This article is part of a series advocating for the rights of disabled people, by Dr Pamela J. MacNeill, Managing Director, Disability Responsiveness New Zealand Ltd. Website: https://drnz.co.nz/ | Email: admin@drnz.co.nz

Beyond the Checklist: Why ‘Tick-Box’ Accessibility is Failing Our Community

Imagine planning a day out. You budget your time, book the arrangements, and double-check that everything is lined up. beyond paper, every single box is ticked:

• Accessible transport? Booked.
• A dedicated support person? Secured.
• An accessible local venue? Confirmed.
• The activity itself? Locked in.

By every official metric and corporate standard, this is a textbook success story. The system works.

Except, in reality, it didn’t.

What actually unfolded was a cascade of poor communication, preventable injuries, completely disrupted plans, and agonizing transport delays. When it mattered most, the support system failed entirely.

This isn’t a hypothetical nightmare; it is a daily reality for many disabled people in our community. And it forces us to confront an uncomfortable question: Is it time we stopped measuring accessibility by mere compliance, and started co-designing services that deliver real outcomes?

The truth about the scenario above is that the system didn’t fail because services were unavailable. The transport arrived, the venue was accessible on paper, and although the staff had not undergone any sort of disability responsiveness training, they had agreed to be supportive.

The system failed because accessibility is overwhelmingly measured by what is provided, not by what is experienced.

“Too often, services are designed FOR disabled people rather than WITH us. The result is systems that look flawless on paper but crumble in practice.”

When organizations approach accessibility as a legal hurdle or a public relations checklist, they miss the human element. A ramp built at the wrong incline is still a ramp, but it’s unusable. An accessible bus that arrives an hour late is accessible, but it ruins access to critical things such as employment and medical appointments. True accessibility cannot be captured on a spreadsheet.

To understand how we get this so wrong, we have to look at our mindset. For generations, support for disabled people was viewed through the lens of charity—a benevolent system providing specialized services to a passive group of recipients.

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) was created precisely to shatter this outdated model. The UNCRPD demands a fundamental shift away from charity and bureaucratic service delivery toward fundamental human rights.

It explicitly recognises that disabled people have the right to have rights, including participation in all aspects of society on an equal basis with others. Therefore, true accessibility should never be judged by the mere existence of a service. Instead, it must be judged by whether it enables:

• Genuine Participation: Can a person actually engage with the activity within the community?
• Choice: Does the individual have autonomy over how they spend their day?
• Safety: Are services delivered without putting bodily or mental health at risk?
• Dignity: Is the person treated with respect, or as a burden to be managed?
• Inclusion: Does the service foster a sense of belonging?

Providing a service does not automatically mean a right has been realised.

If the current system is broken, how do we fix it? The answer lies in a concept called co-design.

Co-design moves past the tokenistic “public consultation” phases where plans are already finalized and disabled people are simply asked for a stamp of approval. Instead, co-design means sitting at the drawing board together from day one. It treats disabled individuals not just as “users” or “clients,” but as experts by lived experience.

When we co-design our local pools, parks, public transport routes, council websites, and community events, we build infrastructure that works for everyone. We prevent the injuries, the delays, and the indignities before they ever have a chance to occur.

Our local businesses, council members, and service providers need to step up. It is no longer enough to say, “But we met the regulations.” If the people attempting to utilise your service are left frustrated, excluded, or hurt, the regulations have failed them, and so have you.

Let’s retire the clipboard and the tick-boxes. Let’s start listening to the lived experiences of our neighbors. It’s time to open the door, pull up a chair, and build a community that isn’t just accessible on paper, but truly accessible in real life.

Upper Hutt used to have a disability reference group, and Council staff used to attend disability responsiveness training; perhaps we need to include disabled voices in our local government again.

A “thank you” to Dr Pamela J. MacNeill, Managing Director, Disability Responsiveness New Zealand Ltd. for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

03/07/26

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Mangaroa Farms in Upper Hutt are turning there publicly accessible walking track to a foraging zone with mixed fruit , nuts, fungi, medicnal herbs and root crops for Joe Blogs to access for free.

The farm loop track is 3 km and the planting will include two more dense areas.

The funding platform is unique, donations are matched by the funders (in this case, Mangaroa Farms parent trust is one) smaller donations are more powerful than larger ones, as its the number of donations that unlock the matches. It is a new way for grass roots projects to get funding. What that means is $1 means the world.

As part of this, there will be free workshops , where people can learn to graft and propagate, one is coming up later this month.

There will be a community planting day this year with some larger grade trees going in, and then more planting next year from all the trees we grow this year.

Please check out the link and share/donate if you can.
https://maearth.com/mangaroa-farms/fruit-and-forage

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

06/07/26

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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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A new Lions Club year has begun!

Last week we celebrated everything we achieved together during the 2025/26 Lions Club year and officially welcomed in the 2026/27 year at our Changeover.

Every project we undertake, every fundraiser we hold, and every helping hand we offer makes a real difference in our community. From supporting individuals, charities, and local clubs to caring for our environment, our members are passionate about creating positive change.

If you’ve been looking for a way to give back, meet like-minded people, and be part of something meaningful, this could be the perfect opportunity.

Come along to one of our meetings and see what Lions is all about. You’ll be warmly welcomed, and there’s no obligation to join, just a chance to discover how you can help make a difference.

• First Wednesday of every month
• Silverstream Volunteer Fire Brigade
• 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start

Together, we can achieve so much more than we ever could alone. We’d love to meet you!

A “thank you” to Louise from the Silverstream Lions Club for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

02/07/26

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Upper Hutt City Council will borrow $4.4m from the LGFA (Local Government Funding Agency) for new projects. $513,000 of that will fund adopting AI and ensuring legal compliance. The council is still planning its approach and has not confirmed total costs.

AI will be used to improve internal efficiency and require software licences costing $60 per user each month. The council already uses ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot across its operations. Acting corporate services manager Sarah Tunnicliffe said borrowing was required because AI counted as new IT equipment under its financial strategy.

The remaining borrowing includes $224,000 for rural road safety upgrades, $29,000 to replace central city CCTV cameras, and $31,000 for new road sealing.

Neighbouring Hutt City Council has used AI since 2024 to speed up reporting and improve services. It spends $180,000 a year for 300 licences and saves $900,000 and 44,000 staff hours annually. It has built custom AI assistants for routine tasks and is testing tools to speed up LIM searches and automate resource consent invoices. Each invoice currently takes up to 10 minutes, with up to 100 processed on busy weeks.

Source: Justin Wong / Local Democracy Reporting / Radio New Zealand

03/07/26

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Upper Hutt residents want their city’s interests represented in regional discussions about potential amalgamation and have made it clear that any future change must protect affordability, local representation, community identity, and transparent decision-making.

Between 2 and 17 June 2026, Council asked the community for feedback on the future shape of local government in the Wellington region.

The engagement was designed to help inform Council’s consideration of the Government’s Head Start pathway, which gives councils the option to work together to develop a high-level proposal for local government reorganisation in their area. The alternative pathway called Back Stop would introduce wider Government-led reform from 2028.

The feedback shows strong support for Upper Hutt being part of the conversation, but this does not mean they necessarily support council amalgamation.

Of the 455 survey responses received, 82.4 percent supported Council taking the Head Start pathway rather than waiting for the Government’s Backstop process, which could see councils being told what amalgamation will look like for them.

Respondents signalled a preference for a careful and evidence-led approach, with 49.2 percent wanting Council to participate cautiously and 44.3 percent wanting Council to actively shape proposals. Only 7.8 percent wanted Council to stay out of the process.

On the question of potential council amalgamation itself, community views were more cautious. While 9.3 percent supported combining councils regardless of the outcome, 49.8 percent were open to change only if outcomes clearly improved, 33.5 percent did not support combining councils under any circumstances, and 12.1 percent were unsure or needed more information.

 “What our community has told us is clear. Upper Hutt needs to be in the room so our priorities are heard, but any future proposal should be tested through consultation,” says Upper Hutt Mayor Peri Zee.

“Our residents want to understand how this change would impact their families’ access to community services, how decisions would be made about local issues and how much it’ll cost to live in Upper Hutt.”

The strongest themes from the feedback included rates and affordability, local representation, community identity, the need for more information, continued community involvement, and the importance of considering a range of options before any preferred direction is identified.

Many residents questioned whether reform would deliver genuine savings and raised concerns about Upper Hutt ratepayers subsidising infrastructure or debt elsewhere in the region.

Others emphasised the importance of retaining a strong local voice in decision-making, protecting Upper Hutt’s distinct identity and character, and ensuring residents remain involved as discussions progress. Residents also called for clearer information about potential financial impacts, governance arrangements, and the evidence supporting any future proposal.

“This feedback gives Council a strong mandate to keep Upper Hutt’s interests at the centre of regional discussions. It does not predetermine any final position on amalgamation. It tells us to proceed carefully, ask hard questions, and make sure the community can see how its feedback is shaping our approach,” says Mayor Zee.

The Government has set a deadline of 9 August for councils to submit a high-level Head Start proposal. If chosen to go ahead, proposals will proceed to a detailed design phase. The Government has indicated councils will have an opportunity to consult with communities before final Cabinet decisions on any changes are made in May 2027.

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

01/07/26

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Today, Tiaki Wai takes responsibility for water networks across Porirua, Hutt Valley and Wellington and around 155,000 homes and businesses will start to see the direct impact of their investment on improving water services.

“We’re a new and different organisation in some important ways,” says Michael Brewster, Chief Executive of Tiaki Wai. “Our ability to borrow moves us forward from having to seek year-by-year funding from councils and lets us plan long-term to deliver the network renewals and maintenance our region needs.

This coming year will see Tiaki Wai spending around $800 million. About half will go into replacing and upgrading aging pipes and other critical assets, and foundational technology systems. The rest goes to delivering services across the region; that is, keeping water coming out of the taps and safely managing wastewater and stormwater.

“It’s no secret that there’s some big issues to face as we get going, and the numbers associated with those issues are big too, but we have to face up to the reality of the network we’re inheriting and get on with the job,” says Mr Brewster.

Home owners will now be billed direct for water services – drinking water supply, wastewater and stormwater – instead of through their rates. This will amount to about half of Tiaki Wai funding for the first year. The other half comes mainly from new borrowing, with some from development contributions and other sources.

Board Chair Will Peet says that major failures like Moa Point, and big risks such as the state of the Seaview outfall pipe, have proved the need for change in the way water services are delivered.

“The ability to have a direct relationship with the people we’re serving, to be able to engage communities as we grapple with big decisions about when and how we spend customer money, will be important,” says Will.

“We know we’re facing massive problems under our feet, on our coastlines and in our towns and cities. From today, we can get on with the job of dealing with a range of long-standing issues as well as planning a path forward.”

Michael Brewster says that as Tiaki Wai builds a new organisation, bringing together new management and existing knowledge and expertise, there is a lot to do behind the scenes.

“We’re taking over from a system where there’s been underinvestment in not only the infrastructure but also the systems and tools to manage that infrastructure effectively. We have to make sure our back-office is right, that our systems are right, and that all the things we need are in place so we can function in a cost-effective way and meet expectations.”

Tiaki Wai is Council-owned, and governed by a Partnerships Committee that includes Council representatives and Mana Whenua.

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

01/07/26

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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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Democracy one person one vote is under threat in New Zealand, and it is locally where we need to make a stand. We have been complacent and lulled into a false sense of security or simply frustrated with our representation in local and central government so have opted out. This has left a gaping hole, and contractors and developers have filled the hole with lobbing for control of all things local, water access and three water services and now, through central government compulsory, reorganisation /amalgamation of local council are seeking to take control of land for development free from community oversight, that is, what is of priority and important to us.

The current government never campaigned on their policy to ‘Simplify Local democracy” and their compulsory” Head start “process to reorganize or amalgamate NZ local councils’ authority. This is the greatest threat to democracy facing us yet elected local mayors and councils think central government” Sovereign” over the democratic right of locals to organize their local government as they see fit.

 Lobbying by contractors and developers who National and their coalition represent have confiscated our access to water in Wellington with Tiaki Wai council owned corporation. The next phase in the current government’s plan is to impose reorganization/amalgamation on local councils by legislation if they can’t manipulate it first be fearmongering and 9th August deadline, do it or we will do it to you. Giving councils, I believe three options that will be acceptable to them. Is that democracy one person one vote.

 Apparently according to MP Chris Bishop, we don’t need local democracy people don’t vote anyway. The only thing standing in the way of what’s best for NZ according to the National party, is voters, is democracy. The answer take away their voting system as Sovereign and leave it to them National and business. As it is people are struggling to cover rates and now water user charges. We need to stand up for the right to organise our local democracy as we see fit free from central government compulsion, what is coming will hit us like a tsunami if we don’t.

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

02/07/26

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As we celebrate Matariki, this year’s theme, Herenga Waka – the gathering of many canoes, offers a powerful reminder of what communities can achieve when they come together around a shared purpose.

At its heart, Herenga Waka speaks to the idea that progress is not the work of one person, one organisation, or one group alone. Like many waka bound together on a journey, it is achieved through collective effort, shared responsibility, and a common destination.

This is something Upper Hutt is on a journey to embrace. Across our city, people are finding new ways to work together, contribute their talents, and build a stronger community around shared aspirations. While there is still much to do, there is growing recognition that our greatest successes will come when we combine our efforts and move forward with a common purpose.

Across our hāpori, people are working together to restore streams, plant native trees, protect biodiversity, control pests, remove invasive weeds, and care for the forests, rivers and open spaces that make this place special. Community groups, iwi, schools, businesses, landowners, council staff, volunteers and residents are all contributing in different ways. Each effort may seem small on its own, but together they create meaningful and lasting change.

The work of Forest & Bird is founded on exactly this principle. For more than 100 years, the organisation has worked to protect New Zealand’s wildlife and wild places so that both nature and people can thrive for generations to come. Through its network of volunteers and community-led projects, Forest & Bird gives nature a voice while empowering communities to take practical action for the places they love.

Here in Upper Hutt, local Forest & Bird volunteers are helping bring that vision to life. They are restoring the health of Hulls Creek and other waterways, caring for Ecclesfield Reserve, controlling invasive weeds such as Old Man’s Beard, advocating to protect and enhance Silverstream Spur, and leading the Pest Free Upper Hutt initiative with the aspiration of seeing our valleys once again resonate with birdsong and native wildlife.

Yet the true value of this work goes beyond any single project.

Through a te ao Māori lens, we understand that we are connected to te taiao, not separate from it. The principle of kaitiakitanga reminds us that caring for the environment is both a privilege and a responsibility. It is not simply about protecting what exists today; it is about ensuring that future generations inherit healthy forests, thriving waterways, abundant birdlife and a strong connection to the natural world.

Matariki encourages us to look both backwards and forwards. It invites us to honour those who came before us, celebrate what we have today, think carefully about the legacy we leave behind and the decisions we make for those yet to be born.

In conservation, that perspective matters. The trees we plant today may not reach maturity in our lifetimes. The habitats we restore may take decades to flourish. The pest control, advocacy and restoration work happening now may deliver its greatest rewards to our children and grandchildren. Yet that is precisely why it is worth doing.

Conservation is, at its core, an act of optimism.

It is the belief that the efforts we make today can create a better tomorrow.

Imagine an Upper Hutt where native birds are common throughout our neighbourhoods, where our streams run cleaner, where our forests are healthier, and where young people grow up knowing that they have both the opportunity and responsibility to care for the natural world around them. That future is possible, but it will not be delivered by a handful of organisations or volunteers alone.

It requires all of us.

You don’t need to be an expert to make a difference. You can join a planting day, become a backyard trapper, help remove invasive weeds, support a local environmental project, participate in a community working bee, or simply encourage others to connect with nature. Every contribution matters. Every person has something valuable to offer. Every waka strengthens the fleet.

Herenga Waka reminds us that we are strongest when we travel together.

This Matariki, let’s celebrate the many people already working to care for the environment in Upper Hutt and consider what role each of us can play. When we come together with a shared purpose, we not only create healthier ecosystems – we build a stronger, more connected community and leave a legacy that future generations can be proud of.

Barry Wards

Chair, Upper Hutt Forest & Bird

A “thank you” to Barry Wards for sending this letter to The Upper Hutt Connection.

03/07/26

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Statement Made at NZCIS!

https://uhconnection.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/rams-results-4th-of-july.jpg

Source: Upper Hutt Rams RFC

06/07/26

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https://uhconnection.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/friends-of-haukaretu-stream-planting-out-day.jpg?w=1024

Pomarie all F&B and other volunteers,

Hopefully the weather is now settling and we can do our postponed June planting.

Where: Twin Lakes Kaitoke Regional Park – turn off SH2 just north of Te Marua – see attached map. The planting area is opposite the pumping station.
Parking. There is some parking to the left of the Pumping Station.
Wellington Water has been shifting gear to their storage compound below the Treatment Plant so be fore-warned – not sure about Saturdays.

When: Saturday 25 July, Time: 9 am till noon

What: We are planting 466 trees and will provide morning tea as usual. 
Access to the planting ground is by either through the gate at the top of the rise or climb the fence.

We have some  spare planting spades. Please bring a spike for stony conditions if you have one. We hope we don’t need them. The ground should be easy – the rangers got stuck a week or two back!

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

06/07/26

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

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

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

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

17/06/26

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Location: Mayfair Café, 116 Main Street

A great night promised.

10 acts , 2 songs each.

KOHA entry.

Come along and celebrate live music.

Source: Mainly Acoustic Music Club Upper Hutt

06/07/26

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Location: Lane Park Church Café, 22 Lane Street, Upper Hutt

From the Hutt Valley to Myanmar: How a 6 AM Zoom call is changing lives.

A small group of Wellington and international volunteers are keeping an educational lifeline alive for refugee youth?

For the past four years, our charity 25 Bridges has been running early morning English lessons via Zoom for displaced youth hiding in refugee camps in Mizoram, North-East India. Despite sharing single mobile phone screens in camps with no legal right to work, these students show up determined to become future doctors, nurses, and teachers.

Now, we are bringing their stories—and the authentic flavours of their culture—to Upper Hutt.

Join us for “Taste of Myanmar”, an evening of incredible food, moving photography, and powerful storytelling to help us fund life-changing educational scholarships.

When: Saturday 15 August, 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Where: Lane Park Church Café, Upper Hutt
Tickets: $65 Bookings through Eventbrite or contact Marion Porteous 0212375334 for tickets 

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

01/07/26

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https://uhconnection.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/last-night-of-the-proms-2026.jpg?w=768

Upper Hutt Brass Band proudly presents Last Night of the Proms 2026 at Expressions in Upper Hutt — a spectacular afternoon and evening that blends the beloved traditions of London’s Royal Albert Hall with a distinctive New Zealand flavour.

Joining the celebration are The Hutt Valley Singers, along with the very talented vocalist Jade Eru, and NZ Soprano cornet champion Jonty Zydenbos .

Raise your voice and wave your flag as you revel in stirring favourites like Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory, Sea Songs, and rousing patriotic marches — timeless highlights that capture the true spirit of this grand musical tradition.

Performances are at 2pm and 7pm so you can choose when to bring friends and family for a wonder outing of glorious music that everyone can sing along to.

Hey, you can come to both sessions if you like.

Get you tickets now at: https://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2026/aug/last-night-of-the-proms

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

06/07/26

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

07/07/26

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Kia ora Upper Hutt Community!

The Upper Hutt Hockey Club are hosting our annual quiz evening on the 17th of July at the Maidstone Football Clubrooms starting at 7pm.

We have been lucky to have been donated amazing prizes for raffles and through the quiz from our wonderful community, including:

• 2 x double passes to the Wellington Cup Marquee package (valued at $400!)
• 1 x Family pass to Staglands (valued at $80!)
• 1 x Wildfinder ebike & shuttle hire for the Rail Trail (valued at $120!)
• 5 x Sweetaxe vouchers (valued at $100 total!)
• 1 x $50 voucher from Cameron Harrison Butchery
• 1 x $50 voucher from Mangaroa Farms
• 1-night stay at Wallaceville House (Spa Studio for up to 2 guests, valued at $219!)

To enter a team (it is $10 per person, with a max of eight per team), please email our club on upperhutthockey@gmail.com, and someone will confirm your entry and payment options!

Source: Upper Hutt Hockey Club

01/07/26

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Location: Upper Hutt Central Library

The Upper Hutt Embroiderers’ Guild (UHEG) invites you to their open day stitch-in event at Central Library. 

UHEG members will showcase their work and current projects, opening doors into the wonderfully intricate and colourful world of embroidery. 

All levels of crafters are welcome to attend!

Are you… a complete beginner interested in exploring a new hobby? Get a quick tutorial from UHEG members and learn how to make something beautiful stitch by stitch.

Or are you… an experienced crafter with loads of projects on the go? Then bring what you are working on at the moment or breathe some fresh air into an old project and connect with like-minded locals. 

Embroidery is a celebration of colour, texture, and design, and a great hobby for self-care and slowing down in our busy lives.

Source: Upper Hutt Libraries

06/07/26

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Location: Upper Hutt Library

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

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

Dates for this year include:

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

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

29/04/26

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

05/05/26

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Location: 22 Lane Street, Wallaceville, Upper Hutt

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

All welcome.

Need more information? Please contact dropin@laneparkchurch.nz

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

03/06/26

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

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

For more information phone Ray: 04 9386082 / 0272236188

or email raypoy9@gmail.com

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

05/06/26

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

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

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

30/04/26

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Location: Upper Hutt Library

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

Look forward to seeing you next week!

Heather Newell
chair, Seniortech Skills Upper Hutt

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

05/05/26

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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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Location: Upper Hutt Library

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

Donations:

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

Any donations can be dropped off at Upper Hutt Library.

Contact:

Julia: 0274 933 981

Brenda: 0273703949

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

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

29/04/26

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

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

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

Classifieds

List your items on The Upper Hutt Connection, as well as having them appear in the Wednesday Edition for only $10 a week – Be seen by all 5,424 people who receive The Upper Hutt Connection

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

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

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

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

How to pay: Payment can be made by direct credit, bank deposit, automatic payment, or credit card (PayPal).

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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Advertise your business in The Upper Hutt Connection’s Wednesday Edition for only $10 a week – Be seen by all 5,424 followers

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

How to pay: Payment can be made by direct credit, bank deposit, automatic payment, or credit card (PayPal).

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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: 695 Fergusson Drive, Elderslea, Upper Hutt

Email: upperhutt.corps@salvationarmy.org.nz

Church website: Upper Hutt Corps – The Salvation Army NZFTS

How we can help:

Worship – Sunday 10:30am

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

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

Welfare – Tuesdays and Thursdays 10-12.30pm

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

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

Addictions

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

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

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

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

Booth College of Mission

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

Rata Educare

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

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

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

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

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

19/03/26

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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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Evil Dead Burn

Running time: 110 minutes

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

Evil Dead Burn unleashes the franchise’s most savage and terrifying ride to date, blazing onto big screens with an all-new chapter of carnage and demonic mayhem. After the loss of her husband, a woman seeks solace with her in-laws in their secluded family home. As one by one they are transformed into Deadites—turning the gathering into a family reunion from hell—she comes to discover that the vows she took in life… live on even in death.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/evil-dead-burn

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnHby2cxJzs&pp=ygUWZXZpbCBkZWFkIGJ1cm4gdHJhaWxlcg%3D%3D

Dhamaal 4

Running time: 143 minutes

Rated: M (Violence & suicide references)

The Dhamaal boys are back and ready to chase the “Treasure of Life,” facing crazy challenges along the way. What starts as a treasure hunt quickly turns into a rollercoaster of hilarious misadventures.

Book here: https://www.montereyupperhutt.co.nz/movie/dhamaal-4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jG9V8OhOp88&pp=ygURZGhhbWFhbCA0IHRyYWlsZXLSBwkJTgsBhyohjO8%3D

Source: Monterey Cinemas Upper Hutt

07/07/26

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