607 days ago

Auckland Domain Wintergardens: 100-year-old Grand Dames throw off the covers

Mildred Armah Reporter from Central Leader

The 100-year-old grand old glasshouses at the Auckland Domain Winter garden have been “under the covers” for the past two years; now they are throwing off those covers to begin a new chapter in their life.

Covid-19 lockdowns denied the dames the chance to celebrate their 100th birthday in October 2021 so Auckland Council is reintroducing them to the public this week.

“It’s been pain-staking work to sympathetically restore these beautiful old heritage glasshouse buildings which have hosted weddings, musical recitals and APEC world leaders,” Desley Simpson chair of the Auckland Domain committee and Deputy Mayor said.

The buildings have not simply been restored - they’ve been made even better, she said.

“The sensitive seismic upgrading and attention to detail has not only saved but enhanced these key historic buildings,” Tracey Hartley of Salmond Reed Architects the company charged with overseeing the restoration said.

Works began in early 2021 and carried out in two stages with each of the glasshouses taking approximately 12 months to complete at a cost of $5.62m.

More messages from your neighbours
3 days ago

Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.

Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.

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Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
  • 63.9% Yes
    63.9% Complete
  • 33.6% No
    33.6% Complete
  • 2.5% Other - I'll share below
    2.5% Complete
2521 votes
1 day ago

Lost cat - Mt Eden

Anna from Mount Eden

Still missing my girl 😔

Evie is a 13 year old grey tortie - quite pretty colouring (mainly grey with caramel) with some cream on her chest. No white on her at all. She has been missing since 16 November, 2023.

Please take a screenshot of this post so you have photos and my number handy in case you see her.

She likes people but might not let you pick her up so please take a video or photo if you see her and call me asap on 021 072 0933 (Anna).

She’s quite lean and small to medium size. When she’s happy she ‘talks’ ❤️ De-sexed and microchipped.

Last seen in Mont Le Grand Rd, Mt Eden. Please check your garage, shed, garden and under deck and house.

Apparently cats who are hiding don’t meow so please look carefully even if you don’t hear her. Thank you so much 🙏

2 days ago

BLOCKHOUSE BAY MARKET

Angela from Blockhouse Bay

COME AND JOIN US AT BLOCKHOUSE BAY MARKET, SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY, BUY NZ MADE, FIND A BARGAIN, PLEASE BRING CASH AS MOST VENDORS DI NOT HAVE EFTPOS OR SUCH. FREE PARKING OPPOSITE AT MEDICAL CENTRE OR BEHIND COMMUNITY CENTRE!