Wadestown

John Wade, a name etched into the very fabric of Wadestown. He arrived in Wellington in 1840 aboard the Integrity. Imagine Wadestown then, a nascent settlement clinging to the slopes of Te Ahumairangi Hill. In 1841, Wade, along with James Watt, purchased land here. They carved it into plots, laying the foundation for Wellington’s first suburb. Wadestown. Their legacy lives on in Wade Street and Watt Street. Wadestown’s streets remain narrow and picturesque, only 10 meters wide. They were carved out by hand, pick and shovel, horse and scoop. Imagine the back-breaking labor involved. Wadestown’s elevation offers stunning views overlooking Thorndon and the Ngaio Gorge. However, this beauty comes at a price. Weld Street, one of Wadestown’s main thoroughfares, boasts the claim of being one of the steepest streets in Wellington. Wadestown has a rich history, visible even in a seemingly ordinary garden. In 2024, a resident unearthed a human skull while gardening. The discovery sent ripples through the community, sparking investigations. It was later confirmed to be an old medical specimen. This incident underscores the layers of history embedded within Wadestown. From its earliest settlers to its modern-day residents, Wadestown holds stories within its hills and streets. Beyond its residential charm, Wadestown offers community hubs like the Wadestown School. This school, established in 1881, stands as a testament to Wadestown’s commitment to education. It started with a single classroom on Weld Street. Now it operates across two campuses, serving students from year 1 to 8. Wadestown is also a part of Wellington’s Northern Walkway and the national walkway Te Araroa. The walkway winds through Trelissick Park, up Hanover and Weld Streets, and onto Te Ahumairangi Hill. This walkway provides a breathtaking journey through Wadestown’s scenic landscape. Wadestown’s unique blend of history, community, and natural beauty continues to captivate. From the echoes of its founding fathers to the laughter of children playing in its playgrounds, Wadestown offers a slice of Wellington’s vibrant tapestry.