Band together The String Alongs get their groove on - 09 Fruitful endeavour - Metlifecare
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09 16 28 Slug �
Fruitful endeavour Tech to connect Makers and creators
Growing is a Safely exploring Reinventing golf and
labour of love the digital world painting memories
Autumn 2022
Band together
The String Alongs
get their groove on
� From the CEO From the editorial team �
“I’m constantly inspired
by the strong sense of
connection that has
A fast
endured throughout our
villages and care homes,
and which comes through
in this edition’s stories.”
start to
East Auckland residents at
Above: Laura, Vanessa, Lara, Suzy
Edgewater Village took pride
in the opening of their new
amenities building in March, Welcome to the Autumn issue of The Villager;
meanwhile our first residents my first at the helm.
the year
move into Fairway Gardens It’s been a team effort: Vanessa Trethewey
mid-year: New Zealand’s first contributing writer; Lara Harrison and
retirement village on a golf course. LauraGrace McFarland for input and design.
And, recently, we laid the Bringing together all the necessary elements
foundations for a new care home has been a true collaboration. It’s a bit like
at Gulf Rise in Red Beach, the a good scone recipe, if you don’t get the
first 6 Green Star rated building measures right, you get something cooked
in the industry (the highest up, but it may not leave you with a nice taste!
level of green building rating We hope we got the measures right for you
Kia ora I am thankfully recovered, but commercial laundry business. achievable in New Zealand). this time. After all, Metlifecare residents, this
What a whirlwind start to 2022. relieved I was both double We welcomed more than 700 is YOUR magazine. We merely attempt to
We welcomed in the New Year, vaccinated and boosted. new residents and 300 new The next few months represent the rich and varied lives you lead;
then with careful preparation The Covid-19 pandemic Metlifecare team members I’m excited to introduce you the mischief you get up to; the wonderful
but some trepidation, we has been tough for everyone and now have 32 villages. The to our new Metlifecare brand stories you share; and the positive influence
braced for the Omicron wave to endure. When life gives you addition of the Selwyn villages (page 6). As residents you are you have on the lives of others.
we knew was approaching. lemons, make lemonade right? means we now provide a true experiencing our brand every Like resident Robert Thompson from
We continue to ride that I’m constantly inspired by the continuum of care at more of day: it’s the unique promise The Poynton Village, who’s their “go to” guy
wave. It hasn’t been without its strong sense of connection our sites to meet the needs of Metlifecare makes to you, our for all things tech. He also presents village
challenges. Thank you to all our that has been maintained New Zealand’s aging population. future residents, employees, seminars on how to keep safe online. There’s
residents for trusting us to keep throughout our villages and and everyone we partner with. nothing that makes my blood boil more than
you as safe as possible. Thanks care homes, and which comes Development news Our new brand will gradually online scammers, so I hope you find our
also to families and friends who through in this edition’s stories. In December we announced the appear in advertising and at ‘Tech to connect’ story interesting and, most
have tolerated the sometimes- Together we’ll get through this acquisition of 13-hectares, with your village from early April. importantly helpful, to avoid online scams.
necessary visiting pauses, so we and as a great friend of mine expansive beach views, in the So please, flick the pages As always, we’d love to know what you
could minimise infection risk. said two years ago when it all seaside town of Mangawhai. over and be entertained and think. Please send any story ideas, brickbats
Our people have done an started, “we’ll all have very Once built, the sustainably inspired, because as you’ll see, or bouquets to editor@metlifecare.co.nz
amazing job to maintain robust clean hands”. designed complex will be the our resident communities are I’ll be putting a hot off the press copy into
infection prevention and control town’s first retirement village as vibrant as ever. my Mum’s hands. I know she’ll give me her
protocols. I am very proud of We’ve been busy and care home. motherly flavoured honest opinion. What more
my team, who have stepped up Despite the challenges of the In Pukekohe we’re Kia kaha can a daughter ask for!
Earl
and demonstrated empathy, pandemic, we successfully developing a hillside site
care and putting people first. completed the acquisition of six overlooking the township Suzy Clarkson
Despite taking as many Selwyn villages- Park, Heights, that will be home to 168 HEAD OF COMMUNICATION
precautions as I could, I tested Oaks, St. Andrew’s, Wilson independent villas and a 60- Earl Gasparich
positive for Covid-19 in March. Carlile and Karori, as well as a bed premium care home. CEO – METLIFECARE
metlifecare.co.nz 1
News �
Contents 09
Village life
PO Box 37463,
Parnell, Auckland 1151
Metlifecare.co.nz
04
News and views
0800 909 303
/Metlifecare
/Metlifecare
The Villager is published for
Metlifecare Ltd. Metlifecare’s
The Villager is available online at
Metlifecare.co.nz
Editor: Suzy Clarkson
For all editorial enquiries,
please contact the editor at
editor@metlifecare.co.nz
New shed not
Contributors: Choir, Vanessa
just for blokes
Trethewey, Lara Harrison,
Anna Murdoch, Haley Coe, A new blokes’ shed has opened at
19 Vern Walker, Alan Arnold,
Dean Mackenzie, Kylie Raine Crestwood Metlifecare – but it’s
certainly not just for blokes.
30 Published and printed by:
SCG www.scg.net.nz The size of a double garage,
Senior Designer: Julian Pettitt and equipped with a range of
Content Director: machinery including woodwork
LauraGrace McFarland
and metalworking tools, the highly
anticipated workshop is a home-
away-from-home for project-
loving residents.
“Everyone is delighted because
it taps into an area of interest that
we’ve not previously catered to. It’s
The Villager is printed on
FSC®certified MIX source pulp a huge hit,” says Crestwood Village
03 15 24 from well-managed forests Manager Helena Pearson.
Village life Village events It takes a community and other controlled sources.
We print using BIO-inks that Officially named The Shed, it’s
to design a village
06 16 contain materials which are not defined by gender – in fact one
based on renewable resources
What’s in a brand? Tech to connect 26 including wood resin (rosin, lady member has already been
The life of a retirement colophony), and vegetable oils, recruited and others are keen
08 19 linseed oil and soy bean oil.
village pioneer The Crestwood chicks to join. The Shed was officially
Sustainable financing Growing up Guiding The contents of The Villager opened in December by resident
Q&A 28 are protected by copyright and
Ivan Hollway, who recently passed
20 may not be reproduced in any Congratulations to the arrivals emerged. Resident
Reinventing golf form without written permission away at the age of 97.
09 Putting the edge in of Metlifecare. Opinions
Crestwood Care Home Rita McCormack was
A fruitful endeavour Edgewater 29 expressed in The Villager residents as they have just overwhelmed, “in my 95 “Ivan really championed this
Latent talents
are not necessarily those of become the proud parents years I have never seen shed – it’s his legacy. He’d been a
Metlifecare, the publisher or
10 21 editor. Information contained of nine little fluffy chicks. an egg hatch and I am so skilled builder and thought a blokes’
Ukuleles unanimous Q&A with Sophia Tang 30 in The Villager is correct at the The residents have been delighted I have now had shed would be hugely appealing for
time of printing and while all due
Autumn eats care and diligence has been caring for the eggs in an the chance” she beamed. residents who loved to tinker but
11 22
taken in the preparation of this incubator in the resident Now the fun starts as they no longer had the space. He felt
Joyce's Journey: Development 32 magazine, Metlifecare is not
lounge and over the start to grow. The chicks a communal facility would be a
investing in our nurses update: new villages Resident Q&A: responsible for any mistakes,
omissions, typographical errors past 48 hours there has will stay in the care home great place for people to continue
for Pukekohe and Alice Oborn or changes to product and
12 been tapping, cracking, for the next couple of their interests whilst also making
Mangawhai service descriptions over time.
Say ‘hi’ to our newest chipping and chirping and weeks before they return to friends. Turns out he was right!”
Village Managers one by one the tiny new live on the farm.
2 The Villager � Autumn 2022 metlifecare.co.nz 3
� News ANZAC Day �
Honouring ANZAC
Highlands highlights
through art
It has been celebrations galore at Highlands Metlifecare,
with two of our couples commemorating rather significant
wedding anniversaries. Congratulations to Dennis and
Beryl Gilbert who have been married for an incredible 74
years, and to Geoff and Olive Wilkinson who are hot on
their heels at 72 years married. What milestones! Greenwood Park’s artists and craftspeople are teaming up
Meanwhile Gerald Sizoo has become the village’s to commemorate Anzac Day, with a special art exhibition
latest centenarian. Gerald has been a familiar face at the running in the village gallery from April 16-30.
village for over 25 years – and not just as a resident! An
ordained lay preacher, he and his late wife used to live Several of the village’s most event follows on from the
on a street next to the village and he devoted a great talented creatives have produced outstanding Anzac exhibition we
deal of time to visiting residents there. He started up the work specially for the event, across held at the village last year,” says
popular Highlands Sunday Service and only retired from a wide range of mediums. From Greenwood Park resident, artist,
taking these services last year. But never fear, the spritely crocheted and ceramic poppies and gallery supervisor Dan O’Brien. Title: Lest We Forget.
Creator: Jilly Haddrell
centenarian is still on call to visit residents who require his to poignant oil paintings – and the “We have so many incredible
help during their times of need. piece de resistance, a stunning artists living in this village and
applique design by resident Jilly pulling this exhibition together has
Haddrell. “This highly-anticipated been very much a group effort.”
New voice for the
aged care sector
For the first time New Zealand has a
dedicated Aged Care Commissioner.
The role’s primary focus is to promote,
protect and advocate for the rights of
people who receive aged care services.
There is also a focus on driving positive
systemic change and improvements
across the sector. 74 72
Carolyn Cooper, a former nurse
and latterly Managing Director of a
large, aged care and retirement village
provider has been appointed, taking up
the role in mid-March.
The role reports through the Title: 1918 - Never Forgotten
Title: Going Home. Artist: Dan O’Brien Artist: Colleen Manning-O’Byrne
Health and Disability Commissioner,
whose office investigates complaints
about aged care, home care, needs
assessment and palliative care. Lest we forget April 25 is still widely commemorated across
our villages. From a plated breakfast for 100
The appointment was made by the
Government for a five-year term. Anzac Day holds a very special place in the people at Kapiti Village, to the placing of white
“All New Zealanders need to be able hearts of our residents. Many have loved crosses in a ‘Garden of Remembrance’ at Forest
to access safe and quality health care. ones who fought and died for their country, Lake Gardens. Whichever Metlifecare village
Our country has an ageing population, while others are ex-servicemen and women you call home, let’s all stand together this Anzac
and we expect demand for aged care 100 themselves. Although the pandemic has changed Day to remember the amazing bravery and huge
services to increase,” Associate Minister some of the ways we can honour our Anzacs, sacrifices made by those who came before us.
of Health Dr Ayesha Verrall said.
4 The Villager � Autumn 2022 metlifecare.co.nz 5
� New brand New brand �
(as in rockstars) who you can
Famous brand quotes always rely on. Putting it all
together - you can summarise
A brand is a voice, and a product is a souvenir. our new brand as “telling stories
Lisa Gansky (Entrepreneur, writer, speaker) with people at the heart”.
A Metlifecare village is my
A brand is the set of expectations, memories, place, your place, our place.
stories and relationships that, taken together,
Test yourself on brand
account for a consumer’s decision to choose How much brand knowledge do
one product or service over another. you already have, consciously
Seth Godin (Author, entrepreneur, blogger, speaker) or unconsciously?
Test yourselves with the
questions below but cover the
families, village managers, like our residents. We may use answers below the orange line
caregivers, chefs, activities tag lines like “pocket rockets”, so you are not tempted to take
coordinators, gardeners, “legends” and such like. The a peek at them.
maintenance teams, and many stories we will celebrate reveal 1. Name the top three brands
more. You’ve probably heard the the richness, vibrancy and worldwide?
What’s in a brand?
phrase “it takes a village to raise diversity that makes up life at a 2. What brands are behind
a child”. Well, we reckon it takes a Metlifecare village. these famous brand
community of people to make a Those people who choose advertising taglines:
good village. What do you think? to work for Metlifecare are • Lowest prices are just
Those people who choose people who want to make a the beginning.
to live at a Metlifecare village difference. They care deeply • The ultimate driving machine.
We are refreshing our Metlifecare brand. We are
Metlifecare Brand Development
Our main font, which is 20 know they have a community about resident wellbeing, and • Just do it.
updating it to be more representative of us in 2022 what you are reading right around them of like-minded they influence the feeling of the • Endless play.
now, helps create our visual
and beyond. Our new brand better reflects who we people with great stories to villages. The stories about our • Think different.
voice and brand personality. share. Our brand is always staff will champion the (good
are and what makes us unique. This particular font has been
3. What has been the most
respectful but it’s also playful, fun) troublemakers or the rocks trusted brand in New Zealand
It is the promise we make to heart logo. Why? Because chosen for its high legibility and
for the past 10 years?
our customers: our Metlifecare rather than a heart logo, our Dementia Friendly readability.
current and future residents; heart is infused throughout It’s uncluttered, with no fancy For more insight into our new brand www.alittlebitofextraordinary.co.nz
Metlifecare Brand Development 33
our employees; and everyone our brand with our focus on bits and a decent size, so
we partner with. people and stories. Colours and it’s easier to read for anyone
Our new brand shows we font play a role too. Alongside living with dementia. All our
care about what matters to our chosen images, they’re the look communications and marketing
residents and what’s important and feel of the brand. Our base material now have Dementia ANSWERS
to them. It represents Metlifecare colour is a deep blue, which Friendly considerations applied. 1. Apple, Google, Microsoft
right now and into the future. epitomises knowledge, security, Closely followed to round
and integrity, accompanied by The heart of our brand is our out a top 10 by: Amazon,
Where will I see examples of it? a palette of bold lively colours, people. And, we have people Samsung, Coca Cola, Toyota,
Well for starters it’s right depicting energy and joy. at our heart. McDonalds, and Disney
throughout this edition of The Sometimes vivid colours are By people we mean our (brand order and placement
Villager. Gone is the specific called colour pops. communities of residents, depends on the survey)
2. Bunnings, BMW, Nike,
Lego, Apple
3. Whittaker's chocolate (as
voted in the Reader's Digest
Survey, which has run for
22 years).
6 The Villager � Autumn 2022 metlifecare.co.nz 7
� Corporate news Crestwood orchard �
Sustainable
financing Q&A
In December, Metlifecare completed New
Left
Zealand’s largest-ever sustainable re-financing, Ian Crowther and
worth NZ$1.25 billion. This made us the first Glennys Mullane
operator in the New Zealand and Australian enjoying their
orchard
retirement village and aged care sector to be Jonathan Wilde Far left
fully debt funded by sustainable financing. Chief Chief Financial Officer, Bet Mitchell
Financial Officer Jonathan Wilde explains. Metlifecare tending her
pride and joy
What is sustainable financing? finance is a natural extension of our sustainability strategy to
A fruitful endeavour
Sustainable financing is taking these goals. life. We’re pleased to be able
environmental, social and to complement these efforts
governance (ESG) considerations What does sustainable at a corporate level through
into account when making financing mean for our villages sustainable financing.
investment decisions. and residents?
There are different types Staff and residents helped us
of sustainable financing, develop the three targets linked
Transforming a vacant plot of land into area for everybody to access. It’s an orchard for
a bountiful orchard has been a labour all residents to enjoy.”
but in Metlifecare’s case we to the loan, so we know they’re Residents were invited to sponsor a tree of
re-financed our debt into a of interest and relevance to of love for a group of residents at
their choosing. Many helped plant them under the
Sustainability Linked Loan (SLL). those at our villages. But we’re Crestwood Metlifecare. watchful eye of village gardener Jack, and others
This means the cost of the debt also keen to work with residents have contributed by helping water the orchard
is linked to achieving three on initiatives like energy Above Two years ago, the section consisted only of grass, during the long hot summer. The recent addition
targets [see box below]. We pay efficiency, and water and waste It’s not always numbers and with a cabbage tree and a grapefruit tree. Now, of two lovely seats in the middle of the garden
spreadsheets! Here’s our CFO visiting
a lower interest rate on the loan reduction. There’s so much it is home to around 50 trees including feijoa, has added to the serenity, and plans are in the
Greenwich Gardens for St Patrick’s
if we achieve the targets, but activity already being led by Day, alongside resident Mick and apple, pear, orange, mandarin, lemon, and even a pipeline to create a meandering path through the
higher interest if we fall short. residents in villages that brings Handover Manager Jarrod Shearer. fig, plus grapevines, rapidly growing passionfruit orchard so that residents with walking frames are
vines and even some blueberry bushes. more easily able to access and enjoy it.
Is this a new form of financing? The project was initiated by a group of tree- The finishing touch?
Yes, this is an emerging area of Three ESG targets of the SLL loving residents and one of them, Bet Mitchell, “Crestwood has just opened The Shed and
financing that’s growing around created a landscape plan on her iPad and some of the men have handmade little copper
the world. It’s a response to an 1. Greenhouse gas reduction: Joining the Science Based presented it to the Residents’ Committee. Village signs to go underneath the trees with each
increasing awareness of ESG. Targets Initiative (SBTi) to establish a decarbonisation target to Manager Helena loved it! sponsors’ name inscribed on them. It looks
More and more businesses are help limit global warming to 1.50C. Reducing our greenhouse “The Garden Club has some raised garden absolutely lovely!”
becoming attuned to it. gas emissions in line with that target. beds at the bottom of the site so we thought an
2. Green care homes: Building six new aged care orchard would tie in really nicely. The idea is that
What motivated Metlifecare to communities which achieve a 6 Green Star rating from the when all the trees have matured a bit and start
be an early adopter? New Zealand Green Building Council. fruiting, residents will be encouraged to come
We want Metlifecare to grow 3. Dementia care: Increasing our dementia offering six- and pick some for themselves,” says Bet, whose
"The idea is that when all the trees
in a way that’s sustainable fold within five years, and achieving Dementia Friendly home directly overlooks the orchard. have matured a bit and start fruiting,
for the community and for Accreditation from Alzheimers New Zealand. “And for those less mobile, we can pick residents will be encouraged to come
the environment. Sustainable baskets of fruit and place them up in the common and pick some for themselves."
8 The Villager � Autumn 2022 metlifecare.co.nz 9
� Making music Nurse profile �
Joyce's journey:
The String Alongs investing in
A chance conversation
during happy hour has
Not only does the village now
have its first-ever ukulele band
With 13 new ukuleles
donated by the Residents’
our nurses
- The String Alongs - but the Committee, and several others
opened the door to a
players are loving it so much deciding to purchase their
whole new adventure for they’re planning their first own instruments, The String
a group of residents at concert! Village sales executive Alongs are off to a flying start.
Longford Park Village. Sue Braithwaite-Smith explains… And despite the fact they’re all
On May 12 each year, we salute the hard
“I started learning the beginners, Sue reckons they’re work of our amazing nurses through
ukulele about three years ago smashing it. International Nurses Day (IND). Nurses play
when I joined the Crestwood “We’ve only been practicing an invaluable role in society – now more
ukulele band. Now I’m working for four weeks and already we than ever – and here at Metlifecare we are
at Longford Park and during can play songs like Ten Guitars, incredibly grateful for all that they do.
a recent village happy hour I and He’s Got the Whole World in
casually mentioned to residents His Hands. We’re hoping to get
that I could teach them how to good enough to put on a village The theme for this year’s IND as an activity coordinator and Metlifecare to see if they might
play. Before I knew it, we had concert in the coming months focuses on investing in nurses a caregiver. I didn’t mind what be able to provide me with
around 20 people keen to give - and who knows, eventually to strengthen global healthcare, I did so long as I enjoyed the some financial assistance, and
it a go.” we may even be able to give something that Metlifecare is work and my bills were paid on they gave me a scholarship! I
concerts to other villages!” deeply passionate about. By time. Life was tough but I was have finished my CAP course
investing in our staff, we are not thankful I had a job. now and am very proud to be a
just investing in their futures, but “One day someone asked New Zealand registered nurse.
also in the lives of our residents. me, ‘Is it true that you are “I’m so grateful to
At Metlifecare Highlands, a nurse? Then why are you Metlifecare and the team for
we’ve recently supported Joyce holding a mop instead of a being so supportive with my
Martinez to transition from a syringe?’ That’s when it hit work and study - it has been
role as a casual cleaner to a me. I knew I could do better. instrumental in helping me
New Zealand registered nurse! The next day I asked Regional achieve my professional goals.
She shares her story here… Clinical Manager Melissa Harris The generosity and kindness
“My New Zealand journey to give me a week off to take of the team have left a mark
hasn’t been easy, but one thing an English exam so that I could not only on my professional
I’ve learnt is that if you ever find pursue my career. She was very life, but on my personal life too,
yourself tossing up between supportive and told me that and now I feel encouraged and
quitting and trying, always one of her commitments to empowered to do even better.
choose to give it a try. I feel proud Metlifecare was to support staff To all the caregivers, registered
to share my story, my struggles with professional growth. nurses, cleaners, maintenance
and my success with you. “After passing my English team and the rest of the staff
“I was a registered nurse exam my next step was CAP – a at Metlifecare Highlands, thank
back in the Philippines and six-week course that enables you for trusting me!”
when I got to New Zealand, registered nurses to meet the
Metlifecare Highlands hired me competence requirements
as a casual worker. At first, I did of the Nursing Council of
“Dream big, stay
everything from cleaning toilets New Zealand. But the course positive, work hard and
and doing laundry to working was expensive. I approached enjoy the journey.”
10 The Villager � Autumn 2022 metlifecare.co.nz 11
� New Village Managers New Village Managers �
Say ‘hi’ to our newest
Village Managers
What appealed to you about utilised by our residents. I do
Gulf Rise? love the buzz when you are in a
The vibrancy! Not only is it a community hub!
beautiful site to look at, but
the residents are lively and What do you enjoy most about Barbara Long, Rachael Hall, Stephanie Ducrot,
engaging. And of course, a aged care?
village in development is super The people! I’ve been working in
Metlifecare Karori Metlifecare Metlifecare Park
exciting to be involved with. I’m aged care since I was 18 and it Share something interesting Wilson Carlile What are you most looking
thrilled to see our care building has shaped who I am today. The about your village. How long have you worked forward to about joining the
take shape, especially as it will relationships you form in this The property was bought in in aged care? Metlifecare family?
be the first certified 6 Green industry have such an impact. 1900 as a home for delinquent I’ve been a manager in the aged An exciting new challenge with
girls. It later became a children’s a company that’s progressive in
Heather Booth, Star care building in the country
(the highest green building Tell us one thing your home, followed by a home for
care sector for over a decade,
thoughts and actions.
and in that time I’ve opened two
Gulf Rise rating available in New Zealand). residents have taught you. the elderly. In 1980 the care new care centres and managed
If everyone agreed and thought home was damaged by fire and multiple sites. How long have you worked
What have been the highlights the same things, life would be the Metlifecare Karori village in aged care?
so far? very boring! [formerly known as Sprott] was What’s special about I’ve been managing rest homes
Coming on board as we prepare established. The village borders your village? for the past 12 years – I really
to open the main amenities Where might we find you when wildlife sanctuary Zealandia Our staff and residents are enjoy the camaraderie of staff
building – there’s so much to you’re not at Gulf Rise? Karori so our residents get to like family, and we have and residents. I originally came
do but it’s exhilarating. I’m so Cutting down trees and splitting enjoy plenty of native birdlife. separate ‘households’ where to Selwyn Park (now Metlifecare
looking forward to opening the firewood with my husband and the same staff look after the Park) village on a one-year
community hub and seeing it dog Bruce. What do you love most about same residents each day. Our maternity cover contract, and
your residents? activities team is always thinking seven years later I'm still here!
Our residents are our historians. outside the box to come up with Mind you, some of our staff
Tell us about yourself. residents with confidence to I love listening to their many new ideas and experiences, and have been here for 30 years so
I grew up on a farm in South live the way they want. I feel stories of years gone by – it our residents always provide us that’s testament to what a great
Africa – my dad was an ostrich so inspired listening to our enhances your world and gives with lots of lively feedback and place it is.
farmer – and I completed my pioneers’ life stories. you knowledge of where we all entertainment.
nursing studies in Cape Town. come from. They deserve their What’s set Metlifecare
I was recruited to work in a Share one of your most golden years to be the best they What are you looking forward Park apart?
rest home in Lower Hutt and memorable Coastal Villas can be, and I feel privileged and to about being part of We’re on 10 acres of park-like
that’s where I met my husband moments? blessed to be part of that journey. Metlifecare? grounds with 88 lovely residents,
who was a podiatrist there. I’ve One of our residents is a glass I’m excited to join the team. The 14 independent living units,
worked in various aged care artist and she made me a What are your pursuits outside people I’ve met so far are very fantastic staff and delicious
roles in New Zealand over the beautiful little glass heart to of aged care? similar to the Selwyn people strawberries.
I’m passionate about our I’ve worked with – friendly and
Helene Walton, past 20 years. welcome me into the village.
environment so recycling and dedicated to making life better What keeps you busy outside
Coastal Villas What do you love about being Tell us something people may sustainability are high on my and safer for residents and staff, of Metlifecare Park?
Village Manager? not know about you. list. I also love travelling – while also having a few laughs We have a lifestyle block with
I have always loved the VM I love to make soap and candles Argentina is one of my along the way. six cows, two staffy dogs, two
role as you can be part of a and often go to the Sunday favourite destinations. turtles, veggie gardens, and an
supportive community, inspiring markets to sell my creations. orchard with 300 fruit trees.
12 The Villager � Autumn 2022 metlifecare.co.nz 13
� New Village Managers Events �
Village events
Kim Brooks, Craig Peploe, Carey Fletcher,
Metlifecare Oaks Metlifecare Heights Metlifecare
Please introduce yourself! St Andrew’s
You’ve worked in aged care for I was born in New Zealand but Tell us about your village.
18 years. Tell us more. raised overseas, including South We have 75 independent living
My passion lies with older people Africa, the UK and the USA. I’ve residents and 22 care residents,
– they’re so interesting and been a Village Manager since with a village café ‘Thorne House’
1
diverse and have such a wealth 2014 (I was actually VM of The that’s open to the community.
of knowledge to share. During Poynton from 2014 – 2019). We’re in the precinct of a
my career I’ve been a director of Outside of work I have a large wonderful historic church,
nursing, an operations manager garden that keeps me busy 1. A light heart lives
which our residents have a very
longest, so the Irish say…
for a new model of dementia along with two children, three strong connection to. We even so we’ve dressed up in
care, and a roving clinical stepchildren, their three spouses held the naming of the Moxon green at MLC Heights to
manager and Village Manager. and three grandchildren. Centre (our care centre) there. celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.
I’ve also been involved with the 2. CEO Earl Gasparich
College of Gerontology Nursing What’s special about What do you love most about helps Crestwood staff with
for over a decade. visitor Rapid Antigen Testing.
Metlifecare Heights? working in aged care?
Set in 12.5 acres of beautiful I value the wisdom we gain 3. Development Operations
2 3 4 Manager Philip Hanson
What’s special about park-like grounds with views from our residents and some helps out with the dishes
Metlifecare Oaks? towards the Manukau Harbour of the stories they tell are so at Pinesong – just don’t tell
I’ve only been here a few weeks and One Tree Hill, it’s also interesting. I like to think my his wife!
but it’s one of the most inviting bordered by one of the city’s care team makes a difference. 4. Accounts Payable
villages I’ve come across. premier parks, Monte Cecilia Specialist, Zhara Al Tahan
served up 40 cups of tea
and the Pah Homestead. Where can we find you when
in 40 minutes at Highlands
Where can we find you when you’re not at St Andrew’s? Care Home.
you’re not at work? What’s the most rewarding My husband and I live on a
5. Hibiscus Coast resident
I’ve got three grandchildren so part about being a VM? small lifestyle block outside 6 7 Jay Newton (left) wins
spending time with family is a One must be a true ‘general’ Matamata. We spend a lot the Petanque NZ National
top priority. My home is actually manager, juggling resident needs of time in our gardens and Women's Triples.
on a lifestyle block in Rotorua, and priorities with staffing and orchard, and also enjoy riding 6. The Queen knights
but I live in Auckland during employment matters whilst our bikes on the myriad the King of Scotland at
The Poynton.
the week. I love spending my having to know something about tracks and trails. We’re quite
weekends on the farm! Before everything, including maintenance, outdoorsy, and have a caravan, 7. Residents at Edgewater
celebrated Valentine's Day
Covid-19, I volunteered as clinical gardening, food and dining, kayak and tramping boots. with a sausage sizzle.
director for a trust supporting residential care, sales, marketing, 8. Celebrating Edgewater’s
Cambodian nurses – I can’t wait property, refurbishment, finance, new courtyard with the first
to return to Cambodia once the customer service, cleaning and gathering of Blokes, Beer
5 8
pandemic is over. more. I love the variety!
and Banter!
14 The Villager � Autumn 2022 metlifecare.co.nz 15
� Tech connect Tech connect �
Tech to connect
Digital technology is booming – and so too are the number of seniors
using it. Whether you’re catching up with loved ones, paying bills, or
buying groceries, connecting online has never been easier. Embracing
technology brings myriad benefits – and it’s been a lifesaver during
these Covid-19 times - but it doesn’t come without risk. That’s why over
the next few issues of The Villager we’ll be shining a spotlight on all
things tech, helping you stay connected and safe in today’s digital world.
Can’t figure out how to connect ROB SAYS:
via Zoom? Need a hand with • If you want to check if the
your WhatsApp or FaceTime? website you’re looking at
One of your grandkids mucked is safe, look out for a little
up the settings on your TV? Rob padlock icon just before the
can help with that! address. That means it’s
“I started working in secure. Also if the address
electronics after leaving school has an https:// at the front, Zoom – the next Since then, Eva has had the she admits nothing quite beats
in 1958,” says Rob. “I worked that also means it’s secure. If best thing thrill of visiting Atlas (now eight the real thing.
in a telephone exchange and there’s no ‘s’, I’d be doubtful months old) twice in person. “It’s just marvellous seeing
they had huge buildings in every • No bank will ever ask you to Life dishes up its fair share of And although technology him in real life. He is such a
suburb. Now everything can be reset your password magic moments and meeting provided a welcome substitute, happy and energetic little boy.”
done in something the size of a • Telephone scams are rife. your first great grandchild must
large lunchbox.” If someone rings and says certainly be among them. But for
Before moving into The they’re going to cut off your Hillsborough Heights resident Boyd Squires, from
Poynton nine years ago, Rob internet service because you Eva Boyes, saying hello to great The Poynton, says that
spent 20 years as Technical haven’t paid your bill, chances grandson Atlas for the first his family links up over
Support Manager for The are it’s a scam time didn’t follow traditional
Meet Robert Thompson a video call for Friday
Warehouse. He knows his • If you see something conventions. Unable to travel to
– Resident tech guru at stuff! He’s also pretty busy as advertised for a ridiculously meet him in person, Eva caught
happy hour. "It's nice to
The Poynton he runs The Poynton’s private low price online (recently a her first glimpse of the newest catch up and relax with
radio station which broadcasts “Harvey Norman” ad popped family member via Zoom! everyone over Zoom – we
When it comes to technology- seven days a week to the up with televisions for $2.99!), “Atlas was nearly three often end up chatting on
related problems, residents at village and neighbouring North it’s a scam. If it sounds too months old and I still hadn’t the call for hours as we
The Poynton are in great hands. Shore Hospital. good to be true, it probably is! been able to meet him, so the enjoy the evening. It's
Robert Thompson is an Rob recently ran a village • If you get a Facebook village staff set me up with a
a great way to make an
IT whiz, and after spending seminar about how to recognise request from someone who is laptop and we connected on
his entire working life in the scams, drawing one of the already your friend, IGNORE Zoom,” explains Eva. “I was over
activity that we'd all be
electronics and technology biggest crowds The Poynton IT. It’s actually someone the moon. He’s the only great doing anyway – Friday
industry, he’s now the village has had for any talk, ever! Here trying to steal your personal grandchild I’ve got so it was drinks – into a social
go-to guy for all things tech. are a few of his tips… information. incredibly special.” opportunity."
16 The Villager � Autumn 2022 metlifecare.co.nz 17� Tech connect Resident profile �
Growing up
Online safety big concern
Guiding
Age Concern New Zealand – a charity dedicated to the
wellbeing and rights of our seniors – works hard to help
over 65s stay connected with family, friends and their
community. Digital technology is playing a rapidly growing
role in that connectivity, but there are a few risks we
need to be aware of. Age Concern New Zealand’s Health
Promotion and Policy Manager Joanne Reid explains…
“We are getting an increasing number of queries about For Longford Park Village resident Lorna
online safety, both from seniors and also from family Clauson, becoming a Lone Guide as a
members and friends who are concerned about their young girl sparked a lifelong commitment
loved ones. Covid-19 has played a big role in the growth to the Girl Guide movement. Lorna
of using digital devices, but so too has the fact that lots of reflects fondly on her childhood, travels,
government services are now going online, bank branches KITCAL – a simpler
way to connect and life as a Guide in New Zealand.
are closing, and cheques have become obsolete.
“Older people have adapted to lots of digital
technology over their lives and they’re certainly very Can’t get your head around an In 1941, I was 11 years old and keep it well polished. I still have In 1954, with two young
capable of learning how to navigate new devices, but they iPad or smartphone but want lived on a big dairy farm in it, but in varying states of polish! children and a flourishing Guide
also need to learn to be safe in the digital world. We want to stay in touch with friends Mamaranui, north of Dargaville. At that time, all Guides in membership, we held a meeting
our seniors to be able to connect socially and access and family? Check out Kitcal, a My mother discovered that girls New Zealand were encouraged for Rangers at our home in Drury,
information online – we just don’t want them exposed to specially designed tablet that who live in remote areas could to help during the Second World where it was suggested we
scams or people who might take advantage of them.” makes connecting a breeze for join Girl Guiding as Lone Guides, War. We collected ergot from should attend the 1956 Olympic
To help address these issues, Age Concern offers a range non-tech-savvy seniors. Created and knowing my interest in the local grasses, which helped with Games in Melbourne. After two
of free or low-cost digital education services including: by a Kiwi whose mum could no outdoors, she signed me up. blood clotting at childbirth and in years of saving like crazy, our
• ‘Tea and Tech’ – local high school students work with longer operate her digital device, I memorised the ‘Guide treating migraines, and we made company of 11 Rangers and three
Age Concern staff to provide one-on-one sessions with Kitcal is an easy keyboard-free Law’ and ‘Promise’, learnt how bandages from old sheets. leaders arrived in Melbourne
seniors to help them develop their digital skills. Learn way to share photos and videos, to tie knots and do simple first At 21 I got married to where we were warmly
the ropes from a true digital native! receive messages, and check in aid. I kept a logbook of my my husband Lou, and it was welcomed by local leaders. That
• Learn how to do your banking online – in partnership with your nearest and dearest. indoor and outdoor activities suggested I give up the was just the beginning of our
with Age Concern, bank staff volunteer their time to If you find yourself going down and wrote a monthly letter to ‘Girl Guide nonsense’ and adventures abroad.
help older people set up their online banking. a digital rabbit hole with the usual the Captain with everything I’d concentrate on ‘wifely duties’. Everywhere we went, we
• Drop-in sessions – from sending emails and joining email and photo platforms or learnt. My Trefoil badge arrived I never did, and thankfully it were treated like special guests.
Facebook to downloading the Covid-19 app or accessing apps, maybe this device is worth in the mail with instructions to wasn’t mentioned again! We made life-long friends and
your health information. Drop into your local Age checking out? It claims to be the stayed in touch with everyone
Concern branch for answers to all your digital questions. simplest way for senior Kiwis to we met along the way. Many of
keep socially connected. This our friends have since visited us
To find out more about these programmes phone product is also recommended by in New Zealand, and we were
0800 65 2 105 or visit www.ageconcern.org.nz Age Concern. able to return their wonderful
Freephone 0800 437 696 or hospitality.
A word of caution online https://kitcal.nz Without Guiding my life
This isn’t just about being “aware”. To keep safe in the would have been totally
current digital world you need to be super alert and extra SPECIAL OFFER different. Thanks to the friends
cautious. Scammers are getting ever more sophisticated Kitcal will take $50 off the price made on our 1967 tour, I’ve been
in how they conduct their scams. Fraudsters even use of their device for The Villager able to travel the globe. I’m so
social engineering techniques to trick people into giving readers. Just quote Metlifecare grateful for the opportunities it
them what they want. Make no mistake, a scam is never when placing your order to has presented, and especially
for an innocent reason. It is to get money or personal data receive this discount. Offer valid to the women who made Lone
which can then be sold for money. So always be alert and until 30 June 2022. Guiding a reality for so many of
cautious in every one of your interactions online. us in New Zealand.
18 The Villager � Autumn 2022 metlifecare.co.nz 19� Edgewater opening Edgewater opening �
No more Q&A
lawns with
Sophia
Tang
George Nuku is
the first resident at
Edgewater's newly-
opened apartments! As
a Pakuranga local, the
74-year-old decided to
move in almost two years My nurse manager role
ago, when construction has taught me many
had hardly started. valuable life lessons.
Nursing for me is more
"I wanted to continue to stay
in the area, but I've decided than a career, it's a
no more lawns or washing passion.
windows," says George. Tell us about your role at
Despite recent Covid-19 Edgewater Village.
lockdowns, George says the I’m the Nurse Manager for the
move-in process was great, and new care home. This means I
that Edgewater Sales Executive manage the nursing team to
Sarah Horsfall was "very good ensure we are providing quality
and very helpful". care to our residents. A key part
He decided to stay in the area of my role is to be available to
to remain close to his tight-knit provide help with any questions
group of friends - one of whom or nursing challenges they may What qualifications or training How important is it to work
lives just off Edgewater Drive. be facing. have you done? as a team?
Welcome to Metlifecare, George! I graduated from WINTEC in Very important. I’m not able to be
What drew you to your role? Hamilton in 2013 with a Bachelor there 24/7 so a good team needs
I’m passionate about aged care of Nursing and the following to be on the same page and
and I wanted to contribute to year I did my postgraduate in use their own skills to prioritise
Putting the edge in Edgewater improving the quality of care for gerontology nursing. I completed what needs to be done so things
our residents who require this my Master of Nursing in 2018 and continue to run smoothly.
Residents and staff at Edgewater Village in East Auckland level of support. I have also just enrolled myself
had plenty to celebrate in April as their brand-new amenities at AUT for the Postgraduate in What has working as a
building, apartment block and care home was completed What makes an outstanding Health Management. nurse manager taught you
after more than two years in development. care home? about life?
The new build boasts a bright, modern dining area - perfect The people. While Edgewater What type of qualities or skills It has taught me how to better
for social activities and meeting with friends and family, while is a brand-new care home with are important to do your role? manage stress and how
a new swimming pool area and gymnasium will be popular for brand-new equipment, for me it’s Critical thinking. And being in a important it is to maintain a
those who like to keep active and social. The onsite premium about working in an environment clinical environment, you need life and work balance. For me,
care home offers residents peace of mind that a full continuum with people who care and where to ensure everything you do, or it’s very important to exercise
of care is available should there be a time they may need it. residents and visitors are treated any answers to questions you regularly – for both my physical
with care and respect. give are evidence-based. and mental health.
20 The Villager � Autumn 2022 metlifecare.co.nz 21� Development update Development update �
Development
Left
Pukekohe’s newest
lifestyle village is set
update: New villages
to open in 2027.
Opposite
Construction of
for Pukekohe and
Mangawhai’s first-
ever retirement village
kicks off next year.
Mangawhai is being undertaken with local
iwi and neighbouring residents
about our plans for a low rise
but stunning village that seniors
will be excited to call ‘home’.
They may be on opposite sides of Auckland
Life’s a beach in According to Metlifecare
but Metlifecare’s newest retirement village Development Manager
laid-back Mangawhai
developments have a lot in common. Camille Warnaar, the bespoke
Plans for the first-ever retirement
The premium sites in Pukekohe also play a starring role with village for this seaside town development will have a leading
and Northland’s Mangawhai will initiatives such as solar power have been welcomed by a edge over anything else on offer
eventually offer the ultimate in generation, rainwater harvesting broad cross section of the in the region.
easy-living for local retirees – and waste minimisation. local community, according “It will certainly have a point
architecturally designed villages Demand for premium lifestyle to Metlifecare Development of difference to other villages
Manager Jack Stirling. significance of its 13-hectare site, be native and selected to match in the area. It will be extremely
that integrate seamlessly with villages is soaring, which means
Metlifecare has engaged with the village theme, survivability, spacious, and a great deal of
their surroundings, but with these upmarket developments “We’ve had a very positive
local iwi, Te Uri o Hau. ongoing maintenance, look and design time has been spent
the full continuum of care for will not only be invaluable assets response so far - it sounds like
“We’ve also met with the Golf feel and to increase the local on optimising the form and
optimal peace of mind. to their communities, but they’ll this village is a much-needed
Club and Mangawhai Business biodiversity. We’re also looking function of open areas such as
Input from local iwi and also be highly sought-after addition to the Mangawhai
Association both of whom have into solar power generation winter gardens and fruit and
ongoing community feedback among discerning retirees. community,” says Jack.
been extremely positive. It’s not and harvesting rainwater from vegetable gardens. This will
will keep locals front and Let’s take a look at what To ensure the new
surprising – having a retirement the building roofs to supply the ensure the village is in keeping
centre, and sustainability will they’ll offer… development respects the cultural
village in the area, and better still village’s water needs.” with Pukekohe’s rich market
one offering the full continuum Set to be a true beach oasis, garden history,” says Camille.
of care, will be a huge drawcard the design and resource consent The 8.6-hectare Jellicoe
for Mangawhai seniors.” process is currently underway, Road site will also appeal to
Boasting out-of-this-world and construction is expected to the eco-conscious, with great
coastal and rural views - and commence in 2023. All going care being taken to reduce
promising the ultimate in relaxed well the village will welcome its the development’s carbon
coastal living - the $110 million first residents in 2025 and be footprint through solar power
development will eventually offer fully completed by 2029. generation, waste minimisation
around 150 villas, an aged care and composting.
facility with 50 care beds, cafe Semi-rural charm in Pukekohe Construction is expected to
and bar, heated indoor swimming Pukekohe’s rich horticultural start next year, with anticipated
pool and spa, gymnasium, history will be woven through all completion in 2027. Once
communal area, meandering aspects of this $210m lifestyle finished, Pukekohe’s newest
cycle paths and walkways, all village development. Design is village will offer approximately
topped off with spectacular already underway, and plans 150 - 160 independent villas
coastal-style landscaping. will reflect the area’s natural and apartments, a 60-bed
“We’ll be using locally sourced landscape and character. premium care home, dementia
plants from the Nga Uri o Hau As with all new Metlifecare care, and truly next-level
Native Nursery. These plants will developments, consultation retirement living.
22 The Villager � Autumn 2022 metlifecare.co.nz 23� Staff feature Staff feature �
options in the area, so we being our support network fits all and being a development
wanted to really understand when engaging with Council on manager, you need to be able
who the customer was, and these matters. to read that – when to consult,
secondly, we had strong “In Ōtau/Clevedon we’re next when to engage, and when not
interest as soon as we went to the Wairoa River which we to over-consult, or it can be
public, so we wanted to talk know has cultural significance death by a thousand cuts!”
through the plans. to iwi. And it’s important to Asked what the biggest
“We engaged extensively respect that. So for us, it was myth is about working in the
with Ōtau/Clevedon for similar about sitting down with Ngāi aged care sector, and Joe
reasons, partly because we’re Tai ki Tamaki to talk about what says it’s the traditional “gated
next to the town centre and we’re doing, and how we can community mentality” that
there’s a lot of business owners integrate the natural features some people think exists.
that are interested in what of the Wairoa River, without “Some of the residents I have
we’re doing, and equally, we’re undermining any of the spiritual talked to are as progressive in
interested in what services they or cultural values.” their design thinking as some
can provide moving forward. Joe says all consultations of the younger architects and
“You learn a lot through are different. “It’s never going to designers that work on these
consultation so it’s an essential be perfect. There’s no one size projects, which is awesome!”
It takes a community
part of the design process. You
might get some resistance, so
it’s ensuring we are genuine in
to design a village
our engagement. We may agree
to some things and push back
on others. It’s the nature of the
design process.”
Joe explains that while iwi
consultation is slightly different
Joe Bartley’s job as a development, even more so in accessible, and residents will
– as you’re engaging in matters
Senior Development the aged care space,” says Joe. actually use and enjoy.
Joe is a Senior Development “I love watching the built that impact the whenua in the
Manager for Metlifecare area – it is equally important.
Manager at Metlifecare, which environment come to life and
allows him to combine his sees him in the perfect role – seeing how these new spaces “At Beachlands, we
passion for engaging with developing carefully crafted will impact those who choose proposed stream reclamations,
local communities with communities for New Zealand’s to live there.” so we engaged with Ngāi Tai ki
Tāmaki early on. Through the
designing and building retirees. Most of Joe’s role Metlifecare takes a
visits they talked to us about
beautiful homes for is at the front end of the unique approach to creating
the Māori history of the area
senior New Zealanders. development process, helping its bespoke villages and
Metlifecare identify and acquire amenities, ensuring each village and importance of regeneration
After speaking to Joe Bartley new land opportunities, and fits perfectly into the local of the foreshore surrounding
for just a few minutes, it managing the development environment and community. Pine Harbour. They ended up
quickly becomes apparent how process from masterplan stage An essential part of getting
important local communities to resource consent, through to this right, is engaging with the
are to him, and in particular, the the start of construction. community from the very start.
people within them. “Managing a retirement Following Metlifecare’s site
“I grew up in a Samoan village development forces acquisitions in Beachlands and “I love watching the
family where we were taught you to think at a human level, Clevedon, Joe’s development
built environment
to always be humble and treat and really challenge the design team quickly engaged with both
others with respect, especially team, whether its landscape East Auckland communities.
come to life and seeing
those older than you. I try and architects, architects, traffic “In Beachlands we did a lot how these new spaces
bring some of those values or civil engineers, to produce of community engagement up will impact those who
I was taught into property something that’s attractive, front. There were no retirement choose to live there.”
24 The Villager � Autumn 2022 metlifecare.co.nz 25� Personal journeys Personal journeys �
The life of Rhodesia, Australia or New
Zealand. I chose New Zealand,
a retirement
and have never regretted it. I
arrived in Auckland in 1952 on
the Catalina flying boat from
village pioneer
Sydney. I got a job in Putaruru,
building the hotel there. The
problem was I could not speak
any English. But I slowly picked
up the words by reading comics!
I lived in a hut that I built, no
Nestled behind the North Sea sand-dunes is the bigger than a toolshed.
tiny Dutch village of Wijk aan Zee (Village-on-the by Vern Walker “Originally us Dutch
Sea). It is here that Metlifecare Pinesong resident, of Metlifecare immigrants were not too popular.
Peter Vellekoop was born, 93 years ago. Pinesong, Auckland During the 1951 wharfies strike,
many immigrants were cursed
at as they descended to the
An early teenage memory is As a youngster he would often 20 he was called up for military Wellington wharves. They would
that of hundreds of Second walk to the seaside and gaze training. He was shipped to cry out: ‘Go home, we do not
World War Lancaster bombers, at the passing ships off the Indonesia as part of a peace- want you here.’ We were prepared
accompanied by Spitfires, Dutch coast. This made him keeping force, in the takeover of to work much harder than the
approaching from England. At dream of faraway places, and Dutch rule, by the Indonesians. Kiwi tradesmen and this caused
first a buzzing sound, then a horizons beyond Holland. And Peter: “I loved my two years in resentment. I recall working a But Peter’s determination Native bush, curved pathways and
rumble and finally a distant roar, so, in later life he became Indonesia. I had a great time, 60 hour week for just 16 pounds. prevailed. He toiled alone - a view of the Manukau Harbour
in the high cold heavens above, an inquisitive globe-trotter. enjoyed the exotic food, the I was involved in building a working up to 12 hours a day. make this a great location.
en route to the bombing raids Secondly, he entered trade tropical fruit and the climate. hospital in Dargaville, returned Over a period of four years the “I have travelled to Holland
on Germany. school to become a carpenter. “Upon return home, I found to Auckland and built churches village developed. The first many times, twice aboard
Two aspects to Peter's early His apprenticeship was Holland so cold. So I considered in Avondale and Mangere, and a nine units were completed in container ships. Three times
life would determine his pathway. interrupted, when at the age of immigrating to Canada, supermarket in Titirangi.” 1972. This generated newspaper I have travelled to the white
The concept of a village headlines: UNIQUE VILLAGE wasteland that is Antarctica.
for retirees came on a visit to FOR OLDER PEOPLE. He then A different world with the
Holland, to visit his elderly father. became a live-in owner-operator, twisted shapes of the blue ice
He lived in a council-run facility, thus ensuring that everything of the giant icebergs: our best
“Native bush, with communal activities. ran smoothly. He lived in the trip, ever. I have experienced
curved pathways Peter purchased a property in village for 22 years, organising rounding the bottom of South
and a view of Willerton Avenue, in the working film evenings, indoor bowls, America in the giant seas off
the Manukau class Auckland suburb of New billiards, and becoming known Cape Horn, where containers
Harbour make Lynn. His plan of a village for on a first-name basis by the were flushed overboard. I have
retired people, with such facilities residents. At the conclusion of travelled on the tall Danish
this a great
as an outdoor swimming pool, this innovative project, Peter sailing ship, the ‘Soren Larsen’,
location.” a community hall, and a BBQ hung up his tool-belt, and from Auckland to New York,
area was so new, that there decided to travel the world. via the Galapagos Islands, and
were heated discussions with the Peter: “I met Althea during enjoyed the Yangtze River cruise.”
Left sceptical council and his bank. a campervan trip through To better understand Peter’s
Peter Vellekoop The concept was so novel that Australia, and in 2002 we moved dream I recently visited his
enjoying a well-earned
retirement, at Pinesong
the Dutch village of ONS DORP into our apartment in Pinesong. village, named Willowcroft,
(Our Village), located in the Here, the lifestyle is just great. to view the 24 units and hall. I
Opposite
Auckland suburb of Henderson The village is mainly flat, and dwelt on Peter’s labour of love,
Antarctic holiday on a
Russian ice-breaker – was eleven years away from the as I approach my 94th birthday and marvelled at his energy,
with partner, Althea start of construction. I can still go for my daily walk. tenacity and forward thinking.
26 The Villager � Autumn 2022 metlifecare.co.nz 27You can also read
