ON THE BUTTON
About three years ago I was questioned by Upper Hutt City Council survey staff about what is ideally needed for the two large parks/reserves in the Wallaceville Estate in Wallaceville.
So from the top of my head, I said a large, interesting children's playground and some open and covered bench seating for Grant's Bush Reserve and all weather pedestrian/dog walkers tracks/pathways plus strategic bench seating for The Reserve.
Lo and behold this is exactly what the Council has done now that work has almost been completed in The Reserve.
I take full credit or no credit.
The most remarkable thing is that the playground is an absolute beacon for other recreational activities in the surrounding grassy (and weedy) areas summer and winter.
And I now have seen kids playing football in The Reserve.
My "job" has been to keep hassling the Council regarding Grant's Bush Reserve grass/weeds mowed more often so that the fields can be utilised for all the extraordinary activities that go on. I think I have won on this count.
Prior to the children's playground, GBR was pretty much dead apart from a few people exercising their dogs. Now even this activity has grown enormously.
Children and adults do come from further afield just than those living in the estate.
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: Tightening the belt at the pump ... How are you pivoting? 🚌🚲🏠
Between the headlines about the Strait of Hormuz and the creeping costs at our local stations, the "fuel crisis" has moved from the news to our wallets.
A recent opinion piece in The Post suggested that Wellington Councils should be shifting our public facilities to renewable energy ASAP to keep our rates from being vulnerable to these global fuel hikes. It’s a big conversation for the city, but what about your daily commute?
We want to know: With fuel prices staying high for the foreseeable future, are you changing how you get around the capital?
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19.3% Yes – I’m a bus/train user
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6.3% Dusting off the bike
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6.3% Working from home
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61.5% Nope, same as always
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6.8% Other (Tell us your strategy in the comments!)
Poll: Does a savoury scone require cheese on top, or folded inside?
Help settle the great kiwi debate ... cheese on top, or folded inside?
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76.7% Inside!
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23.3% On top!
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