34 days ago

Police appeal for information on historical offending at Wellington school

The Team from Wellington District Police

Police are appealing for anyone who may have information on offending by Father Rowan Donoghue to come forward.

This comes after all suppressions for Father Donoghue lifted on 28 January 2026.
He has pleaded guilty in Christchurch District Court on 13 November 2025, in relation to a number of historical offences against former students at St. Bede's College in Christchurch, and is set for sentencing later this year.

Following the lifting of all suppression, Police have been made aware that former students of Wellington school St. Patrick's College Silverstream, have alleged similar offending by Father Donoghue.
Father Donoghue worked at St. Patrick's College Silverstream from 1982 to 1992.

We know it can be incredibly difficult and at times distressing to talk about these matters, but we would like to reassure any victims of offending that we will take them seriously.

Police has a number of officers and detectives dedicated to these cases, and we provide a safe space to report offending in confidence.
If you have any information or would like to report similar offending, please contact us online at 105.police.govt.nz or call 105.
We can then contact you to make appropriate arrangements to discuss matters in an appropriate and safe way.

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More messages from your neighbours
1 hour ago

Goldco Antique Buyers in Wellington Region

GOLDCO International Limited

WANTED WANTED WANTED:
Gold • Coins • Watches • Banknotes • Antique • Jewellery • Collectables

The market for many antiques, collectables, vintage watches, artefacts, gold and silver items has been buoyant these past few years. So if you are considering selling any of these or similar items then our specialist buyers would like to make an offer.
Any items will be considered so please don’t be shy and visit one of our venues.

Large or valuable collections? Single items? Downsizing, moving or decluttering? Family not interested? or simply turning unwanted items into cash.

*Immediate payment made *No commission or waiting *Free no obligation appraisal *Onsite security *Please have your bank details handy

Whether you have a large and valuable collection or a single item of broken jewellery please take this opportunity to see us at a venue near you.

See us at a venue near you - See venues here:

Goldco Antique Buyers | Member NZNDA | website email: goldco@xtra.co.nz | Ph: 0800 105 228
Find out more

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20 hours ago

💡 A Little Brain Buzz for You⚡

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

I have two faces, but show you only one.
I once had guests, but now have none.
I’m rarely bloody and seldom blue.
I’m often promised and sometimes new

(Trev from Tamatea kindly provided this head-scratcher ... thanks, Trev!)

Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!

Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.

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1 day ago

Poll: Does a savoury scone require cheese on top, or folded inside?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Help settle the great kiwi debate ... cheese on top, or folded inside?

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Does a savoury scone require cheese on top, or folded inside?
  • 75.2% Inside!
    75.2% Complete
  • 24.8% On top!
    24.8% Complete
487 votes