ABOUT JSP
Who are we?
Jackson Street Programme (JSP): Enhancing the Heart of Petone
We are the Jackson Street Programme (JSP), an incorporated society established in 1992, committed to promoting, preserving, and enhancing Jackson Street in Petone as a dynamic and vibrant destination for heritage, shopping, dining, professional services, and socialising. Representing 235 local businesses along Jackson Street—from the Railway Station to Cuba Street—our goal is to make this historic retail strip a central hub for locals and visitors alike.
Our work is funded by a targeted rate on commercial ratepayers in Jackson Street, Petone, as well as through charitable donations and subscriptions from supporters and associate members. We operate with a dedicated team of part-time staff based at the Historic Police Station on Jackson Street. In addition to our regular activities, we organise a variety of community events and promotions to bring people together and highlight the unique character of the area.
We also work closely with the Hutt City Council, which is investing in enhancing Jackson Street’s streetscape, including the addition of heritage streetlights, plantings, and paving—further solidifying Jackson Street as a prime destination for both shopping and cultural experiences.
Jackson Street is widely regarded as a gateway to the Hutt Valley and is often referred to as the “Jewel in the Hutt’s Crown.” With eclectic mix of shops, cafés, restaurants, and services, it continues to attract both locals and visitors, playing an essential role in the economic growth and vibrancy of Petone.
How is JSP Funded?
The JSP’s main source of funds is a targeted rate levied by the Hutt City Council on commercial ratepayers on Jackson Street. Every three years the businesses are polled to see whether they still support the rate. Funds also come from charitable donations and subscriptions paid by supporters and associate members. We are a non-profit organisation whose first initiative is solely for Jackson Street Petone.
The JSP Board
The JSP Board is made up of business owners and building owners and is elected at an annual general meeting held each spring.
- Chair: Nik Zangouropoulos = building owner
- Secretary: Karen Arraj-Fisher = JSP Staff
- Treasurer: Robbie Scheider = Succession First, 3/3 Britannia Street (and building owner). With 20 years’ experience as an independent Financial Adviser, Robbie ensures fiscal discipline, transparent reporting, and sustainable funding structures that help to build the economic resilience of The Jackson Street Programme and our local businesses. Bringing operational integrity and a sharp financial lens, Robbie is instrumental in aligning community objectives with business viability championing initiatives that elevate local visibility, drive foot traffic, and foster long-term commercial development. His stewardship ensures every dollar contributes to creating a thriving, entrepreneurial Petone.
- John Donnelly = The Table, 274 Jackson Street (and building owner)
- Anna Boyack = Viva Mexico, 93 Jackson Street
- Chrissi Walker = Roll.nz, 1 Jackson Street
- Kevin Grimes = Roll.nz, 1 Jackson Street
- Tom Hudig = Building Owner. Tom Hudig has been part of Jackson Street since 1984, when he purchased a derelict property at number 89. After extensive refurbishment, Tom opened The Dutch Shop, which has since become a well-known local destination. Jackson Street was chosen for its close proximity to Wellington (just 10 minutes away), its free parking, and its vibrant character, home to cafés, restaurants, specialty food stores, and unique retail experiences not found elsewhere. Drawn to the street’s eclectic mix and energy, Tom has since expanded their investment in the area. Among Tom’s most significant achievements are relocating the Lowry Bay Yacht Club to Seaview Marina, contributing to the Waiwhetu Stream clean-up, and helping mitigate future flood risk in Seaview by supporting the installation of a major pump station at Parkside Road and Hutt Park Road.
- Andrew Thena = building owner
Meet the People Behind the Scenes
We have three part-time staff that run and contribute to making Petone thrive from its office in the Historic Police Station – the Co-ordinator, Administrator (& heritage specialist) and Marketing & Social Media Manager
Hellen Swales: Coordinator
Karen Arraj-Fisher: Administrator, Board Secretary & Heritage
Radhika Dhakal: Marketing Manager
Where To Find Us
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.
We’re located at: 274B Jackson Street, Petone, 5012.
We’re open from: 0900-1400, Monday-Friday (excluding public holidays).
Give us a call on: +64 4 939 2811.