Friday Five: What’s new in Newtown

1. Newtown Hall has a fresh new look 

Local artists Kerb and Spex have created a beautiful new Newtown-centric mural (above) on the side of Newtown Hall. The mural was inspired by Kerb’s memories of growing up in the neighborhood and iconic spots like the playground, PIC Church and Te Ara Hou flats. 

Filmmaker Mire Moschella was comissioned to document the development of the mural which will be screened at the official mural opening on 30 April. There will be snacks and drinks and all are welcome. Check out the Facebook event for more information. 

2. Newtown Tool Library has a new home 

The Newtown Tool Library has moved into its new location beside the Newtown Library. The purpose-built space is lighter, brighter and bigger with an awesome collection of tools for the community to borrow. Donations of new or second hand tools are always welcome! 

To find out more and become a member, check out the Newtown Tool Library website.

3. Newtown Festival is back! 

After a small blip thanks to COVID-19, Newtown Festival is back and ready to rock your socks off this Sunday 11 April. There will be over 200 stalls, 14 stages and a full day of entertainment. Don’t forget to slip slop slap, stay hydrated and have fun. Check out the full programme on the festival’s website.

It's going to be a busy day so to make things easier for yourself we recommend catching the bus, biking, scooting or walking to the festival. If you do need to take the car, you can find the full list of road closures and parking restrictions on the Street Event Road Closure page on our website.

4. A new mural for Newtown Library 

Artists Liana Leiataua and Ruth Robertson-Taylor are working on a new mural for the outside of the Newtown Library and have asked the community for inspiration. Leiataua painted the original back in 1991 and now (two decades later!) it’s time for an update.

Over the summer the community was asked to come up with their own design and there were some incredible submissions. The artists were so impressed by the vibrant colours of the children's creations that they are going to encorporate them into the final piece! The design is still in development and is likely to be finalised later this month.

5. Newtown Community Centre is getting a renovation 

The Newtown Community Centre is getting a make-over! From 11 April, their main offices on the corner of Rintoul and Colombo streets will be closing and they’ll be moving into a temporary new home at 2a Green Street (above the former ANZ on Riddiford Street). The work should be all finished up by March 2022. 

If you haven’t before, check out the centre’s website for all the awesome community events and services they provide. 

Watch out each Friday for a fun list of five great activities to do, places to explore, or things to discover in our great city.