We’re seeking support from local businesses to help us create a special end-of-term movie night for our incredible Year 1 and 2 Dreamers (tamariki) from the I Have a Dream Charitable Trust programme at Te Kura o Hau Karetu.

About I Have a Dream
The I Have a Dream programme supports Dreamers (tamariki) all the way through their school journey, providing mentoring, tutoring and life guidance through dedicated adult mentors called Navigators. The goal is to ensure every child has the support, opportunities and networks they need to succeed in education, careers and in life. 

How your business can help:

• Sponsor movie night snacks and drinks
• Donate raffle prizes (any value)

In return, your business will:

• Be promoted across our social media pages
• Be acknowledged on event materials
• Be recognised on the night with your business name and logo displayed

Our Dreamers have been working incredibly hard at school, building their skills, confidence and aspirations. We’re proud of their efforts and would love to celebrate them with a special free night for them and their whānau. 

If your business can help, please contact Amber on 027 426 0447 or email Amber@4ABetterCity.nz. By 5pm, Friday 20 March.

Together we can make a real difference for these amazing kids and their futures. 

Read more about I Have A Dream on our website: www.4abettercity.nz/i-have-a-dream-upper-hutt

A “thank you” to Justine Hall from For A Better City Hutt Valley for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

09/03/26

Return to Contents

Six month covid boosters are still available to those wanting them, aged 30 and over.

University of Otago professor of public health, Michael Baker, said that Covid 19 is still New Zealand’s most impactful infectious disease, equating to about 1000 deaths a year, compared to influenza, the next most infectious which is about 500 deaths a year.

Source: Radio New Zealand

09/03/26

Return to Contents

Ex HIBS staff member, Anthony (Tony) Francis, has been sentenced to twelve months home detention, having been reduced from the initial three years and seven months in prison due to his age, now 78, and suffering from a range of medical conditions including Parkinson’s disease.

The sex offending happened multiple times between 1998 and 1999 to two students at the school. The police weren’t able to proceed until the older victim came forth as there wasn’t enough solid evidence to build a case.

Speaking outside the courtroom, the older victim said he had come to court not expecting a severe sentence, but it was still a “kick in the guts” that “a retired man gets to hang out at home as a sentence”.

He said it was “difficult to believe it’s all over”, as the case had taken more than three years to resolve since he first laid the police complaint.

He was dubious that Francis showed true remorse, saying his letter of apology was “nondescript” and blamed Francis’ upbringing for his offending.

The younger victim had mixed emotions about the outcome, but he was most upset about the fact that Francis was not being put on the sex offenders register, saying that his low risk of re-offending should have no bearing on the decision.

Source: Melissa Nightingale / NZ Herald

04/03/26

Return to Contents

Our mission statement is to be the appropriate voice for all New Zealanders. Grey Power New Zealand Federation Inc. (GPNZF) was started in February 1986 – today we continue to be a neutral but assertive voice of influence in the political arena with no party political affiliation.

Upper Hutt Grey Power, the local affiliate of GPNZF is mandated to:

• To promote the welfare and well-being of older persons and their families residing in Upper Hutt and further, to advocate similar provision for their welfare and well-being as residents of New Zealand.
• To support Grey Power New Zealand Federation or any organisation which has similar aims,
• to promote the establishment of kindred local organisations, and
• to educate and inform organisations, institutions, other bodies, and the public of the needs of older persons and their families residing in Upper Hutt, including their ability to contribute to society.

With our local community reeling under continuing inflation of living-costs, inadequate performance of public services and other networked infrastructure the fundamental social support required by our ageing population is being rapidly eroded.

Our organisation offers a well-tried platform for active community-minded individuals to advocate for the growing number of people around them at risk of impoverishment through the introduction of user-charges for water and, in alarmingly increasing numbers, isolated from participating in their community by homelessness or unacceptably long waiting lists for elective surgery and other acute health interventions.

Join us before you need us!

Authorised by:

Lew Rohloff
Vice President.

A “thank you” to Lew Rohloff for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

10/03/26

Return to Contents

The next set of night closures for maintenance on State Highway 2 Remutaka Hill is just 10 days away.

The route will have a week of night closures on from Sunday, 15 March, to Thursday, 19 March. The closures will run from 9 pm to 4 am each night,finishing at 4 am, Friday 20 March.

Contractors will do asphalt resurfacing, and carrying out routine maintenance such as drainage, shoulder maintenance, signage, graffiti removal, and vegetation control.

The planned maintenance is critically important in keeping a vital regional transport link resilient for road users.

They are also the most effective way of getting work done quickly and safely while minimising impact on the public.

Traffic volumes are much lower at night and fewer drivers are affected than if the work was done during the day under stop/go traffic management.

Full closures also allow contractors to complete their work faster and more efficiently. They also reduce traffic management costs.

Escorted crossings are available for people who need to travel while the night closure is in place. There will be one crossing in each direction that drivers can book for:

• 10.30 pm – Featherston to Hutt
• 11.30 pm – Hutt to Featherston

Bookings can be made online:  Remutaka Hill Closure Escort Booking Form

Drivers should plan ahead and make a booking if they need to travel the route at night, as the only alternative detour is via the Pahiatua Track or SH3 Te Ahu a Turanga, which is a much longer route.

Work crews will always do their best to help people join escorted crossings, but people are strongly urged to book one in advance and ensure they are not caught out.

These crossings are available for light vehicles only. Heavy vehicles cannot travel the route during these closures and must use the detour via the Pahiatua Track or State Highway 3 Te Ahu a Turanga.

The closure schedule for 2026 is available (see below) to allow people to plan ahead.

Important information for Remutaka Hill closures:

• Escorted crossings are available during closure nights but must be booked in advance. We always communicate well before planned closures, so people have plenty of time to make bookings.
• Bookings can be made online on the Waka Kotahi website – Remutaka Hill Closure Escort Booking Form
• Bookings are essential – drivers who turn up without one risk being turned away. If you have a genuine emergency on the night, the hill manager will decide how best to help you.
• The escorted crossings are for light vehicles only. To keep our contractors safe, heavy vehicles cannot be accommodated.
• Drivers should arrive at least 15 minutes before their crossing time. This helps ensure escorted crossings depart on time and stay on schedule.
• Drivers must follow all instructions from contractors during crossings and remain behind the pilot vehicle until the crossing is finished. This is critical for the safety of drivers and roadworkers.
• Full access is always available for emergency services for incident responses.

State Highway 2, Remutaka Hill. Upcoming planned night closures 2026:

More Information:

• SH2 Remutaka Hill road night closures
• Maintenance closures

• State Highway Maintenance – FAQs
• Tips for driving through worksites (video)

Plan ahead for a safe, enjoyable journey. Keep up to date with:

• Traffic updates: journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/wellington

• Facebook: facebook.com/NZTAWgtn
• Twitter/X: https://x.com/nztawgtn
• Journey planner: journeys.nzta.govt.nz/wellington
• Phone: 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)

Source: NZTA / Waka Kotahi

04/03/26

Return to Contents

Thanks so much for your continued patience as Wellington Electricity progresses its underground cable relocation work through the city.

We know these changes can be frustrating, and we truly appreciate everyone adjusting their routines while this important work continues.

The works have experienced some delays in progress due to the wet weather and conditions in the ground.

If you’re travelling by car, please follow all directional signage and allow extra time for your journey. Remember, navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps can also help you plan the best route on the day.

If your road is impacted, Wellington Electricity contractors will work with you to ensure deliveries/pickups can be managed.

Unless stated otherwise, footpaths remain open so you can continue to move through the area and support your favourite local businesses.

HERE’S WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND LOWER HUTT NEXT WEEK: MARCH 9-16

• Andrews Avenue will remain closed to through traffic
• Dudley Street is closed to through traffic until the latter half of the week
• Queens Drive (northbound from the High Street roundabout, near City Fitness). At least one north-bound lane is expected to re-open midweek. The slip lane towards Laings Road will close in the latter half of the week. For Metlink detours to bus routes affected by the Queens Drive closure visit: www.metlink.org.nz/news-and…/detours-and-closures
• Laings Road (between Queens Drive and High Street) and High Street (north from Laings Road to Andrews Avenue) will close to through traffic towards the latter half of the week
• Melling Link Bridge (west from Rutherford Street to the Repco building) the footpath on the Repco side of the bridge is expected to close towards the latter half of the week
• Rutherford Street: traffic management continues as work progresses towards the Melling Road roundabout
• Connolly Street: single-lane traffic management continues as work progresses towards Melling Road roundabout

And don’t forget!

Queens Drive / High Street roundabout (near McDonald’s) remains closed until December 2026 as part of the SH2 Melling Transport Improvements project. You can find further information on this project and wider, regional disruption on NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi – Wellington‘s Facebook page.

Source: Te Awa Kairangi – Delivering RiverLink

07/03/26

Return to Contents

Rongoā healing is currently being planned for 14 prisons within New Zealand, including Rimutaka Prison. Along with other healthcare services already employed at prison in New Zealand, Rongoā is traditional Māori medicine which includes herbal remedies, physical therapies and spiritual healing. These healing services are often necessary as a first step to support prisoners physical and mental health to make sure they can engage with offence focused and addiction-centred rehabilitation programmes.

Source: Mike Tweed / New Zealand Herald

09/03/26

Return to Contents

Did you know that it costs nothing to put up an article on The Upper Hutt Connection? It doesn’t matter if you’re a professional journalist or not (I’m certainly not!), any and all articles are welcome on The Upper Hutt Connection.

If you have an article that you’d like included in next week’s Wednesday edition, please make sure that you’ve sent it through to me by 12.00 midnight, Monday evening.

Schools and groups are most certainly invited too. Where privacy is a concern, I can create top quality AI images for you, protecting the students identities. Please check out the images at the link below, to see what I can do for you! The AI loves details – The more info you put in, the more detailed your image will be!

The Upper Hutt Connection – AI image gallery

Return to Contents

Engaging with Council

Engaging with councillors/mayor

Don’t be afraid of engaging with the elected members as they have been voted in to be the communities voice. But remember when engaging, to be concise, clear and respectful.

Mayor – peri.zee@uhcc.govt.nz

Deputy Mayor – corey.white@uhcc.govt.nz

Community and Economy Committee Chair’s

• angela.mcleod@uhcc.govt.nz
• tracey.ultra@uhcc.govt.nz

Other Councillor’s

• matt.carey@uhcc.govt.nz
• gurpreet.dhillon@uhcc.govt.nz
• bill.hammond@uhcc.govt.nz
• emma.holderness@uhcc.govt.nz
• dave.wheeler@uhcc.govt.nz
• daniel.welch@uhcc.govt.nz
• hellen.swales@uhcc.govt.nz

CEO

• geoff.swainson@uhcc.govt.nz

Other helpful Council Contacts

• General Council Enquiries: https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/Home Phone (04) 527 2169
• Noise Control: https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/Services/Health-and-safety/Noise-Control
• Rivers, Regional Public Transport, Bulk water supply, Flood protection, and Regional parks: Cr Ros Connelly from the GWRC  – Ph: 027 733 5076 Email: ros.connelly@gw.govt.nz
• Dog Control: https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/Services/Dogs-and-animals/Animal-control-services
• Roading and Parking: https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/Services/Roads-and-parking
• Tree Management: https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/Services/Tree-Management
• Drinking Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater: https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/Services/Water
• Waste and recycling: https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/Services/Waste-and-recycling

Speaking Rights and Submitting at Council

If you see a council meeting, usually 2-5 days before an agenda will come out and you can apply for speaking rights to speak in the Public Forum, which is usually in the first 30 mins of a meeting.

Following links explain more :

Speaking at Council Meetings: https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/files/assets/public/v/1/meetings/attending-and-speaking-at-council-meetings.pdf

Meeting Agendas: https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/Council/About-Your-Council/Council-meetings/Meeting-agendas-and-minutes

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UHCCCommunityService

A “thank you” to NZ Empowered for providing this article for The Upper Hutt Connection. Please note that this article is published each week.

02/02/26

Return to Contents

Dave Rennie has been appointed as the new coach for the All Blacks. Born in Upper Hutt, he went to Heretaunga College. He played for the Upper Hutt rugby football club until a shoulder injury forced him to retire at 27. He then moved into a coaching role at the Upper Hutt rugby football club. He then trained as a teacher, and taught at Maidstone Intermediate in Upper Hutt.

Source: RNZ (Radio New Zealand)

05/03/26

Return to Contents

Location: Whirinaki Whare Taonga, Upper Hutt

Over 40 stalls selling soap, Rongoa, soya candles, healing services and much more. There will be readers on hand also. Just a gold coin entry.

A “thank you” to Susan Boyle for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

06/03/26

Return to Contents

We are getting ready to host the 2026 Anzac Parade on 25 April.

The Dawn Parade will begin their march to the Civic Centre at 5.45am, and the Dawn Service will begin at 6.00am outside the Civic Centre, Upper Hutt.

Join us to commemorate New Zealanders killed in war, and to proudly honour Military personnel and returned servicemen and women.

5.45am Dawn Parade Assembles at Queen Street
6.00am A Service of dedication at Upper Hutt Civic Centre

For more information: www.upperhutt.govt.nz/events/anzac-2026

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

09/03/26

Return to Contents

A “thank you” to Lew Rohloff for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

10/03/26

Return to Contents

The Upper Hutt Piano Trust will present a special programme of piano and music events at Whirinaki Whare Taonga on Sunday 29 March 2026, celebrating World Piano Day.

World Piano Day  (www.pianoday.org) started 11 years ago as an international celebration of the piano and its music and is held on the 88^th day of the year , the number of keys on a piano.

 Upper Hutt Piano Trust is marking the occasion this year  with a range of performances and activities showcasing the instrument’s versatility, beauty and enduring appeal. The programme will feature local and regional musicians and pianists, with events designed to appeal to music lovers of all genres of music and all ages.

We believe Upper Hutt is the only location in New Zealand to currently  celebrate World Piano Day in a coordinated way .

Held at Upper Hutt’s cultural hub, Whirinaki Whare Taonga, the day will offer the community an opportunity to  listen, play the Kawai grand piano themselves  and experience live music in an inspiring setting.

We are expecting dance groups , electronic keyboards performers  and other music groups to participate .

If you want more information or to take part please email  WPD@upperhuttpianotrust.nz

The Upper Hutt Piano Trust will present a special programme of piano and music events at Whirinaki Whare Taonga on Sunday 29 March 2026 from 10 am to 7.30 pm .The  morning session from 10-12pm is  opened by a performance by  Clare Derby on the Kawai grand piano.For the balance  of the session there be  performances  to enjoy by piano students from Karen Boyce Music and Joanne Roelofs Music as well as dance performances from Anita’s Dance Academy. The public are invited to come  and enjoy the performances, peruse the craft market and support the Arts in Upper Hutt . Entry is by donation to help cover costs of the event .

The Piano trust believes Upper Hutt is the only location in New Zealand to currently  celebrate World Piano Day in a coordinated way .

It is planned to offer an opportunity to  the community to play the Kawai grand piano themselves  and experience live music in an inspiring setting.

In the afternoon   from 3-5 pm  Te Toki NZ School of Music students will play on the Kawai grand piano . Amelia Lim who was the Scholarship winner last year will be performing .

From 6 -7.30 pm  the ever popular ‘Sam and Cam “   with their “Duelling Pianos “   will finish the day with a concert of popular music including Elton John and Billy Joel songs .

A wide range of music from classical to pop will feature throughout the day

A “thank you” to Paul Lambert for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

27/01/26

Return to Contents

A “thank you” to Sharyn Rive for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

10/10/25

Return to contents

A “thank you” to Susan Boyle for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

29/01/26

Return to contents

Taoist Tai Chi sessions

• Mondays 6.30-8.00pm.
• Trentham School Hall.
• No sessions held on public holidays.

Start any time.

Reduce stress, find calmness, balance, strength and flexibility with Taoist Tai Chi™ practice. Join us to have a go a great way to improve your life and health. https://www.taoisttaichi.org/find-a-location/

A “thank you” to Glenn for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

13/05/25

Return to contents

Location: HIBS Senior Common Room, Hutt International Boys’ School, Granville Street, Trentham, Upper Hutt

Open to expert and beginner players alike. Details are available from Club Captain Tony Hughes whose email is: arh4108@gmail.com

A “thank you” to Richard Catterall for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

09/02/26

Return to Contents

Location: St. Hilda’s Anglican Church, 35 Cruickshank Road, Clouston Park

Wednesday mornings during term time.

Ages from babies to school age are welcome, depending on the circumstances.

A “thank you” to Jocelyn for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

07/11/24

Return to contents

Tuesday mornings during term time 10-11.30am. Come along and join in the fun with your preschool children. Meet other parents and carers, relax and enjoy a cuppa while the kids play. (Please note all children must be accompanied by an adult!). Looking forward to seeing you.

A “thank you” to St. Margaret’s Church – Silverstream for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

06/05/25

Return to contents

A “thank you” to Kerry for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

23/04/25

Return to contents

If you’re looking for a Tuesday activity for your little ones then come check out UHBC Playgroup at Upper Hutt Baptist Church, corner of Milton St and Fergie Drive.

We run 9.30am – 11:30am each Tuesday morning and you can drop in anytime that suits.

Lots of fun stuff to play with and a different activity each week to stimulate young minds.

Morning tea for children and adults provided.

Everyone welcome

Gold coin donation

Hope to see you there

Cushla gave permission for this article to be put up on The Upper Hutt Connection.

28/03/25

Return to contents

A “thank you” to Alpa Modi for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

16/01/26

Return to contents

Do you want to see young girls grow into confident, adventurous women capable of taking action in their communities? Becoming a volunteer with Girl Guiding is an amazing way to give back in Upper Hutt and keep learning. We’ll provide all the training you need.

We’re seeking more volunteers to work alongside our experienced Girl Guide leaders so that we can grow our units. Please consider giving your time as a volunteer so that we can offer amazing opportunities to as many Upper Hutt girls as possible.

Please contact Katrina at katrinaclokie+ggnz@gmail.com or 0220963973 (text only) or enquire via the Girl Guide website https://girlguidingnz.org.nz/volunteers/

A “thank you” to Katrina Clokie for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

02/02/26

Return to contents

We need a few new players/performers for our ukulele /singing/ performance group, based in Upper Hutt. More than anything we love people with enthusiasm who are keen to interact with an audience. We perform mostly at retirement villages but have also performed at birthday parties and celebrations of life. We focus on songs from the 50’s to the 80’s but most importantly we are there for our audiences and what they enjoy.

• you need to be able to hold a tune.
• the ability to play a ukulele would be great but if you don’t we can teach you!

If you are keen or know of someone who would be an asset to our group’ please ring Virginia on 0273920920.

A “thank you” to Virginia for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

28/07/25

Return to contents

Our group consists of women who have someone in their lives who has had a stroke or has Alzheimers, that they are caring for.

We meet once a fortnight for two hours. We offer a supportive listening environment with lots of laughs as we walk our challenging journeys together. If there are women out there who feel we could be of support, please contact Jenny on 0284340102 for further details.

A “thank you” to Virginia for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

28/07/25

Return to contents

The service was started in 2020, to replace a similar service previously run by Red Cross. The purpose of Upper Hutt’s not-for-profit free medical driving service is to help those with limited transport alternatives at grass-roots level (ie helping those without their own vehicle, or with no available family or friends to help them get to medical appointments, usually this is the independent elderly still living in their own homes with limited family assistance available) to reach their medical appointments throughout the wider Region.

Without this service, the alternative for these people would either be, for the patient to have to pay commercial rates and take public transport (however many financially or physically can’t do this), or in some cases patients will be forced to cancel out of medical appointments due to the cost and difficulties of using alternative transport to reach remote clinic locations, such as Wellington Hospital.

So, what does the service provide?

For those without other means of transport to reach their medical appointments, Upper Hutt’s Medical Driving Service provides “door to door” transport to the patient’s medical appointment throughout the Region; often for those needing extra mobility help, this entails the driver taking the patient through to the reception area of the clinic. Drivers will then generally wait to pick up the patient and return them to their home.

We have strived to keep the service “free” for those who need us, so as to not rule it out those who cannot afford transport costs, however we readily accept donations, as these are critical to enable the service to continue to run. 

We URGENTLY need more volunteer drivers:

Most of our drivers tend to be retired people, who want to give something back to the community. Our drivers need to use their own vehicle and be a safe and careful driver, with additional ability and patience to deal with a wide range of people. Our volunteers do not get paid (we are all volunteers), but the society uses the donations we receive to reimburse the drivers for the costs of running their vehicles. 

As a driver, you also need to be a person with patience and an ability to entertain yourself while waiting, as there is a fair amount of “waiting time” involved while patients are at appointments (a good time for reading, crosswords and a coffee). Demands for our services are erratic, governed by patients appointments and your availability, so it is not the case of “same time of day / same day of week” demand. For each job, the coordinator will check you if you are available (and if you are not, hopefully another driver picks up the request), you are not bound to make yourself available, jobs accepted must fit in with your schedule; but maybe your commitment will vary from once every two weeks, through to 1-2 requests per week. Drivers need to adhere to a set of rules set down by the society and need to be comfortable driving locally, to Lower Hutt, or to Wellington, as the typical destinations). Applicant drivers may be required to submit to Police Vetting.

Enquires:

Bill 0274456992

A “thank you” to Bill Lindsay for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

28/01/2026

Return to contents

Fermented Bar & Eatery Upper Hutt ON Licence Renewal

K Chicken – 154 Main Street Upper Hutt – ON Licence Renewal

Meals: https://uhconnection.co.nz/recipes/recipes-meals/

Baking: https://uhconnection.co.nz/recipes/recipes-baking/

Desserts: https://uhconnection.co.nz/recipes/recipes-desserts/

Return to contents

A webpage on The Upper Hutt Connection at only $1 a day

Is your business lacking a website, and you don’t want to bother with setting one up yourself? The Upper Hutt Connection can offer you a webpage on The Upper Hutt Connection at only $1 a day (billed at $30 a month). Include all the text, images, links etc that you like.

Advertise your business in The Upper Hutt Connection’s Wednesday Edition for only $10 a week – Be seen by all 4,631 followers

Would you like to advertise your business weekly in The Upper Hutt Connection’s Wednesday Edition? You can have your business advertised at only $10 a week (billed at $40 a month). Include a small paragraph of text along with a small image – OR an image alone, with all your business info included in the image itself. A small line of text can be included for a link to your website, etc. If you have a request where you’d like your ad to be placed in the Wednesday Edition then please say – otherwise I’ll use my own judgement.

Restrictions

As for restrictions on who can advertise, the only exclusion is the sex industry. Everyone else is welcome to advertise on The Upper Hutt Connection.

If you’re interested in advertising on The Upper Hutt Connection, please email me at editor@uhconnection.co.nz

Cheers, Ben Knowles – Editor / Operator @ The Upper Hutt Connection.

Please note that advertising on The Upper Hutt Connection is only open to those based in Upper Hutt – That is as north as the Remutaka Hill, the border of Akatawara Road between Upper Hutt and Kapiti, and as south as Reynolds Bach Drive, Stokes Valley.

Return to contents

Live for Jesus, Share his Love

Our Sunday morning service is at 10am and everyone is welcome.

We would love you to stay afterwards for fellowship over morning tea.

Our Creche for children under 3 1/2 years runs every Sunday morning. Our Children’s Church runs Sundays during school terms.

Services are live-streamed on YouTube: Heretaunga Christian Centre

Address: 51 Lane St, Wallaceville, Upper Hutt 5018, New Zealand

Email: admin@heretaunga.com

Website: https://www.heretaunga.com

Return to contents

We seek to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ in our Community

You will find us at:

4-6 Dunns St, Silverstream, Upper Hutt

The Minister:

The minister at St Margaret’s is Rev Rodney Ramsay.

Rodney is on-site most days from Tuesday to Friday and anyone is welcome to drop in for a chat over a cup of coffee/tea.

If you have any need to contact Rodney he can be reached at the office number 5279604, on his mobile 0211259835 or via email at minister@stmargaretssilverstream.org.nz

Worship services:

Our worship services take place on Sundays at 10.00am.

The First Sunday of each month is a Communion Service and the second Sunday is a Family Service.

Our services are fairly traditional, and we have a very warm and welcoming congregation.

All are welcome.

Our services are live streamed on Zoom. If you wish to receive the link, please text Lynley McInnarney at 027 278 0010 or send an email to mcinnarneys@gmail.com

We offer children’s church for primary school age that happens during the main church service.

St Margaret’s runs a teenage youth group on the second and fourth Thursday of the month in the church hall and lounge during term time. Youth group runs from 6.30pm to around 8.00pm.

Other contact details:

The Lay leader (Session Clerk) at St Margaret’s is Chris Rosanowski and he can be contacted at rosanowskic@gmail.com

Please visit our website for further information including the hire of our facilities.

https://stmargaretssilverstream.org.nz

St. Margaret’s Presbyterian Church – Silverstream submitted this article to The Upper Hutt Connection

Return to contents

Location: 2 Akatarawa Road, Brown Owl, Upper Hutt

We would love to get to know you, so come along to one of our groups and meet others in your community.

Tuesdays

5 Loaves and 2 Fish Food Pantry: 11am – 12noon – Free

Food is available for those who are needing extra assistance. If you have food to contribute to contribute to the pantry, feel free to drop off at the church.

Wednesdays

Community craft session: 10.30 am – 12noon – Free

Bring along your craft and join us for morning tea.

Community Lunch: 12noon – Free

All welcome

Bible study: 7.00 pm – Free

All welcome to learn more about the Christian faith.

Fridays

Rimutaka Playgroup: 9.00 am – 11.30am – Donation

All caregiver and preschoolers are welcome. This is a fun, friendly, safe environment. Morning tea is provided.

Youthgroup: 7.00 pm – Donation

Contact the church for details

Sundays

Church Service: 10.00 am

All welcome, and please stay for morning tea after the service.

Sunday online recording available on YouTube from 5.00 pm

Room Hire

Contact us if you would like to hire out either the hall, foyer area or conference room.

All Enquires: 04 5268708
Email: rbc.office@xtra.co.nz

A “thank you” to Kerry, and Rimutaka Baptist Church, for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

23/04/25

Return to contents

Location: 35 Cruickshank Road, Clouston Park, Upper Hutt

Email Church Office: sthildasuh@gmail.com

Who we are:

A congregation of faithful followers of our Lord Jesus Christ, who draw on the Anglican
tradition to support a lively expression of our faith. Our recently unanimously agreed
vision statement is: St Hilda’s – a vibrant, faith-based presence within our community.

What we do:

• We are a community of people who come together to worship God, to grow in relationship with one another and with the wider community.
• We offer loving service to God, one another, the people of Upper Hutt and the world.
• We are disciples of Jesus, the Lord of Love.
• We believe in the Christian Creator, Redeemer and Giver of Live. We are inspired andguided by the Holy Bible. We seek to grow in faith.
• We welcome newcomers to our parish family with warm hospitality. We provide a wide range of activities, both spiritual and secular. We encourage all to develop their relationship with Christ through our worshiping community.
• In recent years we have turned our focus outwards to serving our community.

Weekly services:

Sunday 9.30am: Traditional NZ Anglican Worship

This is a comfortable, family-friendly feeling service, although it follows the traditional
liturgical format. The service order alternates between the three ANZPB Eucharistic (communion)
liturgies. There is always a sermon with a liturgical assistant leading the worship; when a priest is not available. The communion is led by one of our leaders licenced for reserved sacrament.

Thursday 10.00am: Traditional Communion Service

The service order follows ANZPB with the Sunday sermon being repeated here. Our services are supported by a good tech suite, including two large monitors installed at the front of the church, and a quality sound system.

Prayer books remain available in the pews for anyone who prefers to use them

JANUARY SERVICES AT ST HILDA’S

Cruickshank Road, Upper Hutt
Sundays through January to Sunday 25 January
5pm Evensong, followed by a shared barbeque tea.

Sunday 1 February onwards
9.30am Normal Sunday services resume

Thursday 12 February onwards
10am Normal Thursday services resume.

Sue sent this article to The Upper Hutt Connection / Source: St Hilda’s Anglican Church Upper Hutt

Return to contents

Location: 8 Blue Mountains Road, Silverstream

What we Believe:

We believe that Jesus Christ is the only Saviour and the Sovereign Lord over all of life. We are fully committed to the Bible in its entirety as the Word of God. We believe that theology is important, it is vital for the health of the church, and without sound doctrine the church decays. Throughout history, the church has confessed what it believes by faithfully summarising the truths of the Bible in written forms known as creeds and confessions. These confessions do not hold the same authority as the Bible, but they help to summarise the Bible’s teaching. Ultimately, the Bible remains our only rule for faith and life. 

Who we Are:

Our Church is a family church, with a mixture of young families, retirees, couples, single people and youth. We have approximately 200 members, from different backgrounds, meeting together because we share a common faith in the Lord Jesus Christ

Service Times:

Our worship services are on Sunday at 10 AM and 4 PM, and we would love to see you there. Our friendly greeters will meet you at the door and answer any questions you have.

Like to know more?  Visit our website at:    https://silverstreamrcnz.co.nz/

Silverstream Reformed Church sent this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

11/12/24

Return to contents

Location: 563 Fergusson Drive, Trentham, Upper Hutt Email Church Office:office@stjohnstrentham.org.nz

Church website: http://www.stjohnstrentham.org.nz

Who we are: A congregation of faithful followers of our Lord Jesus Christ in the heart of Trentham. We gather in a historic Anglican church, founded in 1863 and continuously used for worship since then, providing a place of beauty, sacredness, and stillness. But the church is primarily about people, relationships, and recovery day by day, wherever we live. Our focus is on faith, family, and care for others.

What we do: We seek to nurture our faith, our relationship with God, in various ways. First and foremost, we come to worship and pray together. The Parish seeks to provide a variety of styles of worship to suit the varying needs of parishioners. We also gather in small groups for Bible study and fellowship, have regular community events, and have monthly communion services in Fergusson Rest Home and the Summerset Community Centre.

Weekly services:

Sunday 10.00am: Communion in the church with children’s ministry

Our Sunday inter-generational service unites families, young and old, in the church, while our children’s program (Godly Play) offers meaningful spiritual education for our tamariki. We gather for morning tea in and around the entry foyer afterwards.

Wednesday 10.00am: Liturgy of the Word with Holy Communion in the church

In addition to the Sunday service, there are other opportunities for worship during the week, such as the Wednesday 10am Holy Communion. This is in the church and uses one of the services in A New Zealand Prayer Book He Karakia Mihinare. We gather for morning tea in the foyer afterwards.

Weekdays 7.00am: Morning Prayer

Morning Prayeris held in the church chapel every weekday morning at 7am. We use A New Zealand Prayer Book He Karakia Mihinare, but there is plenty of opportunity for everyone to join the time of intercession and thanksgiving at the end of this service. All ages are welcome.

Source: St John’s Anglican Church in Trentham

18/11/25

Return to contents

Location: Upper Hutt Spiritualist Centre, King Lion Hall, 8 King St.

Every Sunday 7-8.30 pm

A vibrant Spiritualist community reflecting diversity of belief, experience, social and cultural backgrounds.  We uphold the 7 principles of Spiritualism and our values of respect, compassion, inclusivity and service.

The service consists of singing, meditation, mediumship and healing.

Email: uhspiritualist@gmail.com

A “thank you” to Sue Boyle for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

21/01/26

Return to contents

Address: Cnr 1 Benzie Avenue / 780 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt

Worship Services:

Upper Hutt Uniting provides Presbyterian – Methodist church services each Sunday at 10am at the Wesley Centre (Te Whanau Lounge) located at 1 Benzie Avenue. We are fortunate to have a revolving preaching team, of both Ordained and Lay Preachers, who offer an interesting and different variety of relaxed preaching styles. After service refreshments and social time. Visitors are welcome to join us.

Wesley Centre:

A multi-use community centre located close to the Upper Hutt city centre, hosting 5 separate churches (Presbyterian -Methodist, Tongan language Methodist, Samoan Assembly of God, Messianic Saturday study group and a church from Myanmar – contact us for details on other groups services), together with the Wesley Thrift Shop and Upper Hutt Foodbank, plus multiple regular and casual community organisations meetings and as a venue for group and family events. 

Wesley Centre provides a modern church space, a gymnasium style hall for functions, two kitchens and two spacious meeting rooms.

For enquiries regarding building use, contact the Parish Office 528 8915, or the Property Manager 0274 456 992, or email property.uhup@outlook.co.nz.

Parish Office:

64 Martin Street – open Thursday / Friday 10am to 3pm
Ph: (04) 528 8915
Email: uhup@xtra.co.nz 

Website: http://www.upperhuttuniting.nz 

A “thank you” to Bill Lindsay for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

05/11/25

Return to contents

View all films releasing this week at https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/coming-soon

Cold Storage

Running time: 98 minutes

Rated: R16 (Horror, graphic violence & offensive language)

When a mutating, highly contagious fungus escapes a sealed facility, two young employees – joined by a grizzled bioterror operative – must survive the wildest night shift ever to save humanity from extinction.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/cold-storage

Reminders of Him

Running time: 110 minutes

Rated: M (Offensive language)

There was before you and there was during you. For some reason, I never thought there would be an after you.

The literary phenomenon from #1 New York Times bestselling author Colleen Hoover becomes a transformative feature film about motherhood, forgiveness and the power of love to overcome even the worst mistake.

After a perfect outing with her boyfriend, Kenna (Maika Monroe; The Hand that Rocks the Cradle, Longlegs) makes an unbearable mistake that sends her to prison. Seven years later, Kenna returns to her hometown in Wyoming, hoping to rebuild her life and earn the chance to reunite with her young daughter, Diem, whom she has never known.

When Diem’s custodial grandparents adamantly refuse Kenna’s attempts to see her daughter, Kenna discovers unexpected compassion, and then something truer and deeper, with former NFL player and local bar owner Ledger (Tyriq Withers; HIM, I Know What You Did Last Summer). As their secret romance develops, so do the dangers for both of them, leading Kenna toward heartbreak and, ultimately, the hope for a second chance.

The film’s cast includes screen legends Lauren Graham (Gilmore Girls, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist) and three-time Emmy winner Bradley Whitford (Get Out, The Handmaid’s Tale) as Diem’s grandparents, Grace and Patrick; Rudy Pankow (Outer Banks, Uncharted) as Scotty, Diem’s father; and Grammy winner and country music sensation Lainey Wilson (Yellowstone) as Kenna’s friend and coworker, Amy.

The supporting cast includes Jennifer Robertson (Schitt’s Creek) as Kenna’s landlord; Zoe Kosovic (The Smashing Machine) as Kenna’s daughter; Hilary Jardine (Holidazed) and Nicholas Duvernay (The White Lotus) as Ledger’s bar team; and, in her screen debut, Monika Myers as Kenna’s neighbor, Lady Diana.

Leading an all-female filmmaking team, Vanessa Caswill (Love at First Sight, Little Women mini-series) directs Reminders of Him from a screenplay by Colleen Hoover and Lauren Levine, based on Hoover’s novel. The film is produced by Colleen Hoover (exec producer It Ends with Us, Regretting You), Lauren Levine (Bridge to Terabithia, exec producer, Confess series) and Gina Matthews (Isn’t it Romantic, 13 Going on 30), and is executive produced by Robin Mulcahy Fisichella. Universal Pictures presents a Heartbones Entertainment and Little Engine production: Reminders of Him.

First published in 2022, Reminders of Him has sold more than 6 million copies in the United States and has been translated into 45 languages. Hoover is the bestselling author of numerous blockbuster novels, including It Ends with Us, It Starts with Us, Layla, Heart Bones, Confess and Verity.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/reminders-of-him

Source: Monterey Cinemas Upper Hutt

10/03/26