New retail and housing development opens

235 Karori Road is the site of a brand new housing and commercial property development. It'll include 20 townhouses and three commercial units. READ MORE.
News briefs – August
Hip hop help

Karori hip hop performers Daniel and Tara are looking for community support to help them win a world dance title.
The duo known as DT Power have qualified for the Hip Hop Unite World Championships, taking place this year in New Zealand.
As well as competition as cadet duo DT Power, they are also part of cadet mega crew Revolution, the crew that placed in the top 8 at HHU World Championships in Prague last year.
They are seeking local sponsorship opportunities ranging from $100 up to $500. They have also launched a Givealittle campaign with a goal of $5,000 to cover costs like travel and uniforms.
Donate now at: givealittle.co.nz/cause/dynamic-dance-duo-dt-power
Follow their journey: Instagram: @dtpower.nz Facebook: facebook.com/share/1B7YU5y7m4
Sick birds
People worried about bird flu are being urged to stay away from sick or dead birds.
The global H5N1 bird flu has been detected in individual wild birds in New Zealand.
The Ministry for Primary Industries advises that if you see three or more sick or dead wild birds, marine mammals or other wildlife, report it via 0800 80 99 66.
If you own pet birds or poultry you should watch for signs of illness.
Karori Vet Clinic told the public not to bring sick birds in without phoning ahead first for advice. The clinic said that anyone who spotted one or two sick or dead native birds should call the Department of Conservation hotline: 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).
Amalgamation feedback
More than 3000 people submitted their views to the Wellington City Council on a proposed amalgamation with neighbouring councils.
The council says it is now reviewing and analysing the feedback, and a summary will inform the Mayor and Councillors to help inform their decision-making as they consider whether to support submitting a Wellington region proposal.
The council also scheduled two public forums on 29 and 30 July for people to speak in person.
The council emphasised that the Government’s tight deadline mean formal consultation was not possible.
“If a Wellington region proposal is accepted and progressed through to detailed design, we expect to consult with the community at that next stage.”
New water bills on their way
The first separate water bills issued by new water entity Tiaki Wai will start arriving with residents this month.
Tiaki Wai took over responsibility for the delivery of water services from councils on 1 July 2026. Water charges are being removed from council rates bills, and will be billed by Tiaki Wai instead. Bills for Wellington City Council properties are going out from 29 July 2026.
The way water is charged will remain the same in year one, according to the agency.
“This year, Tiaki Wai water services charges are calculated in a similar way to how councils calculated them previously, using a mix of fixed charges and charges based on the capital value of your property.
“Over time, Tiaki Wai plans to move to a single regionwide pricing system, where charges are consistent across the region. There will be public consultation before decisions are made.”
According to the calculator on the website, a house valued at $1m in Wellington City would pay $2,550 a year for water charges.



