lost footage of the destruction caused by the 1931 Hawke’s Bay earthquake has been saved for posterity after turning up in an Upper Hutt garage. COURTESY OF GLORIA PATTERSON AND THE WHETTON WHĀNAU/NGĀ TAONGA SOUND & VISION The footage was taken by freelance news cameraman Thomas Henry Whetton, who was active in the 1920s …

Long lost film of Napier earthquake devastation rescued from rusty tins Read More »

Wellington’s historic Temperance building will once again open its doors to the public by housing the Cannabis Science Institute of New Zealand and Wellington’s first cannabis social club, The Daktory. Cannabis clubs are popular around the world. The Temperance building has long been associated with early development of Courtenay Place and the commercial and economic …

Cannabis club opening in historic Temperance building Read More »

Not all heroes wear capes and many are four-legged, like Marley the labrador who helped rescue a small dog swept out to sea at Petone on Sunday.             “We’d been on a nice walk along the beach and we were walking back from the lagoon area,” Marley’s best friend and …

Labrador helps to rescue small dog off Petone beach Read More »

Greenpeace protesters have covered Parliament lawn with replica coral this morning, calling on the Government to take urgent action on bottom trawling.                   Oceans campaigner Jessica Desmond says the activity coincides with new figures that reveal up to 3,000 tonnes of coral was destroyed by New Zealand …

Bottom-trawled coral “stolen by Talleys” dumped on Parliament’s lawn Read More »

A mega-liner is heading to sea after mechanical issues stopped it near the mouth of Wellington harbour. The Ovation of the Seas – the largest cruise ship to regularly visit Wellington – came into trouble Monday evening. Harbour master Grant Nalder told Stuff the mammoth ship called for tugs just after 7.30pm while it was exiting the …

Ovation of the Seas cruise ship comes to a brief stop in Wellington harbour Read More »

WELLINGTON TRAIN SUSPENSION – KAPITI LINE – 2:25PM @metlinkwgtn advise train services on the Kapiti Line between Wellington & Porirua have been CANCELLED this afternoon, due to a power fault. Please plan ahead & expect delays. More info, click here

Hutt City Council has been accused of being undemocratic and abusing process over a decision that could allow trees to be cut down to make way for more affordable housing. Hutt City Council voted two weeks ago on a wide-ranging initiative to boost affordable and medium-density housing in the city. Known as Plan Change 43, …

Hutt Council affordable housing change puts native trees at risk – Forest & Bird Read More »

CAR IN THE WATER WHITBY INLET AVOID PAREMATA RD / SH58 for now as a car is in the drink. Expect delays and possible road closure.

Wellington Regional Trails shares their best of the best, the crème de la crème, the pick of the litter – you get the drift – these trails are sure to impress. Popular with locals and visitors alike, these are the trails to make you fall in love (or fall back in love) with the Wellington …

Top 5 best trails in Wellington Read More »

Police seek 41-year-old Shannon Hoani Martin Wairarapa Police are seeking 41-year-old Shannon Hoani Martin who has a warrant to arrest for aggravated robbery. He is believed to be in the lower North Island. Martin is described as having a large build, and is around 177cm tall. He also has very distinctive facial tattoos, however, he …

Police seek 41-year-old Shannon Hoani Martin Read More »

Ransom. BATS Theatre, 1 Kent Tce, Wellington, 15 – 16 November Fall head-first into a new Aotearoa republic as the country closes in on its first election scandal. The runaway candidate in this 2024 election, an ultraconservative woman, has been kidnapped. But who is behind it? And what do they want? Prepare to be whisked …

Some things to do this weekend (a few for free!) Read More »

Not in three decades of the Wellingtonian of the Year awards has the supreme winner been literally too close to call. But that was the case on Thursday night, when the 31st edition of the annual awards saw the major prize shared between climate change activist Sophie Handford and Muslim community leader Tahir Nawaz. Sophie Handford won the …

Wellingtonian of the Year supreme award shared for first time in 31 years Read More »

Emotions continue to run high in Levin as three teenage girls charged with attacking and robbing a 90-year-old woman in her home made their second Youth Court appearance on Tuesday. One teen had to enter Levin District Court through a side door amid concerns for her safety, while the family of another dismissed the lawyer …

New charges for teens accused of attacking Levin 90-year-old Read More »

Storytelling, not just statistics, is vital to how we connect with people to ignite our cultural response to the climate crisis. That’s the challenge of What if Climate Change was Purple? a multi-year art and science collaboration that aims to generate new public art works that deeply move people and inspire climate action.   In …

What if climate change was purple? Read More »

Midwives in the Hutt Valley are at breaking point. They laid bare their concerns at an emotionally raw public meeting last night over what they see as chronic staffing and equipment shortages. Photo: RNZ Nearly 100 midwives, parents, and politicians turned out to a Petone community hall to discuss the problems at the meeting organised …

Hutt midwives at breaking point Read More »

Wellington’s Central Park – less familiar to many than the famous park of the same name in New York City – is one of the Wellington’s oldest public green spaces. History curator Kirstie Ross rambles through some of the highs and lows of its 114 year history. Untitled (View of Wellington), from an illuminated address to …

Wellington’s Central Park: A ramble through its history Read More »

A zine (pronounced zeen) is an independently or self-published booklet, often created by physically cutting and gluing text and images together onto a master flat for photocopying, but it’s also common to produce the master by typing and formatting pages on a computer.   Historically, zines have been around since 1776 when Thomas Paine self-published …

Zinefest is back for 2019 Read More »

A man has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of a Black Power member in Wainuiomata, near Wellington.   Falcon Samuels was found guilty of murdering Paul Te Hiko in March last year. Samuels was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum non-parole period of 17 years at the Wellington High Court this …

Man sentenced to life in prison for Black Power member’s murder Read More »

Classical ballet and contemporary choreography at New Zealand School of Dance Photo: Stephen A’Court The New Zealand School of Dance (NZSD) 2019 Graduation Season promises outstanding performances of both classical and contemporary dance. Expect a showcase of powerful, timeless classics and striking new works from NZSD, 20-30 November at Te Whaea: National Dance & Drama …

Uplifting works from the New Zealand School of Dance Read More »

Police have seized firearms and drugs in three separate incidents in Masterton recently. Around 1.45am on Friday 8 November Police noticed a disqualified driver behind the wheel on Chapel Street, the vehicle was searched and a shotgun was recovered. A 20-year-old man was charged with unlawfully possessing a firearm, driving while disqualified and possession of an …

Police say firearms and drugs have been recovered in Masterton incidents Read More »

“Have you seen Siaumau Lote Telea?” Masterton Police are appealing for sightings of missing 25-year-old Siaumau Lote Telea. He was last seen by family in Masterton about 2.30pm on Thursday 5 November. He was wearing a long sleeved white cotton crew neck shirt, blue navy shorts, and sometimes wears a plain black and white beanie. …

“Have you seen Siaumau Lote Telea?” Read More »

Wellington Police remind cyclists to secure bicycles following thefts In the last few months Wellington Police have received numerous reports of bicycles stolen by opportunistic thieves throughout the CBD, and despite two youths being arrested and an ongoing investigation, bikes are still being targeted. Wellington Area Prevention Manager Inspector Wade Jennings says the police know …

Police need public’s help to halt bike thefts Read More »

Japanese Film Festival 2019 Roxy Cinema, 5 Park Road, Miramar, Wellington The Embassy of Japan, in cooperation with the Japan Foundation, is very pleased to announce the return of the Japanese Film Festival to Wellington. The Japanese Film Festival is an annual event held to encourage the growth of Japanese culture and understanding in New …

Cheap (and free!) things to do this weekend Read More »

The continued shortage of quality real estate listings, coupled with record low mortgage interest rates have combined to add some zing to the property market over October.   Spring normally brings with it a surge in house listings, but listings are generally down throughout New Zealand. With lower interest rates enabling new buyers to enter …

Up and up and up: House prices rise again Read More »

UPDATE: Terrace Tunnel reopened” The Terrace Tunnel is now open following a crash this afternoon. The crash involved two vehicles, not one, as mentioned in an earlier release. Police were called to the collision around 4.40pm. Early indications are a person may have suffered a medical event. They have been transported to hospital. ENDS   …

“Single-vehicle crash at Terrace Tunnel” The southbound lane is closed and northbound traffic is down to one lane. Read More »

Oddjive: Album Fundraiser After too long OddJive return to the stage! They’ve been writing lots of new music and we can’t wait to share it all with you. Join us for a night of mayhem with some fine Wellington musicians in the form of the Kelburn Collective. Funds for the night will go towards recording …

Feel like getting funky? See Oddjive at Valhalla tonight Read More »

Incredible Kiwi talent such as Sons of Zion, Savage, Tomorrow People, The Feelers, State of Mind, Clicks, nomad, Skinny Hobos, Dead Favours, Illbaz and Flowidus have been added to an already impressive bill including, Shapeshifter, Robinson, Shihad, Mitch James, Stan Walker, L.A.B, Dragon, Devilskin, Concord Dawn, Mako Road and State of Mind.   The iconic …

Homegrown’s full line-up (44 acts) announced Read More »

A Hutt City Council initiative to improve housing supply and housing affordability was given the green light at an extraordinary Council meeting last night.   District Plan Change 43 will permit medium density residential housing of up to three storeys in eight suburban areas that have good access to transport, shopping, schools and parks. It …

Proposal to tackle housing supply and affordability gets the go ahead in the Hutt Read More »

NZTA Wellington @NZTAWgtn #ROADWORKS – SH1 KĀPITI EXPRESSWAY Plan ahead for a southbound LANE CLOSURE between Waikanae and Paraparaumu, Mon-Fri from 7am-7pm for resurfacing. (Dependent on weather & other factors

SH2 SILVERSTREAM – SIGNALS FAULT – 6:15PM Traffic signals on SH2 Silverstream at the intersection with Western Hutt Rd are currently flashing yellow. Please apply give way rules and take extra care. ^EH pic.twitter.com/x2g8HCFqQi — NZTA Wellington (@NZTAWgtn) November 4, 2019

A new mural was unveiled in the heart of Wellington at Civic Square last week, acknowledging the grief over the tragedy that happened in Christchurch on 15 March 2019. Weaving Hope represents a unified, accepting and diverse Aotearoa.   Muslim Wellington delighted with new mural. Tahir Nawiz, President of the Association that cares for the …

Loss and hope in Christchurch represented in new mural Read More »

NZTA Wellington @NZTAWgtn FINAL UPDATE  This #breakdown is now CLEAR and the Mt Victoria Tunnel is now fully OPEN. Thank you for your patience as congestion eases. ^EL

 Due to a #breakdown, the Mt Victoria Tunnel is CLOSED in both directions. Please use an alternative route and expect #delays. 

Deaf // Etienne De Silhouette // Column Of Sand   WHEN Sat Nov 2nd, 2019 WHERE Valhalla, Wellington Buy Tickets DOORS OPEN 8:30pm GIG STARTS 9:30pm ENTRY R18 COVER CHARGE* $10 *Guide only – booking fees may apply GIG INFORMATION A 3 band meeting of minds – of a darkly psychedelic, post-punk persuasion – a …

Not into watching the rugby? Get down to Valhalla, there’s a gig on. Read More »

A car heading south has hit the median barrier between Pukerua Bay and Paekakariki. There is some debris on the north side and traffic is slow from Pukerua Bay. Please be patient.

UPDATE 5:10PMThis northbound #SH2 crash is now CLEAR, but resulting queues are currently just north of the #Dowse interchange. Please continue to expect significant northbound DELAYS while congestion eases. ^CR https://t.co/1AjGaLBXti — NZTA Wellington (@NZTAWgtn) November 1, 2019

Temperatures are expected to be warm this weekend as the country gets an early dose of summer weather. “The air [will be] coming off Australia, they have this really large high over the Tasman, and the northerly flow on the western side of the high is dragging this warm air off Australia,” MetService meteorologist Stephen …

Enjoy the good weather this weekend, it won’t stick around for long Read More »

Kiwi Night Encounter Ngā Manu Nature Reserve, 74 Ngā Manu Reserve Road, Waikanae, Kapiti Coast This is your chance to share in the night world of kiwi. Watch our birds as they emerge from their daytime slumber and engage in the nocturnal exploration of their outdoor enclosure. Every evening presents a new episode in the …

Five things happening outside the city this weekend! Read More »

Eat Your Art Out: an Edible Art Experience New Zealand Portrait Gallery, Shed 11, Wellington Waterfront, Wellington Eat Your Art Out: An Edible Art Experience Hot on the heels of her fabulously successful “Dessertslands” in WOAP (Wellington On A Plate), the talented Caitlin le Harivel returns to the New Zealand Portrait Gallery with a new …

Five things happening in the city this weekend Read More »

Wellington Zoo is excited to announce the arrival of two female Tasmanian Devils, Cassia and Clove who have recently joined the Zoo’s existing female, Dash. “Cassia and Clove arrived from the Tasmanian Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment at the end of September, and since completing their quarantine period, they have now been …

Wellington Zoo Devil duo arrive just in time for Halloween Read More »

“Masterton Police seek vehicle sightings” Masterton Police are seeking assistance from anyone who may have seen a blue Mazda vehicle driving erratically about midday on Friday 25 October. The vehicle was involved in a fleeing driver incident in the Lansdowne area, which was quickly abandoned due to the nature of driving. Enquiries to date suggest …

Masterton Police are seeking assistance from anyone who may have seen a blue Mazda vehicle driving erratically about midday on Friday 25 October. Read More »

NZTA Wellington @NZTAWgtn SH58 PAREMATA – CRASH – 2:25PM Due to a #crash near the intersection with Spinnaker Drive, the road is under STOP/GO control. Emergency services are on-site. Please take extra care through the area and expect minor delays 

Here’s another event you need to add to your calendar: THE KAPITI ARTS TRAIL is back for another year! It’s the perfect day out to view some eclectic art works in creative environments.  There are over 100 listings in the Kāpiti Arts Guide, showcasing art that is traditional or cutting edge, soul-soothing or challenging, comfortable …

Kapiti Arts Trail starts this weekend! Read More »

Nicholas Backman is wanted by the police. Backman, of Porirua, is 33-years-old and has tattoos on his shoulder, arms and left hand. If you see Backman or have information on his whereabouts please contact Police immediately on 111. Information can also be shared anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Backman should not be approached. …

Nicholas Backman is wanted for arrest Read More »

The Seatoun tunnel will be closed Sunday to Thursday nights for the next six weeks from 10 November 2019, to allow contractors to install new state-of-the-art LED interior lighting and emergency lighting. Traffic will be detoured between 11pm and 5.30am via Tio Tio Road. Trucks and heavy vehicles should use Ira Street, Para Street and …

Night time closures of Seatoun tunnel for lighting upgrade Read More »

They are an eclectic mix of gamers, animal lovers, musicians, martial arts practitioners, and multilinguists, but a group of secondary students heading to Wellington this weekend all have one thing in common – they are New Zealand’s top spellers for 2019.   Eighteen students from Kerikeri to Dunedin will battle it out for the title …

Wellington hosts New Zealand’s best spellers this weekend Read More »

NZTA Wellington @NZTAWgtn SH1 NGAURANGA GORGE, NORTHBOUND – CRASH – 6:45AM A crash is currently BLOCKING the left northbound lane, north of the #Newlands off-ramp. Please take extra care while passing and expect DELAYS. ^CR  

We are starting a new feature where Jane Mather of Clark & Co will answer your questions about the Real Estate industry. Simply comment on The Wellington app facebook post and every Thursday evening we will post Janes’s answer to your questions.    Jane will answer one or two a week, but it will be …

Have you got questions about Real Estate ? Read More »

“UPDATE: Missing person, Lower Hutt” A Lower Hutt teen reported missing on Friday has today been located safe and well. “Missing person, Lower Hutt” Lower Hutt Police are appealing for information to help locate a missing teenager. Aretha Mason, 15, was reported missing on Friday. She is described as 155cm tall and of thin build …

Have you seen Aretha Mason, 15, was reported missing on Friday. Read More »

Porirua’s Adventure Park has received consent from the Department of Conservation to go ahead. Will it be a money turner? Or a money burner? Supplied Porirua’s new Mayor Anita Baker can’t talk up the proposed Adventure Park enough, having just received consent from the Department of Conservation to proceed with the venture. “The Park will …

Is Porirua’s Adventure Park ready for the next step? Read More »

Paekakariki village burst into life this weekend, with a loud, proud, colourful Pride Fest. Queer fire trucks, excited drummers, twirling banners and dancing dogs were all part of the  third annual unofficial ‘World’s Shortest Pride Parade’ at Paekakariki on Saturday. A crowd of hundreds made its way from Campbell Park next to the beach to the …

Paekakariki hosts ‘The World’s Shortest (unofficial) Pride Parade’ Read More »

Voting is about to open for the fiercest, most exciting competition in Aotearoa – Forest & Bird’s Bird of the Year. The competition to elect the nation’s favourite bird has been heating up with alliances, rivalries, and meme-wars taking over the internet. In a new twist to the competition, the voting system has changed. Instead …

Bird of the year is here! Read More »

Metlink  @metlinkwgtn Harbour Explorer cancelled Sunday 27th October, normal service running to schedule

NZTA Wellington @NZTAWgtn UPDATE 4PM Due to the long weekend, traffic remains heavily CONGESTED heading north between Peka Peka and Ōtaki. Queues are almost back to Waikanae. 

NZTA Wellington @NZTAWgtn SH1 KAPITI COAST, NORTHBOUND – HOLIDAY CONGESTION – 11:30AM Due to increased northbound holiday traffic, there is CONGESTION on SH1 between Te Horo & #Ōtaki. Queues are building towards Peka Peka. Please expect DELAYS, as heavy traffic is not expected to ease until after 6pm. ^CR

NZTA Wellington @NZTAWgtn #ROADWORKS – SH2 LOWER HUTT Plan ahead for a southbound LANE CLOSURE between Silverstream and Fairway Drive today, 9:30am-4pm for guard-rail installation. (Dependent on weather & other factors)

HighLight: Carnival of Lights Riddiford Gardens, Laings Road, Lower Hutt, Lower Hutt, Wellington Region Friday 25 October 2019 – Monday 28 October 2019 7:00pm – 11:00pm Admission: Free Lower Hutt’s Riddiford Garden will be transformed into a spectacular carnival of light for all ages. Get lost across space and time, through magical forests and maybe …

Five things to do outside the city this weekend! Read More »

Escape Mate 12 Johnston Street | Aviation House, Wellington 6011, New Zealand Saturday 26th October 2019 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday 27th October 2019 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM $40 / player, 5-16 players use code WELLINGTONESCAPE for $5 off per person when booking.  Book here Escape Mate is an adventurous, indoor puzzle-solving group activity …

Five things to do in the city this weekend! Read More »

UPDATE 5:25PM Two right northbound lanes on the Urban Motorway remain BLOCKED. SCU are on-site investigating the crash and tow is removing the vehicles. Please continue to delay travel as there are significant delays on the motorway and through the CBD. Quote Tweet NZTA Wellington @NZTAWgtn · 44m SH1 URBAN MOTORWAY, NORTHBOUND – CRASH – …

“Serious crash – SH1, Kaiwharawhara, Wellington “ Read More »

Gull is dropping its prices by 21 cents today and Friday, as the petrol station celebrates 21 years of business. The discounted price will apply from 7am Thursday until midday on Friday. “Gull’s discount days are for everyone – no minimum spend and no maximum fill restrictions,” says pricing analyst Crystal Feist. “Our price boards …

If you’re heading out of Wellington, top up at Gull Read More »

Buses replace most weekend train services on the Wairarapa Line – Friday 25 October to Monday 28 October http://bit.ly/2WcX4mw

If your family has a need for speed, don’t miss the sound of roaring engines and blaze of lights at the Max Motors Wellington Family Speedway this Sunday, as the 51st season gets underway. It’s going to be another season of high octane family entertainment: all major racing classes are competing, including saloons, stock cars, mini-stocks, and …

A family-friendly need for speed at Wellington Speedway this Sunday Read More »

Service Updates > Buses replace weekend services on the Kapiti Line between Wellington and Waikanae – Saturday 26 to Monday 28 October   metlink.org.nz

Restricted sailings will be operating this morning (Wednesday 23rd October) on the Harbour Ferry. Due to adverse weather conditions, the Harbour Ferry will be operating to a restricted timetable this morning. See restricted timetable below: Departing Queens Wharf: 6.20am, 7.15am, 8.20am Departing Days Bay: 6.50am, 7.45am, 8.45am This also means we will not be travelling …

Restricted sailings on Harbour Ferry Read More »

SH1 CAMBORNE, NORTHBOUND – CRASH – 8:30PM A crash is BLOCKING the right northbound lane near the intersection with Steyne Avenue. Please take extra care while passing. For more information overnight, please check our Traffic Map here: http://journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/wellington… 

Valid from: 21/10/2019 9:00pm Train services will be running between Wellington and Plimmerton with bus replacements between Plimmerton and Waikanae for the remainder of the evening. We now have more bus replacements running between Plimmerton and Waikanae. Some bus replacements my be delayed due to heavy traffic. The traction crew are now on site and have …

Trains The first two morning services from WAIK to WELL for Tuesday 22 October will be replaced by Bus Read More »

Roadworks NZTA Wellington #ROADWORKS – SH1 MANA ESPLANADE Plan ahead for a northbound LANE CLOSURE near Marina View intersection, from 5am-2pm Tuesday for gas line repairs.(Dependent on weather and other factors)

 The southbound passing lane north of Ōtaki will be CLOSED PERMANENTLY from Monday 21 October. There be traffic control in place on Monday and Tuesday from 8am-5pm while the closure is put in place. (Dependent on weather & other factors). NZTA Wellington

“Delays expected after Upper Hutt crash” Police are responding to a single-vehicle crash on River Road, Moonshine Valley, Upper Hutt. Police were alerted around 12.25pm. No serious injuries have been reported. The northbound lane is blocked. Motorists are advised to avoid the area or use alternative routes. ENDS Issued by Police Media Centre

FINAL UPDATE 3:40PM This #flooding on the Hutt northbound on-ramp is now CLEAR. Drive safely. ^EL #Flooding is currently impacting the Hutt northbound on-ramp. Please take extra care and SLOW DOWN while travelling through the area. SH2 NGAURANGA, NORTHBOUND – FLOODING – 2:45PM#Flooding is currently impacting the Hutt northbound on-ramp. Please take extra care and SLOW …

UPDATE: SH2 NGAURANGA, NORTHBOUND – FLOODING – Read More »

An NZTA Roadworks Update for Friday 18th October From 3-7pm today the Paekakariki Hill Road is closed to through traffic with local access only. Tomorrow morning in Wellington city there’ll be stop go traffic control on the Terrace off ramp from the urban motorway for crane works. And next week the passing lane heading south …

NZTA Roadworks update Friday 18 October Read More »

Police responding to reported threat on Interislander ferry   Police are responding to a report received at 9:05am regarding an item of concern on an Interislander ferry which departed Wellington at 9 am. The ship has returned to dock in Wellington, and passengers are being evacuated while Police undertake inquiries on-board. Cordons will be in …

Police responding to reported threat on Interislander ferry Read More »

A quick look at five things happening in the city this evening. 1. Jazz on the Hilltop Wellington SPCA, 140 Alexandra Road, Newtown, Wellington Friday 18 October 2019 7:30pm – 10:00pm General Admission: $25.56 ($22.50 + $3.06 fees) SPCA’s Wellington Centre is celebrating its buildings 100 year anniversary. In collaboration with the Wellington Jazz Cooperative, …

Top five Friday Read More »

All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen said the team was really looking forward to Saturday’s must-win encounter. “There’s a lot of energy and excitement in the team which is normal for this stage of the tournament where the winner takes all. It will add extra pressure to both sides. “We feel we’ve selected a great …

All Blacks name team to play Ireland on Saturday Read More »

Two lucky Aucklanders are splitting a massive $38 million Powerball jackpot. Both winning tickets were sold on MyLotto, with the winners each taking home $19,142,857. They weren’t the only prizewinners, though. Five Kiwis won $142,857 with Lotto First Division. Those winning tickets were sold at Countdown Manukau City Mall, New World Southmall and Porchester Road Superette in Auckland, MyLotto in Hawke’s Bay, and New World Merrilands in …

Two new millionaires from massive $38m Lotto jackpot Read More »

The Wellington Regional Council scrambled to remove advertisements promoting a career in bus driving after it discovered a string of racist tweets by one of its poster boys. Official information obtained by RNZ shows the council asked its bus drivers to front a campaign explaining why they joined the profession to encourage others to do …

Advertising for bus drivers removed after discovery of racist tweets Read More »

Now Cleared SH1 JOHNSONVILLE, NORTHBOUND – BREAKDOWN – 3:20PMA bus breakdown is BLOCKING the Johnsonville northbound off-ramp. Please take extra care while passing and expect delays. ^EH pic.twitter.com/2P6w8qvDfy — NZTA Wellington (@NZTAWgtn) October 16, 2019

Owners of newly outlawed firearms have just over two months left to hand their guns in, or modify them. Photo: RNZ / Ana Tovey There have been calls for the 20 December deadline to be extended, but Police Minister Stuart Nash says that won’t be happening. Gun law changes in the wake of the Christchurch …

Gunsmiths kept busy by short deadline to modify guns Read More »

UPDATE  7:40AM Resulting southbound delays following a prior crash on SH2 have now EASED to normal peak conditions. Thank you for your patience as congestion eases. FINAL UPDATE 7:40AMResulting southbound delays following a prior crash on SH2 have now EASED to normal peak conditions. Thank you for your patience as congestion eases. ^EHhttps://t.co/FBwPoSq3Hl — NZTA …

Crash SH2 Petone to Ngauranga is slowly clearing Read More »

New imaging technology has revealed hundreds of major buildings nationwide have defective or missing concrete or reinforcing steel. RNZ Concrete investigators say their scanning shows many buildings have not been constructed according to the plans. They were “astounded” and “appalled”, Jane Roach-Gray of Wellington company Concrete Structure Investigations said. It is using ultrasound technology developed …

Widespread defective or missing concrete or reinforcing steel revealed Read More »

Councils can expect more pressure from their own ranks to tackle climate change with a new crop of young councillors determined to fight it head on. Local Government New Zealand said there’s been an increase in the number of young people and women elected to office. A quarter of the country’s mayors are now women, …

Young Wellington councillors to push on climate change issues Read More »

It’s been vilified, dye-bombed and wee’d in by a hobbit, and now on October 12, Cuba Mall’s iconic Bucket Fountain is celebrating its fiftieth birthday. Following the phasing out of trams and removal of tracks in 1967, Cuba Street became temporarily pedestrianised. Businesses loved it, and  petitioned the Council for the layout to become a …

The Bucket Fountain turns fifty! Read More »

Wellington residents are usually the first to give their opinions on the various issues that affect our region; including transport, roading, housing and the environment – yet voter turnout is currently at an all time low for this years local body elections. RNZ The elections roll around every three years,  with constituents given the chance …

Why is no-one voting? Read More »

 Delays likely Sun to Thu from 7pm-5:30am Hawkestone Street   HAWKESTONE ST – PERMANENT CONSTRUCTION The new road layout at the intersection with SH1 is to be made permanent. The works will be Sun to Thu from 7pm-5:30am each night, starting on Sun 13 Oct, and are scheduled to take about four weeks to complete. …

HAWKESTONE ST – PERMANENT CONSTRUCTION Read More »

UPDATE 5:10PM This southbound #SH1 crash in #Porirua has now been CLEARED and congestion is quickly easing. Drive safe.   A #crash is currently BLOCKING the right southbound lane, south of #Mungavin interchange. Emergency services are on site. Please expect southbound DELAYS, as queues are building at the interchange and on Titahi Bay Rd. <blockquote …

SH1 PORIRUA, SOUTHBOUND – CRASH – 4:50PM Read More »

TYPHOON HAGIBIS IMPACT ON RUGBY WORLD CUP 2019 MATCHES TOKYO, 10 Oct – After extensive evaluation, World Rugby and the Japan Rugby 2019 Organising Committee have announced an update regarding the predicted impact of Typhoon Hagibis on this weekend’s Rugby World Cup 2019 pool matches. This includes the decision to cancel matches on safety grounds. Based …

All Blacks Vs Italy canceled Read More »

New Zealand Cricket has signed a six-year broadcasting rights agreement with Spark Sport, in partnership with TVNZ – starting from April 2020. nzc.nz The landmark deal will see all BLACKCAPS and WHITE FERNS fixtures played in New Zealand, as well as all men’s and women’s Super Smash games and the Ford Trophy one-day final, broadcast …

New Zealand Cricket signs 6 year deal with Spark Read More »

While the New Zealand job market stutters, the Wellington region is looking remarkably strong, according to an analysis of over 71,000 vacancies listed on Trade Me Jobs for the quarter ending 30 September 2019. Photo:123rf Trade Me Jobs’ Matt Tolich said low business confidence continues to batter most of the New Zealand job market, but …

Wellington bucks the trend in tough New Zealand job market Read More »

Transmission Gully contractor Wellington Gateway Partnership is seeking $352 million from the New Zealand Transport Agency over delays in starting the work. Photo: 123rf The claim would increase the $850 million construction cost to almost $1.2 billion, amounting to a 41 percent increase. The government’s 2019 accounts noted the size of the claim as a contingent …

Transmission Gully contractor suing NZTA for $352million Read More »

An application for a new liquor store in an upmarket Wellington suburb has been turned down by the council, after strong opposition from residents. Photo: 123rf The application to open a Bottle-O store in Khandallah was filed in February this year. Public opposition led to a four-day hearing in August, which had to be moved to …

Wellington council turns down liquor store application for Khandallah Read More »

Universities are coming under pressure to answer questions after a second case of a student’s body going unnoticed at a university hostel. Photo: 123rf.com It has been revealed that a man’s body was found at a Victoria University hostel about three days after he died in January last year. Last month a Canterbury University student’s body was found at the …

Victoria University student’s death didn’t raise questions – Vice-chancellor Read More »

Following threats made by a person yesterday, Police attended and cleared three locations in the Hutt Valley and Central Wellington.   All three locations have been found to be safe and have been re-opened. Adelaide Road, which was closed between King Street and Rugby Street, has also now re-opened. Police are continuing to speak to …

Arrest follows threats; three locations reopened Read More »

Three of the six candidates standing to be Wellington mayor are from outside council. Their targets include becoming carbon-neutral in three years’ time; a ferry from Miramar to the CBD; and a city that grows up instead of out. Andrew Cox, Dr Jenny Condie and Ajay Rathod Photo: Wellington City Council Conor Hill decided to stand after …

Wellington mayor hopefuls concerned about range of issues Read More »

The Curtain Bank, which re-upholsters and redistributes donated curtains, is in desperate need of more donations, it says. Curtains at the Curtain Bank, which re-upholsters and redistributes donated curtains. Photo: RNZ / Dom Thomas Run by the Wellington-based social enterprise the Sustainability Trust, the Bank said ot could run out of stock by the end of the …

Curtain Bank in desperate need of donations as demand outstrips supply Read More »

A small explosive device was found after a car crash in Wellington. Hutchison Road, Newtown, Wellington Photo: Google Maps Police say two vehicles collided on Hutchison Road in Newtown about 12.15pm yesterday. One person was left with minor injuries, while another left the scene in a third vehicle. Police said the device was found in an SUV. …

‘Explosive device’ found after Wellington crash Read More »

Wellington Mayor Justin Lester has revealed how much he’s had donated to his mayoral campaign. However, his main opponent, Andy Foster, is still refusing to say how much Sir Peter Jackson has stumped up in a bid to get him the mayoral chains. This week three of the city’s mayoral candidates, Mr Lester, Mr Foster, …

Justin Lester reveals $21,000 in campaign donations; no details from Andy Foster Read More »

The Greater Wellington Regional Council is defending its decision to lease out almost 200 hectares of wetlands to a farming company. A large chunk of Queen Elizabeth Park’s 637 hectares is actually ancient wetland, a local conservation group says. Photo: Supplied / Russell Bell Of the Queen Elizabeth Park’s 637 hectares, 397 falls within the farming lease …

Council defends leasing wetlands to farming company Read More »

Health officials are asking some year 12 Wellington High School students who aren’t vaccinated against measles to stay home today.   A student has been diagnosed with measles and those who attended classes with the infected child and who aren’t immunised should not attend school. Doctor Annette Nesdale from Regional Public Health says there have …

1 case of measles confirmed at Wellington High School Read More »

Te Papa’s museum’s chief executive Geraint Martin is stepping down at the end of the year. Chief executive Geraint Martin is leaving Te Papa after two-and-a-half years in the role. Photo: Supplied / Te Papa Mr Martin, who oversaw a controversial restructure of the museum, said he had set out what he meant to do at the …

Te Papa’s controversial CEO quits role Read More »

Kua tīmata te wiki o te reo Māori – Māori Language Week has begun – and to kick it off a roaring parade made its way down central Wellington, drawing hundreds of spectators. Cold conditions are not deterring those taking part in the parade in Wellington. Photo: RNZ / Rob Dixon Twenty thousand people have registered to …

Parade spreads te reo Māori message through capital Read More »

More complaints are coming in about the poor treatment of Wellington in-home care clients. Photo: 123RF In April, two providers – Access Community Health and Nurse Maude – jointly took over the contracts for the Wellington region. Since then, people have complained about long waits for showers and having to deal with an every-changing group of …

Nurse Maude in-home carers ‘sporadic’, ‘worked to the bone’ Read More »

Candidates for Wellington’s regional council agree bus drivers need to be given more pay, and better conditions. A new double decker bus Photo: RNZ / Emma Hatton The capital’s bus revamped network is a hot election issue – more than a year after it was rolled out. Part of the problem is a lack of bus drivers. …

Fair pay for bus drivers a hot topic in Wellington elections Read More »

Wellington City Council has told KiwiRail to put back notices saying the capital’s central railway station is earthquake-prone. Wellington Railway Station. Photo: RNZ / Michael Cropp KiwiRail had taken down the notices without council sign-off. The council has considered the building earthquake prone since 2014 and had used its authority under legislation to force KiwiRail to put …

KiwiRail, council dispute Wellington railway station quake status Read More »

Wellington’s railway station has been labelled as being at risk of causing harm in an earthquake. Wellington Railway Station. Photo: RNZ / Michael Cropp Notices alerting the public that the building is earthquake-prone went up at the station today and will remain up while another assessment of the building is done. That’s expected to take eight months. …

Wellington railway station being assessed for earthquake harm Read More »

It is no surprise to see NZTA’s confirmation that the Let’s Get Wellington Moving package has been politically compromised.   Delaying the second Mount Victoria tunnel and Basin Reserve improvements for reasons of political ideology is unacceptable. There are several aspects of the LGWM package that show it is clearly anti-motorist. Today’s revelations are just …

Political compromise on roading is unacceptable – Andy Foster Read More »

Lambton Ward candidates for next month’s elections will be answering questions from locals at a meeting on Monday September 16. The meeting is organised by Inner City Wellington. It will be at St Peter’s Church in Willis Street, starting at 6pm. Questions from the floor will be welcomed. Everyone is welcome at the meeting, which …

Lambton Ward candidates at Inner City election meeting Read More »

Mayoral candidate Conor Hill wants to ensure all Wellingtonians live in healthy homes.   He says let’s do this by making the Wellington City Council’s Rental Warrant of Fitness freely available to people who rent, and by providing advocacy services so that people have the legal support they need when renting an unhealthy home. Hill …

Conor Hill wants changes to ensure healthy homes Read More »

Former Wellington City Councillor Helene Ritchie is calling for the Government to permanently fund all new trains in the Wellington Region.   “This would relieve ratepayers of considerable future cost for essential transport improvements including bus improvements. Without such relief, rates will skyrocket way beyond anything feasible.” Ritchie, adding to comments by her former colleague …

Helene Ritchie says government should pay for all new trains Read More »

At around 11:15pm last night, Police were alerted to a serious altercation at a residential address on Mansfield Street in Newtown.   As a result of the altercation a man was stabbed and remains in hospital in a critical condition. Police have arrested a 51-year-old man and are not seeking anyone else in relation to …

Man critically injured – stabbed during fight in Newtown Read More »

Wellington city councillors have voted against a move to dig deeper into the details around the controversial Shelly Bay project. A visual sketch of the finished Shelly Bay development. Photo: RNZ /SUPPLIED Yesterday a notice of motion by councillor and mayoral candidate Andy Foster was discussed by councillors – and voted down by nine votes to six. …

Council votes against Shelly Bay development processes probe Read More »

Claims have been made that Sir Peter Jackson is throwing more money at opposing a controversial Shelly Bay housing development on Wellington’s coast. Photo: RNZ /SUPPLIED The Port Nicholson Block Settlement Trust sold parcels of land to Ian Cassels’ Wellington Company for development. Questions were raised at this week’s city council meeting about Sir Peter’s role …

Shelly Bay: Claims Sir Peter Jackson funding dissident iwi group Read More »

The Wellington City Council this week hosted the first of three Wellington Insurance Taskforce meetings.   The Taskforce was formed after Mayor Justin Lester hosted a Wellington insurance forum in June. It was felt important that the Government received feedback about insurance issues as they apply to the Wellington commercial, body corporate and residential sectors …

Mayoral task force meets to discuss rising insurance premiums Read More »

The first sod has been turned on Wellington’s convention centre, just across the road from Te Papa. An artist’s impression of the Wellington Convention Centre as viewed from the entrance to Te Papa. Photo: Supplied The building – which was originally planned to be part of a movie museum with Sir Peter Jackson, is expected to be …

Work begins on Wellington convention centre Read More »

To prevent rats getting back into Miramar Peninsula we are creating a virtual barrier on the Rongotai isthmus. This means that Rongotai will also become rat free. The barrier will be the first of its kind used in an urban setting. We have been working with Zero Invasive Predators Ltd on the design, it’s obviously not practical …

World first virtual trapline for Predator Free Miramar Peninsula Read More »

With only four years left until the Southern Landfill is full, it’s time to talk about what we do next with our waste. The Southern Landfill is critical to the smooth-running of our city and providing infrastructure for Wellington’s sanitation and ensuring public health. Currently the landfill accepts about 100,000 tonnes of waste per annum, …

Four more years and the southern landfill will be full – what then? Read More »

Two Wellington men charged with possession and supply of cannabis have been remanded on bail until next month. Dakta Green outside Wellington District Court. Photo: RNZ / Emma Hatton The men – who have a total of 21 cannabis-related charges between them – were arrested at the weekend at a Mount Victoria address known as the Daktory. …

Two men on bail after arrests at ‘the Daktory’ Read More »

Yes, I’m campaigning for Mayor of Wellington city. There’s a twist however: I’m not promising lots of bright shiny stuff, or things that give you a warm fuzzy feeling, or that I’ll save the world or give you a fantastic long list to make me look like Superwoman. What I am promising you is that …

“I can and I will:” Diane Calvert promises to fix the buses Read More »

Wellington Regional Stadium Trust (WRST) and Sky Network Television Ltd (Sky) have announced a new partnership that will see Sky secure the naming rights of the Stadium from 1 January. The six-year agreement will see the Stadium rebranded and renamed Sky Stadium and includes a number of activations aimed at improving the fan experience both …

Rebranding – it’s to be called the Sky Stadium next year Read More »

The man convicted of assaulting Green Party co-leader James Shaw has reappeared in the Wellington District Court for a disputed facts hearing. Photo: RNZ Paul Harris, 47, who had name suppression until this afternoon, admitted one charge of injuring Mr Shaw with intent and was convicted in May. Mr Shaw suffered a fractured eye socket …

Court appearance: James Shaw’s attacker named Read More »

A moderate 4.6 magnitude earthquake has been recorded 30km east of Seddon and was felt all the way in Wellington. Photo: GeoNet GeoNet reports about 2900 people felt the quake at 4.10pm that was at a depth of 12km. A M4.6 quake causing Moderate shaking occurred 30km east of Seddon. The depth was 12km. Over 3000 …

Quake near Seddon, felt in Wellington Read More »

Wellington businesses are being urged to become ‘China ready’ before up to 10,000 new Chinese tourists visit the capital this cruise ship season. The cruise ship Ovation of the Seas in Wellington (file photo). Photo: RNZ / Emile Donovan It will be the first time Hong Kong-based Explorer Dream will visit, on seven separate trips. The ship …

Wellington businesses urged to become ‘China ready’ Read More »

Wellington City Council has spent nearly $800,000 of ratepayers money trying to get the Shelley Bay redevelopment off the ground. Photo: RNZ /SUPPLIED Figures obtained by RNZ through an Official Information Act request show the council has spent the money on consultancy fees, legal costs and resource consents for the stalled project. However, the council admits …

Nearly $800k spent on controversial Shelly Bay development Read More »

Wellington city councillors have raised concerns the costs of a review of the steps the council took around the Shelly Bay development will balloon. Shelly Bay development plans. Photo: RNZ /SUPPLIED It’s yet to be decided if the review of the project on Wellington’s coast will go ahead, but if so, it will cost at least $180,000. …

Shelly Bay review could cost more than $180k Read More »

The builders of a high-rise block of apartments in central Wellington resisted getting translations done of important Chinese quality control documents. The 20-storey building is nearly complete. Photo: RNZ / Phil Pennington Emails newly released to RNZ by the Wellington City Council show it dropped its demand for the translation after the steel supplier complained about the …

Lost in translation: Wellington City Council drops demands for quality control documents Read More »

SH2, HOROKIWI TO NGAURANGA, SOUTHBOUND – CRASH – 6:55AM   A crash is currently BLOCKING the right southbound lane on #SH2 before the Ngauranga Interchange. Please expect significant delays on you journey this morning. SH2, HOROKIWI TO NGAURANGA, SOUTHBOUND – CRASH – 6:55AM A crash is currently BLOCKING the right southbound lane on #SH2 before …

Crash blocking Southbound lane on SH2 before Ngauranga Interchange Read More »

Wellington City Councillor Andy Foster is spicing up Wellington’s Mayoral contest by entering the race. “I’ve never had so many people say they want a change, and ask me to run for Mayor. They are very unhappy about what’s been done, about what has not been done, and about the way things have been done.” …

Andy Foster enters mayoral race – wants to restore vision, energy and progress Read More »

Mayor: Norbert Hausberg Don Newt McDonald Jenny Condie Justin Lester Conor Hill Diane Calvert Andy Foster Andrew Cox Ajay Rathod Motukairangi/Eastern Ward Steph Edlin Sarah Free Sean Rush Bernard O’Shaughnessy Chris Calvi-Freeman Teri O’Neill Ajay Rathod Paekawakawa/Southern Ward Laurie Foon Fleur Fitzsimons Thomas Morgan Humphrey Hanley Pukehīnau/Lambton Ward Nicola Young Iona Pannett Brian Dawson Shan …

List of nominated candidates for local elections released Read More »

Candidate for Wellington mayor, Dr Jenny Condie, has welcomed the independent review of the process surrounding City Council decisions on Shelly Bay development. “Wellingtonians need to know whether process was followed and if councillors were given accurate information before voting on decisions regarding Shelly Bay,” Dr Condie said. Dr Condie would be an independent voice on the …

Mayoral candidate Jenny Condie welcomes review of Shelly Bay decisions Read More »

This morning, Ronnie van Hout’s Quasi was installed on the roof of City Gallery Wellington with the help of Wellington Helicopters Limited. The five-metre hybrid face-hand will be perched atop the Gallery for up to three years. Initially commissioned by Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū in 2016, the public sculpture is a partial self-portrait of …

Quasi, a face-hand, has landed on the roof of City Gallery Read More »

The first contract of Let’s Get Wellington Moving’s (LGWM) early delivery programme will be up for tender next week, a milestone for LGWM’s next phase, says Programme Director Andrew Body.   The Golden Mile business case will focus on developing a long-term plan for the Golden Mile to provide for better public transport and make …

LGWM wants a business case for fewer vehicles in the Golden Mile Read More »

With transport set to be the big issue in this year’s local elections, the Traffic Jam podcast is running two meetings to help voters decide which candidates will get Wellington out of gridlock.   On Wednesday 18th September, Regional and City Council candidates standing in central, western and northern suburbs, will put forward their solutions …

Voters get chance to grill local candidates on Wellington transport Read More »

Helene Ritchie is standing for the Wellington Regional Council.   “I will be a strong, experienced, effective, and proactive voice for the Wellington public, focusing on returning a reliable bus service; future mass transport; climate crisis action; our environment. Public transport is pivotal to our personal, social, economic, cultural and environmental wellbeing. “As Wellington’s first …

Helene Ritchie aiming for seat on regional council Read More »

Wellington surfers braved the cold wind and took to the water to ride the biggest waves in 20 years yesterday. Photo: RNZ / Jonathan Mitchell MetService said huge swells of up to five metres have been reported between the South Coast of the South Island and East Cape in the North. When word got out yesterday …

Surf’s up: Lyall Bay’s biggest waves in 20 years Read More »

Plans for a new Archives facility in Wellington, to improve the protection of and access to some of New Zealand’s most significant and valuable documents, were announced by Internal Affairs Minister Tracey Martin today. Concept image for new Archives building “The plan we’re looking at would solve the issues with the existing Archives building by …

Plans for new Archives building next to National Library Read More »

Conor Hill today made his campaign official, nominating for both Mayor of Wellington and for the Wharangi/Onslow-Western ward. Conor Hill said: “It’s an honour and a privilege to run for Mayor of this great city. “I believe homes should be affordable, transport should be reliable and that vanity projects should be cancelled. I believe a …

Conor Hill is candidate for council as well as Wellington mayoralty Read More »

Buses are replacing all Wellington trains after a power issue that temporarily suspended all services in and out of the capital this morning. Commuters wait for trains at Wellington Railway Station after a power fault this morning. Photo: RNZ / Emma Hatton Metlink said that the problem was caused by damage to the overhead which damaged multiple …

Wellington trains briefly suspended: power issue could cause delays Read More »

About 100 environmental protesters attempted to stick ‘eviction notices’ on the Majestic Centre in Wellington this morning, where the Austrian oil company OMV is based. Protesters march to the Austrian oil giant OMV’s Majestic Centre headquarters in Wellington. Photo: Emma Hatton The action, led by Greenpeace, followed a stunt three weeks ago where two protesters scaled the building to …

Activists handing over eviction notice to oil giant’s Wellington HQ Read More »

Residents in a Wellington suburb say a bottle store is not in keeping with the village and its presence would increase alcohol consumption in the neighbourhood. Khandallah residents at the Bottle-O hearing today. Photo: RNZ / Laura Dooney Fifty Khandallah residents showed up to a hearing in the city today, in one of the biggest outcries against …

Liquor store ‘not keeping with the village’, say opponents Read More »

A chronic bus driver shortage continues to plague the Capital’s peak hours services. A new double decker bus Photo: RNZ / Emma Hatton In a bid to ‘provide a better service’ the Greater Wellington Regional Council cancelled another 25 Tranzurban bus services due a lack of drivers. The number of suspended peak hour services is now 46. …

Another 25 Wellington bus services cancelled Read More »

Sustainable business champion Laurie Foon has launched her campaign for the Wellington City Council’s Paekawakawa/Southern Ward as a Green party candidate. She says a “youthful determination for change” is behind her decision to stand – that of the next generation. “I have two daughters who are strong advocates for the environment. They are among the …

Laurie Foon standing for southern ward: “determination for change” Read More »

Metlink has released details on a range of temporary peak bus changes as part of measures to provide customers with certainty over the next six months, while Tranzurban addresses its driver shortage.   Starting August 25, 10 routes will see some trips suspended in the morning and afternoon peak with customers given advanced warning through …

Metlink suspending some peak-hour bus services, with “inconvenience” for travellers Read More »

Wellington City Councillor for Wharangi/Onslow-Western Ward Diane Calvert has announced her candidacy for the Wellington City Council mayoralty. “We know our city is special; the home of the arts, a creative capital, a loveable city that is remarkable. I believe in Wellingtonians, what we can do and how we can do it, but our city …

Councillor is candidate for Wellington mayoralty – “city needs real leadership” Read More »

Jenny Condie today announced that she is standing for election as mayor of Wellington. Her announcement was published on Facebook and Twitter: I’m delighted to announce my candidacy for mayor of Pōneke Wellington city. To rise to the challenges of the future we all need to pitch in. Offering my skills as mayor is how …

Jenny Condie – a “blue-green” – becomes third mayoral candidate for Wellington Read More »

Wellington regional councillors realised how little power they have in managing consents for water bottling at an Environment Committee meeting today. Photo: 123 RF The council is currently considering a 30-year consent that would allow a private company to take 432 million litres a year from Lower Hutt’s groundwater for bottling. There are two existing consents …

Wellington regional councillors explore water-bottling options Read More »

The Ombudsman is investigating a letter sent to Transport Minister Phil Twyford by his Associate Minister Julie Anne Genter which she has refused to release publicly. Photo: RNZ Ms Genter, a Green MP, has been repeatedly questioned by the National Party about the content of the letter, and why she won’t release it. She wrote to …

Ombudsman investigates after Julie Anne Genter refuses to make letter public Read More »

ReCut Kumutoto is coming to the capital next week, showcasing some of the best emerging and established creative talent from New Zealand and beyond, over two nights of free events on the waterfront. ReCut is an ongoing series of dynamic, arts events that appear in outdoor locations around the city. ReCut Kumutoto will consist of …

ReCut Kumutoto – bringing one-of-a-kind show to the waterfront Read More »

Smoke alarms saved the lives of a mother and father and three young children in the Wellington suburb of Strathmore over the weekend. (File photo) RNZ / Richard Tindiller By the time the first crew arrived at the fire about 6.20pm on Sunday, one corner of the house, including the front door, was well involved …

Smoke alarms save five lives in Strathmore house fire Read More »

UPDATE 5:50PM The Mt Victoria Tunnel is now OPEN once again following a #crash. Road users should continue to delays throughout the city. UPDATE 5:50PM The Mt Victoria Tunnel is now OPEN once again following a #crash. Road users should continue to delays throughout the city. ^RShttps://t.co/odTBgeI0Im — NZTA Wellington (@NZTAWgtn) August 6, 2019 SH1 …

UPDATED: Mt Victoria Tunnel open again after crash Read More »

Hundreds around the country are gathering at protests as part of the Ihumātao national day of action. Hundreds around the country are gathering at protests as part of the Ihumātao national day of action. Photo: RNZ / Ana Tovey In Wellington, hundreds of people have gathered outside Parliament to stand in solidarity with those at Ihumātao. It …

Hundreds turn out for Ihumātao solidarity rally in Wellington Read More »

Media release from Conor Hill Wellington mayoral candidate Conor Hill is calling for a change to rates that would make it more expensive for landowners to ‘bank’ land that could be used for housing.   And he’s taking aim at Justin Lester, asking why he has not followed through on his plans to incentivise ‘landbankers’ …

Candidate wants different rating system, to encourage more housing Read More »

A Wellington woman who is losing her sight and mobility to multiple sclerosis is fundraising $100,000 to travel to Mexico for a radical stem cell treatment to fight the disease. Bronwyn Hutchison with her children Sienna and Lucas. Photo: Supplied / Givealittle page She is adding her voice to a growing number of calls to introduce the …

Wellington multiple sclerosis sufferer fundraising for stem cell treatment Read More »

Vodafone New Zealand, owned by Infratil and Brookfield Asset Management as of today, plans to switch on a 5G network in Wellington, Auckland, Christchurch and Queenstown in December.   “5G is so much more than the successor to 4G. It’s our most powerful tool yet, representing a transformational shift that will drive a digital revolution …

5G in Wellington for Christmas – ten times faster speeds on smartphones Read More »

Originally from “just across the ditch” in Blenheim, Indie Rock group Daily J have been making waves throughout the country from their new base in Auckland. As part of their first national tour they will be playing at Caroline on August 2nd.   For this indie-alt-surf rock band the chance to perform in Wellington is …

Daily J coming to Wellington Read More »

A man who perched on top of Wellington’s Terrace Tunnel for 10 hours causing traffic gridlock has been granted permanent name suppression and sentenced to community detention. The Terrace Tunnel in Wellington was closed off during the incident earlier this year. Photo: RNZ / Meriana Johnsen The 32-year-old previously pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and unlawful possession …

Man in Terrace Tunnel standoff sentenced to community detention Read More »

More than 300 people are at the Cenotaph in Wellington calling for Oranga Tamariki to stop taking children from their families. Protesters calling for change at Oranga Tamariki at the Cenotaph. Photo: RNZ / Ana Tovey The Hands Off Our Tamariki Network are to hand an open letter to Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson at Parliament this …

Hundreds rally to call for change at Oranga Tamariki Read More »

Local Government New Zealand is calling for all eligible people to enrol to vote in the October local government elections.   LGNZ Chief Executive Malcolm Alexander stressed the importance of participating in the selection of those who will make decisions that affect most people’s lives on a daily basis. “Local government shapes the place that …

More enrolments wanted for October elections Read More »

Media release from Conor Hill Half of the Berhampore Golf Course could be transformed into affordable homes and facilities for the community, if Wellington voters elect Conor Hill as Mayor this October. “As anyone who has tried to rent or buy a house in Wellington recently will tell you, our city is in dire need …

Communities over golf courses – Conor Hill’s plan for more affordable more homes Read More »

Two incidents are currently affecting power in the central city. Commuters are advised to expect delays this evening.   There are two incidents which have affected power across the city – one in Brandon/Customhouse Quay and one in Ghuznee Street. Wellington Electricity and contractors are working hard to fix both incidents but there may be …

Power outages impacting central city Read More »

The third public hearing into Operation Burnham is underway in Wellington. Sir Terence Arnold is chairing the inquiry into Operation Burnham. Photo: Pool / NZ Herald / Mark Mitchell The inquiry is investigating allegations in the book, Hit and Run, that six civilians were killed in Afghanistan during a New Zealand-led raid in 2010, and the military covered …

Operation Burnham: Third public hearing begins in capital Read More »

**SYSTEM OUTAGE** Kia ora everyone, we’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties which has caused major delays on our phone lines. If you have any non-urgent queries, please email, DM, or fill out our webform https://t.co/JqUaPTo0Lx to contact us. Thanks ^Libby. — Wellington City Council (@WgtnCC) July 29, 2019

SH2 BELMONT, NORTHBOUND – CRASH – 5:15PM   A #crash is BLOCKING northbound lanes near the intersection with Grounsell Crescent. Please take extra while passing and expect DELAYS. SH2 BELMONT, NORTHBOUND – CRASH – 5:15PM A #crash is BLOCKING northbound lanes near the intersection with Grounsell Crescent. Please take extra while passing and expect DELAYS. …

Northbound Crash causing delays on SH2 Read More »

On Sunday 21 July 2019, in the fog, cold, and wind, 16 people from Thankyou Payroll joined Garth Baker from Brooklyn Trail Builders on the top of Polhill Reserve, Te Aro to help restore the forest to the Polhill skyline. Thankyou Payroll CEO Christina Bellis led the team for the second year, and the group …

Thankyou Payroll plants 250 trees Read More »

From Wellington City Council Pedestrian Management Westpac Stadium 7.30pm game starts Road Closures Featherston St Left Lane Closure to be installed in conjunction with Bunny St closure. Pre Event 5pm–7.35pm Bunny St closed at Featherston St end Stout St, no right turn into Bunny St Left lane closure from Mulgrave St to Whitmore St No …

Road closures for All Blacks test tonight Read More »

Waka Welcome at Whare Waka   Tribute from Wellington City Council Ko te whaea te takere o te waka Mothers are like the hull of a canoe, they are the HEART of the family Wellington Mayor Justin Lester and Deputy Mayor Jill Day have paid tribute to Taranaki Whānui ki te Upoko o te Ika …

Wellington mourns the death of Whaea June Jackson Read More »

Ahead of their clash with South Africa tomorrow night at Westpac Stadium, All Blacks Richie Mo’unga, Angus Ta’avao, and Joe Moody visited MetService’s national forecast centre in Kelburn yesterday.   While at MetService, the three players met the team that produce the All Blacks’ official match forecasts. MetService Broadcast meteorologist Angus Hines was joined by …

All Blacks at MetService to help give the Test weather forecast Read More »

An external review of the Hutt District Health Board in Wellington says midwifery staffing levels should be increased significantly. The report says the maternity service “has been plagued by a chronic workforce deficiency”. Photo: 123RF The review report, produced by medical and midwifery experts from other DHBs, is dated last November but was released by the Hutt Valley …

Review recommends significant increase of midwives at Hutt DHB Read More »

SH1 NGAURANGA GORGE, NORTHBOUND – TRUCK BREAKDOWN – 3:20PM   A truck breakdown is currently BLOCKING the centre right northbound lane, prior to the Newlands off-ramp. Please expect DELAYS, as queues are quickly building toward #Ngauranga interchange. SH1 NGAURANGA GORGE, NORTHBOUND – TRUCK BREAKDOWN – 3:20PM A truck breakdown is currently BLOCKING the centre right …

Breakdown blocking Northbound lane – SH1 Ngauranga Gorge Read More »

A year into the problem-plagued overhaul of the capital’s bus network, the region’s leaders say they still need more time to fix the problems. A bus-less bus hub in Miramar, Wellington. Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller About 30 bus services are cancelled every day in Wellington, and users still complain of late and inconsistent services. At a …

Thirty buses cancelled every day, but no quick fix in sight Read More »

Protestors have today blocked a central city intersection to demonstrate solidarity with similar protests at Ihumātao. Photo: Sean Stack / TWA The majority of protestors moved away from the intersection after blocking road traffic from the Terrace, Lambton Quay and Wellington Station for around 15 minutes. However a small contigent remains in the center of …

Protestors block central city intersection Read More »

The two Greenpeace climbers who are scaling the outside of the tallest building in Wellington have unfurled the first of a series of banners. Abigail Smith and Nick Hanafin have been climbing the Majestic Centre since dawn this morning, to reach the headquarters of Austrian oil giant, OMV. They have deployed a pink banner reading, …

Greenpeace climbers hang climate change banner on CBD’s tallest building Read More »

Former city councillor Ruth Gotlieb has died, after decades of community service. Mrs Gotlieb, who was in her 90s, had a long and successful career serving the people of Wellington. From 1983-2001 she was an Eastern ward city councillor. She was also elected to the Regional Council, the Wellington Harbour Board, and the Capital & …

Death of Ruth Gotlieb, city councillor for 18 years Read More »

Greenpeace activists are climbing a multi-storey building in central Wellington to try to reach the headquarters of Austrian oil company OMV. Two activists seen climbing the Majestic Centre in an image supplied by Greenpeace. Photo: Supplied / Greenpeace In a statement the environmental group said Abigail Smith and Nick Hanafin started climbing the Majestic Centre this morning …

Greenpeace activists scaling Wellington high rise Read More »

Press Release – E Tu As the July school holidays finish, the Labour candidates for the Wellington City Council are pledging to make school holidays in Wellington in the future more exciting for residents and visitors by introducing a coordinated programme of events and activities for children and young people.   Wharangi Onslow-Western Ward candidate …

Labour candidates commit to better school holidays in Wellington Read More »

Some flights in and out of Wellington and Christchurch are being delayed, diverted or cancelled because of heavy fog this morning. Fog at Wellington Airport. (file photo) Photo: RNZ / Rob Dixon Three flights into Wellington from Auckland this morning had to return after low cloud prevented them from landing. An Air New Zealand flight from Queenstown …

Fog causes flight disruptions in Wellington and Christchurch Read More »

Nominations opened today for the local elections in October.   Staff at the city council are telling us that they want nominations for the mayoralty as well as for councillors. Will you stand for the city you love? Nominations to stand as a Councillor or Mayor for Wellington City Council open today. #VoteLocaNZ #Stand2019 https://t.co/DxfIvya3T6 …

Election nominations now open – with councils’ encouragement Read More »

More than 700 tickets to next week’s rugby Test between the All Blacks and South Africa in Wellington have been cancelled after being classified as fraudulent.   Ticket seller Ticketek told New Zealand Rugby to void the tickets to the 27 July match at Westpac Stadium. NZ Rugby chief commercial officer Richard Thomas said cancelling …

More than 700 tickets to All Blacks Test cancelled Read More »

Press Release – Wellington Chamber of Commerce The Wellington Chamber of Commerce is encouraging Wellingtonians to consider standing in the upcoming Local Government 2019 elections.   Candidate nominations open this Friday, and close on Friday 16 August. “As Wellington’s Chamber of Commerce, we want to encourage business-savvy and community-minded people to put up their hands,” …

CofC wants “business savvy and community minded” candidates for the elections Read More »

Media release from Simon Marsh Simon “Swampy” Marsh is stepping down as a Wellington City Councillor after nine years representing the Eastern Ward. “I have always lived by the mantra that you move on from something while you are still on top of it” Marsh said. “Nine years is long enough, the role of Councillor …

Simon Marsh not standing again for WCC; “nine years is enough” Read More »

Media release from Conor Hill Wellington mayoral candidate Conor Hill today released his thriving communities policy with the aim of creating vibrant suburbs rather than urban sprawl.   Conor Hill said: “Many of Wellington’s favourite communities prove medium density housing done well works for people and the city. From Oriental Bay, to Newtown, to Thorndon our …

Mayoral candidate backs thriving communities, not urban sprawl Read More »

Wellington’s regional council chair Chris Laidlaw has confirmed he won’t run in the local body elections this October. Transport Minister Phil Twyford (center), Wellington City Mayor Justin Lester (left) and Wellington Regional Mayor Chris Laidlaw (right) announce the Let’s Get Wellington Moving project. Photo: RNZ / Ana Tovey Mr Laidlaw has been chair of the regional council …

Chris Laidlaw rules himself out of council elections Read More »

Detectives re-examining the 1984 Wellington Trades Hall Bombing have been collecting DNA samples from suspects. Caretaker and unionist Ernie Abbott was killed almost instantly when he picked up the suitcase containing the bomb. Photo: EVENING POST Caretaker and unionist Ernie Abbott was killed almost instantly when he picked up the suitcase containing the bomb. The police have always struggled …

Trades Hall bombing case re-opened, evidence released Read More »

Update 4:50pm Final UPDATE 4:50PM This Mt Victoria #Tunnel crash has been CLEARED and the tunnel is now OPEN in both directions. Resulting congestion is EASING, thanks for your patience. ^CR https://t.co/xJqNI6745N — NZTA Wellington (@NZTAWgtn) July 18, 2019 A crash on Ruahine Street has closed Wellington’s Mt Victoria tunnel in both directions this afternoon. …

Crash closes Mt Victoria tunnel in both directions – UPDATED 4:50PM Read More »

Wellingtonian Ralph Johns imagines Wellington City’s new library Since the Wellington City Library was suddenly closed a couple of months ago there has been a strong feeling that something is missing; more than just books, magazines and reissued vinyl. We have lost our ‘living room’. It is too early to tell whether Ian Athfield’s building …

Design thinking for libraries Read More »

SH1 NGAURANGA GORGE, SOUTHBOUND – CRASH – Update: 7:40 AM   A #crash was BLOCKING the right southbound lane just prior to the Ngauranga Interchange. Expect delays while congestion eases UPDATE 7:40AM This #crash just prior to the Ngauranga Interchange is now CLEAR and all lanes are OPEN. Thank you for your patience as congestion …

Expect southbound delays on SH1 Ngauranga Gorge Read More »

The first Wellington firearms collection events for buy-back and amnesty will be held on 20 and 21 July at Trentham Racecourse in Upper Hutt. Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller The events will run from 10am-3pm each day. Police are supporting firearms owners to hand-in either prohibited firearms or firearms under the amnesty at a local …

Police collecting prohibited firearms at Trentham on Saturday and Sunday Read More »

The election campaign has begun. In Wellington, not one but two new political parties say they’ll be naming candidates for the city council. And there’s an independent candidate challenging mayor Justin Lester.   In Lower Hutt, Ray Wallace is being challenged for the mayoralty by Councillor Campbell Barry. And in Kapiti, Gwynn Compton has launched …

Two new parties … three mayoral candidates Read More »

A packed public meeting last night heard a leading architect and a leading structural engineer insist that Wellington’s Central Library can be strengthened and reopened. And they estimated a cost considerably less than the $100million stated by Mayor Justin Lester at the weekend.   Architect Gordon Moller, noting that a million people a year used …

Saving and strengthening the Library – early access is possible, at less cost, says engineer Read More »

Local councils are being asked to sign off on major buildings when they have big gaps in what they know about the steel frames and seismic strength. Photo: 123rf That’s according to Steel Construction New Zealand (SCNZ), an industry body that has been briefing councils about the dangers of having an inadequate building consent regime. SCNZ …

Councils lacking knowledge about seismic strength of buildings – SCNZ Read More »

Department of Conservation rangers are on high alert for ‘penguin call-outs’ after they’ve been spotted waddling around Wellington. Two renegade penguins have completely ignored police and returned to their illegal hideout. Photo: RNZ / Charlotte Cook Yesterday the little blue penguins had to be removed from under a sushi store near the Wellington railway station, not once …

DOC on high alert after penguins ignored police, returned to sushi shop Read More »

An e-scooter survey found half of all users do not want to ride on footpaths. Photo: RNZ / Colin Peacock The survey was distributed via interest groups and social media and it received 591 responses from people who were more likely to be Pākehā, young adults with a high level of education and income. It …

E-scooters between ‘rock of the footpath…hard place of the road’ Read More »

We are phone2park, a locally owned and operated technology company. We provide mobile payment options for Wellingtonians using city council operated parking. We have 16,000 users and have been operating for 15 years.   Recently, the Wellington City Council notified us that they intend to end our contract for the supply of phone2park parking payment …

Local parking payment company losing WCC contract after 15 years Read More »

Making Wellington’s central library earthquake-safe could cost more than $100 million, says the city’s mayor. The building was closed in March following engineering advice, and the council says detailed plans and costs are at least a year away. Mayor Justin Lester said his first priority was to strengthen the existing building, rather than pull it down. Mr Lester …

Quake proofing the capital’s library could cost $100m Read More »

Wellington train services have started running a full service again after being closed for several hours today. Photo: RNZ / Jonathan Mitchell Services on the Kapiti and Hutt Valley lines stopped at about 11am, following an operational incident. Trains briefly only had access to platforms one to five. However, by 1.40pm, all platforms were accessible. While …

Wellington train services resume after shutdown Read More »

A climate change advocacy group hosted a party at Wellington Railway Station yesterday morning to remind commuters about the threat of sea level rise. Photo: Supplied. Generation Zero, a volunteer, youth-led organisation that champions a zero carbon Aotearoa-New Zealand, hosted the party at the capital’s main station this morning. It is hosting submission parties around the …

‘To make our voices heard on the Zero Carbon Bill’ Read More »

Conor Hill announced today that he will run as an independent candidate for Mayor of Wellington. Here’s his announcement. Conor Hill loves Wellington, and wants it to be the best city in the world. He believes homes should be affordable, transport should be reliable, and that vanity projects should be cancelled. That’s why he’s running …

Let’s dance! Independent candidate to run for Wellington mayoralty Read More »

Wellington City Council have reignited the debate around Shelly Bay, with another vote due to be held on whether to sell or lease council-owned land. Photo: RNZ /SUPPLIED In 2017, the Council voted in favour of selling and leasing their land to Shelly Bay Investments Limited, who own much of the remaining land around Shelly Bay. …

Shelly Bay: Decision to sell council land to be revisited Read More »

SH2 KOROKORO, SOUTHBOUND – CRASH – 5:45PM   A crash is currently BLOCKING the right southbound lane, south of the #Dowse Drive on-ramp. Please take extra care while passing and expect southbound DELAYS. SH2 KOROKORO, SOUTHBOUND – CRASH – 5:45PM A crash is currently BLOCKING the right southbound lane, south of the #Dowse Drive on-ramp. …

Crash blocking southbound SH2 lane Read More »

Two and a half years ago, fed up with online trading sites available, Hooman Bahreini, a Wellington based software developer, started a journey to code a completely new e-commerce site from scratch.   The premise was simple, create an easy to use online trading platform where customers can post ads and sell items for free. …

Wgtn software developer fighting for a better world, one click at a time. Read More »

A father and his two young daughters, who had been missing in bush near Wellington since yesterday, have been found safe and well. The Lees Grove entrance to East Harbour Regional Park Photo: RNZ / Charlotte Cook They set out for a tramp from Lees Grove in Wainuiomata over the hills to Days Bay at midday yesterday …

Family missing in Wellington regional park overnight found Read More »

A rare type of snail only found on a specific hill in Wellington is being threatened by mountain bikers’ unauthorised trails, an ecological group says. Te Ahumairangi Hill in Wellington, where mountain biking is a restricted activity. Photo: RNZ / Harry Lock The 3mm-long Potamopyrgus oppidanus snail, discovered in 2003, is only found on Te Ahumairangi Hill, in Wellington, …

Rare Wellington snails under threat from mountain bikers Read More »

A father and his two girls aged 11 and 14 are missing in Days Bay, near Wellington, after failing to return from a hike. The Lees Grove entrance to East Harbour Regional Park Photo: RNZ / Charlotte Cook They set out from Lees Grove in Wainuiomata at midday yesterday and were due to return home at 3.30pm. …

Man and two daughters still missing after overnight search Read More »

The Wellington City Council introduced a Public Place Recycling bin trial to the capital last May, and a recent audit show it’s doing well – but we could do better. The first bin was installed in Cuba Mall, with eight additional recycling stations rolled out around the city for the public to recycle glass, plastic, …

Mixed results from public recycling trial – too much contamination Read More »

A Wellington man is fed up trying to get Bunnings in Lyall Bay to keep their plastic in check, but the hardware chain has said it has been making efforts to stop its waste blowing away. Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller Wellington’s south coast is known for its blustering southerlies and it’s also a popular surfing …

Man takes Bunnings to task over plastic waste Read More »

The country’s largest ever effort to eradicate introduced pests from an urban area has begun in Wellington. The $2.4 million project from Predator Free Wellington aims to eliminate rodents, possums and mustelids from Miramar peninsula by Christmas. The area is home to about 20,000 people, and more than 6000 traps are being set in peoples’ backyards, businesses, and …

Massive urban pest eradication effort launched Read More »

A year after a revamp of Wellington’s bus network threw routes and services into disarray, the regional council is consulting with the public to try and fix it. Commuters at a bus stop in Newtown last year. Photo: RNZ / Emma Hatton Greater Wellington Regional Council and Metlink are launching an online forum on Friday along with a series …

Wellington City Council seeks more consultation as bus network woes continue Read More »

The Wellington Branch of the NZ Institute of Architects is to stage a public meeting on the fate of the Wellington Central Library, the Ian Athfield-designed building that has been closed for seismic reasons by the Wellington City Council. Why? There has been speculation in the media that the Council may be leaning towards the demolition of …

Architects organise public meeting on fate of Central Library Read More »

Regional Public Health (RPH) Wellington has been notified of a case of measles and is asking people who may have been in contact with that person to watch out for symptoms.   The infected person visited several public places, including taking a domestic flight from Auckland to Wellington, before they were diagnosed. At these times …

Another measles case (after a flight from Auckland) in Wellington Read More »

Regional Council Chair Chris Laidlaw says today’s launch of stage one of Predator Free Wellington’s project is an important step towards improving biodiversity in our region. “We’re so proud to have supported, and been involved in, what will be an amazing achievement on the Miramar Peninsula, a true world-first. “We’ve supplied our expertise of more …

Predator Free Wellington launches stage one of a “world first” Read More »

A union representing Wellington bus drivers says they aren’t being given the amount of breaks that they should be. Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller New laws around meals and paid breaks came into effect in early May, but the bus companies were given a 12-month period to consult with the unions over the details. That was …

Union says bus drivers aren’t getting proper breaks Read More »

Economist Shamubeel Eaqub has produced a study, believed to be Wellington’s first, on the city’s specific rental history. The purpose of the study was for The Wellington Company to understand where the city’s rental market was going based on how the market has trended historically, so that the Company can make informed decisions about how …

Wellington rent increase – 80 per cent in 15 years Read More »

A report shows changes to the way bus services are contracted has driven down driver wages and conditions in Auckland and Wellington. Photo: 123rf Consultancy firm Allen and Clarke was commissioned by the government to find out how the Public Transport Operating Model was affecting bus driver wages and conditions when they had to change companies. …

Drop in Auckland and Wellington bus driver wages addressed in new report Read More »

SH1 NGAURANGA GORGE, NORTHBOUND – CRASH – 7:35AM   A #crash is BLOCKING the right northbound lane, just before the Kiwi Point off-ramp. Please expect #delays and pass the inverse vehicle with extra care. Emergency services are en route. SH1 NGAURANGA GORGE, NORTHBOUND – CRASH – 7:35AM A #crash is BLOCKING the right northbound lane, …

Northbound crash on SH1 Ngauranga Gorge causing delays Read More »

Surprise? Household emissions have risen, risen, and we can point the finger at how much we drive. So what can we do? NZ’s greenhouse gas emissions have barely budged in a decade, StatsNZ reports. The bit you and I can influence most directly – our households’ emissions – are actually getting worse, with households emitting more greenhouse …

Dear Wellington, we need to talk about driving Read More »

Hundreds of students at Victoria University of Wellington are demanding an end to the cruel Forced Swim Test. Students from over a dozen clubs, including the Psychology Club, have signed a letter to the Vice-Chancellor and members of the University’s Animal Ethics committee urging the institute to end the Forced Swim Test. The test is used …

VUW students want forced swim tests ended Read More »

CubaDupa has just announced their dates for the 2020 festival along with the opening of Expressions of Interest / Artist Applications. The last weekend of summer will see CubaDupa return to the streets for the most vibrant and creative event on the calendar.   CubaDupa has recently appointed a new Festival Director, Gerry Paul, who …

CubaDupa looking for next year’s performers and ideas Read More »

The Transport Accident Investigation Commission has opened an inquiry into the derailment of a freight train at Wellington on Tuesday.   Circumstances reported to date are that the loaded train was travelling out of the Wellington Rail yard when it derailed at the junction between the yard and the North Island Main Trunk line. Four wagons are …

Safety concerns: investigation begins into freight train derailment Read More »

Police were shocked and disappointed by the number of motorists using cell phones while driving in Wellington yesterday. Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller Seventy-eight drivers were issued with infringement notices during a two hour road-safety operation at the intersection of Taranaki Street and Buckle Street between 4.30pm and 6.30pm. Seventy five of them received infringements …

75 Wellington motorists ticketed for using cellphones while driving in CBD Read More »

WELLINGTON TRAFFIC – EXPECT DELAYS   Southbound traffic is looking heavier than usual this morning, despite train services being back up and running. Please allow extra time on your journey to account for potential delays, especially on SH2 WELLINGTON TRAFFIC – EXPECT DELAYS – 7:10AM Mōrena #WellingtonTraffic! Southbound traffic is looking heavier than usual this …

Expect traffic delays again this morning Read More »

Wellington’s regional council is defending the way it dealt with widespread transport disruption in the capital yesterday, when a train derailment ended in traffic gridlock. Traffic backed up on the central Wellington highway. Photo: RNZ / Rob Dixon The disruption happened after a freight train went off the tracks near the central station on Tuesday night stopping …

Wellington trains running again after transport chaos Read More »

WGTN TRAFFIC – SIGNIFICANT NORTHBOUND DELAYS – 4:40PM Traffic is significantly CONGESTED on #SH1 and #SH2. Queues from Ngauranga go back through The Terrace Tunnel. The Urban Motorway, all on-ramps and local roads are impacted. Please delay your travel if possible. ^CR   WGTN TRAFFIC – SIGNIFICANT NORTHBOUND DELAYS – 4:40PM Traffic is significantly CONGESTED …

Commuters should expect significant delays: advised to delay travel Read More »

Candles for Assange events in Wellington and Auckland on Wednesday will kick off global actions around the world in support of Julian Assange, who faces an US extradition indictment in the UK Courts.   Last year on Julian Assange’s 47th Birthday, #FreeAssangeNZ arranged a candle display on NZ Parliament lawn, spawning a viral campaign image. Deciding …

Vigil tonight at US Embassy for Julian Assange Read More »

Wellington rail commuters face major disruption today after a freight train was derailed just outside Wellington station last night. Photo: RNZ / Jonathan Mitchell There have been no train services in or out of Wellington on the Hutt, Kapiti, Melling and Wairarapa lines all day, and the issue is not expected to be resolved by the …

Major travel disruption as Wellington trains cancelled by derailment Read More »

Hamilton-based fuel supplier Waitomo is set to disrupt the capital’s fuel market on Tuesday, with the opening of their first central Wellington site in Tinakori.   Hot on the heels of Waitomo’s first site opening in Upper Hutt where prices across all brands have plummeted by over 20 cents per litre since May, Waitomo’s arrival …

Cut price petrol on Tinakori Road starting at midday Read More »

The council-owned water services company Wellington Water, and global environmental services provider Veolia, have signed a 10 year, $17 million per year contract to operate and maintain the four wastewater treatment plants that serve metropolitan Wellington.   Wellington Water’s chief executive Colin Crampton said the contract marked the start of a new and exciting focus …

Private company signs $170m deal to control Wellington’s wastewater Read More »

Fighting the war on plastic rubbish has just become easier for recycling businesses. China’s refusal to take New Zealand’s waste has been a wake-up call, says associate Environment Minister Eugenie Sage. Photo: Photo / Ana Tovey The Provincial Growth Fund is stumping up $40 million for companies investing in converting waste to useable products to try and …

Regional Fund’s $40m backing for plastic recycling initiatives Read More »

The deadline for landlords to have their rented properties properly insulated has now passed. Here’s what tenants and landlords should know about the new rules. Photo: 123RF The new standards The standards were introduced as law in 2016, but landlords have had until 1 July this year to ensure their rental properties have floor and ceiling …

Property insulation deadline: What you need to know Read More »

A boost in government spending looks likely to push the capital to win the economic race between the regions. Westpac’s Regional Roundup report forecasted Wellington to become the economic powerhouse within the next year, with improvements in Northland, Auckland, Canterbury and Otago also expected. “New Zealand’s economic slowdown over the past couple of years has …

Wellington predicted to be economic powerhouse in new report Read More »

Trains on the Hutt Valley and Wairarapa lines in Wellington this morning were delayed due to ice on the overhead wires. HVL WRL: Services on the Hutt Valley and Wairarapa Lines are experiencing delays due to Ice on the overheads https://t.co/7UNfDObvY2 — Metlink Wellington (@metlinkwgtn) June 27, 2019

Warning: This article contains graphic details A man who admitted fatally stabbing a Petone pensioner and decapitating him has been given a life sentence and will remain behind bars for at least 17 years. Photo: RNZ / Dom Thomas Eugene Baker, 42, was sentenced in the High Court at Wellington this morning for the murder of …

Man who murdered and decapitated Petone pensioner get 17 years Read More »

Wellington’s Regional Council is blaming a perfect storm of new operators, buses, routes, driver shortages and design failures for the shambolic introduction of new bus services a year ago. Photo: RNZ / Emma Hatton While reliability has since improved to 92.5 percent of services leaving on time, it is still just 89.2 percent in the east and west …

Wellington bus network troubles blamed on city’s challenges Read More »

SH2 NGAURANGA, SOUTHBOUND – CRASH – 5:15PM   A crash is currently BLOCKING the right southbound lane, prior to the Ngauranga interchange. Please take extra care while passing and expect DELAYS. Southbound queues are currently building north of the #Petone interchange. SH2 NGAURANGA, SOUTHBOUND – CRASH – 5:15PM A crash is currently BLOCKING the right …

Crash blocking southbound lane on SH2 prior to Ngauranga interchange Read More »

The Wellington City Council has adopted its Annual Plan/Mahere ā-Tau for 2019/20.   The plan outlines $557 million worth of operational and $240 million worth of capital spending on seven priority areas – the environment, housing and community wellbeing, transport, sustainable growth, and arts and culture. The major projects include the Prince of Wales/Omāroro Reservoir …

Average rates increase for Wellington will be 3.9 per cent Read More »

Four further cases of measles have been confirmed in Wellington, taking the total for the year to 15 in the region. \ Photo: 123rf.com Medical Officer of Health Annette Nesdale said the infected people visited several public places before they knew they were infected – which is when the disease is most contagious. On 18 June, …

Measles outbreak: Warning to Wellington residents as more cases detected Read More »

Wellington Mayor Justin Lester has warned people not to “be a d–k” when it comes to the replaced Len Lye sculpture on the city’s waterfront. The place where the Len Lye sculpture once stood on Wellington’s waterfront. Photo: Rebekah Parsons-King The Waterwhirler pole is going back up after it was broken last October, when Hunter MacDonald swung on it. …

Wellington mayor warns rule-benders over Len Lye sculpture Read More »

Update 9:25am – The Terrace Tunnel is now open again in both directions   SH1 TERRACE TUNNEL – OVERHEIGHT VEHICLE – 9:05AM   Due to an overheight vehicle, the Terrace Tunnel is CLOSED to southbound traffic. Please expect #delays or use Aotea Quay as a detour. SH1 TERRACE TUNNEL – OVERHEIGHT VEHICLE – 9:05AM Due …

Terrace Tunnel closed to Southbound traffic – UPDATE – Tunnel Open Read More »

SH2 SILVERSTREAM, NORTHBOUND – SERIOUS CRASH – 5:20PM   Due to a serious crash north of #Silverstream, there are significant northbound DELAYS building at the Haywards interchange. Please delay your travel if possible or use an alternate route. SH2 SILVERSTREAM, NORTHBOUND – SERIOUS CRASH – 5:20PM Due to a serious crash north of #Silverstream, there …

Northbound crash on SH2 Silverstream causing significant delays Read More »

Wellington City Councillors have unanimously voted to support the Let’s Get Wellington Moving (LGWM) Indicative Package.   At a full Council meeting today, they voted to: · Endorse the LGWM vision for Wellington’s future · Welcome and support the LGWM Indicative Package and proposed regional funding commitment announced by the Government · Approve the Councils’ …

City councillors unanimously vote to support LGWM traffic plan Read More »

Breaker Bay Road is closed following a crash at about 1:30pm. A truck has rolled and its contents have spilled, blocking both lanes. Motorists are asked to avoid the area. *Road closure* Breaker Bay Road is closed following a crash about 1:30pm. A truck has rolled and its contents have spilled, blocking both lanes. Motorists …

Breaker Bay Road closed due to crash Read More »

The Wellington family doctor who had sex with vulnerable women patients is being de-registered from practising medicine and he must pay a total of $31,700. Photo: 123RF The Health Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal also censured the doctor, Deane Drew, yesterday after he pleaded guilty to professional misconduct. The amount he has to pay includes $28,700 in costs …

Doctor has registration cancelled after sex with vulnerable patients Read More »

Wellington’s regional councillors have criticised a multibillion-dollar plan to fix Wellington’s congestion woes as not doing enough to reduce emissions or clear congestion. The Mount Victoria Tunnel is one of the city’s major traffic choke points. Despite their misgivings, councillors endorsed the Let’s Get Wellington Moving (LGWM) plan and agreed to stump up about a …

Multi-billion dollar plan to fix Wellington’s traffic woes criticised Read More »

The Regional Council will target climate change, natural resources and public transport challenges across the region after adopting its annual plan for 2019/20 today.   Acting Council Chair Barbara Donaldson said it was important to tackle some of the region’s biggest issues in year two of its long term plan 2018-28. “We will be boosting …

Any bus issues? Regional Council targetting climate change and public transport Read More »

A Wellington family doctor has today pleaded guilty to professional misconduct, after he had sex with vulnerable women patients. Photo: 123RF Deane Drew appeared before the Health Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal in Wellington today, charged by a Medical Council professional conduct committee with professional misconduct. The charge related to personal and or sexual relationships with four former …

Family doctor admits having sex with vulnerable patients Read More »

SH2 MELLING, SOUTHBOUND – BREAKDOWN – 6:05PM A #breakdown is currently BLOCKING the middle southbound lane, prior to the intersection with Tirohanga Rd. Please take extra care while passing and expect DELAYS. SH2 MELLING, SOUTHBOUND – BREAKDOWN – 6:05PM A #breakdown is currently BLOCKING the middle southbound lane, prior to the intersection with Tirohanga Rd. …

Breakdown blocking southbound lane on SH2 Melling Read More »

Residents of Nelson Bays, the West Coast and Marlborough need to hit the brakes, according to New Zealand Police data analysed by Teletrac Navman, specialists in GPS-based fleet management technology. Wellington (including Hutt Valley, Kapiti-Mana and the Wairarapa) had the lowest number of combined speeding infringements per capita at 0.34. Teletrac Navman’s analysis of speeding tickets …

Heat map reveals Wellington drivers get fewest speeding tickets Read More »

The Wellington City Council has extended the licence for Onzo to continue operating their ‘dockless’ bike hire system in the capital until the end of 2020.   Councillor Sarah Free, Portfolio Leader for Walking and Cycling, says the popularity of the Onzo bikes for short trips around town shows there is a demand for more …

110,000 trips in first 6 months – Onzo bikes licence extended till end of next year Read More »

A programme which aims to end homelessness has been rolled out in Wellington. Housing Minister Phil Twyford Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller Housing Minister Phil Twyford today unveiled the plan to get 200 homeless people off the street and into secure housing over the next two years. The accommodation will be provided by Kahungunu Whānau Services and …

Housing First aims to shelter 200 homeless people in Wellington Read More »