The Civic Administration Building (CAB) in Wellington, severely damaged in the 2016 Kaikoura earthquake, is now undergoing a significant demolition and recycling process. Since April, Wellington City Council has focused on minimising waste from this large project, recycling nearly 80% of the demolition material. This approach not only supports sustainable practices but also aligns with Wellington’s broader environmental goals, making the CAB project a model of responsible urban development.Picture source: wellington.govt.nzA Strong Commitment to SustainabilityWith LT McGuinness at the helm, the project places a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. Site manager Rob Janes leads efforts to reduce landfill contributions and…

Wellington witnessed a strong and peaceful demonstration. Hundreds of Kiwis rallied to protest the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, motivated by a strong sense of justice and solidarity.

Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, has a job market predominantly powered by government employment. This dependency brings both stability and challenges. On one side, Wellington’s reliance on the government sector provides economic security; however, it might also limit the city’s potential for private-sector expansion, potentially acting as a “sea anchor” on broader economic growth. This article explores these contrasting perspectives and possible solutions to diversify Wellington’s economic landscape.Government Employment Dominance in WellingtonGovernment jobs are a significant part of Wellington’s workforce, with around 18% of New Zealand’s public sector roles concentrated in the region. In 2023, Wellington’s government sector…

In a striking statement, Defence Minister Judith Collins has urged New Zealand to confront a growing security threat, stating that parts of the country may fall within the range of a Chinese missile strike. This announcement, which identified Wellington Lower Hutt, The Nui, Raumato, Seatoun, Otaki, Hataitai and the Central Business District (CBD) as potential targets, underscores a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape impacting New Zealand.The Minister’s comments follow her recent attendance at a NATO meeting in Brussels, where international leaders convened to discuss mounting concerns over global security. Collins emphasised that China’s expanding missile capabilities now place the…

Overview of Wellington’s Infrastructure and Council ResponsibilitiesWellington City Council (WCC) manages a wide scope of services—over 400—that touch nearly every aspect of city life, from core infrastructure like water and transport systems to community services like libraries and recreational facilities. The Council’s newly adopted Long-term Plan 2024–34 allocates $4.9 billion to capital improvements and an additional $11.6 billion to cover operating costs for the upcoming decade, yet challenges persist. Wellington’s infrastructure has been weakened by years of deferred maintenance, underfunded upgrades, and a rapid increase in demands from its growing population.The Roots of Wellington’s Infrastructure ProblemsYears of deferred investment, particularly…

With Christmas fast approaching, concerns are mounting over a potential rise in Covid-19 cases in Wellington. In recent years, holiday gatherings, increased travel, and the emergence of new Covid variants have led to spikes around this time. Keeping in mind past trends, health officials are monitoring closely for signs of a possible wave this December. Although case numbers are currently stable, new variants that have appeared globally could change the local situation, especially as holiday celebrations and social gatherings increase.Covid-19 Trends in Wellington’s Recent HistoryLooking at Wellington’s past Covid-19 data, a noticeable rise in cases occurred after major holidays like…

The recent overhaul of New Zealand’s Resource Management Act (RMA) has ignited robust debates, especially in Wellington. These changes, driven by the Natural and Built Environment Act (NBA) and the Spatial Planning Act (SPA), aim to streamline development processes and improve environmental outcomes. However, many local leaders are concerned about how these reforms will impact regional development, housing, and environmental preservation.Picture Source: environment.govt.nzUnderstanding the RMA ReformsThe RMA, introduced in 1991, has long been criticised for being overly complex, slowing down housing developments, and increasing project costs. The government’s new reforms claim to address these issues by simplifying the consenting process…

Wellington’s real estate market has been shaped by several key individuals who have made significant contributions to the city’s evolving property landscape. These people play a pivotal role in urban development, commercial real estate, and sustainable building practices. Here’s a list of 15 influential figures in Wellington’s real estate scene in 2024.1. Ian Cassels – The Visionary DeveloperAs the founder of The Wellington Company, Ian Cassels is a central figure in Wellington’s property development scene. Known for transforming iconic buildings in Te Aro and Shelly Bay, he is a strong advocate for urban regeneration. Cassels is dedicated to creating spaces…

Wellington’s infrastructure is crumbling, and the city’s leadership is scrambling to keep up. With projects like the Let’s Get Wellington Moving initiative seeing more delays than a Wellington commuter stuck behind roadworks, it’s no surprise that residents are starting to lose patience. Mayor Tory Whanau, elected with the promise of delivering real change, is now facing a chorus of criticism as ballooning costs and missed deadlines plague her administration.Let’s Get Wellington Moving – Or NotWhen the Let’s Get Wellington Moving initiative was first unveiled, it promised to revolutionise the capital’s transport system. Yet, three years later, we’re seeing more road…

In the picturesque region of Wairarapa, young women are finding new opportunities in the agricultural sector, thanks to a unique initiative known as the Girls Who Grow program. Designed to inspire the next generation of female leaders in farming and sustainability, the program is bridging the gap between urban and rural communities. It offers practical skills, mentorship, and the confidence needed to succeed in a traditionally male-dominated field.Nurturing Future Leaders in FarmingThe Girls Who Grow program is more than just an educational initiative; it’s a movement aimed at changing perceptions of agriculture. Participants, many of whom come from urban backgrounds,…