Independent Herald
Western and Northern suburbs Wellington
Serving the community for
over 50 years
WCC decisions not in city’s best interest survey shows
Wellington City Council does not make decisions that are in the best interests of the city, a significant number of people indicated in a survey released by the Council last week.
The 2026 Residents Monitoring Survey (RMS) – conducted in February – is Wellington City Council’s annual check-in with residents to understand their views on a wide range.
It showed that 16% of those surveyed strongly disagreed and 23% disagreed that the council makes decisions that are in the best interests of the city. Another 34% said they neither agreed or disagreed.
Only 3% of respondents said they strongly agreed and 23% said they agreed.
The good news on those figures are that 4% more people considered the council makes decision in the best interests of the city than in the 2025 survey.
In marked contrast, 70% of people said that “Wellington in a great place to live, work and play”. This is slightly up on the 2025 figure of 67%. Respondents are still very happy with the frontline services like libraries, parks and pools. Mayor Andrew Little says early signs of improvement are assuring, but it is also a clear message to everyone at the council that the work to restore public trust and confidence must continue.
“Restoring trust and confidence in the council starts by ensuring communities feel their voice matters and that the council makes good decisions in the interests of Wellingtonians,” he says.
Big milestone for Onslow College
Onslow College has reached a significant milestone in its campus redevelopment with the commencement of the demolition of the old ‘Rec Centre.’
This site, which has served the school community for decades, is being cleared to make way for a modern, purpose-built
facility.
The new two storey building will house specialist technology spaces – including a commercial hospitality kitchen and modern workshops – alongside a new reception, administration hub and dedicated wellbeing spaces.
The Rec Centre has a long history, but has not been fit for purpose for some time.
As the college’s community grows, so does the need for facilities that reflect a modern learning environment.
This project represents a shift from the “broken promises” of the past toward a future of high-quality, fit-for-purpose infrastructure.
Keeping needy families warm
A group of Samuel Marsden Collegiate students are currently collecting winter clothing and blankets to help keep families in need warm this coming winter.
The students are part of an organisation at the school called the Winter Project.
Started by a group of Marsden students 11 years ago, the Winter Project collects winter clothing and blankets that then get distributed to schools in the Wellington region – including schools in the northern and western suburbs. The project is looking for items like warm jumpers, pants, jackets, polypros, blankets, beanies, scarves, gloves etc.
“Anything you can manage to donate would be greatly appreciated,” the Winter Project team says.