Below you'll find insider tips on getting the best from New Zealand, from hints on finding a home to reviews of the hottest restaurants in town.
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Newlands
Farmland until the 1920s, Newlands is really a satellite suburb of Johnsonville. Situated on hills the opposite side of State Highway One, Newlands’ residents enjoy the facilities of Johnsonville and the close proximity to Wellington central, favoured by younger commuters and Asian families. Its only claim to fame is the Newlands baby murders, which happened on one of the farms in Newlands Road in the 1920s and shocked the nation. Operating an illegal abortion clinic, Daniel and Martha Cooper also took in pregnant women and charged £50 to keep them until their babies were born. Daniel Cooper was hung for murdering the babies in 1923. The farm was demolished in 1975 and remains an empty plot.
Accommodation
Newlands is more affordable than Johnsonville and has lots of properties for sale between $300,000 and $400,000. Although nearly three quarters of the homes are owned, there is a good rental market, particularly for house-sharers. Most houses have been built in the last 25 years. Houses on the hilltops have views over the entire harbour and city, including the airport, but consequently are battered by fierce winds.
Shopping & Amenities
There are plans to invigorate the shopping and community facilities in Newlands, but at the moment there is little except for a few dairies, a petrol station and pharmacy. Residents drive five minutes to the shops and amenities in Johnsonville.
Eating & Drinking
Getting a meal is limited to takeaways: fish and chips, Chinese or Hell Pizza (0800 666 111). The Innkeeper of Newlands is the only pub.
Education
Early childhood centres include two free kindergartens and a Playcentre. Primary school pupils have a choice of three schools, all unzoned. There is also an intermediate school for pupils attending Bellevue and Newlands Primary Schools. Secondary age students are zoned for Newlands College, (a co-educational school).
Transport
Residents either drive, use the frequent bus service (15 minutes to the city centre) or cycle to Johnsonville train station.
Safety & Annoyances
Driving onto the State Highway 1 northbound can be hazardous. The on-ramp from Newlands is one of the three worst traffic hotspots in Wellington.
