Thousands of visitors including Wellingtonian's, international and domestic add to the atmosphere of Jackson Street and make it Hutt Valley's number one attraction. A tour down Jackson Street will take you into the stories of the arrival of first settlers, Petone's industry hey day, start of the 40 hour week and of course some of the facades of the wonderful heritage buildings.
Jackson Street's facades are looking better than ever. Simple paint jobs through to full makeovers of the buildings are adding to the attraction but this isn't what makes Jackson Street so popular. The buildings have been on Jackson Street since the 1930's but the vibrancy and enthusiasm for the strip is relatively new. This tells me that there is more to Jackson Street than history and buildings.
The vibrancy and enthusiasm comes from the people who tell the stories. These people are behind the doors of the street. They are tending to their unique little patch of retail, gallery and cafe. It is these people that give the substance to Jackson Street's slogan of 'step inside a story, not just a store'. If the facades do disappear and the physical heritage is gone, Petone will still be the number one place to visit because of the people.
I liked reading Petone Community Board member, Mason Branch's comments that Petone should prepare to 'build the most amazing new street'. It's this sort of positive approach that will keep Petone alive and well as a great place to live and visit.
If you haven't been to Jackson Street, Petone yet then get it on your Must Do list and see what all the noise is about.
David Hancock is the visitor development manager for Hutt City, Wellington, New Zealand and would be delighted to receive comments on this or any other topic.
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