Across New Zealand, and particularly in Wellington, the debate over surcharges is heating up. These extra charges on services – ranging from hospitality to credit card transactions – have many consumers asking if it’s time to end the practice altogether. Surcharges are typically used to cover rising costs, but as Kiwis find them on more receipts, frustration is growing. Here, we explore the views of Wellingtonians and New Zealanders on the issue, weighing the perspectives of both customers and businesses.What Are Surcharges, and Why Are They Applied?Surcharges are additional fees added to a bill, often for public holiday service, credit…

Khandallah, a suburb in Wellington, is well-known for its charming mix of long-standing businesses and essential services. Over the years, this community has seen both subtle and significant changes, making it a distinctive place to live and shop. With its bustling village atmosphere, Khandallah Village serves as the heart of the suburb, offering a small yet vibrant retail and commercial centre that continues to adapt to the needs of its residents.The Evolution of KhandallahKhandallah has long been recognised for its strong sense of community. Its businesses, some of which have been operating for decades, provide a diverse range of day-to-day…

Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is renowned worldwide for its dynamic music scene. A city where diverse cultural influences converge, Wellington offers a unique mix of sounds, from reggae and dub to indie rock, jazz, and hip-hop. Local musicians continuously push creative boundaries, captivating fans both locally and abroad. This power list features 20 of Wellington’s most influential bands and artists, each adding to the city’s rich musical heritage and defining the sound of Wellington today.1. Fat Freddy’s DropOne of Wellington’s most acclaimed exports, Fat Freddy’s Drop blends reggae, dub, soul, and electronic music with a distinctly Kiwi style.…

Recent proposals for development projects in Wellington, some of which have been labelled as “vanity projects,” have sparked considerable debate among ratepayers and city officials. With reports suggesting that up to 80% of ratepayers oppose these projects, a question emerges: how can Wellington’s ratepayers ensure their voices are heard, and how should local representatives balance public sentiment with city development ambitions? This article examines both sides of the debate and explores potential ways for enhancing communication and accountability.Understanding Ratepayer Opposition to “Vanity Projects”In Wellington, certain council-driven projects—such as high-cost infrastructure or aesthetic city improvements—have come under scrutiny as unnecessary expenses.…

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…