Lincraft is closing its physical stores after 80 years in business, this includes the New Zealand stores in Thames, Taupō, Upper Hutt, Riccarton, Linwood, and Dunedin. The decision follows a prolonged period of challenging retail conditions, changing consumer behaviour, increased operating costs, and the competition from low cost international online competitors.

The closures will happen progressively in the coming months depending on each store’s lease arrangements.

The company will continue to operate via their online platform.

Source: 1News

17/06/26

Return to Contents

Our meeting next month will be devoted to our 2026 Annual General Meeting; an occasion where we review our activities during the past year and commit to programme for 2026/27 and onwards.

Throughout the past decade our local and nation-wide advocacy has been unable to maintain its former high-profile recognition before local and central government as the ‘foremost advocacy group’ for ‘older people’ and their families.

At its height our financial membership New Zealand wide exceeded 90,000 individuals, the majority representative of the ‘60–70’ years cohort, with a strong sense of community cohesion and retaining the ‘management’ and ‘people’ skills accumulated through their personal contributions to a relatively stable national economy. At parliamentary level our advocates were influential and their entreaties were recognised as a ‘barometer’ to the mood and preferences of an engaged electorate.

The process of aging has decimated our ranks. Attrition has reduced our financial membership to approximately 30,000 and our ‘leadership’ resources are in need of replenishment with newly retired, competent and community- minded volunteers. The unique platform for expression before local and central politicians of positive provision for fundamental well-being imperatives still available to Grey Power spokespeople, needs to be embraced by newly retired ‘champions’ and regrouped for effectiveness in a changing economic environment.

Grey Power New Zealand Federation is committed to reconstruction and vitalisation of our advocacy services. It will take determined effort to revive our former ethos. An ‘election’ year is a good time to restore our resolve and dispel any remaining apathy by articulating the ‘fundamental’ requirements of an inter-dependent society where ‘people’ considerations are not ‘submerged’ by commercial interest.

In the meantime, at local level we have to consolidate and operate within our fragile ‘people’ resources. We have managed to hold together an outstanding ‘caretaker’ core within our management committee but as individuals they could be incapacitated by quickly deteriorating health. There are immediate vacancies across the full complement of ‘officers’ and ‘committee members’; either as fully competent and very welcome ‘ready to serve’ candidates or younger talent needing introductory support from our core ‘caretaker’ group.

Social isolation is best avoided and participation in our community is best achieved by bringing like-minded older people together at regular frequency, encouraging them to maintain their electoral franchise to ensure their grandchildren will continue to find opportunity in a ‘people friendly’ economic environment.

Following withdrawal or displacement from the ‘job market’ everyone is on a journey to eventual dependency on their community for physical and emotional support.

These considerations are our reasonable expectations of the support we might seek from the communities we have faithfully served in our ‘productive’ life-times. We can but hope our community leaders will hear our appeals, endorse their worthiness and help us encourage participation by our future ‘champions’ by resisting ‘higher authority’s’ present attempt to bypass the fundamental rules of social order to facilitate a ‘failing’ economic system.

Authorised by:

Lew Rohloff
Vice President
Upper Hutt Grey Power Association

mail to: lewrohloff14@gmail.com

This article has been republished on request of Lew Rohloff

16/06/26

Return to Contents

Upper Hutt City Council reviews its fees and charges every year. This includes prices for H₂O Xtream, from single admission and concession rates (multi-trip passes) to Swim School fees, and more.

Our new prices will apply from Wednesday, 1 July 2026. Scroll down to the bottom of this page to view the full new price list.

Concession card holders: If you purchased a multi-trip pass before 1 July 2026, you will be able to use up all remaining trips (including use of all pools and hot spots) without paying the new separate rate for hot spots.

What’s changing: separate rates for hot spots and new spectator fees

We’re introducing separate rates for using our pools and using our hot spots (sauna, steam room, and spa) as well as a combo rate (using the pools plus all hot spots). This is to provide more options for you, and to reflect the different ways in which the community makes use of the facility. 

Admission fees will also apply for some spectators from 1 July 2026.

Free Spectators

Admission will be free for the following spectators:

• accompanying a child under 14 (maximum one free supervisor per child)
• a caregiver or companion assisting someone
• viewing the party room or pool for a potential booking

Paying Spectators

Our new spectator fee of $2.00 per person will apply to everyone who is coming into H₂O Xtream just for general observation, and who isn’t directly supervising a child under 14 or assisting someone as a caregiver or companion.

Become a member and enjoy ‘the works’

For regular visitors to H₂O Xtream, membership continues to give you the best value for money.

Membership includes unlimited access to our pools and hot spots (sauna, steam room, spa).

Find out more about membership options.

Full list of new prices

These prices apply from Wednesday, 1 July 2026.

Children

Adults (under 65)

Adults (65 and over)

Slides (unlimited use per visit)

Family passes

Hydrorobics

Other

Source: H2O Xtream Aquatic Centre

17/06/26

Return to Contents

Strong community feedback received during consultation on Upper Hutt City Council’s Draft Integrated Transport Strategy will now be used to refine and finalise the strategy later this year.

The consultation, which ran between late April and May, generated significant participation from across the community and provided valuable insight into how residents want Upper Hutt’s transport network to support safety, accessibility, growth, and connectivity in the future.

The feedback also highlighted differing views on the best way to achieve these outcomes, with some submitters prioritising improved road capacity and congestion relief, while others supported greater investment in public transport, walking, and cycling infrastructure.

Upper Hutt City Council Group Manager Operations Tim Harty said the consultation provided an important opportunity for residents to help shape the city’s transport future.

“We’re grateful to everyone who took the time to provide feedback. The level of participation shows that transport is an issue people care deeply about and want to have a say in. The feedback gives us a much clearer understanding of community priorities and expectations. While there are differing views on the best way forward, that’s exactly why consultation is important. Our next step is to carefully consider what we’ve heard and use that feedback to help refine the final strategy, balancing community aspirations with long-term planning, affordability, and what can realistically be delivered over time.”

Council will now incorporate consultation feedback into a refined strategy, ensuring community views are reflected while maintaining alignment with long-term infrastructure planning and funding constraints.

Further updates will be provided once the final strategy is prepared later this year.

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

23/06/26

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

Variable speed limits will apply across 19 school-zone locations covering 20 schools across Upper Hutt as part of a nationwide Government requirement to improve safety around school gates.

The new limits will reduce speeds to 30km/h during school drop-off and pick-up times, helping create safer travel environments for tamariki, whānau, and other road users.

These changes must be in place across New Zealand from 1 July 2026 under the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024.

Upper Hutt City Council is responsible for delivering the local infrastructure (signage) and communications required to support this nationally mandated change, with signs becoming operational from 22 June 2026.

Quick facts

• Variable speed limits will apply across 19 school-zone locations covering 20 schools.
• The reduced speed limit will be 30km/h for all schools in Upper Hutt except for Mangaroa School. Mangaroa School will keep its existing variable speed limit of 40km/h.
• Limits only apply during signposted school travel times.
• Normal speed limits apply outside these times.
• Signs become operational from 1 July 2026.
• Enforcement is carried out by New Zealand Police when signs are active.

For further information please view https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/services/roads-and-parking/variable-speed-limits

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

18/06/26

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

The priority need in any reorganising or amalgamation of local councils is to put locals back into local government. Chris Bishop is on record as saying, “The government’s belief is that local government has lost the social license and that New Zealanders have lost faith in local government – this is borne out by the fact that over half don’t bother to vote in local elections.” He has also said reform, or we (the government) will do it for you.

To reform a system is to improve it gradually from within. Nothing about the Ministers deadline of the 9^th of August to come up with a plan for council reorganisation or amalgamation or we (the government) will do it for you, is reformative. The issue with local government that is in desperate need of reformation is locals being the driving force in any question of reorganisation on their time frame and for their benefit.

The benefit most locals want is cost effective rates spending, affordable rates, water delivery charges and localism. None of these are present in the patsy survey Upper Hutt City council presents as consultation. It is however not entirely councils fault rate payers have mistakenly believed that the mayor and council, now and in the past, have the talents and skills to make decisions for what matters most to us the owners of all things local.

It is time for reform but not the reform of reorganisation of councils outlined in the government’s “head start pathway document” but one where we the effected party in any reorganisation drive any change based on a solid business case and what matters to us not what matters to Chris Bishop or even the UHCC.

We need to reorganise and reform ourselves as locals meaningfully involved in all things local not just jumping to governments tune. It’s not a power grab,” Bishop said. “This is about making local government fit for purpose.” The purpose Mr Bishop is that locals call the tune because they pay the piper.

To borrow a motto from people living with a disability “nothing about us without us”. Let’s act now and put locals back into local government become a member of the Upper Hutt residents’ group or any local group that gives you a collective voice.

And thank you to the editor of the Upper Hutt Connection for given locals a voice lost when we lost our local paper.   

Teresa Homan
5 Elm Street
Upper Hut

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

17/06/26

Return to Contents

In a previous letter I raised concerns about the proposed transfer of our water assets to Tiaki Wai.

Those concerns remain.

But without losing sight of that, Upper Hutt residents should also pay close attention to a second proposal moving in parallel: the growing push for council amalgamation across the Wellington region.

At first glance these may appear to be separate debates. One concerns water infrastructure. The other concerns local government.

In reality, they are part of the same story.

Both are justified in the language of efficiency, scale, coordination, and financial sustainability. Both promise better outcomes through larger organisations and broader regional governance.

And both raise the same fundamental question:

Who should control the assets, services, and institutions paid for by local communities?

More than 800 years ago, Magna Carta established a principle that helped shape the Western democratic tradition: Power should not be exercised without accountability, and those who bear the cost of decisions should have representation in making them.

The issue before all Wellington Region residents is whether we are moving toward or away from that principle.

To the concern of council amalgamation.

Supporters argue a single Wellington authority would reduce duplication, strengthen planning, and improve efficiency.

Maybe.

But every claimed benefit comes with a trade-off.

The practical effect is that decision-making moves further away from local communities and toward a centralised authority governing hundreds of thousands of residents with competing priorities.

The concerns of Upper Hutt become one voice among many.

The larger the institution, the weaker the connection between voter and decision-maker.

That may be administratively convenient. It is not necessarily democratically healthy.

The same concern lies at the heart of the Tiaki Wai proposal.

Supporters emphasise that ownership of water assets will remain public.

But ownership is not the issue.

Control is.

Assets built and funded by local communities will be governed by a regional entity whose directors are not elected by the public and cannot be directly removed by voters.

Operational decisions, borrowing decisions, investment decisions, and charging decisions will increasingly sit beyond the direct reach of ratepayers.

Supporters point to Tiaki Wai’s increased borrowing capacity as a benefit.

That should concern residents more than reassure them.

Councils generally operate under borrowing limits of around 280 percent of revenue. Tiaki Wai is expected to operate at up to 500 percent.

The public is effectively being asked to celebrate the fact that an unelected regional entity will be able to accumulate substantially more debt than the councils it replaces.

But debt is not wealth.

Every dollar borrowed must ultimately be repaid through future water charges.

The question is not how much debt Tiaki Wai can accumulate.

The question is who will stop it.

When borrowing capacity is linked to revenue, higher charges support higher revenues, higher revenues support greater borrowing capacity, and greater borrowing capacity supports larger spending programmes.

The incentives all point in one direction.

What makes amalgamation and Tiaki Wai particularly concerning is that they reinforce one another.

Governance moves to larger structures.

Assets move to regional entities.

Borrowing powers increase.

Local influence diminishes.

Each step may appear modest in isolation. Together they represent a significant transfer of authority away from local communities and toward regional institutions.

Supporters see efficiency.

Ratepayers see something else.

They see a weakening of the link between the people who pay and the people who decide.

History teaches that democratic rights are rarely surrendered all at once. More often they are eroded incrementally, one practical reform at a time, each justified as necessary, efficient, and inevitable.

The question before us is therefore, larger than water and larger than councils.

Do we believe decisions should remain as close as reasonably possible to the communities that fund them?

Or do we believe larger institutions should exercise greater authority over assets and resources built by local people?

If transferring billions of dollars of water assets is the right course, let the people decide.

If replacing local councils with a Wellington-wide authority is the right course, let the people decide.

The principle at stake is older than any council and older than our government.

Those who pay should consent.

Those who govern should be accountable.

A “thank you” to Stephen Dol for sending this letter to The Upper Hutt Connection.

11/06/26

Return to Contents

Commencing with our submission to Upper Hutt City Council’s Long Term Plan on 24 April 2024, we have continually sought from both local and central government; intervention sufficient to protect ‘older people’ and other ‘low income’ households from the unaffordable impact of local government rates, including the costs arising from Water Reforms (‘3 Waters’ and ‘Local Water
Done Well’ schemes).

Neither agency has been prepared to adequately consult on this critical issue. Local Government has proceeded on Government advice to avoid full consultation on the ‘water reform’ proposals and has sheltered behind the legislative provisions introduced to ‘shut down’ full ‘public participation’ in traditional consultation on Annual Plans.

Local government has been complicit in rapidly proceeding to implement a ‘fait accompli’ and the subterfuge has largely escaped notice of an uninformed community. Now, within 13 short days households throughout the former Wellington Water service area will incur their first charges under the new ‘TiakiWai’ regime.

We have not failed irretrievably our appeal for a better solution to this unacceptable outcome and are not alone in our campaign for a reasoned and lasting solution to this issue. There is growing public identification with the protest rallies of the Stop TiakiWai’ organisation and the continuing ‘calm and dignified’ analyses of ‘N Z Empowered.’

This is an unacceptable breach of democratic principle and the parliamentary opposition have been less than vigilant in resisting this departure from fundamental procedure. For the immediate future the public has been outmanoeuvred but the unfairness, inequity and inherent unsustainability in the charging model devised to recover the costs of ‘water reform’ impacting on households, will act as a catalyst for continuing wide public dissatisfaction.

Access to safe drinking water is a tenet of life on this planet. We are not opposed to centralisation of ‘water service entities’ per se. Rather, it is too important to be consigned to a simplistic funding model based on ‘user charges’ criteria.

Water services rank with ‘vote health’ demanding recognition as a first level ‘guardianship’ responsibility of central government. ‘TiakiWai’ should be substantially funded directly from taxation revenue. No other funding model will deliver fairness, equity and sustainability.

Political party candidates in the forthcoming general elections will each need to be challenged to commit to an early revision of the ongoing funding requirements of ‘Water Reforms’ and, indeed, redirection to the public purse of the ‘growth’ and ‘pre-treatment’ cost components; along with other nationally integrated infrastructure investments presently devolved to local government.


Authorised by:

Lew Rohloff
Vice President
Upper Hutt Grey Power Association

mail to: lewrohloff14@gmail.com

This article has been republished on request of Lew Rohloff

16/06/26

Return to Contents

What an incredible weekend at our Netball Bootcamp!

A huge thank you to Whiro (aka Mr Ratahi), who works tirelessly to deliver these amazing bootcamps. There is so much work that goes on behind the scenes before, during and after every session. From planning and preparation to coaching, mentoring and ensuring every player gets the most out of the experience.

Bootcamps like these are invaluable. They provide players with the opportunity to learn new skills, strengthen existing ones, build confidence and gain a deeper understanding of the game. The knowledge, encouragement and experience shared help our young athletes continue to grow both on and off the court.

A special thank you also to Daniel to finding us and both Renaye and Daniel from Renaye Huia of Ray White for supporting Bootcamp this weekend. Your support of community sport and young athletes is greatly appreciated. What stands out about Renaye and Daniel is that their commitment to the community extends far beyond this event. They are constantly giving back, supporting local initiatives and helping create opportunities for others. Much of what they do happens quietly behind the scenes, but it certainly does not go unnoticed. We are incredibly grateful for your generosity, community spirit and support.

Thank you to the amazing Pulse Netball players Holly, Lili, Ainsleyana and Khiarna for spending time with our players, sharing your knowledge and inspiring the next generation of netballers. Having elite athletes willing to give back in this way creates memories and learning opportunities that the girls will carry with them for a long time. Your willingness to share your skills, experience and passion for the game inspires every player who attends. The girls absolutely love learning from athletes they look up to and the impact you have extends far beyond the court.

A heartfelt thank you also to all the parents, grandparents and caregivers who support these young athletes. Whether it’s arranging transport, giving up your weekends, cheering from the sidelines, or simply encouraging them to pursue their goals, your support makes opportunities like this possible. Thank you for investing in your young people and helping them grow both as players and as individuals.

To everyone who contributes their time, energy, expertise and support—thank you. Together, we are helping develop not only better netballers, but also confident, capable young people.

We couldn’t do it without you!

A “thank you” to Susan Stevenson for requesting that this article be put up on The Upper Hutt Connection.

22/06/26

Return to Contents

What a weekend of football across the club!

SENIOR MEN’S

Our Men’s 1st pushed hard against Miramar in a tight contest but couldn’t quite get over the line. The Reserves dug deep to earn a late draw, and the 3rds battled it out in a top of the table clash, coming away with a point. RJs bow out of the Wellington Cup, but with a strong first half of the season behind them, they head into the second half with plenty to build on.

MASTERS

The Tin-Men had a tough afternoon against Karori, while the Antiques put in a brilliant shift with a commanding win over Wellington Marist. The Marauders had a bye and Saints were postponed, back at it soon!

WOMEN’S

The Women’s 1st faced a tough result, but with a number of debut starts in the mix, this group is building something. Growth takes time and we’re here for it. The Women’s 3rds grabbed their first win of the season with a late goal. What a moment!

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

U14 TDP and U15 CDL Girls had tough outings this week, chin up and keep going. U15 TDP picked up a solid win over Onslow/North Wellington, and U17 TDP rounded things out with a draw against Western Suburbs.

Plenty to build on, see you on the pitch next week!

Source: Upper Hutt City Football

22/06/26

Return to Contents

Location: Monterey Cinemas Upper Hutt, Queen Street, Upper Hutt

The Koraunui Stokes Valley Toy Library is holding a movie fundraiser on Sunday 28th of June 10.30AM at Monterey Cinemas. Join us to see Toy Story 5 and help raise funds for our operating costs and the purchase of new and exciting toys.

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

18/06/26

Return to Contents

Location: Stokes Valley RFC, 272 George Street, Stokes Valley

Time: 5.00 pm – 7.00 pm

Do you love Roller Skating and want to try something a bit different? Come and learn to play Roller Derby!

Roller Derby is a full contact sport played on Roller Skates, and a fantastic way to meet new people and build on your skating skills and fitness.

Learn to play Roller Derby:
In this 8 week course, you will start to learn the skills needed to play Roller Derby!
This course runs from the 28th June until the 16th August on Sunday nights from 5-7pm.

$80 per person

(Must have either completed Learn to Skate, or have previous roller skating experience.)

Loaner skates and protective gear available on a first come first served basis.

To register, complete the form below. Spaces are limited.

https://forms.gle/13bL2U4z38ofMPd97

Source: Remutaka Roller Derby

22/06/26

Return to Contents

Location: King Lion Hall, 12 King Street, Upper Hutt

Ever popular indoor and outdoor Plants, and Lemons (just $2pkg).
Quality Clothing, Crafts, Books, Toys, Jigsaws, Records etc, House hold things and more.

Get there early for good parking.

Looking forward to seeing you there.

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

22/06/26

Return to Contents

Our yummy winter marshmallows are back and for a limited period only, during the July School Holidays, we will be giving them away FREE to all visitors!

Toast your own on the cosy Barn campfire and enjoy some wild cooking in the great outdoors.

Offer available 4th – 19th July with admission only.

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

17/06/26

Return to Contents

Location: Upper Hutt Library

Wheels and Canes is a group where people can bring and share concerns about accessibility issues in the community.

Please note that meetings might last from 10.30 – 11.30 if the agenda is short.

Dates for this year include:

• Wednesday 27th of May
• Wednesday 24th of June
• Wednesday 29th of July
• Wednesday 26th of August
• Wednesday 30th of September
• Wednesday 28th of October
• Wednesday 25th of November

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

29/04/26

Return to Contents

Looking for a 2026 speaker for your community group, I am happy to be that speaker

Artificial Intelligence is now a permanent fixture that you cannot avoid. Even if you don’t actively use AI yourself, it is being used by all those who mediate your important, high stakes services such as medical care, banking and finance, government services. In plain language I would like to talk to you about the pros and cons of AI and the ways you can take control in this changing environment.

My presentations are designed for an older audience, and I am available during the day and early evenings.

I am undertaking a doctorate on the impact of AI on older people and the organisations that serve them.

I look forward to hearing from you by email or you can find me at the Upper Hutt library on Tuesday afternoons, 1.30- 2.30 in the back meeting area. I chair SeniorTech Skills and I would love to meet you in person. 

Heather Newell
MComms, FFINZ
Researcher – AI and Future of Ageing
ph 027 2762730
www.foresee.co.nz

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

05/05/26

Return to Contents

Location: 22 Lane Street, Wallaceville, Upper Hutt

We have set up a community initiative for a drop-in centre that operates on a Monday from 10 am to 2 pm (closed on public holidays) for anyone to drop by if they want to have a chat over a cuppa. It is for those who are lonely or who needs a listening ear or who have some question about the Christian faith or anything else they want to talk about. It is open to anyone who just want to drop in (no appointments required). We have a yellow flag facing the street to show we are open.

All welcome.

Need more information? Please contact dropin@laneparkchurch.nz

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

03/06/26

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

At Belmont Memorial Hall (next to Belmont School), a Tai Chi class is held during the school term from 9.45 – 11.00am.

The first class is free. Taught by an experienced practitioner of over 30 years.

For more information phone Ray: 04 9386082 / 0272236188

or email raypoy9@gmail.com

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

05/06/26

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

Location: Te Kupena o Rongomai Maidstone Sport Hub, Railway Avenue, Maidstone, Upper Hutt

Legacy is a support group for all women and we are dedicated to enhancing mental health, reducing suicide rates, building self-confidence, mana, and resilience within women in the community.

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

30/04/26

Return to contents

Location: Upper Hutt Library

If you are worried about your tech skills and want more confidence with your smart phones apps – Seniortech Skills is the organisation for you. We are a friendly bunch of older people who meet every single Tuesday at the library at 1.30 to gain confidence and enjoy using new technology. We are very collaborative and enthusiastic. We can’t fix all your technical problems but we can point you in the right direction if your issue is quite technical. There is no membership fee, no obligation to attend each week, we simply ask for a donation if you are able. By the way, the library provides a cuppa!

Look forward to seeing you next week!

Heather Newell
chair, Seniortech Skills Upper Hutt

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

05/05/26

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

Location: Upper Hutt Library

We can supply some fabrics, wool, etc. Would you like other ladies company? A hot drink? Do you craft? Would you like to learn, contribute to families, elderly people, sick people, as we try to meet the needs of the Wellington region to assist those in need?

Donations:

Do you have any wool, yarn, fabric, that you no longer want? We would be grateful if you would please consider this group to donate to charity.

Any donations can be dropped off at Upper Hutt Library.

Contact:

Julia: 0274 933 981

Brenda: 0273703949

Please come and share the happy afternoon with the ladies of our group

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

29/04/26

Return to contents

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

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

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

Classifieds

List your items on The Upper Hutt Connection, as well as having them appear in the Wednesday Edition for only $10 a week – Be seen by all 5,382 people who receive The Upper Hutt Connection

List your car, lounge suite, house, anything above the value of $500, on The Upper Hutt Connection for the cost of only $10 a week. All communication between buyer and seller is at the responsibility of the one who listed the item – The Upper Hutt Connection isn’t responsible for any part of the sale, except for the publication of the advertisement.

Send me an image, with all the text and info included in the image itself.

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.

How to pay: Payment by direct credit, bank deposit, or automatic payment is preferred. The Upper Hutt Connection has limited credit card facilities.

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

Advertise your business in The Upper Hutt Connection’s Wednesday Edition for only $10 a week – Be seen by all 5,382 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. An image, with all your business info included in the image itself. A small line of text can be included for a link to your website. 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.

How to pay: Payment by direct credit, bank deposit, or automatic payment is preferred. The Upper Hutt Connection has limited credit card facilities.

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: 695 Fergusson Drive, Elderslea, Upper Hutt

Email: upperhutt.corps@salvationarmy.org.nz

Church website: Upper Hutt Corps – The Salvation Army NZFTS

How we can help:

Worship – Sunday 10:30am

You can expect to experience family friendly worship in amongst a congregation that reflects our community.

Services usually go for just over an hour and are filled with spiritually uplifting music, scripture readings, prayers, children’s church and encouraging conversational preaching.

Welfare – Tuesdays and Thursdays 10-12.30pm

Foodbank is a friendly, non-judgemental place, to seek out some assistance to make sure the family doesn’t go without during tough times.

We can also assist with Counselling, Advocacy Services, Furniture and clothing and laundry for those sleeping rough. Please ring our office on (04) 528 6745 to make an appointment.

Addictions

The Bridge programme provides a safe, integrated, high-quality treatment service for people whose lives have been affected by the harmful use of, or dependency on, alcohol or drugs. Please contact: Upper Hutt Bridge, Phone: (04) 527 3373 or (04) 389 6566

Family Store – Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm, Saturday 9.30am – 4.pm

The Family store is the place you need to donated and grab yourself a bargain. Once all the bills are paid your hard earned dollars from here goes to help those in need.

Store location: 41 Queen Street, Upper Hutt. Phone: (04) 528 6951.

Booth College of Mission

The BCM School of Bible and Mission was established to provide study opportunities to members of the public to achieve the NZQA approved diplomas. SBM students are invited to join in with the life of the college as much as they are willing and able. To enquire about study or access to the Christian library, please phone 04 5288628 or check out the website – https://bcm.salvationarmy.org.nz/school-for-bible-and-mission/

Rata Educare

Providing safe, nurturing, high-quality early childhood education in Upper Hutt, where children are encouraged to explore, grow and flourish in body, mind and spirit. 

To enquire about enrolling your child, please phone (04) 527 6929.

We also have lots of other things going on, so please feel free to drop in for a coffee and check us out. 

I am sure someone will be around for a friendly chat. 

A “thank you” to Shane Healey from The Upper Hutt Salvation Army for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

19/03/26

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

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

Minions & Monsters

Running time: 90 minutes

Rated: G (Violence & coarse language)

This is the rambunctious, ridiculous and totally true story of how the Minions conquered Hollywood, became movie stars, lost everything, unleashed monsters onto the world and then banded together to try and save the planet from the mayhem they had just created.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/minions-monsters

Supergirl

Running time: 110 minutes

Rated: M (Violence)

“Supergirl,” DC Studios’ newest feature film to hit the big screen, will be in theatres worldwide this June from Warner Bros. Pictures, starring Milly Alcock in the dual role of Supergirl/Kara Zor-El. Craig Gillespie directs the film from a screenplay by Ana Nogueira.

When an unexpected and ruthless adversary strikes too close to home, Kara Zor-El, aka Supergirl, reluctantly joins forces with an unlikely companion on an epic, interstellar journey of vengeance and justice.

Alcock stars alongside Matthias Schoenaerts, Eve Ridley, David Krumholtz, Emily Beecham, and Jason Momoa.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/supergirl

Carry On Jatta 4

Running time: 142 minutes

Rated: PG (Violence)

“Carry On Jatta 4” is the fourth installment of the iconic Punjabi comedy franchise, produced by Humble Motion Pictures. Expect a hilarious rollercoaster of misunderstandings, quirky characters, and laugh-out-loud moments, continuing the legacy of the beloved series.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/carry-on-jatta-4

Source: Monterey Cinemas Upper Hutt

23/06/26

Return to contents