Downsize to a Richer, Happier Life
What do you want to do with your life? Would you like to travel, downsize, have more money and more free time? Do you ever feel like your stuff holds you back, but the thought of decluttering just seems too hard? If so, you’re not alone.
This is the first of a series of articles dedicated to helping you to downsize, declutter and rightsize your life, brought to you by Ryman Healthcare in conjunction with decluttering expert Peter Walsh.
When helping people to declutter, Peter never starts by focusing on the stuff itself. Every item in your home has a story, so the first step is to think about what that story is.
Maybe you’re thinking about downsizing as you approach retirement but still have all the artwork and toys and books that belonged to your now adult children, and don’t know what to do with them. Perhaps letting go of that old sports equipment means letting go of a vision you had of yourself that no longer fits who you are. Maybe you’re holding onto heirlooms you have no use for because you want to keep the memory of the person alive.
No matter what your situation is, it’s easier to declutter and downsize if you start by identifying the feelings that underlie your attachment to your stuff before tackling the stuff itself.
Click to read more.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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60% Yes, supporting people is important!
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25.7% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.3% ... It is complicated
Flower Pressing Workshop
Step back in time and discover the delicate Victorian art of flower pressing at Howick Historical Village.
Explore the gardens, gather flowers and foliage, and learn how to press and preserve them as keepsakes, just as the Victorians once did. Historical interpreter Ruth Page will guide you through the process and share tips for the best results.
📅 Dates:
• Saturday 21 March
• Saturday 28 March
• Saturday 11 April
• Saturday 18 April
⏰ 1:30–3:30pm
💲 Cost:
$28 (bring your own heavy book)
$42 (flower press included – yours to keep)
🎟 Includes entry to explore the Village (open 10am–4pm)
📩 Bookings essential – places are limited
A relaxing, creative afternoon surrounded by history and gardens — perfect for nature lovers and craft enthusiasts alike
Late Summer Harvest!
Experience a sun-kissed day at Howick Historical Village, celebrating the last of summer's bounty. Explore how the season’s harvest was gathered, preserved, and enjoyed in the 1800s, before the season changed.
The end of summer was a time to enjoy long, warm, dry days but also to prepare before autumn crept in. Pantries were filled as food was preserved, boots were waterproofed, curtains rehung. Honey made by busy bees all summer, was extracted from the hives.
Join us to experience the gentle turning of the seasons, where work and pleasure met, and the closing days of summer were truly cherished! Churn cream into butter or attend a Victorian school lesson. See the blacksmiths and woodturners at work and learn the art of bookbinding. Meet the Village beekeeper in a talk at 2 pm. Taste fresh baking, hot from the coal range in Puhi Nui Homestead and the bread oven. Visit the sweet shop filled with old-fashioned lollies and fudge!
With games, crafts and performances by Morris dancers at 11:00 & 12:00, and the bagpipe band at 12 pm and plenty to entertain all ages, this will be a Live Day not to miss!
Admission: adult $18, student/senior $14, child $10, family $46. Child under 5 years, members & annual pass holders - free entry.
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