627 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
22 hours ago

Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.

This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.

Do you think this ban is reasonable?

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Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
  • 76.9% Yes
    76.9% Complete
  • 22.2% No
    22.2% Complete
  • 1% Other - I'll share below
    1% Complete
627 votes
17 days ago

What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.

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6 hours ago

BLOCKHOUSE BAY MARKET

Angela from Blockhouse Bay

Come and join us today rain or shine! Parking available opposite at the medical centre or behind the community centre itself.Hope to see you there!

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