EVENTS
Visit to KiwiRail Hutt Workshops
In September 21 members enjoyed a visit to the KiwiRail Workshops ,
with lunch at Janus Cafe afterwards
Fifteen of our members enjoyed a wonderful visit to Aspiring Walls wallpaper factory in Elsdon. We were first greeted enthusiastically by Bruno and Louie, two PR dogs, and later by Neil Macdonald, who co-owns the business with his wife Tanya. Two of their daughters also work in this family business. Aspiring Walls is one of the largest wallpaper manufacturers in the Southern Hemisphere.
Our group was stunned by the magnificent wallpaper murals in the reception area, and amazed by the beautiful patterns and colours. After donning Hi-vis safety vests we were taken on a tour of the factory. We were shown the machine that prints the wallpaper, the embossing machine and a huge digital printer. We were given a demonstration of how colours are mixed, and how the wallpaper is trimmed.
As other businesses share the premises, we were also given an insight into other manufacturing procedures. Especially impressive was the area where bus shelters were made and despatched to all parts of New Zealand, and where an ecological toothpaste was manufactured.
After a fascinating two hours we visited Pataka Museum and Kaizen café for lunch.
Members on a visit to the Glenside Halfway House
Visit to Wellington Regional Emergency Office in Thorndon
The building where the office is situated looks as though it has been there for many years, but in fact is a modern building, purpose-built to withstand severe earthquakes and other disasters.
After a discussion on personal preparedness, we were given an overview of the comprehensive systems that come into action in the event of a civil emergency, a system that is used in a number of countries.
Visit to Bench Space
A small group of Rebus members enjoyed an informative visit to Bench Space in Brooklyn in September. Bench Space is a new initiative being launched to bring woodworking skills to the community, which has been created by volunteers with the support of the City Council. Our hosts were Ted Cizadlo and John Schmidt, who made the beautiful instruments and whose tools are on display in the photo. Bench Space plans to have woodworking classes for beginners and a space for members to use their skills. Beginners start with learning to use hand tools by making wooden spoons; the workshop also has a bench saw, a bandsaw and drop saw.
More information can be found on the website:
