Wellington’s property market is becoming a hub of opportunity for homebuyers and investors. After a period of high prices, the market has seen a significant correction, making it more accessible. Here’s an overview of the key suburbs worth exploring in 2024, including price trends and growth potential.1. Seatoun: The Premium SuburbSeatoun continues to top the charts as the most expensive suburb in Wellington, with a median house price of $1,776,500. This seaside suburb is known for its scenic views, high-quality homes, and proximity to the city centre. Its desirability ensures it retains its value, appealing to affluent buyers​.Picture source: openexpert.nz2.…

As December rolls in, the cinematic offerings heat up with an exciting mix of heartfelt dramas, thrilling biopics, and unique adventures. Here’s your guide to the 12 films you shouldn’t miss this month, whether you’re heading to the cinema or streaming from home.1. Beatles ’64: Relive the ManiaTravel back to February 1964 when Beatlemania took the US by storm. Directed by David Tedeschi and produced by Martin Scorsese, this intimate documentary captures The Beatles’ whirlwind visit to America, featuring rare footage by the iconic Maysles brothers. With appearances from Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and peers like Smokey Robinson, the film…

Wellington’s Watts Peninsula, a site rich in cultural and historical significance, stands on the brink of transformation. The New Zealand government, led by Minister for Land Information Chris Penk, is considering its future, with proposals for turning it into a public reserve gaining widespread support.Sir Peter Jackson’s Vision for a ReserveProminent filmmaker and Wellington local Sir Peter Jackson has emerged as a passionate advocate for the site. Describing Watts Peninsula as a “long-promised public reserve,” Jackson envisions the area as a place for recreation, education, and the preservation of history. “It’s a chance to create something truly extraordinary—a green sanctuary…

The Chernobyl disaster left a scar on the world, yet the feral dogs in its exclusion zone have shown an extraordinary ability to adapt. These remarkable canines have evolved rapidly to survive in a harsh, irradiated environment. Similarly, Wellington’s water infrastructure faces its own form of adversity, demanding ingenuity and resilience to overcome systemic neglect. Both stories reveal the power of adaptation in the face of challenges.A Story of SurvivalJust as the Chernobyl dogs are descendants of abandoned pets, Wellington’s water system is the legacy of past decisions—or the lack thereof. Over decades, underinvestment in essential infrastructure has left the…

Step into the vibrant heart of Wellington with 55 stunning photos from last week, showcasing the city’s most exciting moments. From lively gatherings to unique experiences, these images capture the true essence of what makes Wellington special. Every snapshot reveals the energy and creativity that filled the streets, leaving a lasting impression of the week’s best events. Whether you missed out or want to relive the magic, this collection offers an insider’s look at the happenings across the city. Explore the gallery and see Wellington in its finest light, all in one place. Edit gallery

It was an ordinary morning at Fryberg Beach when I made an unexpected, albeit artistic, acquisition—a massive 4.5-metre pine branch that had washed ashore. Now, most people would simply admire the craftsmanship of nature, perhaps pondering its beauty as driftwood. But no, I had other plans. To me, it was destined to be a flagpole—a grand, slightly impractical flagpole, mind you.With no better way to transport this towering piece of timber, I decided to stow it in my trusty (though modestly sized) Naughty car. At 2.4 metres long, the car is hardly built for transporting oversized beach finds. Yet, as…

Wellington Water’s Chief Executive, Pat Dougherty, recently shed light on the deepening issues facing the organisation, from underfunded infrastructure to systemic inefficiencies. Addressing a Greater Wellington Regional Council committee, Dougherty revealed a funding gap so significant that even an immediate financial boost would leave the region’s water network at current standards for over a decade.Picture source: linkedin Critical Funding ShortfallsWellington Water has requested $39 million in funding for immediate upgrades, but the six shareholding councils, including Wellington City Council, have allocated less than half the required amount over the next decade. Currently, Wellington Water can replace just 9 km of pipes…

The heart of Wellington bore witness to an extraordinary turn of events when Port Wellington defied expert advice to construct skyscrapers on reclaimed land. This decision, now infamous in local lore, has sparked renewed debate over the future of the waterfront—and a compelling case for a National Aquarium.A Bold Decision Gone WrongWellington’s downtown, from Lambton Quay to the harbour, stands on reclaimed land—essentially a foundation of rubble and construction materials. Despite warnings from some of the city’s sharpest property developers, the Port proceeded to erect skyscrapers on this precarious base. Experts had cautioned that such developments could lead to disaster…

Public Meeting Falls ShortJohnsonville shop owners left a public meeting this week feeling disappointed after councillors shared little new information about plans to revitalise the area’s struggling mall. The meeting, organised by Councillors Tony Randle, Ben McNulty, and Ray Chung, aimed to address the future of the Johnsonville Shopping Centre, which has suffered decades of neglect.Picture source: The PostHowever, the session, covered by Wellington Live, provided few concrete answers, leaving many stakeholders frustrated.Years of Stalled RedevelopmentThe Johnsonville Shopping Centre, owned by Stride Property, has seen minimal investment since its last major renovation in 1993, which cost $5.5 million. Over the…

Wellington’s aging water infrastructure is under significant strain, with frequent failures highlighting decades of underinvestment. The city is now at a critical juncture, as it grapples with increasing maintenance costs, population growth, and climate-related pressures. Here’s a detailed look at the issue, the areas most affected, and potential solutions.Suburbs Most Affected: Where the Cracks Are ShowingSome of Wellington’s most populous suburbs, including Karori, Johnsonville, and Miramar, are bearing the brunt of infrastructure decay. These areas have experienced repeated disruptions due to burst pipes and persistent leaks. For instance, Miramar recently faced a weeks-long water leak that went unresolved, spilling millions…