There’s something in the water when it comes to Wellington’s recent political history — and the name Justin Lester keeps floating to the top.Lester, who served as Mayor of Wellington from 2016 to 2019, has kept a relatively low political profile since losing office. But recent moves online, coupled with past controversies, are dragging old questions back into the light. And, Wellingtonians are asking: Was everything above board during Lester’s time in charge?Shelly Bay: A Development or a Deal?The Shelly Bay development saga remains one of Wellington’s most divisive urban projects. At the centre of it? Property developer Ian Cassels…

Local dairies, especially those offering Lotto services, have become frequent targets for robberies. The requirement to keep a minimum of $2000 in cash on hand for Lotto operations makes these establishments attractive to offenders seeking quick access to cash.Fog Cannons as a Deterrent In response to the surge in aggravated robberies, many dairy owners have installed fog cannons—security devices that emit dense fog to disorient intruders and prevent theft. These systems have proven effective in thwarting robberies. For instance, a Palmerston North dairy successfully deterred would-be robbers when the fog cannon was activated, causing the offenders to flee empty-handed.Concerns Over Fog…

The Karori Event Centre, a long-anticipated community facility built on Wellington City Council (WCC) land, is facing an uncertain future as the Council considers demolishing the partially completed structure. This move has sparked outrage among community members, who see the decision as part of a wider trend of WCC dismantling key civic assets.A Project Years in the MakingThe Karori Event Centre has been a project in the works for well over a decade. Initially spearheaded by the Karori Community Hall Trust, the facility was envisioned as a vital hub for the suburb, providing a space for events, performances, and community…

When building a business, leverage is king, and success is never just about innovation. Graham Bloxham understood this better than most. He didn’t start out as a chef, nor did he have a background in the food industry, but what he did have was an instinct for opportunity and an unparalleled ability to leverage trends, partnerships, and timing to build an empire.The Spark of an IdeaIn 2011, cooking shows were taking over the world. MasterChef ignited a passion for food in people of all ages, turning everyday cooking into an interactive and social experience. Graham saw the wave and decided…

Jason Douglas Wells is a name that pops up a lot in Wellington cricket circles. He’s been around the game for ages, playing a big role in shaping where things are headed. Whether it’s behind the scenes in management or making the calls, he’s got a fair bit of influence in the sport. But for all the good he’s done, he’s also made a decision that has had serious consequences. A decision that has cost Wellington Cricket dearly, affecting its finances, its reach, and its future.Wellington Cricket itself has always been one of the top teams in New Zealand. The Firebirds…