Welcome To Petone
Discover Jackson Street
The Heart of Petone
Jackson Street is a heritage treasure and cultural hub at the heart of Petone. It seamlessly blends historic architecture with a vibrant mix of boutique shopping, beauty services, cafés, and global cuisine. This iconic retail strip offers something unique from ethnic foods and artisan goods to stylish fashion and exceptional coffee, making it one of Lower Hutt’s top destinations.
What is the Jackson Street Programme (JSP)?
The Jackson Street Programme (JSP) is an incorporated society established in 1991 to promote Jackson Street as a dynamic destination for shopping, dining, business, and community life.
JSP is not part of the Hutt City Council, but we work closely with Council staff, the Mayor, and the Petone Community Board to ensure that Jackson Street continues to thrive. We also partner with local organisations such as the Petone Settlers Museum, Petone Community House, schools, Lions, sports clubs, and Petone Neighbourhood Hub.
What Does JSP Do?
From our office in the Historic Police Station at 274B Jackson Street, our team works to:
Advocate for the area, including working with Council on improvements like streetscape upgrades (planting, paving, and heritage lighting)
Share updates via newsletters and emails on safety, Council decisions, and issues that may impact your business
Organise local events including holiday programmes, the Twilight Christmas Parade, Santa’s Grotto, and the Walk of Champions
Promote your business online through our website and social media
Support community connections between businesses, visitors, and residents
Meet the Team
The Jackson Street Programme is governed by a volunteer board of business owners and professionals. The current Chair is Nic Z, supported by a Board of…..
Our dedicated staff include:
- Hellen Swales – Co-ordinator
- Karen Arraj-Fisher – Administrator and Heritage
- Radhika Dhakal – Marketing Manager
🔗 Learn more about our board: Meet the JSP Board
Events & Community Activities
We run and support a wide range of events that make Jackson Street a place for everyone. Some of our popular events include:
- Heritage Month Celebrations
- Holiday Programmes
- The Twilight Christmas Parade
- Santa’s Grotto
- Treasure Hunts
- Walk of Champions Ceremonies
Want to contribute or sponsor an event? Contact us at info@jacksonstreet.co.nz. Got an event to promote? List it on our website: Contact us at info@jacksonstreet.co.nz.
Become an Associate Member of the Jackson Street Programme
Do you live, work, or have a special connection to Petone and want to support the vibrancy of Jackson Street? Become an Associate Member of the Jackson Street Programme (JSP) and be part of the local movement to promote and enhance this iconic heritage precinct.
Who Can Become an Associate Member?
Under the Jackson Street Programme Constitution (24 September 2020), Associate Membership is open to individuals or organizations who:
- Have a special interest in the Society’s mission, and
- Pay the required application and annual subscription fees (as determined by the Committee).
All applications are reviewed and approved by the JSP Committee.
Rights of Associate Members
As an Associate Member, you are welcome to:
- Attend all General Meetings of the Jackson Street Programme
- Participate in discussions and community events
Please note:
While Associate Members enjoy full participation rights, they do not have voting rights in the following areas:
Any matters relating to the special rate (a targeted rate applied to businesses on Jackson Street)
The election of the JSP Committee
Subscription Fees & Payment Terms
Associate Members are required to pay an annual subscription fee, which:
Is determined by the Committee and may vary year to year
Becomes due on July 1 each calendar year
Must be paid in advance to maintain membership in good standing
In some cases, the Committee may choose to waive the fee upon application.
Lapsed Membership
To remain an active Associate Member:
Subscription fees must be paid before participating in any official meetings, including the Annual General Meeting (AGM)
If fees are unpaid for more than three months after the due date:
Membership will be forfeited
The member will be barred from all Society activities, including attendance at meetings
Join Us!
Your involvement helps support one of Lower Hutt’s most iconic streets. Whether you’re a local resident, historian, business enthusiast, or simply passionate about Petone – we welcome your interest and energy.
For more details or to apply for Associate Membership, please contact us directly through our Contact Page or visit us at the Jackson Street Programme Office.
Contact Us or Visit
We’d love to meet you and learn how we can work together.
Visit us at:
Jackson Street Programme Office
📍 Historic Police Station, 274b Jackson Street, Petone
📞 Call us: 04 939 2811
📧 Email: info@jacksonstreet.co.nz
Jackson Street is more than just a street — it’s a community.
We invite you to be a part of it.
How to Get Here
Petone is only 10 Minutes from Wellington!
Petone is only a 10-minute train ride or drive from Wellington CBD, making it easy to access by multiple transportation options. Whether you’re traveling by train, bus, or car, getting to Petone is simple and convenient.
There are several convenient ways to get to Petone from Wellington:
- By Car: Petone is about a 10–20-minute drive from Wellington’s city centre. You can take State Highway 2 (SH2) over the Wellington Harbour Bridge and then head north to reach Petone.
- By Train: The train ride (HVL, WRL, MEL) from Wellington to Petone is quick and easy, taking at most 15 minutes. All 3 of the HVL, WRL, and MEL lines stop at Petone Station, making them a great option for those without a car.
- By Bus: There are also regular buses (#81, #83, #84) that run between Wellington and Petone. The journey typically takes about 25-30 minutes depending on traffic.
- By Bike: For the more adventurous, cycling from Wellington to Petone is a popular option, with a dedicated cycle path along the coast, offering scenic views along the way.
- By Taxi or Ride-share: You can always take a taxi or use a ride-share service like Uber for a direct and comfortable trip to Petone.