Iona Pannett Reflects on 18 Years of Service in Wellington

Iona Pannett, who served on the Wellington City Council for 18 years, stepped down in October 2023 but is far from retiring from community engagement. Known for her deep connection to the city, Pannett highlights the strong sense of community in her neighbourhood, alongside thriving local businesses and community groups.

Wellington’s Mt Victoria is home to a variety of early childhood centres and schools, ensuring residents have access to quality education without needing to leave the suburb. Pannett appreciates local resources such as the Historical Society, tramping clubs, and planting groups. She notes that publications like The Local and The Mt Victoria Newsletter keep the community informed about ongoing events and initiatives.

A highlight of Mt Victoria is the Innermost Gardens, a community garden established nearly 20 years ago. This space allows residents to cultivate their own food and hosts events in the Bandoliers Building at an affordable rate. Pannett encourages residents to engage with this local gem.

For coffee, Pannett recommends Tomboy on Marjoribanks Street, known for its excellent food and dog-friendly atmosphere. The café is a popular spot for locals to gather and catch up, fostering community connections. She also observes an increase in cyclists on the local cycleways, reflecting a growing commitment to sustainable transportation in the area.

Dining options in Mt Victoria abound, with Rosella standing out for its fantastic food and welcoming staff. Pannett also gives a nod to the Black Sparrow for post-dinner drinks. For visitors, the Cuba/Ghuznee precinct offers an eclectic mix of shopping and nightlife, making it an ideal destination for people-watching and enjoying local fashion.

While the community thrives, Pannett acknowledges some contentious issues. Parking remains a longstanding concern, with some residents advocating for more spaces. Additionally, debates continue over the balance between walkers and mountain bikers on Matairangi (Mt Victoria) and the proposed luxury apartments on Austin Street. Pannett believes that increasing social housing would be a more beneficial solution for the neighbourhood.

Reflecting on a perfect Saturday morning, Pannett describes bird watching in her garden, where conservation efforts have led to a rise in local bird populations. A stroll through the Town Belt with her dogs is followed by a warm drink from either Tomboy or Squirrel, complemented by advocacy work against the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) plans for a controversial tunnel through the area.

Pannett shares a lesser-known historical tidbit about Mt Victoria, noting that the significant pā, Te Akatarewa, was built around 1250 AD by Ngāi Tara. This rich history adds depth to her appreciation for the area. For moments of solitude, she finds peace at Oriental Parade, where the scenic views offer a sense of connection to the surrounding environment.

Her guilty pleasure lies in antique shopping along Upland and Tinakori Roads, where she discovers exceptional bargains and appreciates the expertise of local sellers.

If Pannett were mayor for a day, her focus would be on mobilizing community and political support to oppose the NZTA’s proposed highway, which she argues could be detrimental to the city. She advocates for alternative solutions, such as congestion charging and dedicated bus lanes, to promote safer and more sustainable transportation options.

Pannett’s reflections paint a picture of a vibrant community where connections run deep, and local residents actively engage in preserving its character and addressing its challenges. Her legacy on the council has laid a strong foundation for continued advocacy and community spirit in Wellington.