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.
Worms for Worm Farms and Compost 🪱
Ready to get a wriggle along in the garden and start composting these summer holidays?
We are suppliers of red wriggler compost worms, perfect for worm farms and compost bins. They turn food scraps into rich, healthy compost that your garden will love.
500g for $15.99 + postage (NZ only)
Message me if you’re keen to give your compost a boost — your soil will thank you! 🌱
Fun fact: A healthy worm farm can process several kilograms of food scraps every week!
So if you're constantly running out of rubbish bin space or sick of the smell of food waste in your bin, then this could be your answer.
Text on: 021 827 542 for more information.
Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.
Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔
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73.1% We work hard, we deserve a break!
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16.2% Hmm, maybe?
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10.7% Yes!
Brain Teaser of the Day 🧠✨ Can You Solve It? 🤔💬
How many balls of string does it take to reach the moon?
(Peter from Carterton kindly provided this head-scratcher ... thanks, Peter!)
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm on the day!
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