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2249 days ago

Changchun leaders at pavillion opening. Beautiful asset to the town...

Piers Fuller Reporter from News of Wairarapa

Kuripuni’s Chinese Pavilion has been officially opened today (19 December), with representatives from Masterton’s sister city, Changchun, and the Chinese embassy on hand for the event.
The pavilion has been a long-term project, with the Changchun Gardening Bureau providing eight tonnes of authentic roof tiles several years ago, along with plans for the pavilion.
Former district councillor and member of the New Zealand-China Friendship Society Jonathan Hooker worked with project manager Dave Borman on the project.
The challenge was installing the tiles, but retired building inspector Hans De Vries and fourth-generation brick-layer Len Lamb excelled in translating a traditional Chinese design to meet New Zealand building requirements.
Opening the pavilion, Masterton Mayor Lyn Patterson said the extended construction time had been worth it.
“This job was not without its challenges but it is a testament to those involved that we now have a beautiful space that I believe people will enjoy for years to come,” she said.
“It is a permanent reminder of our close links with the community of Changchun.”
Masterton architect Darryl Silverwood ensured the final design complied with the New Zealand building code, and Masterton District council providing $82,000 in funding, with additional funding coming from Trust House, the Masterton Trust Lands Trust, and private donations.

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More messages from your neighbours
3 days ago

Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙

One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.

So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?

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Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
  • 59.3% Yes, supporting people is important!
    59.3% Complete
  • 25.3% No, individuals should take responsibility
    25.3% Complete
  • 15.4% ... It is complicated
    15.4% Complete
755 votes
4 days ago

A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!

If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?

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L
2 days ago

SHOP LOCAL THIS WEEKEND - FARMERS MARKET SOLWAY SHOWGROUNDS JUDDS ROAD MASTERTON

Lynne from Masterton District

Come along to our Farmers Market & Crafts held EVERY Saturday Rain or Shine
BRING YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS ALONG FOR MORNING TEA AND COFFEE, AND HAVE A BROWSE AROUND OUR WONDERFUL MARKET

HOT OFF THE PRESS:

OUT AND ABOUT CATERING – Yammy will be at the market with her yummy chutneys, chilly range, Sauerkrauts, Relish, Pickles and Marmalades

DANIEL’S SPUDS are back at the market this week. Agria potatoes freshly dug this week.

WHAREMUKU ORCHARD is back this week also.

FRESH LOCAL VEGES also for sale

THE CLAREVILLE BAKERY is back this week with all our customer favourites.

And of course, there is always lots on offer: Hot Food, fresh Coffee, Fresh Vege stall, Yummy Honey, fresh bread to name just a few.

We have a fabulous array of creative gifts on display and available for purchase.
wooden toys, embroidered tea towels, olive oil, Crocheted toys, woollen items to mention just a few

We even have live music to get your toes tapping and we are always ready for a friendly chat. For a great day out or an early morning visit we have something for everyone.


We have a new Facebook page:
Wairarapa Farmers Market 2025 - have a look and view our newsletter for this week, or alternatively sign up to receive the newsletter into your inbox.
We also have a Eftpos terminal where you can access cash for your Farmers Market purchases. Come and have a look, I’m sure you will be pleasantly surprised.
Look forward to seeing you.

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