Donnelley Drive in Wainuiomata is named after Leonard Sidney Donnelley, a civil engineer who served the Hutt County Council from 1946 to 1973. Born in Wellington in 1906, Len had a distinguished career in both civil engineering and military service. He worked in various engineering roles across New Zealand before joining the Royal New Zealand […]
Category: Lower Hutt
Delve into the rich tapestry of Lower Hutt City through the fascinating stories behind its street names. Located in the Wellington region of New Zealand, Lower Hutt is a city steeped in history, cultural diversity, and scenic beauty. As you traverse its various streets, avenues, and lanes, have you ever stopped to ponder the origins of these names that guide us every day?
The street names of Lower Hutt serve as more than mere geographical indicators; they are markers of the city’s past, reflecting the cultural melting pot that is New Zealand. From Maori heritage, British colonial influence, to local heroes and flora, the street names are a subtle yet powerful tribute to the forces that have shaped this charming city. In this category, we unravel the histories, stories, and the remarkable individuals immortalised through street signage.
Some names reveal the influence of prominent local families, while others are drawn from New Zealand’s natural landscape, evoking images of native plants, majestic mountains, and tranquil waters. There are also streets named after milestones in Lower Hutt’s development, such as its industrial growth, political figures, and community leaders.
Join us on this enlightening journey as we explore each street name in detail, providing context, historical background, and intriguing anecdotes. Whether you’re a local resident or a curious visitor, this treasure trove of information will enhance your understanding and appreciation of Lower Hutt City, one street name at a time.
Brookfield Lane
Brookfield Lane in Wainuiomata was named in the 1990’s after a farmhouse established by the Crowther family, which was located at 562 Moores Valley Road, Moores Valley. The name refers to a small stream flowing through open country. The house existed from around 1865 to 1961 and was located at the site of what is […]
Bledisloe Crescent
Bledisloe Crescent in Wainuiomata is named after Lord Bledisloe, also known as Charles Bathurst, who served as Governor-General of New Zealand from 1930 to 1935. Born in 1867 and passing in 1958, Lord Bledisloe is remembered for his contributions to New Zealand during his tenure. The street was named in the 1940s, likely in recognition […]
Best Street
Best Street in Wainuiomata is named after Leonard John Best, a bondholder in the Wainuiomata Development Company, born in 1879 and passing in 1950. The street was originally laid out in the 1940s, running from Fitzherbert Road to the east side of Moohan Street. Due to a footbridge over Black Creek bisecting the street, confusion […]
Barry Groucott Grove
Barry Groucott Grove in Wainuiomata is named after Barry Groucott, a plumber who lived in the area. Groucott was born in 1937 and passed away in March 2013. The street was named in 2016 to honor his contributions to the local community.
August Avenue
August Avenue in Wainuiomata is named after Ashley Meredith August, who owned land along the Coast Road in the area. August was a farmer in the 1940s and contributed to the local agricultural landscape during that time .
Ashforth Street
Ashforth Street in Wainuiomata is named after George Raymond Ashforth, a councillor on the County Town Committee of the Wainuiomata Riding of the Hutt County Council . He served two terms, from 1956 to 1961 and again from 1965 to 1968. In recognition of his community contributions, Ashforth received the Wainuiomata Civic Award in 1984 […]
Ashburn Road
Ashburn Road in Wainuiomata is named after Sidney Marshall Ashburn (1881–1966), who was a bond holder in the Wainuiomata Development Company .
Apperley Way
Apperley Way in Wainuiomata is named after Frederick John Apperley (1886–1970), who owned land in the area, and his brother Leonard Percival Apperley (1887–1988), a bond holder in the Wainuiomata Development Company. Leonard’s name is also inscribed on the Wainuiomata War Memorial obelisk. Both brothers were farmers in various parts of Wainuiomata.
ANZAC Way
ANZAC Way in Wainuiomata is named after the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC). The Corps, formed in Egypt in December 1914, consisted of troops from both Australia and New Zealand and was instrumental in the Gallipoli Campaign during World War I (1914-1918). The street was originally constructed in the 1960s as a service […]