Wednesday Edition – 1st of April, 2026 – The Upper Hutt Connection

Website: uhconnection.co.nz
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Contact the editor at: editor@uhconnection.co.nz

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– Expressions of interest for HAPAI Community Hub now open: Submissions close 28th of April 2026

We’re inviting community groups and organisations to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to become a foundation member for the HAPAI Community Hub in central Upper Hutt.

The Hub is being established to support local community organisations by providing office and meeting spaces. Other groups, which are not foundation members, will be able to book and utilise meeting spaces and hot desks at the Hub.

The HAPAI building has been part of Upper Hutt’s history since the 1960s. Serving the community has always been the main focus of the facility – establishing the HAPAI Community Hub will continue this legacy as an important asset for community groups who in turn support and benefit the community.

Key information for EOI submissions

Submissions close at 12.00pm on Tuesday, 28 April 2026.

All EOI submissions must be emailed to Mike Ryan, Group Manager Community Services: mike.ryan@uhcc.govt.nz

Full EOI conditions, including assessment criteria and supporting information, are available below:

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

31/03/26

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– Fire at auto wreckers yard in Upper Hutt

Firefighters responded to a large fire at an auto wreckers yard on the corner of Blenheim Street and Goodshed Road. 13 fire engines were attending the blaze.

The fire was extinguished by 3.45 pm, though some crews stayed to work on remaining hot spots.

Source: Wellington Fire and Emergency

25/03/26

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A “thank you” to Heather Newell for advertising on The Upper Hutt Connection.

26/03/26

– In February St Hilda’s Anglican Church Upper Hutt announced and welcomed the appointment of Andy Eldred as Priest In Charge.

Rev Andy Eldred is a former professional heavy metal musician who after a radical conversion in Christ in 1992 began his ministry in Youth with a mission (YWAM), then served as youth pastor and minister of Evangelism at a large non-denominational church in NC USA. He served as Director of Steiger Massachusetts working on the streets and supporting local churches. He moved to Waikanae in 2003 with his family and became a priest in 2006 working as youth Pastor and as priest assistant in Waikanae. In 2009 Andy became the Vicar of St Luke’s Anglican Parish in Greytown which grew significantly over the 9 years he served as Vicar. He served as Vicar of St Mark’s in Carterton in 2017 and served until he took a break from full time ministry to pursue his love of hospitality, food and music trying his hand at running a Andy’s Food with Love food trailer and catering. He also went back to school to study psychology and counselling. He now provides counselling and support services by appointment. Andy has always had a passion for seeing the church be the force of God in the world that it was created to be and has continued serving the Church by preaching and taking services around the Wellington region. Andy is excited to now be serving the parish of St Hilda’s and the people of Upper Hutt. You may also occasionally see him playing music down at the pub or a party with one of the bands that He plays in. Andy says, “Playing music is not only good for outreach but great for the soul.” Andy also has a passion for raising up the next generation of musicians and has worked with several schools and communities to create youth bands. This is something that he hopes to explore in his time serving in Upper Hutt.

A “thank you” to St. Hilda’s Anglican Church Upper Hutt for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

30/03/26

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– Local government minister says Tiaki Wai’s water charges higher than what was expected

Wellington residents face steep water bill increases under new water entity Tiaki Wai. Charges will rise nearly 15 percent this year, from $2100 to $2400. Bills could reach about $6800 a year by 2036 as the organisation works to fix ageing infrastructure.

Local government minister Simon Watts said the projected costs were higher than expected. He said Tiaki Wai’s plan submitted to DIA last year did not forecast increases of this scale. Watts phoned Wellington Mayor Andrew Little seeking an explanation.

Tiaki Wai said last year’s plan was based on the best information available at the time and costs will continue to be reviewed. Little said he shared concerns about affordability but noted the government introduced the current model. He said he would scrutinise Tiaki Wai’s performance and pricing.

Little wants the Commerce Commission to have powers to intervene if bills become unreasonable. Watts did not confirm this but said the commission had been asked to work with Tiaki Wai and councils on the projected prices.

Porirua Mayor Anita Baker said bills nearing $7000 a year were unaffordable and could drive residents away. She supported the water entity but said charges must remain manageable.

Residents were divided. Some were worried about cost‑of‑living pressures. Others said decades of under‑investment meant higher charges were unavoidable. Some supported water meters to encourage reduced use.

Tiaki Wai is considering water meters, which could take seven years to roll out and cost $590m. The organisation said the region’s infrastructure is in poor condition, with leaks, wastewater compliance issues and stormwater challenges. Fixing the failed Moa Point plant remains a priority.

Source: Ellen O’Dwyer / Radio New Zealand (RNZ)

26/03/26

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– Roadworks updates for Lower Hutt commuters: 27th of March – 3rd of April 2026

_{Te Awa Kairangi – Delivering RiverLink}

Here’s our weekly update on road closures and traffic changes in Lower Hutt from Friday, March 27- April 3 2026

Slip lane from Queens Drive on to Laings Road: closed

Laings Road: will re-open from Tuesday March 31
(From Wednesday April 1 westbound cars will only be able to turn left from Laings Road onto High Street)

High Street northbound: closed from Wednesday April 1 from Daly Street roundabout to Andrews Avenue. (Fix Federation carpark will only be accessible to cars turning left onto High Street from Laings Road)

High Street southbound: open to cars turning left onto Laings Road

Queens Drive / High Street roundabout: (near McDonald’s) and the left-hand turn from High Street onto Raroa Road remain closed until December 2026 as part of SH2 Melling Transport Improvements

Rutherford Street (north of Melling Link Bridge) to Connolly Street: night works continue from 7pm to 5am, there is no access to through traffic on Rutherford Street from north of Melling Link Bridge and the Melling Road / Connolly Street roundabout during this time

The footpath on Rutherford Street (by Repco) is set to reopen next week

Connolly Street (southbound from Mills Street) is scheduled to re-open next week

Connolly Street (north end near the stopbank) will have a stop/go detour in place from Monday for trenching works, weather permitting. Cyclists and pedestrians will be guided through the area/ or can use the temporary path on the stopbank.

Our ongoing thanks to everyone for adjusting their routines while this important work continues.

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

Public transport is also an option: Metlink encourages commuters to catch a bus or take the train. It reduces pressure on the road network, lowers emissions, and can be a quicker journey. Use the journey planner on the Metlink app, and find your fare at metlink.org.nz

Source: Te Awa Kairangi – Delivering RiverLink

27/03/26

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– Round of A-paws for the latest graduates

_{Police Patrol Dog Alie on parade – New} _{Zealand Police}

Click here to view more photos

_{Pacific Detector Dog Willow is bound for Samoa Customs – New Zealand Police}

_{Army Explosives Detector Dog Rebel is keen to start work – New Zealand Police}

Police, Defence and Pacific enforcement agencies welcome new dog teams

Deputy Police Commissioner Jill Rogers has acknowledged ten freshly trained handlers and their dogs at a ceremony held at the New Zealand Police Dog Training Centre in Trentham this afternoon.

Four teams of Police Patrol Dogs, three teams of Drug Detector Dogs and three teams of Explosive Detector Dogs lined up to graduate.

The teams from all around New Zealand and across the Pacific celebrated the occasion alongside the Police executive in front of whānau and friends.

Also in attendance were Her Excellency Ms Kairangi Samuela the Cook Islands High Commissioner to New Zealand, officials from New Zealand Customs Service, Cook Islands Customs, Samoa Customs, Tonga Police, and Colonel Paul Curry from the New Zealand Army.

Customs Deputy Chief Executive International and Governance, Joe Cannon, congratulated the new detector dog graduates and welcomed the enhanced enforcement capability for Tonga, Samoa and the Cook Islands.

“Congratulations to all the handlers graduating today. This is a significant achievement, and you should be proud of the hard work and commitment it represents.

“Detector dog operations play an important frontline role in combatting the growing threat of Transnational, Serious and Organised Crime (TSOC), which is having a significant impact on the economies, health and security of Pacific Island states.

“Today’s Pacific-based graduates will join the 21 New Zealand-trained detector dogs and handlers already serving across the Pacific, who actively prevent illegal drugs from entering their communities.

“This graduation marks a new chapter for our partners at Cook Islands Customs Service, who had their first detector dog handler graduate today. I am pleased they will continue to receive support from New Zealand through our long-running Pacific Detector Dog Programme.”

Alan Inkpen, NZDF Military Working Dogs Capability Manager says, “It’s great to be able to mark what is a significant milestone for our Explosive Detector Dogs and their handlers, because they’re such an important capability for the NZDF.

So many days, weeks and months of specialised training goes into ensuring these teams are ready whenever called upon, and our increased training and coursing alongside other agencies including New Zealand Police is providing some great opportunities going forward.”

Inspector Todd Southall National Coordinator Police Dogs says, “These graduates have worked very hard to obtain this operational qualification and it’s good to see them today on parade.

They will be heading into their various roles in the Pacific, and around New Zealand, very shortly. “We are also grateful to our foster families. Sarah Nicholson and her family are acknowledged today for raising and caring for Wynter as a puppy.”

Todd also thanked the following course instructors and managers:

Instructors: Sergeants Josh Robertson, and Graham Hawkins, New Zealand Police for Police Patrol Dog training.

Instructors: Sergeants Matt Fage and Mike Robinson, New Zealand Police for Pacific Narcotics Detector Dog training.

Course Manager Sergeant Austin Hutton and course instructors Corporal Ronan Polglase; Corporal Aidan Cornwall; Lance Corporal Rigel Blanchet; Lance Corporal Conor Woods for 2nd Field Squadron and 2nd Engineer Regiment RNZE New Zealand for Defence Force Explosive Detector Dog training.

Graduating Dog Teams:

New Zealand Police Patrol Dogs

Constable Vinnie Gibson from Hamilton, Waikato District with Hank.
Constable Adam Johannsen from Auckland with Alie.
Constable Shaun Hart from Whakatane, Bay of Plenty District with Tazz.
Constable Andrew An, from Auckland with Feliks.

Pacific Narcotic Detector Dogs

Customs Officer Vainetutai (Tai) David from Cook Islands Customs with Wynter.
Constable Sosaia Pangi from Tonga Police with Bala.
Customs Officer Benjamin Milo, from Samoa Customs with Willow.

Explosive Detector Dogs: Graduating from the New Zealand Army Explosive Detection Dog Handlers Course

Sapper Grace Benshaw, 2nd Field Squadron, 2nd Engineer Regiment with Pacer.
Sapper Corin Parsons, 2nd Field Squadron, 2nd Engineer Regiment with Steph.
Lance Corporal Jayson Binns, 2nd Field Squadron, 2nd Engineer Regiment with Rebel.

Source: New Zealand Police

27/03/26

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– Send an article to The Upper Hutt Connection

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.

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The Upper Hutt Connection – AI image gallery

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NOTE: All articles need to be Upper Hutt related. The Upper Hutt Connection is NOT a place for covering national or international events. This includes Letter to the Editor as well. Decisions from the New Zealand government that affect all citizens of New Zealand (and that means including Upper Hutt) ARE welcome.

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– Sharp increases in water bills coming from the 1st of July

Water bills across Wellington’s four cities will rise sharply over the next decade as Tiaki Wai begins fixing ageing infrastructure. Charges will increase by an average of 14.7 percent this year, adding about $310 to household bills. Further rises of 28 percent are possible in 2027–28, with average annual bills projected to reach about $6831 by 2036.

Households will receive separate water bills from 1 July, replacing charges previously included in council rates. In the first year, Porirua residents will pay an average of $368 more, Lower Hutt $349, Upper Hutt $278 and Wellington $275.

Tiaki Wai chairman Will Peet said the increases were necessary after decades of underinvestment. The organisation will inherit $9b in water assets and $1.7b in debt, but current revenue of about $385m per year is not enough to meet long‑term costs. Many assets are in poor condition, with three of four wastewater treatment plants non‑compliant and networks contributing to overflows, flooding and pollution.

One priority is repairing the Moa Point Treatment Plant, which has been discharging raw sewage since a major failure in February. Peet would not comment on repair costs or timelines.

Tiaki Wai has been set strict compliance targets by councils and mana whenua, but Peet said these would not be met in the first year due to existing issues. He said no one would have their water turned off for non‑payment, and the organisation has a hardship policy, though debt collection is not being considered at this stage.

Source: Ellen O’Dwyer / Radio New Zealand (RNZ)

25/03/26

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– Traditional Japanese “Kamikiri” Paper-Cutting Event Came to Upper Hutt

_{At Whirinaki Whare Taonga, Rakuichi, handing over his work to an audience who requested}

Click here to view more photos.

_{With Mayor Peri Zee and Ambassador Osawa}

_{Rakuichi, teaching kamikiri at workshop}

_{School children, making principal’s profile}

On March 16, Embassy of Japan hosted a premier event featuring Mr. Rakuichi Hayashiya, a master of the traditional Japanese performing art of “kamikiri” (paper cutting), at Whirinaki Whare Taonga, Upper Hutt, before the Wellington performance next day. Kamikiri is a unique Japanese art form in which the performer entertains the audience with witty storytelling while creating various intricate designs using only a pair of scissors and a single sheet of paper.

Mr. Rakuichi, who has over 20 years of experience in this field, performs 500–600 shows annually at venues such as the famous Asakusa yose theatre in Japan, making him a true master of his craft.

This was the first time kamikiri was introduced to audiences in New Zealand. Since we were unsure of how local audiences would respond and thought many of them had never seen this art form before, the Japan International Cultural Centre in Embassy of Japan carefully prepared the events. To recreate the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese yose theatre, we even set up handmade cushions.

The performance in Upper Hutt especially attracted a wide range of attendees, including Mayor Peri Zee, families with children and senior citizens. With the opening music playing, Mr. Rakuichi began snipping the paper, entertaining the Upper Hutt audiences with his lively storytelling while skillfully cutting out intricate designs.

“Dekimashita (Done)!”

When a horse cutout was revealed, the audience gasped in delight, followed by sustained applause. Throughout the performances, the audience requested various designs such as “Samurai,” “Mount Fuji,” “Ninja,” and “Pikachu.” Each time, Mr. Rakuichi exceeded expectations with his remarkable creations. Completed paper cuttings were presented as gifts to the audience members who requested them, who joyfully rushed to receive their unique artworks (photo 1).

After the performance in Whirinaki Whare Taonga, one participant commented, “I have never seen such a wonderful skill. Mr. Rakuichi’s works are truly art that tells a story.” On the morning of March 17, a kamikiri workshop was held for schoolchildren in Wellington (photo 4 and 5). Under Mr. Rakuichi’s guidance, the children eagerly cut out flowers, animals, and other favorite designs. Many even challenged themselves by attempting portraits of ‘geisha’ and their school principal, producing impressively skilled results. Next time, we hope to see participation from schools in Upper Hutt!

We will continue to organize events that share the beauty and enjoyment of Japanese culture, further promoting cultural exchange between Japan and New Zealand. We are sincerely grateful to Mr. Rakuichi for his incredible performances and dedication.

A “thank you” to Unaki Tomoko, Taguchi Takako, at the Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan for preparing this article for The Upper Hutt Connection.

26/03/26

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– Upper Hutt Repair Café Expands Services at 11 April Event

_{Upper Hutt Repair Café}

The Upper Hutt Repair Café is back on Saturday, 11 April, bringing the community together once again to reduce waste, save money, and give much‑loved items a second life. The event will run from 10am to 2pm at the Upper Hutt Baptist Church, located on the corner of Fergusson Drive and Milton Street, Trentham.

This month’s Repair Café introduces two new services to support even more local residents:

Computer hardware troubleshooting – Volunteers will help diagnose common computer issues, offer guidance, and attempt on‑the‑spot fixes where possible.
Knife and scissor sharpening – A new sharpening station will restore kitchen tools, craft scissors, and garden shears to working order.

These additions join the café’s existing team of skilled volunteers who assist with sewing repairs, small appliances, electronics, bicycles, toys, and more.

“Every Repair Café is a chance for people to learn, connect, and keep useful items out of landfill,” says the organising team. “We’re excited to expand what we can offer and help even more members of our community.”

The event is free to attend, though koha is appreciated to help cover costs. Visitors are encouraged to bring one or two items and to arrive early, as some repair stations can get busy.

The Upper Hutt Repair Café is part of a global movement promoting sustainability, skill‑sharing, and community resilience. Whether you have a wobbly chair, a silent toaster, a fraying hem, or now a blunt knife or glitchy computer, the team is ready to help.

For updates and future event dates, follow the Upper Hutt Repair Café on Facebook.

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

26/03/26

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COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE MATTERS

For all information on past and upcoming council and committee meetings, including workshops, agendas, minutes, and other related content please visit https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/Council/About-Your-Council/Council-meetings/Meeting-agendas-and-minutes

– Council Engagement and Helpful Contacts

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

Other Councillor’s

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

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

– Residents meeting – Teresa Homan

A group of concerned residents meet last Tuesday the 24^th of March at the King Lion Hall to talk about the issues of Amalgamation of Wellington regions council and the new water corporation Taiki Wai, water management. No council member was present. The issues of water delivery dominated the meeting. The residents group expressed their dissatisfaction in the lack of detailed information provided to them by council prior to the agreement by council to amalgamate Upper Hutt’s water assets and services. A strong belief was expressed that the end goal of amalgamated water service and delivery is privatization. The group agreed to canvas council members to provide answers to their questions as they agreed council should have explored these questions before committing residents water service to Tiak Wai corporation that residents have no control over. The group is considered agitating for area wide water meters rather than individual households’ volumetric meters, to identify possible leaks in any given area. Leaks can then be pinpointed by manual detecting. This is a feasible alternative to costly volumetric water meters that are billed for the purpose of identifying leaks and water conservation, not as a tool for water charging. The questions the group is putting to council members are:

By whom and how are the charges of water service to be set, are they to be $7 per day and or $250 per household per month, and what is the projected on-going costs to be.
Why did we need to create a new water entity and how does Tiaki Wai expenses add to the ongoing cost of deliver of water.
That the proposed costs and the charging of them will impact unfairly on lower incomes is morally wrong and is regressive not progressive.
If the proposal to introduce volumetric water meter is progressed will shared properties have individual meters
Will volumetrically water chargers be on only water used.
Will water charges decrease if less water is used.
Do we get an improved water service, greater value for money
Can we have assistance to bring plumbing up to specifications
What is being done to improve monitoring of loss of water in the mains network.
We need an organisational chart to show who is accountable and to whom.
Will there be a smart system warning of sudden water loss or if not leniency for undetected water loss
We don’t want a half-arsed system if volumetric charging to happen.
When major investment is required, we should be looking within New Zealand to provide the upgrading of services e.g. for new sewerage works, reservoirs?

A “thank you” to Teresa Homan for sending this letter to The Upper Hutt Connection.

25/03/26

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SPORTS

– Players return for Upper Hutt City Football’s 2026 season

We are excited to see the following players return to UHCF for the 2026 Central League season

As pictured:

Josh McCarroll, Ben Corbett, Shaun Marshall, Ollie Owen & Connor McIndoe

Lucas Hansen, Rio Winkworth, Alex Braakhuis & Ethan Barbier

Jordyn Bentley, Donal Gahan & Sam Patterson

Source: Upper Hutt City Football

27/03/26

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– Shaun Lynch plays his 100th game for Upper Hutt United Cricket Club on Saturday, 28th of March

Shaun Lynch (adjective): an individual that bleeds maroon, is a great mate and overall embodies what it means to be a Piwakawaka battler. Upper Hutt Cricket is better for having him there.

Happy 100 games to one of the greats!

Shaun (known as Lynch to those privileged enough to have shared a beer with him) joined us straight out of St Pats Stream starting in the reserves and made an early impression on the lads at the annual winter lock-in.

Over the years, Shaun has grafted away at his trade both behind the stumps and at the top of the order. Last season, he enjoyed a block buster run fest taking out the Reserves best batsmen (including, a classy hundred at Petone rec).

He’s continued to graft away and earned Premier appearances and demonstrated his class when afforded the opportunity. More recently, he has stepped into the Club Captain role on the committee and the impact he has made has not gone unnoticed between late Friday nights sorting teams and orchestrating trainings. Before backing it up on a Saturday night putting his hard earned cash behind the beer – our Treasurer owes you a few beers tomorrow for inflating the Clubs bottom line. Shaun continues to give back to the Club without asking for anything in return.

It’s been an honour to have you, along with Stephen and Jo

Source: Upper Hutt United Cricket Club

28/03/26

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– Upper Hutt Petanque Club triumph again defending the Jacques Cochonnet trophy

Click here to view more photos.

Otaki hosted the first challenge of the year for the JC Trophy from holders Upper Hutt, on Wednesday 25th January 2026, in warm and dry but humid conditions. The teams gathered at 09:00 and play began at 09:30.

Upper Hutt took two of the three games in the first round, and then all three in both the second and third rounds, making it 8-1 at the end when they all adjourned for a wonderful lasagna feast hosted by Otaki.

This was the 22nd consecutive win for Upper Hutt, who have been able to field a virtually unchanged team throughout the current winning streak.

The next challenge is from Silverstream to be held at Silverstream.

The Upper Hutt team consisted of Brian Smith, Derek Worsley and Adrienne Gwerder (Triples), Colin Gooch and Mary Khalil (Doubles) and Dave Gwerder (Singles). The Otaki team consisted of Shirley Macdonald, Julie Affleck and Craig Watson (Triples), Karen Kirkham and Diane Brunton (Doubles), and Gary Brunton (Singles).

Source: Upper Hutt Petanque Club

26/03/26

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COMMUNITY EVENTS: To view all upcoming and regularly occurring community events, please visit https://uhconnection.co.nz/community-events/

– Easter at Heretaunga Community Church: Friday 3rd of April / Sunday 5th of April

Location: 51 Lane Street, Wallaceville, Upper Hutt

Good Friday:

4.00 pm: Good Friday Remembrance Service with Communion

Easter Sunday:

10.00 am: Easter Sunday Service “Hope”. From selected scriptures.

Source: Heretaunga Community Church

30/03/26

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– Easter at St. Hilda’s: 2nd, 3rd, and 5th of April

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

Maundy Thursday: Thursday 2nd of April

10am Eucharist & Foot/handwashing

Good Friday: Friday 3rd of April

7pm Tenebrae Service

Easter Day: Sunday 5th of April

9:30am Family Eucharist

A “thank you” to St. Hilda’s Anglican Church Upper Hutt for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

30/03/26

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– Mainly Acoustic Presents: Tuesday 14th of April, 7.30 pm – 10.00 pm

Source: Mainly Acoustic Music Club – Upper Hutt

27/03/26

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– Priceless by Mary Portalska – 16 Apr – 25 Apr

Come along to Heretaunga Players (52 Ward Street, Upper Hutt) and watch a one-act comedy: ‘Priceless’ by Mary Portalska.

Tickets are $23 plus booking fee, available from the team at Whirinaki Whare Taonga (527 2168) or via this link: http://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2026/apr/priceless

Opening night is Thursday 16 April and we close Saturday 25 April.
Don’t wait! Get your tickets now!

Synopsis: The stately home, Batley Hall, is in desperate need of repairs, and elderly Sylvia refused to let her son Tom and daughter-in-law Anna sell their one asset, a priceless Ming dynasty vase, to help pay for the upkeep.
Tom hits on the idea of giving guided tours to bring in some money, but their only guests are shady characters with their eyes on the vase – and the home’s resident ghost only adds to the chaos.

A “thank you” to Heretaunga Players Inc. for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

31/03/26

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– Staglands Clue Hunt Challenge! 7th of April – 19th of April

Calling All Super Sleuths & Clue Hunters Extraordinaire!

Ready for an adventure these school holidays?

Grab your magnifying glass, come crack the Staglands Clue Hunt Challenge and enjoy a FREE kids’ meal from the new Staglands Café!*

The team at Staglands are inviting curious kids to become wildlife detectives and explore the Reserve like never before. Follow the clues and discover the amazing animals and natural wonders hiding around every corner of Staglands.

Kids will have a blast with their friends and whānau, searching the nooks and crannies of the Reserve while learning fun facts about wildlife and nature along the way.

The Staglands Clue Hunt Challenge runs during the April school holidays

Offer valid: 7–19 April 2026
Excludes Easter Long Weekend: 3–6 April

Getting started is easy! Visit www.staglands.co.nz to download and print the Challenge Sheet or grab one from the Ticket Gate when you arrive.

Once kids complete the challenge they can head to the Café to claim their reward!

So put on your explorer hat, bring your best clue‑hunting skills, and make a day of wild fun at Staglands these school holidays.

*Terms and conditions apply – see website for details.

For further information:
📧 www.staglands.co.nz
📞 04 526 7529

A “thank you” to Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Café for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

20/03/26

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– The SpongeBob Musical – Youth Edition: 8th of April – 18th of April

Want to do something fun and different these school holidays?

TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE!

Who lives in a pineapple under the sea and is ready to hit the stage?

Upper Hutt Musical Theatre is diving into the colourful, high-energy world of The SpongeBob Musical: Youth Edition this April — and it’s the perfect school holiday treat!

Join SpongeBob, Patrick, Sandy and all your favourite Bikini Bottom friends for a fun-filled, heartwarming adventure bursting with music, laughter, and pure joy for the whole whānau.

Whether you’re looking to keep the kids entertained or just want a feel-good outing, this vibrant youth production is something a little different these holidays — and one you won’t want to miss!

Grab your tickets now before they’re gone:

https://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2026/apr/uhmt-spongebob-musical

8–18 April 2026 – right in the middle of the April school holidays!

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

21/03/26

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– Upper Hutt City Football April School Holiday Programme: 7th of April – 16th of April.

School holidays coming up? We’ve got you covered

Our April School Holiday Programme is back – open to all kids aged U7-U12 (whether you’re part of UHCF or not). Come for a day, come for the week, just come ready to have fun and play the game we love.

$50 per day | 9am-3pm (drop-off from 8:30am)
Te Kupenga o Rongomai, Maidstone

Led by Director of Football Toby Wilton and our crew, with heaps of games, skills, and good times. Spots are filling up fast, so get in quick.

Source: Upper Hutt City Football

28/03/26

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– Upper Hutt Tigers U12s looking for new players: Registrations close 7th of April

If your child ( boy or girl ) is interested in developing their skills, building confidence, and being part of a strong, supportive team & community, then register your interest and be apart of our Tiger Family.

Email / Phone: bcoutts15@hotmail.com / 021 279 3005

Source: Upper Hutt Tigers Rugby League gave permission for this article to be published on The Upper Hutt Connection.

28/03/26

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– Laugh with Laughing Club: Every Monday, 6.30 pm – 7.30 pm | Resuming on the 26th of January

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

10/10/25

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