Today we celebrate 100 years of Upper Hutt mayors! On this day in 1926, the first Upper Hutt mayor was appointed. Since then, 11 mayors have followed:

Upper Hutt Borough Council:

• Angus McCurdy (1926–1927) https://uhcl.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/15997
• Peter Robertson (1927–1931) https://uhcl.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/16563
• Angus McCurdy (1931–1938)
• Peter Robertson (1938–1939)
• James Blewman (1939–1947) https://uhcl.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/699
• Ed Nicolaus (1947–1950) https://uhcl.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/693
• George Williams (1950–1953) https://uhcl.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/694
• Dick Slacke (1953–1959) https://uhcl.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/695
• Percy Kinsman (1959–1966) https://uhcl.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/24082

Upper Hutt City Council:

• Percy Kinsman (1966–1968)
• George Thomas (1968–1970) https://uhcl.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/16026
• Doris Nicholson (1970–1977) https://uhcl.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/16001
• Rex Kirton (1977–2001) https://uhcl.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/24087
• Wayne Guppy (2001–2025) https://uhcl.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/25235
• Peri Zee (2025–present)

Source: Upper Hutt Heritage

26/02/26

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Upper Hutt City Council has begun its annual road resealing programme, with work taking place across multiple neighbourhoods over the coming weeks.

Each year, Council undertakes resealing to maintain and protect local roads. While it may look like a simple surface treatment, resealing plays a critical role in keeping Upper Hutt’s transport network safe, durable and cost-effective for our community.

When and where

Works are taking place between 23 February and 13 March 2026 across selected streets throughout the city. A full list of affected streets is available on our roading and safety updates page here.

The progress of these works is weather dependent. Wet or cold conditions can delay resealing, as dry conditions are required for the seal to bond properly.

Why resealing matters

Road resealing is preventative maintenance. It seals the road surface to stop water from penetrating the layers beneath. Without this protection, water can weaken the pavement structure, leading to potholes, cracking and more extensive damage.

By resealing at the right time, Council can:

• Extend the life of the road surface
• Prevent more expensive reconstruction work in the future
• Improve skid resistance and safety
• Maintain a smoother, more reliable driving surface Investing in annual resealing helps reduce long-term costs for ratepayers and ensures roads remain safe for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

What the work involves

The resealing programme typically includes:

• Surface preparation
• Application of a bitumen binder
• Spreading of chip to seal the surface
• Rolling and sweeping to secure the seal

In some locations, asphalt resurfacing may also be carried out, particularly at intersections or turning areas where wear is higher.

Temporary traffic management will be in place while work is underway. Residents may notice loose chips on the road surface for a short period following sealing. This is normal and will be swept as part of the finishing process.

Access to properties will be maintained wherever possible, although short delays may occur.

Council appreciates the community’s patience while this essential maintenance is completed. These works are an important part of caring for Upper Hutt’s infrastructure and ensuring our roads remain safe and reliable for everyone.

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

25/02/26

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The need for critical support for children with cancer and their whānau continues to grow, with the number of families under the care of Child Cancer Foundation Family Support Coordinators increasing by more than 20 percent compared to this time last year.

As ongoing diagnoses and long treatment journeys continue across Aotearoa, the Foundation is urging Kiwis to show their support by donating to this year’s nationwide Street Appeal on Friday 13^th and Saturday 14^th March.

Chief Executive Monica Briggs says even the smallest donation can make a meaningful difference for tamariki with cancer and their families.

“Every week in Aotearoa, four families receive the devastating news that their child has cancer. That moment is mentally overwhelming, and the journey ahead most often involves years of treatment and a lifetime of long-term effects,” says Briggs.

“Even the smallest donation can have a big impact. A donation as small as the price of a coffee can become a coffee in the hand of a stressed parent, handed to them by one of our Family Support Coordinators, offering both a hot drink and an understanding ear. A small moment of connection like that can turn a terrible day around when families need it most.”

One of the families supported by Child Cancer Foundation is toddler Holly and her whānau from Upper Hutt.

What initially seemed like a minor fall from the deck quickly escalated into something far more serious, as Holly became increasingly unwell over the following weeks.

“She started kind of not really eating very well, and then just sitting on the couch, not her usual bubbly, happy self. I remember me and Nathan being like, ‘something’s not right’,” says Holly’s mum, Jenna.

After multiple visits to the doctor, blood tests revealed some warning signs. Holly was urgently flown to the Children’s Haematology and Oncology Centre in Christchurch, where she was diagnosed with had High-Risk B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia, and was started on treatment right away.

“The first two weeks were horrific,” says Jenna. “How do you explain to a not-even-two-year-old that she’s about to have multiple rounds of chemo?”

Holly’s treatment required her parents to divide their time between hospital in Christchurch and caring for her sibling Finn back home in Upper Hutt – a situation many families facing childhood cancer know all too well.

Child Cancer Foundation supported the family with flights so Holly’s dad and brother could visit on weekends, as well as emotional support through their Family Support Coordinator, Tania.

“We were just trying to figure out how to survive at that point,” says Jenna. “Just knowing there’s someone there to talk to who understands what you’re going through made such a difference. They’re there in the worst time of your life and provide amazing support – not just practical things like food or petrol, but emotional support too. You really can’t put a price on it.”

Briggs says the impact of childhood cancer extends well beyond the child themselves.

“Research shows siblings can be just as traumatised by a childhood cancer journey as the child undergoing treatment. That’s why we run programmes like SuperSIBS  – to provide siblings with tools to build resilience and stay connected through fun, supportive activities.”

Child Cancer Foundation must raise at least $6.5 million each year to continue providing vital emotional, financial and practical support to families, and receives no direct government funding.

Hundreds of volunteers will take to the streets during March’s Street Appeal to help ensure no family faces childhood cancer alone. 

The Foundation is calling for more generous Kiwis to donate two hours of their time  across Aotearoa, and need help filling some key sites below:

• ·       Auckland: Auckland CBD, Birkenhead, Mt Albert, Pukekohe, Takapuna, Waiuku, and Westgate
• ·       Bay of Plenty: Brookefield, Fraser Cover, Taupō, and Waihi
• ·       Kaikoura
• ·       Canterbury: Akaroa, Rangiora, Ferrymead/Woolston, Rolleston, Darfield and West Melton
• ·       Manawatu: Fielding, Whanganui, and Palmerston North
• ·       Northland: Kerikeri and Whangārei
• ·       Southland: Arrowtown, Milton, Oamaru, Queenstown and Wanaka
• ·       New Plymouth
• ·       Waikato: Te Kuiti
• ·       Wellington: Kapiti Coast and Upper Hutt

To donate or sign up as a volunteer, visit childcancer.org.nz.

About Child Cancer Foundation

Child Cancer Foundation provides essential support to Kiwi children diagnosed with cancer and their families. Every week in Aotearoa, four families receive the devastating news that their child has cancer. The Foundation is there to ensure these families never face their journey alone, offering tailored emotional, financial, and practical assistance to meet their unique needs.

As an independent charity, Child Cancer Foundation does not receive direct government funding and relies on the generosity of New Zealanders to continue delivering its vital services. With a nationwide network of Family Support Coordinators, the Foundation provides one-on-one guidance, connection, and care from diagnosis through treatment and beyond.

To learn more or donate, visit childcancer.org.nz.

A “thank you” to Sarah Jesson and the Child Cancer Foundation for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

02/03/26

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Trovon staff in Upper Hutt arrived at work in October to find the workshop locks changed. The landlord said the company owed months of rent. Australian head office told staff to go home. Administrators were appointed on 7 October. New Zealand staff were not formally terminated until early November.

Trovon has since been wound up in Australia, but its New Zealand arm remains registered. Ten workers are still owed wages. Team leader Mohammed Shameel is owed $16,000. Other staff are owed weeks of pay and leave. Some have gone into overdraft to cover living costs.

Malaysian firm Destini bought Trovon in December 2024 for A$100m, absorbing A$3.25m of debt. It has not responded to questions. Australian administrators told staff they could not claim entitlements because the issue was in New Zealand. MBIE said it could not help because Trovon had no New Zealand assets.

Director John Marinos said he was sorry and also lost his job. He said the parent company failed to provide expected funding, leading to unpaid payroll.

Greater Wellington Regional Council had earlier said 11 Matangi trains would be temporarily withdrawn from service due to the collapse but expected maintenance to return to normal in August.

Source: Radio New Zealand

26/02/26

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We’re excited to announce that our popular Have-a-go Hydro classes are back during Women’s Only Swim Night.

If you’ve been meaning to improve your fitness, strength, and overall wellbeing, this fun and inclusive class will be a great fit for you.

Date, time, pricing

Have-a-go Hydro runs on the first Sunday of the month, 7.15-8.00PM, during our Women’s Only Swim Night here at H₂O Xtream.

This have-a-go class is included in our standard admission price – no extra cost to join in and try it out.

Benefits of water-based aerobics workout

Working out in the water has lots to offer:

• Water provides great resistance, making this type of exercise effective for increasing circulation and improving strength.
• Buoyancy from the water reduces impact on your body and joints while working out. This is ideal if you need to manage joint point or want to ease back into exercising after recovering from an injury.

More fitness classes at H₂O Xtream

We offer a varied aquatic fitness programme at our facility and would love to be part of your regular workout routine.

Hydro-Energize and Hydro-Pump run several times a week, so you can enjoy lots of options to work out and achieve your fitness goals right here at one of the region’s best places for aquatic sport and recreation.

Source: H2O Xtream Aquatic Centre

26/02/26

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Upper Hutt is home to some of the most beautiful parks, playgrounds, and open spaces in the region. This Parks Week, we’re inviting everyone in our community to step outside, get moving, and reconnect with the green spaces that make Upper Hutt such a special place to live.

What you can do in our parks

There are so many ways to get active during Parks Week. We invite you to step outside and rediscover the joy of our parks. Whether you’re exploring scenic walkways, playing at one of our many playgrounds, or simply relaxing in nature, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Find out more at: https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/News/parks-week

Why our parks matter

Parks are more than just open spaces. They are essential green infrastructure that supports:

• Physical and mental wellbeing
• Social connection and community life
• Children’s play and lifelong recreation
• Biodiversity and native habitat
• Climate resilience, shade, and urban cooling
• Natural water management

Spending time outdoors reduces stress, improves mood, encourages movement, and helps cut down screen time. For tamariki, outdoor play builds strength, coordination, confidence, imagination, and social skills. No matter where you live in Upper Hutt, there’s a park or green space nearby ready to explore.

Parks Week is about celebrating what our parks already do for our communities – play, culture, connection, nature, and health – and encouraging everyone to experience them in new ways. Whether it’s a lunchtime walk, a family picnic, a weekend bike ride, or simply sitting under a tree with a book, every visit strengthens our connection to nature and each other.

We invite you and your family to explore our parks and reserves this March. so get outside, get moving, and make the most of our big green backyard.

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

28/02/26

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A cyclist suffered leg injuries after he was run down by a moto-cross biker at Trentham Memorial Park last Monday, the cyclist suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament and a dislocated knee cap. According to the cyclist and footage from a nearby home security camera, this appears to have been deliberate. Residents came from across the park to assist him, and by the time he’d come to, the bikers had left the scene.

The man says that he did nothing to provoke the rider, although police mentioned that the group of bikers may have mistakenly thought the cyclist was filming them.

The event has made a big impact on his life, having caused him give up cycling after having done it for the past 30 years – not to mention the cost of medical expenses, a new phone, and helmet. The family is considering moving out of the area.

Moto-cross riders turning up a the park is becoming a more frequent occurrence, much to the annoyance of locals, as the park is an area with young children and it’s too dangerous to have dirt bikes here. Hutt Valley area inspector, Shuan Lingard said that police were aware of an ongoing issue with riders, and that this behaviour isn’t something just isolated to the Wellington District – it’s happening all across the country.

Source: 1News

25/02/26

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Tinsel garlands brightening up wards at Christmas time. Feathered visitors greeting patients at the entrance to the building complex’s cinema and creche. Craft projects showcasing the creativity and handiwork of patients and staff.

The recent addition of the Susi Williams Collection to Mahara Upper Hutt Community Archive allows a unique glimpse into everyday life at Silverstream Hospital during the 1980s, the facility’s final decade of operation.

As the hospital’s Medical Superintendent from 1980 to 1989, Doctor Susi Williams was both at the helm and at the heart of day-to-day staff and patient life. Photographs, diary notes, original issues of the hospital newsletter Getting Together Hilltop News, and more pull back the curtain to reveal a bustling place where medical care was, very much, community care.

This last chapter of Silverstream Hospital, with performances, music revues, cultural events, and a varied schedule of occupational therapy activities, stands in stark contrast to the facility’s beginnings as a military hospital during World War II.

Although the building complex has changed over the years, its legacy lives on locally, regionally, and internationally in the life stories of the patients who received care there.

Explore the Susi Williams collection at Mahara Upper Hutt Community Archive

Source: Upper Hutt Libraries

25/2/26

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Upper Hutt Food Week launches for the first time from 21–29 March 2026, offering nine days of events celebrating local food, growing, and community connection across Upper Hutt and the wider Hutt Valley.

The community-led programme includes a Harvest Festival, market day, workshops, films, long lunches, competitions and hands-on activities — all centred around seasonal produce, local growers and practical food skills. Events will take place across community gardens, local venues and neighbourhood spaces throughout the city.

Rather than a single large festival, Upper Hutt Food Week is designed as a city-wide participation event, encouraging people to take part, learn new skills, share knowledge and reconnect with where their food comes from. The initiative builds on the Hutt Valley’s long history as Wellington’s traditional food basket while responding to modern challenges such as rising food costs, climate pressures and the gradual loss of everyday food knowledge.

Organiser Alice Midgley, Founding Trustee of Growing Sustainability NZ, says the week is about strengthening community through food.

“Food connects us — to place, to culture and to each other. Upper Hutt Food Week celebrates what we already have locally while helping people rediscover the skills and relationships that make communities resilient.”

The week launches with the Mangaroa Farms Harvest Festival featuring baking and preserve competitions, followed later in the week by a community vegetable muffin competition hosted by Upper Hutt Food Co-op.

Upper Hutt Food Week is coordinated by Growing Sustainability NZ, working in partnership with Upper Hutt City Council and Rimutaka Lions, and delivered alongside key collaborators including Mangaroa Farms, 4 A Better City and Heritage Nursery, together with many local growers, businesses and volunteers contributing across the programme.

Events are designed to appeal to families, experienced gardeners, new growers and anyone interested in good local food. Many activities will be free or low-cost to ensure accessibility and broad participation.

The full event schedule is released alongside this announcement.

Media Contact:
Alice Midgley — Managing Trustee, Growing Sustainability NZ
024 104 2398 | growings.uh@gmail.com

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

27/02/26

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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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Upper Hutt schools are gearing up for Movin’March 2026, Greater Wellington’s annual month-long active travel challenge that encourages tamariki and their whānau to walk, wheel, cycle or scoot to school throughout March.

Focused on fun, fitness and connection, Movin’March promotes healthier travel choices while helping care for our environment.

The challenge kicks off on Monday, 2 March and runs through to Tuesday, 31 March 2026.

This year, Upper Hutt has reached a record number of schools signed up, reflecting the strong commitment from our kura, whānau and wider community to supporting active and safe journeys to school.

Upper Hutt schools have already shown what’s possible. In 2025, Birchville School achieved the highest average trips per student in the Wellington region — around 18 active journeys per student — an outstanding result that highlights what can be achieved when schools, students and families get behind the challenge.

Movin’March forms part of Upper Hutt City Council’s road safety programme, which encourages active travel for tamariki across the city. By choosing to walk, wheel, cycle or scoot, children build confidence, independence and wellbeing, while whānau and schools help ease congestion around school gates and reduce emissions.

We look forward to seeing our schools get moving again this March and celebrating the positive impact across our community.

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

27/02/26

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Do you have a soft spot for the rhythmic chug of a vintage stationary engine? Does the smell of diesel and the sight of polished brass make you feel right at home? If so, the Wellington Vintage Machinery Club has a seat (and likely a wrench) waiting for you!

Nestled in the scenic Mangaroa Valley in Upper Hutt, our club is more than just a workshop—it’s a living museum. We are a group of like-minded enthusiasts dedicated to the restoration and maintenance of the machinery that built our region

Why We Do It

While we love anything with a piston or a pulley, we take special pride in preserving equipment with a Wellington connection. Whether it’s an engine that once powered a local farm or a piece of industrial gear from the city’s past, we believe these machines tell the story of our home.

Join Us for a Crank-Up!

We believe that history is best shared. Whether you are a master mechanic, a curious tinkerer, or someone who just wants to learn the ropes, you are more than welcome to join us.

• When: The 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month.
• Where: Our clubrooms in Mangaroa Valley. 155a Mangaroa Hill Road, Mangaroa, Upper Hutt.
• What to expect: Good coffee, great conversation, and plenty of vintage iron.

Come along and join our club and help us keep Wellington’s history moving!

All welcome, we look forward to seeing you soon.

Our club email: wvmc.info@gmail.com

Our Google Site: https://sites.google.com/view/wellingtonvintagemachineryclub/home

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

02/03/26

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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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Move on orders by police for the homeless simply shifts the problem caused by homelessness it doesn’t solve it; it is no solution. If people on the streets in other council areas are made to move on will this increase the people without homes moving on to Upper Hutt? The solution is more housing; the answer lies in more government funding to build more houses. Not high-end market housing, but moderate family homes or single bedroom houses or flats. As voters in the next general election, we should be looking to a government with a plan for housing. Plans that include government guaranteed mortgage sponsored by banks or credit unions. Rent to buy schemes of state-built houses. Low interest loans for development costs for developers. We need too, to acknowledge not all people who we see sleeping on the street or in park bushes are simply without shelter. Some have unmet unwellness concerns, complex trauma, addiction, mental health illness. The answer for this group of people is first recognising the right for them to have their dignity protected and for them to be confident they can trust others by building up trusting relationships with people and agencies whose corner stone is non-judgemental compassion. This takes a whole community organised to offer every assistance every step of the way assistance that is not denied at the first hurdle but is offered over and over to be freely chosen or rejected without penalty. Upper Hutt has available, all the resources to do this, and with government support can. The question I believe is do we want to be that community or do we want to invest in more security cameras and move the problem out of sight.   

Teresa Homan

BEST advocacy service manager, UHHCT chair    

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

26/02/26

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www.nzempowered.com/QNA

After talking to people in our community, it appears many are unaware of the impending changes to their water, waste and stormwater supply, or have questions..  From 1^st July 2026 Tiaki Wai (Metro Water) will be Wellingtons new water entity.  This new entity will be taking over from Wellington Water and assuming all assets and debt from the 5 participating councils.

Councils and organisations seem more interested in their systems and process than actually providing relevant information and impacts to the community. At the UHCC meeting on the 24^th Feb it was stated “we all need to be communicating with people at the right time on the thing that matters.” And that “It will hit ratepayers in the pocket.” So much so they have set in motion a Ratepayers Assistance Scheme which seems to be a reverse mortgage facility.

Until Councils and Tiaki Wai provide more information on impending costs the only information that is available comes from reports and information from councils, Tiaki Wai and third parties.  Here is a webpage which tries to answer some of the questions which we feel people would like answers too and have tried best we can to answer.

24^th Feb Workshop Summary  – https://c29daf59-758a-4029-be4e-3a751893ecad.usrfiles.com/ugd/c29daf_034e14c1676b440286394c66d19205c0.pdf

Water Q&A – https://c29daf59-758a-4029-be4e-3a751893ecad.usrfiles.com/ugd/c29daf_132e11ddb1d64015b30b316f2fbf8d43.pdf

A “thank you” to NZ Empowered for sending this letter to The Upper Hutt Connection.

03/03/26

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Dated: Sunday 1st of March, 2026

What an incredible Triple Header event last night at Value Motors Wellington Family Speedway!

Thank you to all those who attended – fans for bringing the excitement, competitors for putting on the show, and our staff for making it all happen!

Congratulations to our podium finishers…

Kiwi Car Removals Demolition Derby

• $2,000 WINNER – Darren Mckay

AV Kiwi Wellington Production Saloon Champs

1. 434V Brent Hackett
2. 79W Brendon Engman
3. 97W Sean Lockyear

Ministock Capital Cup

• Placemakers Tier 1 – WINNER – 52P Boston Joblin
• Tier 2 – WINNER – 65W Fletcher Philpott

Nelson Street Motors – Female Group

1. 45W Charlotte Philpott
2. 16W Vayda Pou
3. 119W Sophie Bewley

FH Group – Male Group

1. 88W Ashton Kahui
2. 21P Mason Taylor
3. 126S Blake Luscombe

Custom Builders – Male Group

1. 52P Boston Joblin
2. 9W Jesse McPhee
3. 54W Jacob Pye

Tyre Winners thanks to Nelson Street Motors;

• 45W Charlotte Philpott
• 17A Corbin Seals
• 98R Reeve Transom

Massive thank you to all of the out of town competitors that came to join our meeting last night, we appreciate your support for our club and event!

Thank you to our event organisers for putting together the Ministock Capital Cup, we couldn’t do it without the time and effort you put in to making this happen!

Source: Wellington Family Speedway

02/03/26

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Masterton Petanque Club held their annual Open Triples tournament on Saturday 28th February on a sunny warm day, though a cool start. 8 teams were entered from various clubs, including from outside the Wellington region, drawn in part by the sponsorship of the event by Arvida Landsdowne Estate, a popular retirement community in Masterton. Arvida Lansdowne provided a hamper and the prize money for the tournament.

Initially 4 random draw games were played in order to provide the ranking of the 8 teams, at which point they were split into 2 divisions of 4 teams each. Each division then played a semi-final and then a final to determine the winner and runner-up for each division.

The 2nd division winners were Graham and Ingrid Edmondson (Hawkes Bay) and Mike Robinson (Upper Hutt), and the runners-up were Steve Loftus, Dave Roper and Sue Walker, all from Masterton. The overall 1st division winners in a very close final (13-11) were Dave and Adrienne Gwerder, and Derek Worsley, all from Upper Hutt. Their very worthy opponents and the runners-up were Michelle Maxwell and Debby Butler (Kapiti) and Michael Rocks (Naenae).

The sponsorship of such events is key to drawing in entries from farther afield than the local region, and helps considerably to get clubs to communicate socially and obtain a greater mix of players and capabilities, whilst retaining the friendliness of the game of petanque. Arvida Lansdowne have expressed an interest to continue to sponsor this event in the future.
Thanks to Masterton Petanque Club and Arvida Lansdowne Estate for a great day.

Source: Upper Hutt Petanque Club

02/03/26

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A “thank you’ to Kate Winters for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

02/03/26

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Location: 248 Parkes Line Road, Maymorn, Upper Hutt

Remutaka Incline Railway will be offering train rides and rail shed tours on Sunday 8th March from 10am to 3 pm.
Also selling off some native trees in excess of that required for site planting.
Have a look at us, where you can help build a legacy.

A “thank you” to Bruce Gillanders of Remutaka Incline Railway Heritage Trust for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

28/02/26

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As part of Upper Hutt Food Week (21–29 March), we’re excited to invite you to our Kai Kart Pop-Up Summer Market! From 9am–2pm, Saturday 28 March, in Lane Street (opposite the Lane Street Church).

Come and sample and shop delicious treats from local growers, bakers, and makers, celebrate local kai, and connect with our community. There’ll be fun games for the kids and FREE guided tours of our Mahinga Kai Urban Farm (behind Lane Street Church) running throughout the day.

This FREE event is open to everyone so bring your friends and whānau for a great day out while supporting local.

Interested in having a stall? We still have spaces available! Email Ron@4abettercity.nz
to book your spot.

Check out the Upper Hutt Food week website to discover what else is happening during this delicious week-long celebration of our region’s kai and community.
www.foodweek.co.nz

A “thank you” to Justine Hall – 4 A Better City Charitable Trust for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

26/02/26

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A great night promised !

Cut The Power

Freddy Sayer, Pierre Lange-Gerrard (The Pretty Boys) and Logan Hughes

Freddy and Pierre (The Pretty Boys) have been playing music together since meeting at primary school after Pierre arrived from France at age seven. When the boys were 10yrs old, they were invited by Ruth Pretty to busk and raise money for a drama school trip at her (famous in Te Horo and the world) Friday Frolics. This led to raising money for all sorts of things at Ruth’s, many themed concerts, also the name of the act – The Pretty Boys who regularly at Ruth’s every year, until she retired and closed up shop in 2024.

Freddy and Pierre are also long-time musical collaborators with Logan Hughes (Logan, Freddy and Pierre have all been part of the dub, jazz and funk fusion group Powercut since 2021) and now they have joined forces again to create a trio they call – Cut The Power. This trio is a blending of The Pretty Boys sensibilities and the musical prowess of the Rockquest winning Powercut. This band has an acoustic, rootsy type of thing going on and the 3 young men have crafted a set of enjoyable, funky vibed and accessible songs using some traditional folk instruments and their voices. They will play some of the Pretty Boys covers that they love and treat you to some of their own original songs along the way. All three boys play various instruments – keys, acoustic guitar, double bass, uke, sometimes accordion and more. They all sing skillful harmonies with each other and have considerable experience as performers. They bring expertise, cool energy and much enjoyment to any performance.

The Pretty Boys were recently invited to play at ‘A Taste of Kāpiti and Horowhenua’ at the Beehive in Wellington and were the perfect act to entertain the hundreds of invited guests and people showcasing their products throughout the event. They play many private functions and have been guests at Stationhouse Social Club, the Seagrass Gallery concerts and many more. Cut The Power were part of the Ōtaki Night Market line up in 2025 alongside Casual Healing (Nikau Te Huki) and are playing more gigs over the summer of 26.

Source: Mainly Acoustic Music Club – Upper Hutt

27/02/26

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The battle for Capital Pools & Spas Wellington’s Stockcar crown is on. Expect full grids, fierce racing, and no shortage of bumper-to-bumper action as drivers go all in for local glory. A must-see night for fans of hard-hitting, entertaining Speedway. Paired with the A&K Plumbing and Drainage Production Saloon Autumn Champs, back for another year, we cannot wait to see a great field of them here again! AND just added – our Skylight Specialists Wellington TQ Champs! Who will be crowned our first official Wellington Champ?!

In addition to this epic program, we have the privilege of hosting a Burnout Exhibition for the Franklin Performance NZ Burnout Tour 2026! We will see our club member, Hayden Wilby in Nutout (Fitzroy Motorsport), do what he does best! As well as two other demonstrations throughout the program. Plenty of entertainment, and a few giveaways up our sleeve, keep an eye out on socials for more information…

Classes running:

• Burnout Cars
• Stockcars
• Superstocks
• Saloons
• Modifieds
• Production Saloons
• TQ Midgets

All classes are to be confirmed and are subject to change without notice.

Source: Wellington Family Speedway

03/03/26

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Save the date, Upper Hutt! A bunch of awesome locals is serving up something special in March 2026

Introducing your first-ever Upper Hutt Food Week – all about celebrating local food growers, community gardens, seedling producers, businesses, restaurants, and good food grown right here.

Things are kicking off with a Pumpkin Growing Competition judged by Greenstone Doors and run by Heritage Nursery. So, gardening gloves and soil at the ready!

• 21-29 March 2026
• various locations around Upper Hutt

For competition details, gardening tips, and event updates, follow Upper Hutt Food Week: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582579796489&__cft__[0]=AZZ4c2k9PSjf6g9ysCKTWRXnjDLIXHyMutDpkFO-nMkb7ZpL-quq_W4om9nvRQVlFMiFdQ9mN16zXXKz2lKfooPR0EaX0VgB9udt4EbKSDgPe-dRXxs4Dg4zbCIuPasdIPZjBSMSTylb_Mic9x8nBeEv&__tn__=-]K-R

A “thank you” to Sallie Anne Calvert for requesting that this article be put up on The Upper Hutt Connection. / Source: My Upper Hutt

15/12/25

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A “thank you” to Lydia Brbich at Upper Hutt Toy Library for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

27/02/26

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Upper Hutt, Wellington, NZ – Local artist and educator Dawn Duthie is inviting the community to reconnect with creativity through a dynamic programme of art classes and workshops at Dawn’s Atelier, located at Shop 5, 123–125 Main Street, Upper Hutt.

The next upcoming workshop is a hands-on Drawing Workshop, perfect for anyone wanting to build strong foundational skills in portrait drawing and observational art. Suitable for complete beginners through to experienced artists, this session focuses on confidence, technique, and learning in a supportive studio environment.

Special Event: Bogan Day Out Art Workshop

Adding a uniquely local flavour, Dawn is also hosting a special “Bogan Day Out” Art Workshop — a fun, relaxed, and distinctly Kiwi creative experience. Join Dawn in her studio and make your very own bogan shrinky dink jewellery. Think skull earrings, band pins, or spider necklaces.

Kids School Holiday Sticker-Making Workshops

During the upcoming school holidays, Dawn’s Atelier will also run Kids Sticker-Making Workshops, giving tamariki the chance to design and create their own custom stickers. These sessions are ideal for young creatives and provide a constructive, confidence-building activity during the break.

Art for Beginners and Established Artists

All workshops are designed to be welcoming and inclusive, making them ideal for:

First-time artists wanting to “give it a go”

Hobby artists developing their skills

Practicing artists seeking inspiration

Community members looking for mindful, creative time

Supporting Mental Health Through Creativity

At a time when many families in Upper Hutt are feeling the pressure of the cost of living and daily stress, accessible creative spaces are more important than ever. Art has proven mental health benefits, including reducing anxiety, improving focus, and building confidence.

Dawn’s workshops prioritise:

• A calm, encouraging atmosphere
• Small-group learning
• Skill development without intimidation
• Genuine community connection

The focus is not just on technique, but on nurturing wellbeing and creating a safe, supportive creative hub in Upper Hutt.

A Community-Focused Art Studio & Shop

Beyond classes, Dawn’s Atelier operates as a working artist studio and retail space. The shop features Dawn’s fine art practice alongside a rotating collection of local artisan products, giving other creatives an opportunity to experience retail while keeping the offering fresh and community-driven.

Tickets & Booking Information

Tickets for all upcoming Upper Hutt art workshops can be booked online at:

https://dawnduthieart.com

Spaces are limited to maintain a high-quality learning experience.

Dawn’s Atelier
Shop 5, 123–125 Main Street
Upper Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand

Website & Tickets: https://dawnduthieart.com

For media enquiries or interviews, please contact:
Dawn Duthie
https://dawnduthieart.com

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

27/02/26

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Selling bikes, books and toys.

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A “thank you” to Lydia Brbich from Upper Hutt Toy Library for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

27/02/26

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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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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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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Fermented Bar & Eatery Upper Hutt ON Licence Renewal

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

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

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

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

New recipe this week!

Biscuit Log

Called it this as it has no real name as far as I know. Could be made with other biscuits – firmer biscuits will require a longer time in the fridge to soften.

Makes two logs.

Ingredients:

• Two 310g packs of chocolate chip biscuits, or other biscuits of your choice. I used the Arnott’s Farmbake Chocolate Chip cookies. (Don’t use biscuits which are too hard, otherwise you’ll be waiting forever for them to soften adequately.)
• 500ml cream
• Sherry or black coffee to dip the biscuits in.
• Dark chocolate, I use Whittaker’s 72% Dark Ghana

Method:

1. Put the cream in a large mixing bowl and using an electric beater, beat until it’s soft but holding it’s shape.
2. Having serving plates ready, dip each biscuit briefly in the sherry or black coffee, gently shake off any excess liquid and then place vertically on the serving tray, spreading one side with some whipped cream. Repeat the process until the log has been formed (you don’t have any more room on the serving plate).
3. Cover the log with whipped cream. Grate dark chocolate over the top.
4. Repeat the process (from step 2) for the second log.
5. Place in the fridge for a couple of hours to give the cream time to soften the biscuits.

27/02/26

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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 4,489 followers

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

Restrictions

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

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

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

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

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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

JANUARY SERVICES AT ST HILDA’S

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

Sunday 1 February onwards
9.30am Normal Sunday services resume

Thursday 12 February onwards
10am Normal Thursday services resume.

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

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

I Can Only Imagine 2

Running time: 110 minutes

Rated: M (Domestic violence)

After the breakout success of I Can Only Imagine, MercyMe’s Bart Millard is living the dream—sold-out arenas, a devoted fanbase, and a thriving career. But Bart’s world begins to shift under the weight of devastating challenges, including a life-changing diagnosis for his young son, Sam.

As Bart struggles to hold his family together, his wife Shannon becomes the steady anchor—caring for Sam, supporting Bart, and holding on to hope when it feels far away. When Sam and newcomer Tim Timmons join the band for their biggest tour yet, Bart must navigate the demands of fatherhood and the pressures of fame, all while helping his son find the courage to sing his own song.

Directed by Andrew Erwin and Brent McCorkle, written by Brent McCorkle, and starring John Michael Finley, Milo Ventimiglia, Sophie Skelton, Arielle Kebbel, Joshua Bassett, Sammy Dell, with Trace Adkins, and Dennis Quaid, I CAN ONLY IMAGINE 2 is a heartfelt story of faith, family, and finding hope through the storm.

Book here:https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/i-can-only-imagine-2

Midwinter Break

Running time: 90 minutes

Rated: M (Offensive language)

MIDWINTER BREAK is a compelling story about lost faith, commitment, and the enduring power of love, as a longtime couple takes a life-changing trip to Amsterdam.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/midwinter-break

Tenor: My Name is Pati

Running time: 104 minutes

Rated: PG (Coarse language)

This music-packed documentary tells the story of Pene Pati and his brother Amitai Pati, and their against-the-odds journey from Samoa to platinum-selling success in the trio Sol3 Mio and on to the world’s greatest opera stages. Bursting with humour, heart and soaring performances, the film reveals the resilience born of adversity, the richness of family and culture, and the rewards that come from following an unlikely dream.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/tenor-my-name-is-pati

The Bride!

Running time: 126 minutes

Rated: R16 (Violence, sexual violence & offensive language)

From Maggie Gyllenhaal (Academy Award-nominated writer/director of The Lost Daughter) and starring Academy Award nominee Jessie Buckley and Academy Award winner Christian Bale comes THE BRIDE! A bold, iconoclastic take on one of the world’s most compelling stories.

A lonely Frankenstein (Bale) travels to 1930s Chicago to ask groundbreaking scientist Dr. Euphronious (five-time Oscar nominee Annette Bening) to create a companion for him. The two revive a murdered young woman and The Bride (Buckley) is born. What ensues is beyond what either of them imagined: Murder! Possession! A wild and radical cultural movement! And outlaw lovers in a wild and combustible romance!

The film stars Buckley, Bale, Peter Sarsgaard, with Bening, Academy Award nominee Jake Gyllenhaal, and Oscar winner Penélope Cruz. Maggie Gyllenhaal directs from her own screenplay and produces alongside Oscar nominee Emma Tillinger Koskoff, Talia Kleinhendler and Osnat Handelsman Keren. The executive producers are Carla Raij, David Webb and Courtney Kivowitz.

Gyllenhaal is supported behind the camera by a team of award-winning film artisans, including director of photography Lawrence Sher, production designer Karen Murphy, editor Dylan Tichenor, music supervisor Randall Poster, composer Hildur Gudnadóttir and costume designer Sandy Powell.

Warner Bros. Pictures Presents A First Love Films / In The Current Company Production, A Maggie Gyllenhaal Film: THE BRIDE!. The film will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, only in cinemas March 2026.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/the-bride

The Moment

Running time: 103 minutes

Rated: R16 (Drug use & offensive language)

A rising pop sensation (Charli XCX) navigates fame and industry pressures while preparing for her arena tour debut, revealing the transformation of underground culture into mainstream success.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/the-moment

No Tears on the Field

Running time: 93 minutes

Rated: E

In New Zealand’s heartland, teams of aspiring female rugby players must shatter glass ceilings both on and off the field to achieve their improbable dream of international glory.

Directed by Doc Edge alumna Burd (Changing Gear, Monterey, Let’s Talk About Sex), the film is more than rugby, it is about resilience and authenticity at its best; young women daring to dream big but taken out by curveballs that leave you gasping, belly laughing, and ultimately feeling like anything is possible.

It follows a season of women’s grassroots rugby in Taranaki from club players to sporting superheroes Michaela Blyde. You will be cheering from the sideline.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/no-tears-on-the-field

Source: Monterey Cinemas Upper Hutt

03/03/26

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