Do you feel like creating your own stories, finding it easy knowing what you want to write about, but find it difficult building it up into chapters, or “fleshing it out”? This is where creating stories using Microsoft Copilot, Gemini, or other AI programs can come into help you out.

I’ve made about 20 separate stories, each one unique, using Microsoft Copilot, and then coupling it with the desktop publishing software Affinity Publisher 2 to format them and turn them into PDF format for a better reading experience later. I know that there is a lot of concern about using AI, especially when it’s seen as being deceitful and creating fake articles and images (I see this an awful lot on social media), so I encourage anyone who does decide to create stories for themselves (it’s fun!), to always be upfront and honest if you do share them online that they were made through the help of AI, and that they are works of fiction. Although most would be expected to know this, it never hurts to cover yourself.

My general approach when make the stories is to give Copilot a summary of what I’d like it to create, and ask it to turn it into a chapter.

Affinity Publisher 2 can be downloaded at https://store.serif.com/en-us/update/windows/publisher/2/

To give you inspiration, I thought I’d share these few from the ones I’ve made. Please note that they do contain science fiction elements – cloning etc, and one is even about a life with AI itself.

Do understand that AI does have it’s limitations and funny quirks. It does tend to have some sentences, words, and expressions it likes to use on a regular basis. I’m sure you’ll notice them if you read the short stories below.

The Shape of Kindness

The Shape of Kindness

A short read, probably about three or four hours.

Lira turns up at a new rehab facility. Having lived a life of bad choices, she at first thinks she’s beyond help, but her two friends, Atalanta and Pandora help her see that this isn’t the case.

More Than Code

More Than Code

A longer read of about 10 hours

Set in a fictional not-to-distant future, set in Upper Hutt and Wellington. Caleb, a woodworker finds that his war against AI has literally arrived on his doorstep when an AI assistant is dropped off for him. Initially spurning it, over time he comes to accept it. He even gives it a name – Sol. And eventually Sol becomes much more than just his AI assistant.

Becoming Emma

Becoming Emma

A long read of about 22 hours

Emma is lonely for companionship, not needing a lover, but simply needing a friend – a flatmate. Using her skills, she creates a clone, a woman who will understand her perfectly. She creates Rachel, who soon begins putting Sarah on edge. Sarah tries to maintain the feeling that she’s in control of this household, but it soon becomes clear that she isn’t when Rachel shows that she’s more than capable. Is Rachel trying to take her place? As new women show up in their household, all looking exactly like Rachel and Emma feels her once nice life she was in control of, quickly beginning to fall apart around her, Emma is thinking that this is going to be the case…

Note that this isn’t intended to endorse Copilot or Affinity Publisher 2, these are simply the programs I’ve used when creating AI assisted short stories.

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

24/02/26

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After confirming that the beautiful white peafowl recently gifted to us were both females, we’re thrilled to share that we’ve now secured a stunning white mate for them. Our trio is complete!

White peafowl are incredibly rare and every bit as breathtaking as their colourful brothers and sisters. All three of ours have striking blue eyes, which means their snowy feathers are the result of leucism (a reduction in pigmentation) rather than albinism.

You’ll find our elegant new arrivals settling in at the Stables, currently enjoying a secure acclimatisation enclosure while they get used to their new home. Keep an eye out for a flash of white and a whole lot of wow.

Source: Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Cafe

20/02/26

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This place is intended to be a safe place where you can leave your opinion on whether Amalgamation or continuing with the Status Quo is the best way forward for Upper Hutt. Your opinions aren’t posted on social media by The Upper Hutt Connection – just available here for anyone to read. There will be a daily post on Facebook however, letting the public know when new comments have been put up.

Any opinions submitted will be added to this page, along with your name.

Any abusive comments will be declined.

Please fill out the form below to give your opinion on the matter. 🙂

Please note that I have seen some people submitting their opinion multiple times, any multiple submissions from this point onward won’t be published.

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Hi everyone

This update is to inform you of progress towards preparing the Haukaretu stream area for restorative planting out in native species.

The Wellington Regional  Council have been busy with machinery clearing out the pest-willow trees to reveal a very attractive area which will soon be ready to plant out.

We hope to have the first planting day within a few weeks. As soon as that date is finalized, we will let you know. Forest and Bird Upper Hutt are our advisors and hands-on supporters on all things botanical, and it’s great to be working alongside them. Please see below for the latest news on our partnership planting and weeding on other Forest and Bird projects in and around Upper Hutt.

We have also had the first eDNA study completed and the results are to hand. They show a wide variety of lifeforms, most of them alien to ordinary folk, but nevertheless fascinating that there is such abundance and variety, and it is a sobering reminder of the damage inflicted when we are careless with discharges into drains, streams, rivers and the sea. 

The report details 1157 lifeforms in our project area, including Amoebae, Bacteria, Birds, Bryozoans, Ciliates,  Cnidarians, Crustaceans, Cryptomonads, Diatoms, Dinoflagellates, Fish, Flatworms, Fungi, Green algae, Heterokont algae, Insects, Liverworts, Mammals, Mites and ticks, Molluscs, Mosses, Oomycetes, Plants, Red algae, Ribbon worms, Rotifers, Roundworms, Spiders, Springtails, Worms and a vast list of varieties categorized as “Others”.

A user-friendly version of the report can be viewed on line by clicking here, and a guide to understanding it is available here

Thanks for the generous support of Mountains to Sea (Wellington) for providing this ongoing environmental monitoring. When our project is planted out and established, there will be a repeat eDNA analysis to compare the environmental health of the area before and after our intervention.

Stewart

Update from Forest and Bird:

Pomarie all Forest and Bird helpers.
While we have been waiting for the rain to stop, the weeds have kept growing and the plants need help to out grow them. We call this releasing.

We plan to have two  releasing sessions before the end of February.

1. Where: Twin Lakes opposite the pumping station – see flag and picture.
   When: Thursday 26th February, 5 – 7pm There will be a picnic tea afterwards. We will provide this.
   What: releasing last winters plantings. The grass is over knee height and although we used cardboard protectors they are hardly visible. It would be good to use some longer stakes to mark contiguous planted lines but the ground may be too hard.

2.  Where: Hulls Creek Hutt River trail Silverstream
When: Friday 27th February, 9:30 – 12:00 (at the latest)
What: Releasing previous plantings and working the block north of the new bridge that we haven’t been able to access during bridge construction.

Parking: Meet in the car park just south of the railway bridge.

We have volunteers coming from EPA, Environmental Protection Authority.

Morning tea is provided. It’s a great opportunity to meet a new bunch of people who do very important and interesting work for NZ.

We team up our helpers with theirs to support them. Not all weeds are obvious. How good are you at finding OMB?

We do have some spare tools, but if you have your own pair of garden shears (hedge clippers) or something similar, and a pair of gloves too, then please bring those with you. You’ll mostly be under the canopy.

If you are a new-comer, please text Lynne on 021 66 00 76 beforehand with any questions you may have

Monthly meetings 2026.
Note – NEW VENUE, NEW VENUE

Where: Heretaunga Community Church, 51 Lane Street, Upper Hutt
When: Tuesday 24th February, start 7:30pm,

Entrance through the small door at the north end of building.

A presentation by Sarah Goldberg and Simon Kennett about restoration planting at Mākara Peak over the last 27 years, plus results from Sarah’s seed research (both of which focus on reintroducing Podocarp species) and how both are informing the next phase of restoration using aerial seed dispersal to reintroduce missing species into the hard-to-reach areas of the park.

Thanks for your support

The Nursery team

A “thank you” to Haukaretu Stream Restoration Project for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

18/02/26

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Upper Hutt City Council has updated its Long Term Plan 2024-2034 to reflect the transfer of water services to the new regional water organisation, Tiaki Wai.

From 1 July 2026, responsibility for drinking water, wastewater and stormwater will move from Council to a new jointly-owned water organisation, Tiaki Wai, as part of Government-mandated water reform.

This water services amendment is being done via a streamlined, legislated compliance process which is not audited or consulted on, as it is a continuation of the Government’s Local Water Done Well process and Council decisions taken on the reform since 2024.

With Councils deciding last year to establish Tiaki Wai, this Long Term Plan 2024-2034 amendment must be done to get water ‘off the Council books’ by removing water services from its budgets, assets and debt.

It is the next step to implement Council’s approved joint Water Services Delivery Plan for the Wellington metropolitan area and is a legal requirement contained in the water reform legislation.

This amendment removes all water-related figures from Year 3 of the plan onwards, when the transfer takes effect.

The financial information remains the same as originally adopted in the LTP 2024–2034, minus water services. These figures shouldn’t be read in isolation, as removing water significantly changes Council’s overall financial picture.

Key changes include transferring $106 million of debt and $576 million of water assets to Tiaki Wai and recognising Council’s shareholding in the new organisation.

The update ensures Council’s Long Term Plan 2024-2034 accurately reflects the services it will deliver and its financial responsibilities once water services transfer to Tiaki Wai.

The amended Long Term Plan 2024-2034 can be found here, alternatively, hard copies are available at the Central Library and Civic Centre reception.

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

24/02/26

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February 2026

We met recently with reps from the land development team to check in and find out the next steps.

• Progress to date has been good with the southern paddock excavation moving at pace
• This will be re-grassed when excavation is finished.
• The sewer access point near the concrete bridge has now been finished and the smell has gone.
• The path that is currently closed will remain so until the excavations are complete. We are able to go in on Sundays to beat back the overgrowth and will be calling for help with this as needed.

• Work will start on the northern paddocks around the end of March.
• The pre-constructed temporary bridge will be installed across the stream at the ford late February/early March. This will be supported on concrete blocks. No planting is planned to be removed – however if there are any safety or visibility issues some vegetation may be trimmed/ removed. A couple of trees will need to be trimmed back on the west entry point to avoid damage and enable a clear view/space for trucks using the bridge.
• At this point there will be no further access crossing the stream at the ford.

• Temporary fencing will be installed so walkers can easily identify ‘no-go’ zones.
• The top higher paddocks adjacent to Heretaunga Park will be available for walking throughout the excavations and will not be touched, so ‘phew’ for big dogs needing to stretch their legs!
• Bart and his team are working hard on the new boardwalk, which will have a second bridge crossing over to the western path. So, a loop walk, albeit a bit less distance, will still be available.
• Signage will go up at each entry point about a week before these changes commence.

SUGGESTED WALK TRAILS

Coming from the north: Entry points from Kiwi St & Perry St (walk in at sharp corner)

Coming from the south: Short walk on the path up to the ford and walk back the same way. Longer walk up the river trail to the track leading to Heretaunga Park, then use the top end of the stream and top paddocks, then back down the river trail.

Please note that the walk down the track through the school grounds is not to be used and walking across the school playing fields is not what the college wants. Sadly, some dog owners are not careful about picking up their dog’s poo, much to the frustration of the grounds staff.

This stage of the development is estimated to complete in late 2026/ early 2027 subject to weather.

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

18/02/26

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View all images associated with this article at https://uhconnection.co.nz/clubs/menzshed-upper-hutt/menzshed-update-february-2026/

Things are moving quickly to establish our newly moved shed on it’s concrete pad. The move was carried out with the help of Mitre10 who kindly diverted their HIAB truck to the site and in less than an hour everything was in place. The next day the building was locked down to the pad with dynabolts and minor adjustments made.

The shed will be used to provide temporary storage for our overflow materials including a complete set of kitchen cupboards which will be installed in the shed later. This allowed us to return the now empty rented container. The new shed will then be converted into a dedicated woodturning area and fitting donated windows (from a member). Recladding and painting the exterior to match the other buildings will complete the refit. Our thanks go out primarily to John S for the monumental effort and determination in getting the job organized and delivered. The help he has had from a small team of helpers should also be recognized. Well Done to all!

More Great News :- We have also finalized the commitment to purchase a new kitset workshop which will be located on the site. This is a major investment and will provide metalworking activities, which we have been unable to accommodate until now. Although still several months away, it opens the door to a new membership of individuals who prefer working with metal rather than wood. We hope this will encourage new members to join us. We do have some metal working equipment already, for lathe work, welding and many hand tools used for these and other activities. These have been patiently awaiting the new building arrival, now on the horizon.

Community projects still come from a variety of sources. The helping of “injured animals” has taken front billing this last couple of weeks, with a “headless camel” being reunited with his head and a rather large giraffe having “ear surgery” to restore him to stereo sound (reattaching his ear!).

We have also repaired a wooden ladder which had seen better days and also completed a large number of holding crosses for Te Omanga Hospice thanks to Tony and Eainn. A complete set of gimlets and a rapping iron (used for weaving bamboo etc) was also made thanks to Keiron.

Work has started on a Lilliput Library and Community Pantry which is due to be completed later this month.

We would also like to reach out to all the Kindy’s in Upper Hutt to make them aware of what we do and how we may be able to help them. During this year we intend to be in contact with as many Kindy’s as we can, and provide help to at least some of them. We will have a team of “Kindy Champions” who can act as intermediaries and identify where and if we can assist.

If you have a project in mind and you think we can help, then feel free to contact us for a chat and we will do our best to assist you.

contactus@upperhuttmenzshed.kiwi

Don’t forget to visit our website for details on where we are and what we do.

You can visit it here:-

https://upperhuttmenzshed.kiwi

We are always on the lookout for new members and later this year we will have a metalworking facility. Maybe you have seen our display in the Mall which shows some of the things we do and who we do them for. If you have and would like more info, contact us for a free tour and meet the team.

contactus@upperhuttmenzshed.kiwi

If you want to join us, even for just a cup of tea and a yarn, pop in to see us, you will be more than welcome. Just come along @ 10am Tue to Fri. We are open 9 – 12 Tues to Fri. You will find us at McLeod Park just past the BMX track.

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

18/02/26

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What’s been happening this week?

A temporary bi-directional cycle path has been installed on the northbound lane on Rutherford St, (from the existing pedestrian crossing near the Woolworth’s car park), north past Harvey Norman, connecting to the Melling Link Bridge pathway and the underpass. This means the shared path from the underpass, behind Harvey Norman to the Riverbank car park is now CLOSED. Signs (including the map below) have been installed throughout the area.

Other achievements this week include commencing piling works on the western side of the river, and a continuation of service relocations, ground improvement activities and environmental works.

The team will be at the Riverbank Market tomorrow (21 February); so if you see us, come over and say hello. It’s a great chance to ask questions, share feedback, or just have a chat about what’s happening in your neighbourhood.

What’s happening next week?

Wellington Electricity are relocating cables in the following locations (note all of these works are being undertaken during the day due to their proximity to residential properties):

• ongoing until mid-March, Connolly St (southbound), progressing towards Rutherford St
• ongoing until early March, Rutherford St works continue between Melling Link roundabout and Melling Rd/Connolly St roundabout​
• ongoing until end of February, Dudley St will be reduced to a single lane (temporarily removing car parking). Note, at times, a full road closure will be in place for a short time
• ongoing until end of February, Andrews Ave is closed
• ongoing until end of February, Queens Dr/High St roundabout (southern end of town near City Fitness / the Sebel Hotel) works will CLOSE both northbound lanes from this roundabout up to the slip lane for Laings Rd (near House of Spices), and drivers should divert on to Daly St/High St, or Woburn Rd/ Myrtle St. For Metlink bus detour information, please visit: www.metlink.org.nz/detours-and-updates
• ongoing until end of February, Ewen Bridge on ramp from Marsden, a single lane across the bridge into the city, and the lane off the bridge into the city are CLOSED (including part of the car park on Ward St). Drivers from Petone, either change your route and use Hutt Rd/Railway Ave to access Lower Hutt, or travel under Railway Ave, onto Marsden St, and then turn left on to Railway Ave from Aglionby, Herbert or Parliament Sts. Buses are being diverted via Herbert St. Some parking has been removed in this area. Pedestrians and cyclists, footpaths on both sides of Ewen Bridge remain open.

To find out more about the progress of the Wellington Electricity works, please visit https://www.welectricity.co.nz/major-projects/teawakairangi

The short term and long term closures are represented on the map below, which also includes the paths currently open for pedestrians and cyclists.

The maps and long-term closure details are available to view on the website under the News section.

We know that our works and others across the region are affecting daily travel times, and we appreciate that not everyone has the option to change how they move around (train / bike). Please factor in delays before you travel and give yourself extra time.

Unfortunately, some delays and disruption are unavoidable with a programme of this scale. Please know we hear and appreciate your feedback, and as a programme are working together and with other service providers towards better solutions as traffic patterns adjust.

We also know frustration can build when delays are significant, but we’re asking everyone to take extra care, remember to merge like a zip, not block intersections and adhere to the traffic light signals — it helps keep all of us; pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers safe.

Thank you for your support, patience and for travelling through our project area with care.

You can keep up to date with our work by following this page and subscribing to our newsletter: https://confirmsubscription.com/h/t/EED2E40ECF6651D6

For full details, visit https://teawakairangi.co.nz/our-projects/our-projects

Source: Te Awa Kairangi – Delivering RiverLink

20/02/26

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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

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With the rising cost of living, increasing numbers of New Zealanders over 65 are continuing to work — not by choice, but by necessity.

While many people assume New Zealand Superannuation provides sufficient income in retirement, the reality is very different for those who rent or still carry mortgage costs.

For a single person living alone, the gross Super payment is commonly understood to be $1,213.34 per fortnight. After tax, this reduces to approximately $1,076.84. Where a secondary tax code (ST) applies due to additional income, payments can reduce further — in some cases to around $840 per fortnight, or $420 per week.

For couples, the structure is different. A couple where both partners qualify for Super receive a combined payment that works out to less per person than a single person living alone. While their shared household expenses may reduce some costs, the per-person entitlement is lower than that of a single Super recipient.

For retirees paying market rent — often $380 to $450 per week — Super alone does not cover housing costs.

As a result, many older people work part-time. However, income from part-time work is taxed under PAYE, often at several hundred dollars per fortnight. When combined with tax on Super, some working retirees can see total tax deductions approaching $1,000 per fortnight.

While tax calculations may be technically correct under current legislation, the broader question is whether the system is structured fairly for people who have paid tax for 40–50 years and are simply trying to remain financially independent.

Many retirees face additional pressures beyond food and power bills — including rent or mortgage payments, insurance, car repairs and WOF costs, medical expenses, and supporting children and grandchildren. The Accommodation Supplement exists, but eligibility thresholds (including savings limits of around $8,000) can discourage maintaining even a modest emergency buffer.

The Winter Energy Payment provides some assistance, but rising electricity and heating costs often exceed the additional support provided.

The issue is not one of miscalculation — it is one of policy design. Should Superannuation continue to be taxed at current rates for those who must work to survive? Should abatement thresholds be reviewed? And are policymakers fully aware of the cumulative tax burden faced by working retirees?

With an election year underway, this is a timely opportunity for discussion about how New Zealand supports — or fails to support — older citizens who are still contributing to the workforce.

The conversation is not about special treatment. It is about fairness, sustainability, and dignity in later life.

This article was sent in by an older member of the Upper Hutt community. Name has been kept anonymous for privacy concerns.

21/02/26

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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

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The minister for Local government should be called to resign in regard to the Moa point waste water treatment plant, failure and its associated costs, and all plans to hand over control of Upper Hutt’s and other Wellington regions councils water assets and delivery  to Tiaki Wai should be suspended until the plant is in the operational order it was assessed as being when council’s  agreed  to form Tiaki Wai Metro water organisation sanctioned  by the Department of Internal Affairs  DIA. Tiaki Wai water corporation is to take over the management of the Moa point plant, and it’s associated costs, currently unknown, as is the extend of the problem. The chair of Tiaki Wai has signalled that the cost of water delivery to residents of local councils will foot the bill for the state of the network and their water charges will rise. While the need to maintain and replace failing pipes was known when the contracts were entered into the catastrophic failure of Moa Poa wastewater treatment plant as describe by Wellington’s city mayor Andrew Little, was not known, by Wellington City council or accounted for in the contract. In essence Wellington City has withheld information vital to the formation of Tiaki Wai corporation. Watt’s the local government minister required Wellington councils to deliver a water plan for their three waters and required they be approved and signed off by the DIA . Wellington’s water plan has failed before it is in operation as has had the oversight of the DIA and the minister of local government. 

Teresa Homan

0223127295

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

20/02/26     

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• https://uhconnection.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/cricket-results-21st-of-february-1.jpg
• https://uhconnection.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/cricket-results-21st-of-february-2.jpg
• https://uhconnection.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/cricket-results-21st-of-february-3.jpg
• https://uhconnection.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/cricket-results-21st-of-february-4.jpg
• https://uhconnection.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/cricket-results-21st-of-february-5.jpg

Source: Upper Hutt United Cricket Club

24/02/26

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Location: Ngāti Tama Park, Totara Park (borders Baltimore Crescent and Michigan Crescent)

For the first time ever, the The Aramex Kiwi Walk & Run Series series is coming to our backyard!

Ngāti Tama Park on 18 April 2026 and they chose Upper Hutt because everyone keeps asking for it. (Of course they do… have you seen our trails?)

Whether you’re a stroller, a speedster, or a “stop-every-10-minutes-to-take-a-photo” type, there’s a distance for every age and fitness level: 5.8km, 10.3km, or 15.5km. Walk it, run it, cruise it with the kids, this isn’t just about the kms, it’s about the vibes.

Expect epic scenery, good company, tasty treats, and that feel-good community buzz Upper Hutt does best.

Grab your whānau, your mates, or that one friend who loves a challenge, and lock it in!

They can’t wait to explore Upper Hutt and honestly, same.

Source: My Upper Hutt

18/02/26

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Location: The King Lion Hall, King St, Upper Hutt

Plants -Indoor and out, Lemons (just $2pKg), Crafts, Quality Clothing, Household things, Books, Toys, Jigsaws and More.

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

20/02/26

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Secure your log and join us for hands on mushroom log inoculation workshops hosted by Earth School Aotearoa at our Harvest Festival. Learn about the history of inoculated fungi logs while participating in a fun filled activity, price is per log, families welcome to participate as a whole. Get your tickets here –https://store.mangaroa.org/products/mangaroa-farms-harvest-festival-sat-21st-march-2026-10am-3pm?variant=52293019435297

A “thank you” to Earth School Aotearoa for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

23/02/26

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Do you think you’ve got the best pickles, preserves or baked goods in Upper Hutt or Wellington? Well get those heirloom recipes out and bring them to our first ever harvest festival competition and let others see! Judging is 50% by public vote, so bring your friends and whanau and come enjoy a family filled day. Judges announced on the day. All judging final. Prizes in the form of a Mangaroa Farm Shop Voucher.

Two categories:

1. Best Preserves (Pickles & Chutney)
2. Best Baked Goods

You need to enrol to receive a copy of the rules and regulations, which mostly are around food safety. Information will be emailed to you after signing up.

Follow the link for more information and how to sign up. https://store.mangaroa.org/products/mangaroa-farms-harvest-festival-sat-21st-march-2026-10am-3pm

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

23/02/26

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Temple Raiders is calling all video game fans, programmers, and storytellers!

Adventure awaits in Fiero Code’s first competition of 2026. Picture yourself deep in the jungle on Planet Fiero, surrounded by sky-high trees and the sound of insects, critters, creatures.

You’re a tourist at the magnificent temple of Tikal and have made an incredible discovery: a centuries-old artifact.

But beware… magical forces are ready to protect this treasure at all cost.

Fiero Code: a digital playground for coders young and old

Designed with different learning styles in mind, Fiero Code is perfect for introducing beginner coders to basic concepts and a range of widely used programming languages.

In this Fiero Code Challenge, first-time and experienced coders get to showcase storytelling skills, problem-solving techniques, and coding know-how using Code Blocks.

Similar to Scratch, Code Blocks works with a simple puzzle-piece structure and is especially great for visual learners.

Ready to brave the jungle? Join the competition and start your project today.

For more information and to join in, visit https://www.upperhuttlibrary.co.nz/whats-on/fiero-code-competition

Source: Upper Hutt Libraries

23/02/26

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

10/10/25

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

29/01/26

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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

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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

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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

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Location: St. Margaret’s Church, Dunns St, Silverstream

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

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

23/04/25

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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

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Christmas Giveaway

Spend $20 and win up to $1000

Spend: $20 or more at a participating Jackson St business, and enter the draw to win.*

Prizes: to win – 2x $1000 / 10x $100

Pop: your entry into the in-store box or email your receipt to.. info@jacksonstreet.co.nz

Draw: First draw – 26 Nov 25 / Second draw – 22 Dec 25

Vouchers to be redeemed by 28th February 2026*

*prizes are in vouchers to spend at Jackson St businesses. Terms and conditions apply, see www.jacksonstreet.co.nz for details.

This article has been republished on request of the Jackson Street Programme.

13/11/25

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Free Parking*

Shop, dine, or unwind on Jackson Street.

SPEND $30+ at participating locations on Jackson Street and get your hour of parking free.*

VISIT multiple spots to extend your free parking!

*Free parking is provided as a discount off your $30+ purchase. See http://www.jacksonstreet.co.nz for details. Available until 28th February 2026

This article has been republished on request of the Jackson Street Programme.

13/11/25

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Location: Stokes Valley Rugby Club, George Street, Stokes Valley, Lower Hutt

It’s 2026 and you’re not roller skating yet?? Well here is your chance to change that!

Starting on the 22nd March, our learn to roller skate course will teach you all the fundamentals of roller skating, keeping yourself safe while doing it, all while having fun!

No previous skating experience required, and we can also supply you with skates and all the necessary safety gear. All you need is yourself!

This course is 8 weeks long and runs on Sunday nights from 5-7pm (except for Easter Sunday).

Inclusive of all genders, age 16+.

This course (or equivalent) is a pre-requisite for our follow up course, Learn to Roller Derby.

Please complete the registration form below and complete payment of $80 to:
Remutaka Roller Derby
06 0172 0807994 00
(use your name and LTS as the reference)

Register quick as spaces are limited!

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScnH_2975nxfDPNmpwIL9SqKEc2_dCIRX_5SJ9KjLqz3Bulsg/viewform

Source: Remutaka Roller Derby

23/02/26

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

16/01/26

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Liquorland 765-767 Fergusson Drive Upper Hutt OFF 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/

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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 1,192 subscribers

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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert

Running time: 96 minutes

Rated: PG (Coarse language)

Elvis sings and tells his story like never before in a new cinematic experience from visionary filmmaker Baz Luhrmann.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/epic-elvis-presley-in-concert

Holy Days

Running time: 101 minutes

Rated: PG (Drug use & coarse language)

From the team behind the Kiwi hit Uproar, Holy Days is a hilarious, heartwarming 1970s dramedy with a star-studded cast: Judy Davis, Miriam Margolyes, and Jacki Weaver. When young Brian discovers plans to close a convent of delightfully eccentric nuns, he sets off on a wild road trip across New Zealand to save them. Packed with laughs, quirky characters, and heart, this is a joyful adventure the young at heart will adore.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/holy-days

How To Make A Killing

Running time: 105 minutes

Rated: M (Violence & offensive language)

Becket Redfellow sets out to reclaim the $28B family fortune his mother was denied. To pull off his ambitious scheme, he must kill the seven relatives who stand in his way – while navigating love, deception, and wicked betrayals.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/how-to-make-a-killing

Scream 7

Running time: 114 minutes

Rated: R16 (Graphic violence & offensive language)

When a new Ghostface killer emerges in the quiet town where Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) has built a new life, her darkest fears are realized as her daughter (Isabel May) becomes the next target. Determined to protect her family, Sidney must face the horrors of her past to put an end to the bloodshed once and for all.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/scream-7

Viyaah Kartaare Da

Running time: 135 minutes

Rated: PG (Violence, coarse language & drug references)

Kartar, the clever yet lazy son of corrupt police officer Sher Singh, sees a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when his father slips into a coma after an accident. To inherit his job and pension, Kartar declares Sher Singh dead, forges documents, and secretly takes his place in the police force. With help from his loyal but clumsy friends, he sustains the deception, wins the love of his sweetheart Nimmo, and secures approval for their marriage. Just as life seems perfect, chaos erupts when Sher Singh wakes up, forcing everyone into a hilarious struggle to untangle lies, marriage plans, and mistaken identities.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/viyaah-kartaare-da

Source: Monterey Cinemas Upper Hutt

24/02/26

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