Author: Huzaifa

A One Network Wellington Live Investigation For years, Wellington has prided itself on being a world-class capital—a vibrant cultural hub set against a stunning natural backdrop. But beneath the charm, a storm has been brewing. A series of missteps by Wellington City Council (WCC) has eroded public trust, leaving ratepayers disillusioned and frustrated. As financial mismanagement, infrastructure failures, and governance issues mount, the question remains: how did we get here, and is there a way out? The Bad Decisions That Led to Ratepayer Revolt 1. Financial Mismanagement and Rising Rates Wellingtonians have watched their rates skyrocket over the past seven…

This weekend, a unique and heartfelt event is taking place as over 280 riders embark on a 329km journey from Napier to Wellington on 50cc scooters. This event, known as the Jolly Good Chaps 50cc Scooter Challenge, isn’t just about the thrill of the ride; it’s a tribute to Mason Baker, a beloved friend who passed away in 2023, and a significant push to raise awareness about men’s mental health. Organized by The Jolly Good Chaps Charitable Trust, this year’s challenge aims to raise over $200,000 for local charities, making it a beacon of community spirit and support. The Legacy…

In a significant move to enhance public safety and curb the influence of firearms among gangs and high-risk offenders, the New Zealand government has introduced a robust firearms crackdown. Effective from this Sunday, the police and courts have been endowed with new powers under the revised Firearms Prohibition Orders (FPOs) framework. This legislative change, aimed at keeping our communities safer, was announced by Justice Minister Mark Mitchell and Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee, signaling a strong commitment to law and order. New Search Powers for Police Starting this weekend, the police in Wellington and across New Zealand have been granted…

In an effort to maintain essential services while alleviating financial strain on ratepayers, Greater Wellington Regional Council Te Pane Matua Taiao has unveiled its proposed Annual Plan for the fiscal year 2025/26. This plan, which seeks to reduce the pressure on ratepayers, includes a proposed average regional rates increase of 9.7%, a significant reduction from the initially suggested 14.5%. Let’s delve into the details of this plan, understand the rationale behind the decisions, and explore how Wellingtonians can engage with this process. Understanding the Proposed Rates Increase The decision to lower the rates increase from 14.5% to 9.7% comes at…

In a recent poll conducted by Curia Market Research Ltd for the New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union, Wellington City Mayor Tory Whanau finds herself in a challenging position, ranking third among the mayors of New Zealand’s three largest cities with a significantly negative approval rating. This article, brought to you by One Network Wellington Live, delves into the details of this poll, its implications for Wellington, and what it might mean for the future of local governance in our city. The Poll Results: A Closer Look The poll, which ran from January 2023 to February 2025, involved a substantial sample size…

In the quiet suburb of Naenae, Wellington, a peaceful night was shattered by the alarming discovery of a house fire on Sladden Street in the early hours of Tuesday. According to the NZ Police, the fire was not an accident but was deliberately lit. This incident has prompted Hutt Valley Police to issue a public appeal for witnesses who might have seen or recorded any suspicious activity during the critical time frame. The Incident Shortly after 3am, an occupant of the house on Sladden Street awoke to the terrifying sight of the front porch engulfed in flames. Quick thinking and…

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on why Wellington Labradors are known for their big appetites. Here at One Network Wellington Live, we delve into the fascinating world of our local Labradors to understand this unique trait. Whether you’re a proud Labrador owner or just curious about these lovable dogs, this article will provide you with all the insights you need.The Labrador’s Genetic BackgroundLabradors, originally bred for retrieving game in the icy waters of Newfoundland, Canada, have a genetic predisposition towards a high metabolism. This trait was beneficial for their original work, requiring them to maintain energy in cold environments. According…

In a recent revelation that has stirred the pot among Wellingtonians, the Wellington City Council (WCC) has spent a staggering $93,819 on a mural at the Ākau Tangi Sports Centre. This expenditure, brought to light by the New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union through a Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act request, has sparked a debate on the priorities of local government spending. Let’s dive into the details of this artistic investment and explore the broader implications for our community. The Breakdown of Costs The mural, titled ‘Realms to the World of Light’, spans an impressive 100 metres along the sports…

In a significant address at a Local Government meeting in Wellington, the newly appointed Local Government Minister, Simon Watts, has set a new tone for how central government intends to interact with local councils. His message was clear: councils should not hesitate to seek assistance if they are facing challenges, particularly in the context of the upcoming Water Services Delivery Plan submissions due on September 3rd. This directive from Minister Watts marks a pivotal shift towards proactive engagement and support from central government to local entities, with a special focus on Wellington’s local governance landscape. Immediate Call for Collaboration Minister…

Starting from July 1, 2025, Wellington’s public transport users will see a change in their travel costs as Metlink fares are set to increase by 2.2%. Alongside this, the off-peak discount for those using a Snapper card will be adjusted from 50% to 30%. This decision, made by the Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC), aims to align fares with inflation while still offering benefits for off-peak travel. Let’s delve into what this means for Wellingtonians and the rationale behind these changes. Why the Fare Increase? The decision to increase fares by 2.2% was not taken lightly. According to Thomas Nash,…