Gorgeous - STORE IN - Metlifecare
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
AUTUMN 2020 |
IN
STORE
LASTING
LEGACY
50-acre gift
of love
WILLING
HANDS
What happens when
residents take
the lead
GLASS
HALF-FULL
A light-hearted
glance at getting older
Gorgeous
gardens
Celebrating our planted spaces
While a number of conditions need to be
met in order for the sale to proceed, all
going well the transfer of ownership will
take place in May this year.
As CEO, I truly believe this is an exciting
time for our residents, our staff and for
Metlifecare. But for now, it’s business as
usual. My focus and energy – and that of Gardening is good for the body and good for the soul, and we
all Metlifecare staff - remains on you, our often hear from residents how important gardens are to their
residents, and on operating our villages enjoyment of village life. I’ve had a great time pulling together
and care homes well, so you continue to the garden-themed stories for this issue, heading to villages
have wonderful experiences with us. to look at our beautiful and useful planted spaces, explore
the ponds and pathways crafted by residents and hear first-
On gardening hand from some of our cleverest resident gardeners. Thank
Eighteen months ago, like many of you, I you Bet, Aileen, Pam, Wally and others for taking the time
moved from a large family home into an to show me around your projects, some of which have taken
apartment and, other than a few easy- years to come to fruition.
care citrus plants and herb planters, I
don’t have a garden to tend to these days. Please get in touch with your feedback and ideas for future
So, I was extremely impressed to read stories – you can contact me at more@metlifecare.co.nz.
about the scope and scale of the projects
residents are undertaking in our villages
(Willing Hands, page 21).
Anna
- FROM THE CEO -
ANNA MURDOCH
Sense of purpose
EDITOR - MORE IN STORE
The Japanese have a concept called Ikigai.
It’s about having a sense of purpose, a
reason to jump out of bed in the morning.
These resident-led projects embody this DID YOU KNOW?
principle, as does Marianne (page 7),
Proposed acquisition around the world with a focus on scientific research who starts her day at 4am with a swim, Glen was recently selected as Chair of the selection panel for The
As you may be aware, Metlifecare has signed a and education. before tending to six different gardens at Sir Peter Blake Trust (BLAKE) Leadership Awards. Established in
Scheme Implementation Agreement with Asia Pacific Pinesong village. 2004, BLAKE is dedicated to continuing Sir Peter’s environmental
Village Group, a subsidiary of EQT Infrastructure Fund EQT invests in businesses with positive societal leadership legacy, and aims to inspire environmental and leadership
IV, which would see new ownership for Metlifecare. impact – like ours. Under EQT ownership we would Thank you to these passion in people through adventures and programmes that follow in
Our Board is unanimously in favour of the transaction. likely see increased investment in our villages – in residents for your the footsteps of Sir Peter himself.
care, in enhancing the experiences residents have vision and service
Many of you will naturally be asking, what does this every day in our village gardens, cafés and shared – you are what our As Chair, Glen leads a high-profile panel who every year select
mean for me and my village? spaces, and in the growth and development of both unique villages are five leaders who exemplify Sir Peter’s extraordinary ‘can do’ spirit.
new and existing villages. all about. Himself a former BLAKE leader (Glen was selected in 2005 to
Recently, our village managers, nurse managers and receive the award), it’s a cause close to his heart.
other senior staff from around the business met In terms of staff retention and continuity in our Have a wonderful Easter.
with representatives from EQT to hear about the villages, this is an industry that relies on its people “The work that BLAKE does in Peter’s memory resonates strongly
company’s history, heritage, vision, values and strong - good people - and this is fully appreciated and Kind regards, with me, particularly in the environmental space. The health of our
connections to Sweden’s Wallenberg family. understood by EQT. oceans is critical to our quality of life. The engagement of young
people in understanding and caring about this is core to the purpose
We learnt that the Wallenberg family tradition of
responsible ownership is an important part of EQT’s
Your ORA is fully protected under the Retirement
Villages Act, and nothing changes in terms of the Glen of BLAKE, and something I’m passionate about.”
values and vision today. Every year, the Wallenberg responsibilities and obligations we have to you GLEN SOWRY
Foundations contribute significantly to charities currently. CEO - METLIFECARE
2 MORE IN STORE | Autumn 2020 metlifecare.co.nz 3
- CONTENTS - - NEWS -
What’s in store Village life
G A L L AV I A
7
A sneak peek behind the scenes
N
LI T
L
O
CA
RS
!
WELCOME, NADIA!
We loved welcoming My
Food Bag’s Nadia Lim
to Pinesong!
Nadia presented a three-
week trial of My Food Bag’s Pilots, cabin crew, aircraft
MADE meals delivery service engineers, flight dispatchers…
16 at Pinesong. The trial is also
taking place at Crestwood
If you have a connection to the
aviation industry, tell us your best
and Hillsborough Heights. story and you could win a chance
2 From the CEO 21 Willing hands for a ride in a Westpac Rescue
Residents enjoyed a choice Helicopter as part of Metlifecare’s
Cover Our cover star is of three specially selected
Dannemora Gardens resident 5 Village life 24 We love our nurses 10-year sponsorship of the
meals, and took a free one Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust.
Rosa Sharp, 76. Described as a 7 A love of beauty 26 Finding meaning and home to try, too.
“sunny, lovely person,” Rosa is on pride in aged care Email more@metlifecare.co.nz
the residents’ committee, loves 8 Green things with ‘Aviator’ in the subject line
gardening and has a chihuahua 30 A light-hearted glance at
10 What’s in a name? getting a little bit older
called Lucy who’s a hit with
residents and receptionists alike. 16 Planting love into
the land ACE OPTION
FOR GOLFERS
Metlifecare’s More in Store has a distribution of Earthworks are underway for
9,500 and is available online at Metlifecare.co.nz ‘Fairway Gardens’, Metlifecare’s
Editor: Anna Murdoch newest retirement village
PO Box 37463, Parnell, For all editorial enquires, please contact the editor development in the east Auckland
Auckland 1151 at more@metlifecare.co.nz suburb of Botany Downs.
Metlifecare.co.nz Contributors: Vern Walker, Maggie Randall, Correction: Mobility Centre, part of Life
0800 909 303 Tracey Edwards, Mark Hamilton, Mark Smith, Unlimited Charitable Trust, partnered with It will be New Zealand’s first-ever
/Metlifecare Mary Seale-Bell, Makayla Wallace-Tidd, Kapiti Coast District Council to provide a retirement village to be located on a
mobility scooter training session at Kapiti
/Metlifecare Rachel Fawcett, Robin Hodgkinson
Village (Summer 2019/20 – ‘Hot Wheels’).
golf course, with no hard boundaries
More In Store is published Published and printed by: ICG www.icg.co.nz Thank you to all involved. separating the village green from the
for Metlifecare Ltd Senior Account Director: LauraGrace McFarland Bruce Page of Mobility Centre helps Kapiti 18-hole golf course. Response to the
Designer: Conor Fox Village’s Alan Brown around the obstacle course. announcement was overwhelming,
More in Store is printed on FSC-MIX source pulp from well-managed forests and other controlled sources. We print with more than 3,000 comments on
using BIO-inks that contain materials which are based on renewable resources including wood resin (rosin, colophony), the NZ Herald’s Facebook post.
and vegetable oils linseed oil and soy bean oil.
Artist impression of Fairway Gardens
Hole in one!
The contents of More in Store are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced in any form without written permission of Metlifecare. Opinions expressed in
More in Store are not necessarily those of Metlifecare, the publisher or editor. Information contained in More in Store is correct at the time of printing and while all
due care and diligence has been taken in the preparation of this magazine, Metlifecare is not responsible for any mistakes, omissions, typographical errors or changes metlifecare.co.nz 5
to product and service descriptions over time.
- PROFILE -
A love of beauty
Once a show gardener, Marianne McRae now
pours her time and love into the gardens of Pinesong.
OPENING NIGHT
YOUNG RECRUIT Gulf Rise’s beautiful garden pavilion came to life
Looks like Metlifecare’s marketing with more than 80 residents, prospective residents, staff
department has found the next and guests coming together for the official opening recently.
member of the team! Sophie Four-piece brass quartet Toppee Flat performed at the event
Peskett, 9, whipped up this courtesy of Metlifecare’s partnership with the
outstanding artwork. Sophie is Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra.
the daughter of Metlifecare’s Metlifecare is a proud sponsor of the Auckland Philharmonia
general manager corporate services Orchestra. Metlifecare residents receive 10% off
Andrew Peskett. tickets for APO performances.
AT THE TOUCH OF A BUTTON
M
A button to access Metlifecare’s wellbeing hub ‘At arianne McRae, 81, starts her day at 4am “I put the strong health of my plants and blooms
My Best’ has now been added to ecare kiosks at with a 30-lap swim. Then she gets outside down to regular top-ups with compost, quite a bit of
every village, making it easier for residents to access. in the garden. liquid blood and bone and various other fertilisers.
‘At my Best’ is a source of personalised information Any plant that doesn’t perform is tossed out.”
and communications surrounding health and She’s the visionary and creator behind no fewer
wellbeing, including direct access to expert advice. than four communal village gardens at Pinesong in With a love of flowers and colour and making
AIN’T IT ROSY? West Auckland. Then there’s her own show-stopping things more beautiful, gardening, for Marianne,
ecare kiosks also allow residents to independently
Hillsborough Heights village has a rose garden of brightly coloured blossoms and verdant has many benefits.
monitor their blood pressure and weight on-site, a
theme going on in its gardens. hanging baskets that showcases her love of flowers
resource that came in handy recently.
and colour. “I can’t stop it,” she admits. “I love the physical side,
“We are blessed to have passionate rose experts “We had a resident who had a bit of a turn in our but most of all I love being outside alone with my
among our residents,” explains village manager dining room. Dizzy, pale, blurred vision. I asked her if Before moving to Pinesong, Marianne would spend thoughts and working to create something of beauty,
Penny Smith. “We also have a fantastic number of her blood pressure may be low. We took her reading many a weekend visiting Auckland quarries to choose something that others may enjoy, too.”
allotments and a wonderful volunteer gardening on the ecare machine and were able to contact her the right rocks to build drystone walls for her many
group who work and socialise together and doctor with the reading. She was very thankful we had levelled show garden. At Pinesong, she gardens even Her favourite flower? Blue Geranium Rozanne. “It’s
coordinate with our gardening team to help with such a great resource available.” more now than she did then. the simplicity of the blooms and the beautiful blue-
pruning, dead heading and whatever works between - Metlifecare village manager mauve colour. It’s always in flower so it’s a perfect
their schedule and our needs of the day.” Plant health is what she aims for. ground cover in a sunny position.”
6 MORE IN STORE | Autumn 2020 metlifecare.co.nz 7
- NEWS -
BIT OF A BUZZ
Gulf Rise is planting to attract bees! The initiative
Green things
is part of the village’s overarching wellness and
sustainability philosophy, which also includes
organic pest management strategies.
“We wish to impact our environment as little as
How our villages are taking care of our planet possible,” explained village manager Jarrod Shearer.
“With our developing butterfly walk and bee-
friendly planting we’re keen to create an
environment to support the insects we all need.”
Gulf Rise residents Di and Paul Smedley have leaf
cutter bees sent to them by mail order. The bees
don’t make honey or sting, but do a wonderful job
pollinating the village’s flowering gardens. “And by
going organic with our sprays we won’t harm these
very helpful bee friends of ours,” Jarrod says.
NO MORE Next up? Village beehives and Gulf Rise honey
POLYSTYRENE – watch this space.
RAT TRAP BOYS
Community Waitakere approached Waitakere Gardens residents Metlifecare villages use
Barry Grossi and Dave Dobbyn to build rat trap boxes for Wild around a million napkins
about Te Atatu, an initiative that aims to increase awareness of the and 75,000 sandwich
biodiversity of Te Atatu Peninsula – and the threats facing it. and meal containers
every year. Now, that
With the overall aim of one day ridding the Peninsula of pests and packaging will be friendlier
bringing back bird life, Barry and Dave spent 13 hours over three
ECO WORKSHOP
for the environment, with Kapiti Village has held its first-
days making 26 rat traps for the local community to trap rats in their compostable Biopak paper ever Eco Workshop for nearly
own backyard. The boxes make the traps safe for children and pets. and sugarcane alternatives 40 residents and staff.
And more supplies are on their way so they can keep building! replacing polystyrene and
plastic straws, cups and “Our eco-warriors came ready
containers. The roll out will with ideas - from predator
be completed by Easter. control to worm farms, from
SUSTAINABLE CLOTHING composting to water conservation,
INITIATIVE FOR CHARITY “Our residents are from planting for bio-diversity
expressing a real desire to battery disposal,” explained
A sustainable fundraising initiative to be environmentally
led by residents at Pinesong resident chairperson Carolyn
conscientious to help leave Lane. “Some projects require
raised almost $4,000 for St John the planet a better place
Ambulance. The initiative – a used more resources or investigation
for the next generations,” - like returning to glass milk
clothing store N2U’, shorthand explained operations
for New 2 You, was led by resident bottles and getting deliveries
manager Gareth Carden. to the door; others are ready
Jean Piper who says the organising “We are often challenged
committee of ten residents were to roll. And there’s still a heap
to reduce waste and find of ideas to pick up once we’ve
delighted by how residents got better ways. Our suppliers
behind their idea for the used clothing store. ticked those ones off. We’re not
and technology offer just leaving it up to the kids!”
“We had a great response from the residents who supported the store. options that are better for
The donations of clothing and accessories came flooding in. We set up our our environment;
little shop, we take turns running it, and we run specials. Since we got it it is our responsibility to
going, it’s taken off.” utilise them.” Is your village doing great green things? Let us know at more@metlifecare.co.nz
8 MORE IN STORE | Autumn 2020 metlifecare.co.nz 9
Growing vegetables is
popular with residents
like Rae Brownlee from
Waitakere Gardens.
- F E AT U R E -
What’s in a name?
At the four Metlifecare villages with ‘Gardens’ in their name,
green-fingered residents love their lush surrounds and relish the
opportunity to pull weeds and grow veggies.
A
nything with ‘Gardens’ in its name teacher. Now 75 and retired, she has even more
evokes images of lush foliage and time to give to the village’s eco-vision.
Greenwich Gardens
verdant tranquillity, but garden means in north Auckland
something very different to each of these four “There was a group of enthusiasts who set up the
Metlifecare villages. composting and got funding from the council for
worm farms and more. These days, there’s a small Margaret’s enthusiasm, coupled with her bent name conjures up visions of beautifully manicured
At Forest Lake Gardens in Hamilton, Waitakere core of us who enjoy working in the garden and are for organisation, has her involved in more than perfection with abundant borders of frothy pastel
Gardens in west Auckland, Dannemora Gardens carrying on their legacy. the obvious ways. blooms. However, this is not the case, nor, she says,
in east Auckland, and Greenwich Gardens in north is it what the residents really want.
Auckland, both the professional gardeners and “I’m busy at the moment getting the composting “A while back it occurred to me that if anything
the residents alike are enthusiastic about their programme up and going again after the previous happened to the two people who ran the worm farm, “English formality doesn’t work for New Zealand,”
greenery. And while they’re all happy to get stuck resident reluctantly gave it up due to age. She was 90. we wouldn’t have a clue what to do, so I wrote a she says. “There’s a stream just outside the village,
in and get their green thumbs dirty, each garden is manual, which is currently filed with management, and surrounded by native plants, which they’ve done a
at a different level of maturity and has a different “A capable resident moved in and took over the we did the same for the hydroponics operation. fabulous job with.”
focus, with equally bountiful results. hydroponics. Another, Johanna, works two hours
each day in the garden, and the son and daughter- “My goal is to honour all those residents who worked This appeals to Jan as she’s a conservationist,
Waitakere Gardens is well-established with a in-law of another resident have brought their so hard in the past to establish the eco village, and it’s but there are also many residents who are simply
reputation as an eco-village, where residents beehives in, and bee-friendly flowers have been something I believe in.” keen gardeners.
and management share a vision for a sustainable planted for them.
environmental community. At the other end of the scale, Greenwich Gardens “A lot of residents in the villas have beautiful gardens
“One lady picks flowers once a week and makes village in Unsworth Heights still has homes being that they’ve put in. Those of us in apartments have
Margaret Bol moved in 12 years ago as a young up posies, which residents can buy for a gold built and landscaping yet to be done. Resident Jan decks we can grow things on, although the wind can
resident when she was still working as a school coin donation.” Knight says the village’s quintessentially English make it tricky to grow anything other than succulents!”
10 MORE IN STORE | Autumn 2020 metlifecare.co.nz 11
When choosing plants,
we focus on use and
getting good value
from each plant –
we want the plants to
do more than one thing.
What all these garden villages have in
common is thriving vegetable gardens and
fruit trees. Residents can grow, harvest and
share produce.
For those living in apartments, communal
veggie gardens allow them to grow more Dannemora Gardens village gardener of 14 years,
than what they can in pots on their decks. Graham Stratton says residents often stop by for a chat
Owen Priestley, 89, in his garden at
“We have a waiting list for our communal Dannemora Gardens. He and his wife
vegetable gardens,” says Steve Cantor from Alison have been at the village since 2002 a sanctuary that is lush and calm. When we took over Dannemora Gardens has evolved in Graham’s
Bark, the landscaping company that cares the landscaping at Forest Lake Gardens, the trees time there.
for the gardens in a number of Metlifecare were all ‘lolly-popped’, clipped to a round ball perched
villages around the country. on top of the trunk. We are more about natural “When I first came, there were a lot of grasses – a
pruning – it’s just as much work, if not more, but it has lot of green and brown. We’ve brought in a lot more
Steve works at Forest Lake Gardens in a softer effect and is more restful.” colour over the years.
Hamilton and says the garden there has
changed over time. Graham Stratton has been the village gardener at “We’ve got different areas in the garden to appeal
Dannemora Gardens for the past 14 years, and says to different tastes. There’s the ferns garden,
“It’s softer now. More human and less residents often stop to chat – sometimes about the the magnolia garden, and the memorial garden.
corporate,” he says. “When choosing gardens, more often about other things. At the entrance is a big roundabout with a
plants, we focus on use and getting good rockpool that has a waterfall cascading into it,
value from each plant – whether it’s the “Many of them have come from homes that had big and we have another big water feature in the
shape of the plant, autumn colour, flowers, or lovely gardens, so they are very interested in what second atrium.”
or fruit – we want the plants to do more I’m doing.
than one thing. A bubbling water feature has replaced the original
“They love the gardens, but they also love not fountain in the first atrium as it was too noisy.
“Our policy at Bark is not to maintain having to do the work anymore,” he says. “They
Photographed by Mark Hamilton
Photographed by Mark Smith
gardens, but to progress them and make can certainly help out if they want to, in fact, we It may not be obvious, but noise is a factor the
them better,” he says. have a weeding group, and we have half a dozen gardeners have to take into account.
veggie plots that residents can use to grow what
Forest Lake Gardens resident Ann Roe
“We are removing lawns to plant more shrubs enjoying the garden with Steve Cantor they like – there have been some good crops of While deciduous trees provide lovely autumn colour,
and trees. We want to create a pleasant oasis, tomatoes this year.” they’ve had to limit them at Greenwich Gardens as
12 MORE IN STORE | Autumn 2020 metlifecare.co.nz 13
some residents dislike the noise living here, and management told A SPECIAL KIND
leaf blowers make, Jan explains. us ‘you have probably forgotten OF GREEN:
more about gardening than we FAIRWAY GARDENS
“Everyone has different likes even know; so off you go. Just be Currently being developed
and dislikes – some people careful with the secateurs!’” in East Auckland, Fairway
felt the native trees are ‘too Gardens will be Metlifecare’s
green’, so we got flowers, Steve loves to see the residents fifth village to proudly carry the
which others said were ‘too getting stuck in. ‘Gardens’ name. The unique
bright’. It’s impossible to please site on Pakuranga Golf Course
everyone,” she says with a “It’s great to engage with will have no hard boundaries
laugh. “Nevertheless, we’ve nature, it gets you back in touch separating the village green from
been asked what we’d like to with the seasons. It’s great the 18-hole golf course. Careful
see growing in the new gardens exercise too – you’re walking design and planning ensures
they’re planning, which is great. and lifting and twisting. And sweeping views over the greens
what makes it better than an and down the fairways.
“It’s good to be listened to, and exercise class is that, when
we have good support from you’re done, you get the added The announcement of the name,
management. There’s probably a reward of being able to sit back Fairway Gardens, followed a
handful of very keen gardeners and enjoy your handiwork.” community information event
held at the golf course in mid
2019. Metlifecare shared the
masterplan and architectural
concept design, followed by
a feedback session on name,
When you’re done, you get the design and layout.
added reward of being able to sit “The name reflects the village’s
back and enjoy your handiwork. seamless integration with the golf
course and the expansive views
across the green,” said CEO Glen
Sowry. “It was fantastic to involve
the community in the process,
which showed a clear desire for
the unique location and facilities
to inform its identity.”
Vote for your favourite Metlifecare garden and be in with a
chance to win a $5,000 Mitre 10 gift card, plus daily prizes.
For more garden inspiration and to enter the draw visit
metlifecare.co.nz/gardens
Artist impression of Fairway Gardens
Entries close on 3 April 2020. Further terms and
14 MORE IN STORE | Autumn 2020 conditions apply, visit metlifecare.co.nz/gardens metlifecare.co.nz 15
Bunny and her late husband
John Mortimer at Taitua
Arboretum near Hamilton
- LEGACY -
Planting love
into the land
John and Bunny Mortimer gifted a flourishing
50-acre arboretum to the city of Hamilton.
B
unny and John Mortimer were a nature-loving “We have a very large family and we couldn’t spilt the
couple that wanted to make a difference property fairly. My husband suggested we give it to
through planting. The two met while John Hamilton,” said Bunny.
was on leave from the British Colonial service. They
married in 1957 and, in 1972, put their mutual love of The couple recognised that Hamilton had given
plants to work transforming Bunny’s family land of them so much over the years so it made sense to
50-acres into a flourishing landscape. give something back. The Taitua Arboretum has been
open to the public since 2004, and attracts more
Bunny and John spent 27 years migrating more than than 100,000 people every year. It has since been
1,500 types of plants from across New Zealand and awarded a certificate of excellence on TripAdvisor
the world. They planted with a loose plan, whatever and has a 4.5/5 star rating.
took their fancy, with a joint goal of attracting more
birds and bees and hosting happier livestock. It was John sadly passed away in 2018 but has left behind
a recipe for a beautifully diverse arboretum – now a wonderful legacy. Bunny is enjoying life with her
Photo supplied by Momentum Waikato. Photographed by Mark Hamilton.
known as Taitua Arboretum. friends at Forest Lake Gardens.
With their joint knowledge as dendrologists* and co- Bunny said she is beyond happy with how their gift
authors for books about trees, the pair transformed to Hamilton is stilll being cherished in 2020. “I am
the land into one of Hamilton’s prized possessions. absolutely delighted because when I go out there
After 16 years, they were over the moon to hear a tui it’s so rewarding to see so many people enjoying it.
within their trees. Public access began earlier in the There are people walking and running and people are
arboretum’s life, and John and Bunny hosted open making the most of it.”
days for the community to come and experience
their hard work. In 1997 they made the decision to
gift the land and their decades of hard work to the *Dendrology is the science and study of wooded plants
city of Hamilton. and their taxonomic classifications.
16 MORE IN STORE | Autumn 2020 metlifecare.co.nz 17
- EXPERT VIEW - Senior living communities
Growing social spaces
used to have formal hedges
and structured flower beds,
and a vibe that was very
Landscape architects Boffa Miskell have designed many of the outdoor Gulf Rise planter boxes much ‘look-but-don’t touch’.
spaces at Metlifecare villages. Their aim? Creating beautiful, - watch this space
practical spaces for residents to own and enjoy Now, outdoor spaces are
treated as community assets
– they’re there to be used,
and residents are encouraged
to be involved.
Peter Whiting
Bees and butterflies at Gulf Rise
Active recreation includes a bowling green and
petanque court; there are also sensory gardens, and
private garden spaces attached to residences.
“Senior living communities used to have formal
hedges and structured flower beds, and a vibe that
was very much ‘look-but-don’t-touch’. Now, outdoor
Planting for butterflies,
The fishpond at The Poynton, spaces are treated as community assets - they’re Gulf Rise
Takapuna, is a popular there to be used, and residents are encouraged to be
attraction for grandkids involved,” says Peter Whiting, landscape architect
with Boffa Miskell. Thanks to an appropriate mix of native trees and
flowering plants, bees and butterflies abound at
C
reating a community is about building says Jarrod Shearer, village manager at Gulf Rise Peter has been on the design team for several Gulf Rise, both along the internal walkways and on
connections. Along with residential facilities on Auckland’s North Shore. “How the village looks Metlifecare communities, including Gulf Rise and a perimeter slope. In fact, Jarrod says that he’d like
and a network of streets, paths and lanes, is important to residents, because this is their new Fairway Gardens, Metlifecare’s newest village in East to investigate whether beehives could be installed
thoughtful planting and considered outdoor home, and everyone wants to feel proud of their Auckland, which is currently under construction. under the trees. “Wouldn’t it be fantastic if we
amenities create a chain of inviting spaces with a home. Opportunities for activity, and socialising, could make our own organic honey for use in the
social heart. and just the overall sense of wellbeing that being “There’s a huge variety of plant species used café, and for residents?”
outdoors provides makes a real difference in throughout any community,” he continues. “At Gulf
In addition to colourful flower beds and shaded residents’ day-to-day lives.” Rise, for example, there are more than ten distinct With an eye toward sustainability and organic
outdoor seating areas, spaces for entertaining, sports planting schemes – because what’s appropriate for produce, vegetable gardens are a popular feature,
and hands-on gardening are all an integral part of a At Gulf Rise, the landscape design provides for a shady, low-maintenance terrace garden isn’t what as they enable residents to continue their passion
vibrant village. numerous connected outdoor spaces including a you’d want in the cut flower garden, or to attract for hands-on gardening. Katie Worthy, village
social garden, butterfly walk, production gardens, bees and butterflies in the water garden and spring manager at The Poynton in Takapuna, says, “We
“Gardens and outdoor spaces are very important,” glass house and pavilions and outdoor dining areas. walk features.” have allotted vegetable patches for the residents’
18 MORE IN STORE | Autumn 2020 metlifecare.co.nz 19own use, and many donate any surplus spectators. The Poynton has resident
produce to the community chef.” convenors for the various sports. The
volunteers organise friendly casual
At Gulf Rise, raised garden beds games, in-house competitions, and a
are centred around a glass house and ‘travelling league’ who compete against
outdoor dining pavilion. Jarrod says “The other retirement communities.
area around the pavilion has the most social activity
these days. We hold many of our community events “You’ll see people playing petanque or on the
there, and it’s a popular spot with visitors, too.” putting green early in the morning, and the activity
continues throughout the day and well into the
Peter Whiting says incorporating ways to get outdoors evening,” says Katie. “Croquet and lawn bowls
and enjoy nature, especially with young visitors, is one of competitions are a lot of fun for everyone.”
the main considerations in putting together the overall
landscape design for a new community. Pre-schoolers “Retirement villages are so rewarding to design,
love butterfly walks and fishponds; while a bowling lawn because we’re creating spaces for people to
or a putting green can be used by multiple generations. enjoy, and take ownership of,” says Peter. “We’re Stan Eliot cuts the
ribbon to open Stan’s
continually learning from the feedback we get from
Walk at Crestwood, 1988
The fishpond at The Poynton is a very popular residents and staff; and it’s an ongoing evolution.”
attraction.
Jarrod Shearer agrees. “I’ve managed
“Children know that when they visit Nana and a few retirement villages, and this one
Poppa they can come to reception and ask for fish actually lives up to the brochure… in
Willing hands
food,” says Katie. “The fishpond is within the rose fact, I think it’s even better. It’s obvious
garden, so there’s lots of seating and it’s a really that there’s been a great deal of thought
lovely place to be.” behind the design, and care taken to
accommodate and anticipate what
Lawn bowls and croquet encourage physical activity residents want. It looks beautiful; and
and bring residents together, whether playing or as living in it is just fantastic.” As these projects show, wonderful things happen when residents
take the lead in transforming their village spaces.
STAN’S WALK impenetrable, debris-filled
A pretty path reclaimed from scrub, remove felled logs and Stan and residents on
urban bush is the hidden secret develop a usable, attractive path opening day, 1988
of Crestwood, in New Lynn. for residents. Stan’s Walk was
officially opened in 1988.
Stan’s Walk is named for Stan
Eliot, the ‘quiet, charming’ For many years the pathway
resident whose vision for a village was maintained by village
bushwalk brought together the gardeners, but eventually became
local west-Auckland community neglected and overgrown – until
to create a meandering, half- it was re-discovered by Bet
kilometre, native-lined path that Mitchell, Crestwood’s resident
runs between the village and chairperson, as she was out
Titirangi Golf Club. walking.
Stan, a former farmer, rallied “Looking around I could see that
Croquet at The Poynton residents, the local scout group Stan’s Walk was still there; it
brings residents together Pathways at The Poynton and the Council to work on the just needed a bit of TLC,” Bet
year-long project to reclaim said. “So, armed with loppers,
20 MORE IN STORE | Autumn 2020 metlifecare.co.nz 21H E L L, C R E S
I TC T
W
M
O
BET
OD
Meantime, resident Wally Martin (that appeal to hungry ducks), a For the village’s garden manager
had a vision to transform what bubbling stream through the bush, Left: Quail Trail map. Below: of 34 years, David Wilson,
was then a drain – dry in summer and eight much-loved goldfish. Greenwood Park’s Quail Trail watching the project he instigated
and smelly mud in winter – into a (the quails are hiding!) come to life for residents brings
flowing stream. “We are now reaping the rewards immense pride.
of work started more than a decade
It was no minor thing. A grant ago,” Pam says. “Sitting in one of “It’s a real asset for the village.
secateurs and rake, I spent a very from the residents’ committee the gazebos, watching the birds, Residents who wants to go for
happy two weeks touching it up.” allowed a team of volunteers to talking to residents or staff passing a bush walk don’t have to get in
purchase tools, hoses and plants. through and absorbing the peace of their car and drive - it’s on their
Bet has since recruited the A resident donated a garden shed. this special area is the highlight of doorstep. They’re thankful to have
Crestwood ‘Bushwhackers’, my week.” it – we get told that constantly.”
residents who meet regularly, They needed a pump and water
armed with rakes and spades, to pipes to transport water from the THE DELL David and his team spent two years
keep the paths clean of leaves main lake. Two residents dragged Kapiti Village residents have cutting, burning and spraying the
and debris and cut back the the pipes up through 50 metres transformed an area of green waste area before starting a programme
overgrowth. They’ve replaced of flax and bush; others pulled on into a nursery for native trees. of native planting that now attracts
rotten seating and rejuvenated ropes to reposition them. for ‘eco-planting’ – where Potting Shed’ was unveiled on tui, pukeko, woodpigeons - and the
The Glade – a shaded area In 2017, a group of hard-working residents would grow and sustain Arbor Day, 2019; residents planted eponymous quails. A resident sets
for gatherings. “We were in the mud slipping, residents saw the opportunity native plants and saplings to use shrubs to mark the occasion. out rat bait and possum traps to
sliding, grunting and heaving, to turn a dumping ground for throughout the village. First step ensure birds are safe from predators.
“After a lifetime of working but we did it,” explained resident cuttings, felled trees and grass was to clear the area known as Now, ten residents turn up every
in jobs that I didn’t particularly Aileen Keery. “When we saw clippings into something beautiful the Ballingers Memorial – named Monday to maintain what has Residents Jenny and Les Gallyer
like, I came here and found myself that urn and fountain working it and useful. after the original owners of the been renamed The Dell, an area have since built the subsidiary
doing stuff that I really enjoy,” was a miracle!” village. They set to work organising used for gatherings and social Quail Loop, transforming a natural
Bet said. “I know that what I do is Former resident chairperson Kert resident working bees to cut scrub, occasions. Around 400 seedlings spring into a forest pond. At one
giving pleasure to other people and Today, the resident-built pond Snater, his friend Harold Timmins, remove trailer-loads of rubbish, are being nurtured for next year’s point, there is a large, natural
making their lives more enjoyable. features a fountain, water lilies and others had a vision of a place and level the area. planting, hothouses are in place, amphitheatre known as The Basin,
My hope is that we can keep this and a ‘memory lane’ of residents’ planted in exotic trees, some
going so it’s always ready for the They laid six truckloads of donated objects and garden 15-20m tall – a mini arboretum.
next resident to enjoy.” mulch, lined borders with river ornaments is underway.
boulders donated by the local A wooden seat has been nicknamed
BUSHWALK AND WEIR Raumati bowling club, and grew “It is such a unique area of ‘Vant-age Point’ after former
The creation of Pinesong’s kowhai and other natives from tranquillity and birdlife,” Kert said. resident Mr Vant who regularly
pond, Titirangi. seed to plant along walkways. After “A haven within paradise. We work visited the trail with transistor
more than two years of work, ‘The so hard, so sometimes we come radio, thermos and stool to plant
When Pam and Graeme Choat here and we don’t work at all.” edible and ornamental plants - a
moved into Pinesong in 2007 they magnificent Copper Beech tree, a
discovered the walkways through QUAIL TRAIL maple and a fig are now testament
the bush and around the reservoir Tui, woodpigeons and quails share to his work.
at the bottom of the village were this village trail with the residents of
in need of some TLC. Armed Greenwood Park in Tauranga.
with garden tools, a borrowed THANK YOU, DAVID
wheelbarrow and a supply of 200 A wet and boggy area overgrown David Wilson recently retired
litre garden bags, their journey by rampant nettles, gorse, scrub after working at Greenwood
began – hauling out broken and blackberries is now a kilometre- Park Village since it opened
branches, eight-foot high bracken long trail of native trees, wetlands, in 1986. Residents and staff
and gorse. At 100 bags, they and even a natural amphitheatre, turned out en masse to
realised they would need to focus bordering Greenwood Park farewell him.
their attention on a smaller area. Kert Snater, Kapiti Village village in Tauranga.
Pinesong residents Pam
22 MORE IN STORE | Autumn 2020 and Aileen at the pond metlifecare.co.nz 23TRUDY
ANDERSON
Senior registered nurse,
Papamoa Beach Village
Trudy grew up playing
at being a nurse, before POLLY
realising she actually DELFIM
wanted to be one. Nurse manager,
Papamoa Beach Village
What parts of aged care nursing do you love? Born and raised in Timóteo,
Aged care is my thing. I love the residents I care for, Brazil, Polly completed
and I like that by doing my job well I can make her Bachelor of Nursing in
a big difference to their quality of life. I am humbled 2004 in Belo Horizonte,
by their generosity of spirit, the fact that they accept the capital of Minas Gerais state. In New Zealand she
their lives are now dependent on carers, and they rose quickly through the ranks of nursing.
are gracious in this acceptance. The fact that despite
needing the most intimate care they “When I first came to New
are thankful for everything that is Zealand, I thought that working
The World Health Organisation has designated 2020 International Year done for them. as a registered nurse in a second
of the Nurse in honour of the 200th anniversary of the birth of Florence language was an achievement; I
Nightingale and to recognise the work of nurses around the world.
What are the skills needed? Every day is a never aspired to be more than that,”
A good medical knowledge is she says. “I don’t mean to imply that
At Metlifecare we have more than 100 wonderful nurses who enhance essential – being able to assess a highlight. From the I don’t have aspirations – in fact,
the lives of our residents. We talked to three of them. resident holistically, develop plans moment I put my quite the opposite. But what I really
of care around individuals, listen well aim to do is always give 100 percent
and follow resident and family needs. uniform on, to the to every job I do.”
SARAH This year, she’s planning to pursue a postgraduate
KENNEDY diploma in advanced nursing, specialising in Understanding medications and their first resident that And she does. Polly is passionate
Registered gerontology. effects on older people, including I see for the day, about providing care for residents –
nurse, Powley medications that can be used to and those closest to them.
Sarah Kennedy started She is particularly interested in exploring mental keep people comfortable, so you can to the last.
her career as a caregiver, health in older adults, as a result of her experiences advocate for residents with medical “We tend to focus a lot on the
then went on to study on the front line of palliative care. Outside of work, professionals. And, of course, the relationship and bond we form with
nursing – not before she is currently learning the Ethiopian language basics - empathy, kindness, time residents in our care, but often take
experiencing a flood of self-doubt. of Amharic, after befriending two Ethiopian management and being able to lead a for granted the bond we create with
caregivers working at Powley who introduced her care team. the families of the residents we admit,” she said.
“I nearly withdrew my application to study to their community. “They are often under a lot of stress, and should also
nursing as I didn’t think I could do it,” she said. “My What’s a highlight of your time as a nurse? be ‘nursed’, mostly in the initial stages leading to
mum came to the rescue and convinced me to just “We live in a society with an aging population, which Every day is a highlight. From the moment I put my admission and the first few weeks after admission.
give it a go.” requires a workforce of nurses who are passionate uniform on, to the first resident that I see for the day
and dedicated to caring for the elderly,” she said. to the last. It’s the smile on their faces when I walk in. “I also like to remind my colleagues that we work
Following her nursing studies, Sarah completed “Nursing in an aged care setting provides unique The highlight is making a difference in their lives big at the residents’ homes, rather than residents living
a graduate year in mental health nursing in acute and interesting challenges and should be seen as or small, they are my highlight, my job satisfaction. To where we work. We must understand this is their
settings, before finding her way back to Powley as a just as valuable as nursing in other settings such as be able to help them and their families at this stage of home and treat it like so – they will guide us as to
registered nurse. surgical or medical.” their lives is very rewarding. how they would like to be cared for,” she said.
24 MORE IN STORE | Autumn 2020 metlifecare.co.nz 25good investment, you’ll tell your satisfaction with staff sits at CARING FOR OUR
friends and family. So creating 97 per cent. GARDENS AND
enriching experiences for GROUNDS
residents is also good business.” While there’s no shortage of Every year, Metlifecare’s
challenges in his role, Richard resident satisfaction survey
Richard is acutely aware that feels proud to be providing a tells us how important
for many residents, moving into great service for New Zealand’s beautiful, useful and well-
a retirement village can be an older population. “What’s great maintained gardens are to
emotional time. Leaving behind about this job is that we are resident wellbeing.
the family home and traditions helping our older people live
is often followed by a period of the best life they can live. It’s a One of the six domains of
adjustment to village life. “We’re rewarding thing to do.” wellbeing is occupational
very conscious of that and we wellbeing – getting into the
focus very hard on that new He’s proud to say that once garden provides meaning
resident experience and how we residents settle into a village, and purpose.
personalise it to each individual.” the feedback he receives is
overwhelmingly positive. “Many Under Richard’s watch,
This is where casino experience look back and go ‘Wow, I didn’t Metlifecare has outsourced the
comes in handy. Richard used realise how much stress the development and maintenance
a similar approach to managing house was putting me under,’ for of many Metlifecare village
VIPs during his casino career, example. They love the activities gardens to grounds care
choosing to treat every resident and the socialising and the specialists, Bark. They go above
like a premium customer community aspect of village life.” and beyond to keep residents
deserving of a unique journey. involved in the process, he says.
But with residents staying for Richard’s genuine interest
- PROFILE -
years, rather than just a few days, in keeping staff engaged and “It may seem counter
A meaningful move
there’s a need for every aspect residents connected is warming intuitive to outsource such
of village life to feel premium to hear – and unsurprising when an important aspect of
- from the range of activities he excitedly discusses the many villages, but in Bark we’ve
on offer, to staff quality, to the wonderful people he’s met at found a specialist who is really
food in the café, some of which each village. One in particular, aligned with what we want to
Richard Callander, General Manager Operations at Metlifecare, discusses the is grown on site in resident left an impression after Richard achieve,” he says. “They share
challenges and rewards of a career in the retirement village industry. vegetable gardens. noticed she had gone through a our values for why gardens are
leg amputation. important and they interact
This level of care also extends to really well with residents that
A
fter 15 years working Overseeing all the operational the opportunity to really innovate staff, who, Richard acknowledges, “I went up to her and I asked how want to get involved.”
in the casino industry, components of Metlifecare is a and try new things, as well as perform difficult tasks that she was coping. She said, ‘Oh, you
it may seem a sharp big task, considering the size and make sure our existing villages are can take a toll emotionally and know, don’t worry about me. I’m
U-turn for someone to opt for a unique differences of 25 villages. running as smoothly and happily physically. “I’m very conscious so blessed to be in this place and
career in the retirement industry. as possible.” of that. A big part of my role is they’re looking after me… I’m just
But that’s what Metlifecare’s Looking at the entire customer to do whatever I can to make it so lucky that I’m here.”
General Manager Operations journey has allowed Richard Providing each new and easier for our staff to do their job,
Richard Callander did, finding it and Metlifecare staff to refine existing resident with positive which in turn plays an important That perspective, he said, was
a refreshing change of pace from retirement village living from the experiences is crucial to role in resident satisfaction.” incredibly moving.
his previous role at Sky City, one top down, and he’s particularly Metlifecare’s business model, Richard has dedicated himself to
filled with fresh challenges… and excited about what they’ve considering many houses sold providing the right environment “I just was so blown away at
heart-warming rewards. “It’s a accomplished as well as what are by referral. “If you’re having and support for staff, as well as her attitude to the difficulties
Photo by Mark Smith
more meaningful way to spend they’re yet to achieve. “I like the a great time in this village and improved leadership development in her life. It certainly helps Forest Lake gardens resident Ann Roe
your time, especially with regards fact that we’re growing. We’re you feel like what is a very opportunities, which has achieved me keep things in their proper with Bark gardener Steve Cantor.
to our care homes,” he says. building new villages. We’ve got significant investment was a some impressive results: resident perspective.”
26 MORE IN STORE | Autumn 2020 metlifecare.co.nz 27- F I R S T-H A N D A C C O U N T - Kerikeri
Life in the
winterless north
Oakridge Villas resident Maggie Randall loves life in the Far North.
O
akridge Villas, as far as the Drive into Paihia in the summer But the best things about our
residents are concerned, and often the first thing you see is village are the people and their
is situated in exactly the a cruise ship. Closer to the village talents. When you live in a
right place. It sits in Kerikeri in the is the Stone Store and Kemp retirement village someone might
beautiful Bay of Islands - or ‘the House. History on our doorstep. show you their knitting, and
Winterless North’ - as those who Walking trails and biking trails you admire the new sweater for
live south often call our region. if you enjoy the outdoor life. grandson Vertigo. (Kids’ names
We are so lucky to live here. these days are pretty weird or
(That isn’t exactly true – cool depending on your point of put to good use. If this happens to on all sorts of subjects, colourful, Opposite page: view of the
we do have the odd frost in From our village we can walk to view. I am in the weird range). you, some advice: do not ask what light, dark, something to suit all ocean shore at the east side
winter! And lots of rain.) town as it’s just a stone’s throw the painting is supposed to be! moods. Knitting seems a rather of Northland. This page, left:
away, but far enough not to Or maybe you’re having morning bland general description of the crafts by clever Oakridge Villas
We have Paihia, the iconic bother us too much. Cinema, tea in a friend’s home and you spy A couple of months ago, Marian, things our residents produced. residents; Gaynor and Rusty
Waitangi Treaty grounds, and doctor, domain, all close by. a picture you haven’t seen before. our residents committee Intricate patterns, hats, baby Branford’s Noah’s Ark; resident
Russell, once known as the The theatre is next door. That’s because the friend’s artistic chairperson, had the idea of clothes and those lovely ruffle Maggie Randall.
Hellhole of the Pacific. How handy is that? talents have only recently been showcasing residents’ talents scarves, which always look a
and arranged a ‘show day’ in the bit like boas and seem rather sells these on her behalf. It’s
pavilion. It was renamed ‘Arts decadent, too. A modern pretty good to show a kindness
and Crafts’ (more fitting and less reminder of a bygone age and to help a person out of poverty.
boastful to those who are shy). popular once more. Embroidery,
beautifully and carefully executed Many ‘outsiders’ ask me what
Wow! Were we blown away? stitching of lovely pieces - and my husband and I do to occupy
I for one had no idea that our then there was the sewing. ourselves now that we live in a
village was full of such talented retirement village. I can honestly
people. Tables full of beautiful Wooden pens for sale. Ceramics tell them that we create, enjoy
things created by residents. in all sizes, glossy pieces which ourselves and are as busy or as
would look wonderful in anyone’s leisurely as we want to be. We
For instance, a beautiful wooden home. And toys. Cloth toys holiday and we travel. Same as
Noah’s Ark complete with and knitted toys. Books written all of you who are residents in
wooden animals caught the eye. by residents. It certainly was Metlifecare villages, but we are
It was made by Gaynor and Rusty an eye opener of a day. all unique in the way that we
Branford. They weren’t happy with come up with fun things to do.
the prototype and started all over There was a stall with articles
again. Perfection is to be admired. for sale not made at Oakridge Oakridge Villas is a busy place, a
but by a lady in Africa. One of quiet place, a pleasant place and
On display were lots of paintings our residents, Winsome Fisher a friendly place. One place for all.
28 MORE IN STORE | Autumn 2020 metlifecare.co.nz 29- F I R S T-H A N D A C C O U N T -
A light-hearted
glance at getting a
and Morgan. At least they’ve favourite things ball attack of life. I currently
given us pensioners something to We’ve had an interesting life, have 82 runs against my name;
do, even if we know in our heart don’t feel too bad only 20 runs stand between
of hearts that jogging a marathon There’s been more happiness than me and the coveted century.
little bit older
is beyond us, and that a stiff times that were sad Perhaps a card from the queen,
shuffle down the aisle of our These indeed are a few of our or King Charles or King William -
church is more realistic. favourite things if I stick around long enough.
Then there’s the generation There’s a question mark Of course I may not reach a
Pinesong resident Vern Walker on the pleasures and perils of ageing. gap. A senior citizen went to regarding my own future. I’m century at all. But I hope to hit a
McDonalds and saw that the a bit like a Test batsman. A few sixes, before the Good Lord
menu offered six, nine or 12 cricketer who’s survived the fast declares my innings closed.
W
e are definitely getting older when we penicillin, photocopiers, plastic, supermarkets, chicken nuggets. So the lady
start purchasing bereavement cards in TV and yoghurt, and long before mankind left his asked for half-a-dozen. The Pinesong resident
bulk. When our children start looking footprints on the dusty surface of the moon. We youngster behind the counter Vern Walker
middle-aged. When a young grandson asks, “Opa, are were born before the marvels of jet aircraft, and responded: “We don’t have half-
you getting old? You have spots on your face and your when McDonalds was a clan, not a fast-food chain. a-dozen nuggets, we have only
teeth are not as white as mine.” six, nine or 12 chicken nuggets.”
The actors Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman So the order was placed for six
Us oldies are challenged by today’s push-button era. starred in the 2007 film The Bucket List. nuggets. As these were handed
You swear at the TV when it doesn’t switch on - then Immediately, seniors everywhere were grabbing across the counter, the server
you discover you’re using the remote for the heat- their pencils and creating a long list of things to do said helpfully: “Maybe half-a-
pump. I go to the ATM at the bank and no money before we kick the bucket. Go hot-air ballooning, dozen nuggets are on the menu
appears. Exasperated, I see the teller. She comes to jog a marathon, bungy jump or write a book of at Burger King up the road, but
the ATM and declares in a testy voice: “Mr Walker, family history. In my view, thanks must go to Jack McDonalds don’t have half-a-
you’re using your True Rewards card. To withdraw dozen nuggets on our menu.”
money you must use your Fast Cash card.” How
stupid can one be. Truly a generation gap wider than
the Tasman Sea!
As the years rocket by our powers of observation start
to wane. A retiree at Pinesong went to the village We were born before ballpoint Remember that lovely 1965
salon to get a hairdo. She returned to her apartment pens, computers, contact film The Sound of Music, set in
and waited for a reaction from her husband. After a Salzburg? The scene when Julie
day or two, she blurts: “Reginald, you used to notice lenses, penicillin, plastic, Andrews is surrounded in bed by
everything about me. Today you’ve ignored me and not the children, and she sings A Few of
noticed my glamorous hairdo. Instead you continue to
supermarkets, TV and yoghurt, My Favourite Things. The following
sit there and watch the All Blacks.” Then to her horror and long before mankind left his is my version of this song:
she realised that she too had failed to notice that, after
six years, her husband had shaved off his beard. footprints on the dusty surface Walkers, handrails,and
wheelchairs help us along
To the younger ones we must all seem odd-ball,
of the Moon. We all come to Pinesong, because
because we were born before ballpoint pens, we feel we belong
computers, contact lenses, drip-dry clothes, These are a few of our
30 MORE IN STORE | Autumn 2020 metlifecare.co.nz 31You can also read
