WELLINGTON ANNIVERSARY DAY
Wellington Anniversary Day, commemorates the first group of European settlers sponsored by the NZ Company to arrive in NZ, who alighted on Petone Beach from the sailing shop “Aurora”, on 22nd January 1840.
The historic Christ Church Taita, built 12 years later by those first settlers, is the oldest church in the Wellington region, and was opened on New Year’s Day in 1854. Those responsible did so in gratitude for a relatively safe passage. They struck up a very positive relationship with the local people of Te Atiawa, who occupied a Pa at Horokiwi, and who fed and sheltered the several hundred new arrivals. That positive relationship continues down to this day. The church’s graveyard is the last resting place Chief of Manihera Matangi, whose father signed the Treaty of Waitangi, and who was a great friend of the settlers. His whanau continue to reside in the Hutt Valley. Current chair of the fundraising committee is Rev. John Daysh, great grandson of another John Daysh, one of the first settlers, who gave the timber for the building
The church has survived flood and fire, and is favoured for weddings, While once on farmland, it is now almost surrounded by industrial buildings in Wingate. Blink as you drive past and you’ll miss it.
It will shortly have a Visitor Centre to expedite visits by members of the Public. This will enable visitors, and students of NZ History, to take tours of the building and adjoining graveyard.
Fundraising for the Centre has been under way for several years and Donors include The Lotteries Heritage Fund and Hutt City Council as well as numerous private individuals. Current funds will be sufficient ($250, 000) to make a start, while the Trust responsible is about to sign a formal contract with Yus Homes, builders, of Petone, which will allow for the work to start soon and to be completed progressively as further funds allow.
There is a GiveALittle page for those who may be interested in supporting this important Heritage undertaking.
Contact JOHN TERRIS, VISITOR CENTRE FUNDRAISER, 55 QUEENS GROVE LOWER HUTT TEL 0274440081.
We're taking the bus!
The number of Wellingtonians taking the bus and train rose by 3% last week compared to the same time last year, according to Metlink.
Not surprising given petrol prices at the moment. But if you're considering giving up your car commute for a leisurely bus ride in the mornings, it would be worth it.
It's about to get even easier: In April, e-pay will be launched, meaning you can tap on with your credit cards as well as smart devices.
It's better on the environment too: With most Metlink trains running on electricity, 25% of the bus fleet being EV’s and the Ika Rere electric ferry, Metlink is able to move more people using less fuel than any other transport option.
With fuel costs so high, it's a good idea to jump on board if you can. If you've become a public transport convert recently, how have you found it?
Poll: Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
First introduced in New Zealand in 1927 with the passing of the Summer Time Act, it's what we know as 'Daylight Saving' and this year it ends on the first Sunday in April.
While we do get to sleep in this time around, some people would like to scrap the clock tinkering for good.
And why? Some evidence suggests the time changes are bad for our health as they mess with sleep patterns leading to short-term fatigue and affecting mood. Meanwhile the hour change is frustrating for farmers and a nightmare for getting the littlies to sleep. But what's your take?
-
40.5% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
-
57.6% No, I enjoy it
-
1.9% Other - I'll share below
Alan and Hazel Kerr share Senior New Zealander of the Year Award 2026
Dr Alan and Hazel Kerr describe themselves as ‘just ordinary old Kiwis’, despite being named as the 2026 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealanders of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
The amazing couple prompted a standing ovation at a star-studded Auckland event which recognised their tireless efforts, with Alan travelling to and from Gaza and the West Bank 40 times to help children over 20 years, and Hazel travelling 20 times.
Click read more to find out more.
Loading…
